Book Review: Zen in the Art of Writing by Ray Bradbury

Zen in the Art of Writing made me want to write. I know that sounds like very little; we writers tend to always want to write.

It was exquisite torture, the desire to continue reading Ray Bradbury's wonderful essays at constant war with the desire to set down the book and create.

Zen in the Art of Writing by Ray Bradbury contains eleven essays on his life as a writer: the story of how his works came about, how writing feels. The last section contains eight poems by Bradbury about writing and creativity.

Ray Bradbury writes these essays as though talking to an old friend, and imparting advice to a protégé at the same time. Reading Zen in the Art of Writing feels like an intimate conversation, so much of Bradbury himself leaps off the pages.

Interspersed with the story of Bradbury's life are the stories of the lives of his works, his memories of the births of his writings, and very practical advice and encouragement for any writer as well.

Ray Bradbury gave his characters the reins, hopped the carriage, and went along for the ride, gleefully experiencing whatever they had to share. This passion, and his appreciation of the adventure, leap off the pages of Zen in the Art of Writing, inviting the reader to see writing the way that he sees it, and encouraging everyone to begin their own adventure with an open heart.

Zen in the Art of Writing clearly shows Bradbury's love of writing itself. He reminds readers in each essay not only that he loves it, but that if they, too, might write, they should let their love of writing free.

Bradbury shares the joy, excitement, and, yes, zest and gusto, of writing, in a brilliant reminder to all writers of the true reasons why we began this, and the very best reasons for continuing. For love of the words, and most of all, for love of the story, the writing shall go on.

I highly recommend this book both for writers and for Ray Bradbury fans.

Ray Bradbury fans will surely appreciate him sharing so much of himself, and the tales behind their favorite stories. Writers will find great inspiration in his love of the craft, and with luck remember what first drew them in its direction.