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Serious writers often attend retreats and workshops to hone their craft. Some belong to writers' groups or know an astute reader/writer willing to give feedback on their work--either of which are essential in providing honest and clear critiques of one's work before pieces are submitted for publication (or consideration thereof). Whether self-published or an author in search of a publisher, DO THE WRITE THING: 7 STEPS TO PUBLISHING SUCCESS is a gem!A succinct yet thorough treatment, this book gives recommendations to becoming a better writer, informed of the publishing trade. The seven chapters mark the steps to publishing success; each chapter ends with a worksheet for writers to reinforce their personal commitment to their project(s). Appendices offer resources for desktop publishing, sales and promotion, the poetry market, and other data useful to writers new to the publishing world. The glossary is helpful to those unfamiliar with book publishing terms. Writing prompts and timelines are beneficial.Creative writing teachers can also appreciate this book as a tool to encourage students to write beyond classroom assignments.Another winner from Kwame Alexander.great approachKwame Alexander has done all aspiring writers a great service. He's writen a book that demystifies self publishing. His instructions are clear and free of jargon. Authors who aren't novices can enjoy the book too because of the highly valuable section on marketing. If you're serious about getting published run out and buy Do the Write Thing now.Kimberley Wilson, author of Work It! The Black Woman's Guide to Success at Work.Do the Write Thing is an excellent book from the elegant, simple cover to the last word. Mr. Alexander has used his extensive experience to provide us with a comprehensive guide to make it happen! I got this book just days after I completed a (dollar amount)course at NYU, and it told me the exact same things I had just learned, along with providing worksheets! One of my favorite parts in the book is the story he tells of his publishing father waking him out of bed to help mail letters when he was 8 years old. How much more experience can you get?! The ease with which he details the process makes it seem much less daunting. I am looking forward to getting the workbook, but of course am getting started right away!!!Kwame Alexander's latest book, Do the Write Thing, is a godsend. Write Thing is to the point, concise and chock full of incredible information that would take the average person several months to research. This book can save you time and money, which speaks directly to the hearts and wallets of the average American.I found the web site references and glossary quite useful. It's also good to know that Kwame isn't speaking from pure research, but from experience, which gives the reader the feeling that they can self-publish, too.Remember that commercial from Life Cereal with Mikey? Remember the slogan? Try it you'll like it? In the same vein, buy and try Mr. Alexander's book, you'll like it. It's all for you.As an aspiring novelist, I found this book to be an eye-opener. Whether or not I decide to self-publish, the inside information has helped me perpare for the process. Alexander's mix of humor and straightforwardness make this an educational and fun read. The example used throughout of a person publishing his book was particularly interesting and, the additional reading lists and worksheets were particularly helpful. Alexander addresses more than just publishing but also touches on writing, editing and marketing so the reader can understand the entire process. It's a must read for beginning self-publishers and writers.There are many instructional writing books on the market, trust me. The strength of Do The Write Thing is not only the information, but the humorous and accessible way in which it's presented. Kwame Alexander shares his years of experience to help writers think creatively, operate efficiently on a business level, save money and have fun doing it. The resources section, which most new writers desperately need, is worth the price of the book alone. All new writers who want to win should have Do The Write Thing.