Just Open a Vein

The title of this anthology comes from Red Smith's observation on the ease of writing: ""All you do is sit down at a typewriter and open a vein.'' Brohaugh, editor of Writer's Digest, here collects first-person pieces from the magazine by better and lesser-known writers about the problems of their profession, from finding sources of inspiration to coping with publishers. Among those represented are the likes of Lawrence Block, Maurice Zolotow and Alex Haley, who join others in dispelling the old myth that 90 percent of a writer's battle consists of forcing oneself to sit down at the desk. Topics covered include suggestions on how to begin and end stories, getting royalty checks and researching. The book will appeal strongly to writers and those who aspire to write; general readers will find it of minor interest. (September)