"Thirty years ago my older brother, who was ten years old at the time, was trying to get a report on birds written that he'd had three months to write. It was due the next day. We were out at our family cabin in Bolinas, and he was at the kitchen table close to tears, surrounded by binder paper and pencils and unopened books on birds, immobilized by the hugeness of the task ahead. Then my father sat down beside him, put his arm around my  brother's shoulder, and said, 'Bird by bird, buddy.  Just take it bird by bird.'"

Think you've got a book inside of you? Anne Lamott isn't afraid to help you let it out. She'll help you find your passion and your voice. Readers will be seduced by Lamott's witty take on the reality of a writer's life, which has little to do with literary parties and a lot to do with jealousy, writer's block, and going for broke with each paragraph. Marvelously wise and best of all, great reading.

Why We Love This Book: We love this book because it is a fun, human, and engaging invitation to try writing for the fun (sort of) and the exploration (certainly) of it. It is a great way to get started writing and a lovely read.

What To Express In Your Card: I bet you write so beautifully. You are so eloquent in your description of things. There is so much happening in your life right now, and I wonder if you have permitted yourself the opportunity to sit down and record some of it. I am sorry for any pain you are in, but I'd love to lend a listening ear if you are comfortable sharing some of what you are thinking. I am sending you love.