Unstuck: 101 Doorways Leading from the Blank Page to the Last Page

In this encouraging how-to, novelist Ausubel (The Last Animal) catalogs writing’s many “doorways” and the keys to unlocking them. She augments these lessons with personal stories of her own zigzagging journey through the creative process. Her plethora of sage suggestions include “Cut half the things on your plot to-do list. Spend twice as much time in moments that matter to characters,” and “Close your eyes. Breathe deeply and slowly. Place yourself in a scene you want to write.” Ausubel also tackles how to prepare for the next day’s writing session, suggesting: “Write the word NEXT at the bottom of the page and jot down your ideas for the next two scenes, ideas, moments, or questions.” Throughout, she provides a kind, supportive voice to help keep nascent writers on course. Her calming vibe is encapsulated by her parting words in doorway #101, “Begin Anywhere (Again),” wherein she advises: “I want you to finish a project and hold it in your hands. But here’s what I know: When you get there, after the high fives and a cocktail, everyone else will go home and all you’ll be left with is a chair and desk, your own mind, and a thousand, million doorways. And it will be the most beautiful thing in the world.” This is a gentle tonic for writers in need of a boost. (Apr.)