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Summary: A gift
Review: The reader who said this book did not sufficiently emphasise the techniques involved in writing was right...but I think that is missing the point. Writing Down the Bones is a gift, like one's first pen, or a sunset. It teaches that writing need not be so invested with mystique as to make us unwilling to try. Most writers won't become famous. But is there any reason why they should not be productive and fulfilled? Natalie Goldberg shows that it is within every writer's grasp to be just that. As for plots and structure, there are some very good books on the writer's craft. And of course - take Natalie Goldberg's own advice (in Wild Mind, another gift)- if you want to write novels or poetry, read novels or poetry. That's the best way to learn about technique - and support other writers.
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Summary: The Best Writing Book I have ever seen!
Review: As a high school English teacher I hope to be a expert on the subject of writing. This is the single best and most influencial text I have ever read.
Rating: 
Summary: Embarrasing Proselytizing of Eastern Religion
Review: The book has little to do with writing and more to do with Eastern religion. If you don't want to hear about the mindless philosophies that have transcended into America in recent years, then don't buy this book; the author bondards you with it. I felt it was not only a waste of my money, but also deceiving. I wanted a book about writing, instead I had to hear about this persons religion, and pay for it! Total disappointment and a feeling that I was ripped off!
Rating: 
Summary: Good
Review: Like Anne Lamott,Natalie Goldberg makes you feel right at home. Reading this book is like talking to an old, reliable friend who won't let you down. I found her advice about writing anywhere and writing when you just plain don't feel like invaluable. She also deals with spontanaiety and the idea of "first thoughts" well.However, I think she understates the importance of technique, structure and plot. This book is a good starting point for beginners, but I would supplement it with other books that contain a variety of specific, focused exercises.
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Summary: Rain drops trickle down leaves in different ways.
Review: "Writing Down the Bones" taught me to stay awhile and look at life then write about it. Natalie Golberg's book also showed me how to sit and write in a cafe observing life over a cappuccino, or two. More importantly, Natalie conveys her excitement with life and writing in this book so that I can carry it around with me, re-reading it when the words stop flowing.
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Summary: I carry only two books with me this one and my journal.
Review: Wherever I go, I carry two books with me. My writing journal and Writing Down the Bones. Natalie Goldberg has something for everyone in this book, from the amateur to professional writer. My writing has improved dramatically since I picked up this book. Before, I was too mechanical about writing. I would sit down with a pen and write about a certain topic. But now, with Goldberg's help, I write whatever strikes me and I just let the pen flow across the pages of my journal. I wish I would have found this book ten years ago.
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Summary: Must have for writers!
Review: Read this book once and you'll recommend it to writers, new and accomplished. Natalie is amazing!
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Summary: If you own one writing book...
Review: This is the one book that I would recommend to aspiring writers. After re-reading several times, I felt so much better about my own writing that I had nearly tripled my good output! This is a fantastic book!!!
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Summary: Very inspiring and well worth re-reading regularly
Review: The author encourages us to notice the details in life and to celebrate everything which pleases us or makes an impression on us, as that is what makes writing lively and personal. Her book has also inspired me to carry on writing in my notebook even when I don't believe I'm a very good writer, as all writing practice is "composting" which could eventually result in some great ideas coming through. I am always dipping into this book and attempting to follow the author's suggestions. I have given copies to two other people who are keen amateur writers, and I usually take mine with me when I go away. All in all, I think this book offers hope to those who like writing but don't believe they're great writers or aren't even sure what they want to say. As the author says, if you care about what you're doing, it probably will be good. I have had a lot of fun as a result of reading this.
Rating:
Summary: Inspiring!
Review: Natalie Goldberg opens your eyes to the joy of writing and reminds the reader why they write. It's not for commercial success, it's because you were born to. She emphasizes accepting your fate as a writer and living that fate to the utmost extreme. She offers exercises to release creativity and gives examples of her own trials and tribulations. This is a great read and a must have for any writer.
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