Tuesday, September 29, 2015

Thanks, Cec by Andy Scheer



His book shares lessons from a lifetime of writing.

In his long career, Cecil Murphey has written or co-written more than 135 books, including breakout bestsellers Gifted Hands and 90 Minutes in Heaven. His books have sold in the millions.

For years he’s taught at writers conferences and instructed writers through his blog.

While he said at his recent Writer to Writer event that he’s winding down his in-person conference participation, Cec has made sure his teaching remains available.

I returned from Murfreesboro with a copy of Cec’s book Writer to Writer. As I scanned its pages, I realized this is one book I need to pore over.
“This isn’t a grammar book,” he says. “This isn’t a rulebook for writers. This is an attempt to share the lessons I’ve learned as a professional writer. Nothing else.”


The eleven sections reflect the 400-page book’s practical value:
● Beyond the Amateur Look
● Start to Finish
● Show Me, Show Me
● Working with Verbs
● Grammar Rules
● Improve Your Fiction
● Blocked Writers
● Being Edited and Editing Groups
● Those Awful Rejections
● Literary Agents and Contracts
● Making a Living as a Writer

Each entry spans no more than two pages. Almost the makings of a one-year writers devotional.

“I’m still learning,” Cec says. Thanks to this book, we can, too—from one of the best.

5 comments:

Linda Glaz said...

He is such a gentleman and kind man. Has such deep compassion and concern for new writers!

Andy Scheer, Hartline Literary said...

Amen to that!

Rick Barry said...

I've sat in while Cec led critique groups. When one woman broke down in tears and said she couldn't make everyone happy by doing all their contradictory suggestions, he gently comforted her while reminding everyone that no writer can use all the suggestions that critiquers will offer. We listen, then make up our own minds what to use, and what to toss. Very impressive servant of God.

Linda Glaz said...

I could totally see him doing that. Such a kind man.

Diana Flegal said...

He is a generous man and terrific mentor to writers. This book is a great resource. I especially appreciate the simplistic format, so welcome to the overwhelmed writer.