Does Reading Make You a Better Writer? Avoiding the Creativity Trap

Reading as a writer We are big believers in the importance of reading as writers. We have talked about it many times before, such as in this blog, but are there any pitfalls? Of course there are, nothing is perfect. Before we begin, it is important to reinforce the...

Advances in AI and how to use it selectively

You can’t avoid AI anymore Back in May we posted about our decision to stop using AI at all in our business. As a creative business that focuses on the wellbeing benefits of writing, it just didn’t fit with our values. As with all technology though, it...

7 books you might want to read about writing nonfiction

As a writer, you can never read too much. Reading is like … well, erm, I won’t cobble together a simile to describe how I feel about reading as a writer, because Pam Allyn’s is unbeatable and worth repeating: “Reading is like breathing in; writing is like breathing...

When does research become procrastination?

Research is an important part of any book, but particularly when you are writing nonfiction. No matter how well you know your subject, there will always be something that you need to double check.  Often we talk to writers, and they tell us that they sat down to write...

How to finish your first draft

Without losing your mind First drafts can feel laborious at times. The first rush of excited keyboard bashing gives way over time to more reluctant teeth-gritted slow trickles that can make the finish line feel another world away. But never fear! You’re in the right...