Today I have the privilege of my first book review. Not just any book, but a book about writing. And not just any writing book published today. In fact, it has not even been published yet! I have received a preliminary copy of Jeff Goins‘ book You Are A Writer (So Start Acting Like One).

I found Jeff through another blog where I have been studying about blogging, branding, and building a platform for myself and my writing. It has inspired me to create this site and this blog. I felt I had a voice and it needed to be heard.

But, sometimes I get discouraged. Why? Because no one reads my blog. Not even my wife! This is where Jeff comes in. He has the words you need to hear if you feel discouraged and ready to quit. The book Jeff has written is only the beginning of the whole conversation with my love affair with writing. It is the shot of adrenaline my work has needed.

The picture I visualize as I started to read this book is of Jeff Goins raising his black leather gloved hand grasping at the air and proclaiming to “wannabe” writers out there, “It is your destiny! Join me, and together, we can rule the galaxy as writers! Come with me. It is the only way.”

Well…not an exact quote from the book. I took a little creative licensing, perhaps, stealing from a favorite movie. Okay, it is a direct quote from Star Wars episode VI with a minor tweak.

But, the spirit of the words ring true from Goins. He is not the dictator of a galaxy but a fellow writer who has dealt with the frustrations of realizing his dream. It is his hope that you too recognize your dream of becoming a writer. His simple advice, “You just need to write.” And Jeff Goins will coach you to become that writer you already are.

Goins will tell you the God’s honest truth about writing; that it’s hard, that it takes work. But, in the end he will prove to you it is worth the effort. The book hits upon everything I struggle with; platform, branding, and outlet. Next, he coaches you through the start up process and what tools to use. I felt like I was getting an inside look into a world that I only dream of being a part of. Finally, he hit the big one. The dream of every writer. The coveted published book with their named emblazoned in glory on the cover as author.

Here are some out of context quotes that really grabbed my thinker. If you want to know exactly what Jeff is talking about I would suggest you get the book. But, just to wet your whistle I’ll expound a little bit.

On page 29 he says, “I can’t react and create at the same time. Neither can you.” Simple, yet, profound. Those who create get reactions. If you are reacting you are not the one creating.

“I wasn’t creating. I was only dreaming.” This here is a gem found on page 31. Beautiful in its construction and challenging. It is a wake up call to all those who dream yet never produce anything tangible to connect the dream to reality. You and I spend too much time dreaming and not enough time creating.

“It’s time to stop waiting to be asked and start creating.” I am sure Jeff was talking directly to me on page 38. Too long have I stood by waiting on some one to call me up, to tell me to do this or that, to invite me to speak or to write. But, how can I do if I don’t do? In other words do what you want to do and soon you will be doing it. Crazy isn’t it.

I know Jeff Goins’ book You Are A Writer will help you realize your dream of being a writer. I highly recommend the book to anyone wanting to be a writer. He tells you how to start and where to go. I would recommend this book to any writer who feels they are in a slump and need a little pick-me-up. It will ignite your passion to write and give you the kick in the pants you need. To all he gives sound advice and the encouragement for you to finally write those words you have been longing to write; “I am a writer!”