Writing Motherhood helps moms put pen (or pencil) to paper
July 17th, 2008
I jumped at the chance to review Writing Motherhood on Boutique Cafe’s Daily Dish for two reasons: one, I am a mother, and two, I love to write. Both mothering and writing are still a work in progress so I was anxious to read what insights, advice, tools, and guidance Writing Motherhood had to offer me. It had all that to offer with an added kick in the pants to start writing again (not easy to do when a recent manuscript has already been rejected numerous times).
I have not made my way through the entire book, and I’ve learned it’s not the type to be read cover to cover in one sitting. The book is a tool and a guide to help intertwine writing and mothering, teaching readers like me that inspiration can come from the everyday. I usually have a bit of a harder time reading non-fiction books but the author Lisa Garrigues’ wit and writing style (no surprise) had me from page one. Here are a couple passages I’ve starred in my copy so far:
Garrigues’ take on the students (a.k.a. moms) from her first writing class:
My first Writing Mothers arrived feeling physically exhausted and emotionally spent–in some cases ‘brain-dead,’ their imagination and creativity anesthetized by the rigors and routines of daily life. (Sound familiar?)
Her thoughts on taking the first step:
Carl Jung would call it synchronicity. A priest might call it fate; a romantic, serendipity; a skeptic, luck. However you choose to explain this phenomenon, know that one step always leads to athe next. This is how mountains are scaled, deserts are crossed, and whole journeys are made. (Feeling inspired?)
Garrigues, a writer and a mother, takes what seems like an overwhelming task at times and turns it into a welcome journey. An excerpt from WritingMotherhood.com put it perfectly:
Whether you are a new mother or a grandmother, someone who has long aspired to write or someone who has never written before, in Writing Motherhood Lisa Garrigues will show you how to use writing as both a tool for recording your life and a path to understanding your experiences. In just fifteen minutes a day, your Mother’s Notebook will be a keepsake, and your daily writing will keep you sane.
Are you ready to recapture the sanity you thought was lost long ago? Me too. Take a minute to read a little more about the book and Lisa Garrigues. I guarantee it won’t be long before you’re standing in Barnes & Noble picking out the perfect Mother’s Notebook. I’m planning to go tomorrow. –Emily
** Giveaway!!! Simon & Schuster is giving away 10 copies of Writing Motherhood! Please leave a comment with a valid email address for our drawing. We’ll draw the winners from the comments and contact them via email. Deadline: July 25, 2008 (midnight). The winners will have 24 hours to claim their prize or a new winner will be chosen.
* Congratulations to all ten winners of the Writing Motherhood giveaway! Thank you to everyone who took the time to read the review and add a comment. Keep reading the Daily Dish for your chance to participate in more giveaways!
July 18th, 2008 at 8:53 am
I would love to win this book!
July 18th, 2008 at 6:05 pm
Oh this would be a fantastic book! I would love the chance to own it. It may even motivate me
July 19th, 2008 at 9:57 am
This would be a great addition to my motherhood library!
July 19th, 2008 at 10:01 am
What a wonderful giveaway!
gkstratos@yahoo.com
July 19th, 2008 at 10:09 am
As a mom I would love to win this book! This book would certainly help me back into writing more again!
Thank you so much for this giveaway!
July 19th, 2008 at 10:12 am
This looks like a great tool. I love to scrapbook, but sometimes need help with the journaling part! Thanks for the fun giveaway!!! amguely(at)gmail.com
July 19th, 2008 at 10:38 am
I’ve been wanting to keep a journal for quite a while and have even started, but never kept it up. I think this sounds like a great book to get me started again.
July 19th, 2008 at 11:14 am
This book sounds like a great way to get started with writing for us busy moms! Thanks!
July 19th, 2008 at 11:20 am
Sounds wonderful…would love to win this. Thanks so much!
July 19th, 2008 at 12:00 pm
This is perfect! I love to write. I write all the time even though no one really gets to read it. Sometimes I just write with no “point” to what I was writing. I would love to find a way to focus on what I am writing.
Thank you for a great giveaway!
July 19th, 2008 at 12:26 pm
I love the excerpts you’ve printed. If I don’t win it, I’m going to buy it. Thanks for bringing it to my attentions.
Design Your Own Custom Handbag; http://www.maddymoo.com/kathieb.htm
July 19th, 2008 at 1:44 pm
This would be great to win!
July 19th, 2008 at 2:01 pm
I would love to win this. I really enjoy writing but to be honest, I have little time and motivation as a mother of two under two. Thanks!
July 19th, 2008 at 2:13 pm
I’ve been trying to get somewhere with my writing for a while now, and I thought having a baby was going to put it on hold for years. This book sounds perfect!
July 19th, 2008 at 4:04 pm
This sounds like a great tool for writing some really good blog posts and for recording memories! I would love to win — thanks!
July 19th, 2008 at 5:11 pm
What a neat idea! Please enter me!
July 19th, 2008 at 5:38 pm
Sounds great! Thanks for the giveaway!
July 19th, 2008 at 6:47 pm
I need all the help I can get…
July 19th, 2008 at 7:28 pm
I really need this… lol..
July 19th, 2008 at 8:32 pm
This sounds like a very unusual and helpful book! Thanks for introducing it to me!
July 19th, 2008 at 8:41 pm
I would love to win this…….I need some inspiration to get me started.
July 20th, 2008 at 5:06 am
A great book for blooming writers
July 20th, 2008 at 5:14 am
Sounds good!
July 20th, 2008 at 5:15 am
This sounds wonderful! I would love to win! Thanks for the opportunity!
July 20th, 2008 at 5:21 am
What a great giveaway. I would love to have this book.
July 20th, 2008 at 5:38 am
This would make a wonderful Christmas gift
July 20th, 2008 at 6:59 am
“Writing Motherhood” sounds like a great book! How nice of you to offer it in a giveaway! I clicked on Daily Dish on your site and found it very interesting!
Thank you!
July 20th, 2008 at 7:06 am
I would love to read this!
kelli at pfrog dot net
July 20th, 2008 at 8:12 am
I write on th side and have been published in the past. I would really like this book:)
jceko77@yahoo.com
July 20th, 2008 at 9:05 am
like to win this
July 20th, 2008 at 9:07 am
I would love to start writing – my interests / hobbies change frequently and this is something I have wanted to do for a while.
July 20th, 2008 at 10:48 am
I have been “writing” my book now for about 4 years lol. I’d love to win this giveaway as I seem to need some inspiring!
Thanks.
July 20th, 2008 at 10:56 am
I SOOOOO hope I win!! I’ve got my fingers crossed!
July 20th, 2008 at 10:58 am
just send it
July 20th, 2008 at 11:01 am
I am always on the lookout for new reads. This one sounds good.
July 20th, 2008 at 11:03 am
wow i’m glad i found your site. I’ve actually thought about writing but it’s just sometimes life takes hold of you and won’t let you go
July 20th, 2008 at 12:00 pm
I’m just reaching a period in motherhood that has a bit of free time. I’m trying to start up journaling again and blogging. Any inspiration would be welcome and appreciated. Thanks.
thundercloudgirl[at]hotmail[dot]com
July 20th, 2008 at 12:22 pm
Would love to win the book!
July 20th, 2008 at 12:33 pm
I would love to win this for my wife, thanks for having it.
July 20th, 2008 at 12:38 pm
would love to win
July 20th, 2008 at 12:49 pm
I would love to win this for one of my best friends who really wants to sit down and write her motherhood story as well.
July 20th, 2008 at 1:16 pm
I would to win.Anything.
July 20th, 2008 at 1:37 pm
Awesome! Really want to check this out, (I’ve got my fingers crossed…)
July 20th, 2008 at 2:34 pm
Great! Count me in!
July 20th, 2008 at 4:37 pm
I would love to read this book.
July 20th, 2008 at 5:41 pm
I love books. Count me in.
July 20th, 2008 at 5:42 pm
I would love to win it. Reading is my #1 hobby.
July 20th, 2008 at 5:42 pm
Enter me. I am interested in the book.
July 20th, 2008 at 5:54 pm
what a wonderful giveaway
July 20th, 2008 at 6:01 pm
looks fantastic
July 20th, 2008 at 6:16 pm
Sounds like a wonderfully, useful book. I would love to win. Thanks for the chance.
July 20th, 2008 at 6:34 pm
I think this book was written just for me. Really. No, I’m actually struggling with getting back into writing and I’d love this as a resource/inspiration. I love that it has “daily writing invitations” to get you motivated.
Megret
musesofmegret@gmail.com
July 20th, 2008 at 7:19 pm
Pick me. My friend just found out she’s pregnant.
July 20th, 2008 at 7:22 pm
What a wonderful prize!
July 20th, 2008 at 8:44 pm
I have writers block lately. This book may just be the cure I need.
July 20th, 2008 at 8:48 pm
Sounds like a book I could read and get something out of. Would love the opportunity.
July 20th, 2008 at 10:05 pm
Great giveaway, thanks!
July 20th, 2008 at 11:32 pm
I’m a mom and aspiring writer: this book would be perfect for me.
July 21st, 2008 at 2:22 am
I like to write, too, and I’m a mom. That means I need a book like this!
July 21st, 2008 at 3:08 am
Looks GREAT…really would love to win. Thanks for entry
July 21st, 2008 at 3:40 am
please enter me for a chance to win this.
July 21st, 2008 at 5:29 am
wow
July 21st, 2008 at 5:36 am
I am a mom that has dreamed of writing. Thanks for the chance.
July 21st, 2008 at 6:08 am
Thanks for a wonderful contest!
July 21st, 2008 at 6:55 am
Would love to win this. I enjoy writing a lot.
July 21st, 2008 at 7:16 am
THANK YOU GOD BLESS
July 21st, 2008 at 7:31 am
Always think of writting.
July 21st, 2008 at 8:08 am
It would be wonderful to reconnect my brain, to my fingers again. I miss writing like I used to, I’ve learned alot with age, however I’d love to get this book to assist with more!
Warm Blessings,
LilithSilvermane(at)gmail(dot)com
July 21st, 2008 at 8:31 am
What a cool book – I used to write, but haven’t had much time with an infant to take care of. This seems like it could help get me back on track!
July 21st, 2008 at 8:34 am
this is a great contest
July 21st, 2008 at 10:34 am
Count me in!
July 21st, 2008 at 11:24 am
Wow, this is great. I have always wanted to write, but life and kids have kept me from doing it. Maybe I could get inspired. Thanks!
July 21st, 2008 at 12:54 pm
Pick Me !!
July 21st, 2008 at 1:10 pm
Please enter me
July 21st, 2008 at 2:46 pm
Awesome giveaway!
July 21st, 2008 at 4:48 pm
This sounds like a wonderful book! It would be perfect for my daughter! She loves to write!
July 21st, 2008 at 4:50 pm
Great giveaway!
July 21st, 2008 at 5:04 pm
sounds good – would love to win this
July 21st, 2008 at 5:36 pm
Dear Emily, this is Lisa Garrigues, author of Writing Motherhood. Thank you for your insightful review. I’m so glad you find my words inspiring–both as a mother and as a writer. Judging by the overwhelming response to the giveaway, lots of mothers are looking for a little guidance and encouragement. I wish everyone the best in being among the lucky winners. As for you, please don’t be discouraged by the rejections. Always remember that the writing itself is what matters. The recognition will come, I promise. All my best, Lisa
July 21st, 2008 at 6:51 pm
I’d love to win this. looks interesting. kristilb19@yahoo.com
July 21st, 2008 at 7:11 pm
What a great book and guide this seems to be! I think this would be great for any mother, including me!
July 22nd, 2008 at 3:37 am
Great giveaway, please add my entry. Thank you
July 22nd, 2008 at 8:36 am
Writing a children’s book is on my personal “bucket list” of life. I know this would definately give me a kick start in getting this started and finished!
July 22nd, 2008 at 12:13 pm
enter me
July 22nd, 2008 at 12:29 pm
I’ve been wanting to blog more, I think this might help! Thanks!
July 22nd, 2008 at 1:04 pm
This sounds really good!
July 22nd, 2008 at 4:33 pm
looks like a great book
thanks
July 22nd, 2008 at 4:54 pm
I hope I win this one!
July 22nd, 2008 at 5:11 pm
please enter me!
July 22nd, 2008 at 5:12 pm
would love to be entered.
July 22nd, 2008 at 7:30 pm
Sounds good to me!
July 22nd, 2008 at 11:25 pm
really want to win the book!!
July 23rd, 2008 at 10:04 pm
I would love this book. I definitely want to learn to write about my journey.
July 24th, 2008 at 2:13 am
This sounds completely perfect for me, completely!
July 24th, 2008 at 12:12 pm
I would love to get writing again!
July 24th, 2008 at 12:13 pm
How awesome!
July 24th, 2008 at 5:39 pm
Sweet niblets!
July 24th, 2008 at 7:05 pm
Sounds like good reading!
July 24th, 2008 at 8:11 pm
Nice! Thank you!!
July 24th, 2008 at 9:11 pm
I’ve always loved to write, but it’s true… with two young kids, I do feel brain-dead! I’ve been trying to keep journals for my kids and this might be just the thing I need to keep me on track.
July 24th, 2008 at 9:36 pm
I would love to win this becuase I am a mother and I want to start writing again.
July 25th, 2008 at 8:28 am
PLEASE COUNT ME IN ON THIS AWESOME GIVEAWAY
July 25th, 2008 at 10:26 am
I would love to win a copy of this book. I love to write.
July 25th, 2008 at 11:35 am
oh i would love to own this! I didn’t even know they had a book like this. I started keeping a journal for each of my children when i found out i was pregnant for both. I want them to know about their everything, leading right up to the moment i give them the notebooks. I want to give it to them when they are pregnant with their first child. It is something i am very passionate about, and i would love to hear her words of encouragement.
Thanks for the opportunity! anavarre1331@bellsouth.net
July 25th, 2008 at 12:59 pm
wow, what a great looking book!
July 25th, 2008 at 4:19 pm
This is like driving you put the peddle to the metal; well the pen to paper is so visual rather than a recorder; sounds so useful with fond memories to share.
July 25th, 2008 at 7:02 pm
I would love to win this contest.
July 25th, 2008 at 8:22 pm
What a lovely book! : )
July 25th, 2008 at 8:26 pm
I would love this because I want to write a novel and also do some freelance writing.
July 25th, 2008 at 8:55 pm
I would love to win this book!
July 26th, 2008 at 3:29 am
Please enter me into the contest. Thanks!
August 5th, 2008 at 8:14 am
Congratulations to the lucky ten! And to all of you who participated in the giveaway, always remember that inspiration for writing comes not from the pages of a book but in the cracks and corners of our everyday lives. All best,
Lisa Garrigues