Review of Zen and the Art of Writing

[Mutai Marshal]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Zen and the Art of Writing" by Ray Hodgson.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Writing a book requires lots of commitment. It can be fun to craft a book but also tasking. Talk about writer's block. Many potential writers have failed to hit the spotlight because they lack the know-how or simply gave up due to the challenge. The good news is that Zen and the Art of Writing: Publish Your First Book will enable you to get around this hurdle and other crises you might encounter.

First, Ray Hodgson talks about the great thinkers. According to Thomas Edison, his mind was flooded with images when he was half awake. John Dewey believed that we are most creative when “relaxed to the point of reverie.” The creator of the Remote Associates Test, Professor Mednick, defines the creative thinking process as "the forming of associative elements into new combinations, which either meet specified requirements or are, in some way, useful." So how do we get to a state of reverie?

Meditation answers the previous question. While there are various forms of meditation, the majority focus on a rhythm, such as mantra or breathing. Other than attaining a state of reverie, research shows that the practice is associated with relieving stress, improving the quality of sleep, boosting immunity and enhancing concentration. Perhaps you could be wondering how one can facilitate meditation.

Ray Hodgson notes that binaural beats have shown tremendous results. The process involves listening to different rhythms in the left and right ear. Compared to listening to similar audio without binaural beats, subjects who were under binaural beats displayed better results in reducing stress.

My favorite aspect is that this book is replete with information about getting started to write a book to the point of publishing it and selling it. The 3Is emphasized are information, inspiration and implementation. This guide is critical in most aspects of our lives. Crafting a novel is no exception. The author went as far as providing a case study of his book, The Protectors, to enable readers to apprehend the message. He talks about the provocation behind the title. Did you know that you can utilize your recollections and get help from others when crafting a book? Other insightful snippets of information involve the essential segments of a story, what stories to tell and the right time to stop writing. Interestingly, Hodgson also notes that you should never take anyone’s advice too seriously.

I felt that the author would have integrated more case studies to enable readers to get a pool of information concerning the progression of writing a book. This would be essential in aiding readers to learn more about the motivations behind the characters and titles of novels. This is from a personal observation and does not preclude the overall gratification of reading this book. I, therefore, rate this book 5 out of 5.

The editing of Zen and the Art of Writing was flawless. You will be glad to note that you can get in touch with the crew and team behind the success of Hodgson’s writing journey. If you are looking for insights into meditation, this book would be a superb venture. I also recommend this book to anyone interested in writing texts and seeing it through to the marketing and selling phase.

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Zen and the Art of Writing
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[Cherry Rollings]

Zen and the Art of Writing: great plot, nice cover page and an excellent review.

[TrishaCleve]

Informative review; my intrest is piqued. This book looks to be beneficial to many in whom the writing 'bug' lives. Thank you

[Hazel Mae Bagarinao]

It's exciting to hear meditation and writing are correlated to each other; how the former helps the latter. It sounds wonderful. Now, I understand that the cover looks like that. Thanks for your excellent review, Mashi!

[Ivana_5]

Book started description about goods thicker and creative world. How Rey found imagine, and inspiring to work we read in this book. He meditation and give answer for question how look ideal picture. Zen is colour why use and putting in press in his art. Writing art educated and intelligent way explained storytelling. I recommend everyone why like art and colour description books.

[Anna Surdziel]

This book piqued my interest. Although I do not personally engage in writing endeavors nor have intentions to do so, I am acquainted with a friend who is an aspiring writer. I am of the opinion that delving into the contents of this book would offer her invaluable insights, serving as a resourceful guide to navigate the challenges and complexities inherent in the process of writing her first book

[Kirsten Wheeler]

Wonderful review. I'm so happy binaural beats are mentioned as a great tool for writing. I find binaural beats to be helpful on those days when I need to be as productive as possible but my focus just isn't there.

[valentiareshoketswe]

Great review. It helps us readers to get understand the journey of writers when they write.

[Prabhat Sunil Mathur]

Thank you immensely for taking the time to share your comprehensive thoughts on "Zen and the Art of Writing." Your review captures the essence of the book's offerings beautifully. It's wonderful to hear how Ray Hodgson's work resonated with you, particularly in addressing writer's block and providing insightful strategies, including meditation techniques and the significance of case studies.

Your suggestion about incorporating more case studies to enrich readers' understanding of character motivations and novel titles is truly valuable feedback. Understanding the progression of book writing through diverse experiences can indeed enhance the learning journey for aspiring writers.

[Bithiah]

Ray Hodgson's book "Zen and the Art of Writing" is a resource for anyone who want to begin writing their own books. The author discusses brilliant minds, original ideas, and the dedication needed to publish a book. I liked the sample portion, and the review is clearly presented. Congrats to the writer that has been selected for BOTD.

[Aang Krishna]

Completely great review. I’m so glad to hear that meditation has good influences in writing. Thank you for the review and the author for very useful and educational information. Congrats for both of you. GBU

[Jay Lu]

"Zen and the Art of Writing: Publish Your First Book" sounds like a treasure trove for aspiring writers! The blend of psychological insights, practical advice, and real-world examples like Hodgson's "The Protectors" seems to create a comprehensive guide. I'm intrigued by the emphasis on meditation and its role in creativity. While more case studies could have enriched it further, it's heartening to see a book that not only inspires but also provides actionable steps for writers. Kudos to Hodgson for such a well-rounded approach!

[Yasmine Zaki Muhieddine]

This book promises to be insightful, captivating and a page turner. Meditation is mentioned in the review; although I am not an author, I can imagine that one needs a lot of concentration and meditation to write a book. The author of this book being a retired professor of psychology adds to its credit. I can't wait to read it.

[Leen282]

I do not intend to write texts or a book, but I think this guidance may be useful to those who need some help. I had to laugh when the reviewer mentioned that the author suggested to not take anyone's advice too seriously.

[Neha Panikar]

I'm so glad such books exist that facilitate and guide the whole process in such detail. It's one thing to feel you can write a book;it's another to actually execute it, as it needs so much more than just creative writing!!! My favourite part is it also tells you when to stop writing! Whoa!! I'm definitely adding this to my list. Thanks for the review, it's very helpful!!