This collection, edited by two directors of The Writer’s Studio (TWS) at SFU, offers several varied entry points to writing. Each piece presents a short essay about some aspect of writing and then adds a prompt that should get the words flowing. Most of the writers are affiliated in some way with TWS, and each brings a unique perspective—whether an Indigenous voice or one representing LGBTQIA2S+ or BIPOC viewpoints. As an example, Jenn Sookfong Lee’s article includes a Cultural Checklist on how to write about race. Although a few of the essays are academic in focus, most are straightforward and direct. It is also helpful that they cover a wide range of topics, including memoirs, fiction, poetry, plot development, and editing. Because it’s not necessary to read the book from front to back, students with an interest in writing are bound to find valuable lessons and useful tips.

Other End Matter: Contributors (biographical notes on each essayist)
Bibliography: No
Index: No

Source: Books BC - BC Books for Schools

Andrew Chesham is the director of the Writer's Studio at Simon Fraser University. He has worked in the literary arts since 2006, as a writer, editor, publisher, and educator in Canada and Australia. He has also edited the anthologies: From the Earth to the Table, and Stories for a Long Summer (Catchfire Press).

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Laura Farina has published two full-length poetry collections. She is the recipient of the Archibald Lampman Award, and has appeared on the longlist for both the ReLit Award and the CBC Poetry Prize. This Is the Path the Wolf Took is her first picture book. Laura lives in Vancouver, British Columbia.

Laura Farina's profile page