Escaping Into the Open

Writing advice from a New York Times–bestselling author who “knows how the publishing industry works . . . and why writers need to answer only to themselves” (C. Michael Curtis, senior editor, Atlantic Monthly).

Both autobiography and primer, Escaping into the Open is an inspiring, practical handbook on the joys and challenges of the writing life. Renowned author and writing instructor Elizabeth Berg interweaves the story of her own journey from working mother to bestselling novelist with encouraging advice on how to create stories that spring from the heart. Continually in print since its original 1999 publication, this invaluable resource is a true and constant friend to all writers, no matter their stage of development.

With wit and honesty, Berg provides numerous exercises that will unleash individual creativity and utilize all five senses. Most important, she tells how to fire passion—emotion—into writing itself; to break through personal barriers and reach one's own outer limits and beyond.

“Crystal clear, bracing as icewater, Escaping into the Open should be read by all scribblers regardless of material success.” —Rita Mae Brown, New York Times bestselling author of the Mrs. Murphy series

“This is a really good book . . . anyone who ever needs to write anything will find bright shards of useful stuff here.” —Booklist