Bruce's Reads

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, and I rate it as three stars.

“Writing Flash Fiction” by Carly Berg, is written for newbie writers who have little or no experience in publishing fiction works, especially shorter ones. It covers an array of topics that are worth consideration, and the guidance provided gives enough detail for one to start.

Some of the topics presented used to be routinely accepted in the publishing world. However, with the recent changes in publishing, especially independent (or self) publishing, some of those elements are no longer always appropriate for everyone. For example, critique groups and agents are capable of more harm than good, especially for writers just beginning a career in this field. This is not to say that they can’t be of good use, but full consideration must be given. Some guidelines readily accepted ten or fifteen years ago are considered pitfalls today.

I would have like the author to balance out the book with the subject of independent (or self) publishing, beyond the standard “vanity press” reference. Much has changed and the writers need to understand the opportunities that are available in the independent publishing world, as well as the traditional one. Writers who wish to forge their own careers and retain more control over their works are given more opportunities today as opposed to just five years ago.

The author paints a realistic picture of the expectations an author should have. She also provides examples of flash fiction for writers to review, so they can get a feel for the tone, pacing, etc. of this kind of writing. So it was a good book, but I felt it could have been more complete.