I am the only member of Paddle Creek Writers who has children in the home. Writing around children can be a challenge, so when this book came out several years ago, I bought it right away. I’m glad I did. Lots of great stuff in it!
Writer Mama
By Christina Katz
© 2007 Writer’s Digest Books
296 pages, $14.99
Can motherhood and writing go together? Absolutely! It takes some scheduling and discipline, but it can be done. Katz outlines the steps moms can follow for a stay-at-home writing career while still spending time with their children.
Short chapters and an easy to read style help make this book a pleasure to read. Writer Mama encourages new writers to start with tips and similar short pieces to gain clips to use to break into local and regional markets and then use those clips to break into glossies and national publications. There are no shortcuts and no luck according to Katz. Do your work well and pay your dues and in time editors will come to you.
This is one of the better books I’ve read on how to analyze a magazine and learn what “know our magazine” means. Katz also encourages writers to use cover letters whenever possible to prove you’ve read the magazine and understand its tone and personality. Any writer, parent or not, would find the advice in this book useful.
The one drawback to the book is the surprising number of typos and missing verbs. Hopefully these will be corrected in future editions.
Can parenting and a writing career mix? It can for those who are disciplined and use their time wisely. Follow Katz’s suggestions and you will soon find yourself a busy writer.
Happy writing! What is your favorite writing book or magazine? Share with us in the comments.
Until next time,
Michelle
Paddle Creek Writers 
I don’t have kids at home any longer, but it still sounds like a good read. I think I’ll peek at the library in town. Thanks, Michelle.
Yes, it’s helpful for any writer, really. She goes step by step how to get started in writing. Hope you find it helpful!
Michelle