Trade Paperback
200 pages
May 2005
WinePress Publishing

Review  |   Author Bio  |  Read an Excerpt

Review:

If you have wanted to write but been afraid to try, you should read For the Write Reason, edited by Marybeth Whalen. The book contains thirty-one accounts, some in the first person and others in the third, of how Christians have become writers. Some have always wanted to write; others never wanted to write but found it strengthened their ministry. The people profiled include Rebecca Barlow Jordan, Mary DeMuth, Mary Southerland, Sharon Jaynes, Athena Deane, Thelma Wells, Kendra Smiley, Denny Boultinghouse, Rachel Scott, and Sally E. Stuart--a name familiar to most Christian writers.

Not only do they tell their stories, but many include tips on getting published or writing better, making this a valuable book for writers who are already published. They also share a vision on the importance of spiritual priorities, such as the family, service, and humility.

Each short chapter includes follow-up information on the author, editor, or agent, along with a devotional and a writing challenge. The devotionals deal with obedience, jealousy, priorities, and other subjects as they affect our writing. Most are thought provoking, some encouraging, others convicting. The writing challenges supplement the devotionals and would not take large amounts of time.

Whalen includes helpful appendices on writing a book proposal and bio sheet, marketing your writing, and useful writing resources.

Writing styles vary with the writer, but most are warm, encouraging, and friendly. I highly recommend For the Write Reason, which offers something for almost every writer, especially the beginner. -- Debbie W. Wilson, Christian Book Previews.com

Book Jacket:

Using the personal stories of successful Christian writers, agents and editors, “For the Write Reason” helps writers of all levels learn from the experience of "insiders" in Christian publishing. The coordinating Bible study allows readers to delve into God's call on their own lives. Through this unique blend of encouraging words, advice and digging into God's word, writers are able to determine God's direction for their writing.

The book features well-known contributors:

Lysa TerKeurst

Sharon Jaynes

Elise Arndt

Allen Arnold

Janet Kobobel Grant

Denny Boultinghouse

Rebecca Barlow Jordan

Athena Dean

Kendra Smiley

Carol Kent

Thelma Wells

Jill Savage

Eva Marie Everson

Sally Stuart

Sandra Aldrich

And more!

Through this book, you will discover:

How other writers got their start

The “secret” of their success

What inspires them to write

Where their ideas come from

How to deal with rejection

How God miraculously opens doors

Insight into what a life of ministry is really like

How to manage family and writing

How to maintain the proper perspective

Tips on getting published

Expert advice from agents and editors Informative appendices for writers and speakers

Bible study uniquely geared towards writers