Freelance Writers: Read The Well-Fed Writer

Posted by bridgid on | March 4, 2010 | 2 Comments |

I recently jumped into the world of freelance writing–a terrifying leap of faith since I had no job leads, no experience and no idea of where to start–and The Well-Fed Writer gave me the direction I needed to turn my fears into something of the past.

The Well-Fed Writer isn’t just a book; it’s a tool-kit for the aspiring freelance writer. Author Peter Bowerman chats with you as though you’re sipping a drink on his back porch, and he helps you figure out what your writing goals are and how you are going to achieve them. In short, The Well-Fed Writer delivers Peter: The career advisor and writing buddy you’ve always wanted.

Have you dreamed of becoming a writer but never took it too seriously because after all, the words “starving” and “writer” are pretty much joined at the hip? Or are you already a writer but either working for someone else or struggling financially? This might just be your ticket.

~Peter Bowerman, The Well-Fed Writer

In 1994, Peter quit his job and in three and a half months achieved financial self-sufficiency through commercial writing. In fact, Peter had more work than he could handle. (One problem most of us would love to have!) Instead of keeping his success to himself, Peter shared his time tested techniques to help bust people out of cubicles and into the wonderful world of freelance–where you can live the life you want and still make a living.

In a little over 300 pages, Peter covers the entire scope of commercial freelance writing. He explains what commercial writing entails, discusses how to find work and demystifies basic business and marketing techniques. Peter explains the ins and outs of commercial writing so that even hopeless creative types (like me) can understand them.

Although The Well-Fed Writer is brimming with great information–writing tips, useful websites, book recommendations–not one page of it is dry or boring. Peter keeps the tone of the book light, and he leaves you feeling full of optimism and excitement, which is especially impressive considering that an entire chapter is dedicated to cold-calling. He balances pragmatic information with interesting quotes from people in the industry, including the people who want to hire you, established freelance writers and readers of The Well-Fed Writer who took Peter’s advice and found success.

The Well-Fed Writer is a reference that will come in handy time and again, and if you incorporate Peter’s techniques into your freelance career I have no doubt you will achieve success. For those who are interested in buying Peter’s book, I recommend getting the newest edition–it combines multiple Well-Fed Writer titles and has updated sections on using the Internet to your advantage. Even better, buy the book through Peter’s website to support him directly.

If you’re not ready to buy the book, then visit Peter’s website and blog to join conversations on commercial freelance writing. I’m sure that after perusing the site you’ll want the book, and let me tell you–it is worth the price!

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