I wish this book had been written several years ago, when I first started my writing career. Ariel Gore's wit and wisdom could have spared me a lot of error and grief. How to Be a Famous Writer Before You're Dead is a breezy and informal guide for the writer looking for that first publishing score. Using her own experiences, as well as those of other writers, comedians, and entertainers, Gore speaks to the reader as if to an old friend and "tells it like it is." Launching a writing career is a scary, but rewarding, endeavor. Gore's encouragement and practical advice should inspire any first-time writer to keep at it. Hell, her book inspired me, even after five books of my own; after all, I'm not dead yet.

John Kachuba
[...]

This book changed my life! I'm not remotely kidding. I'm embarrassed now to say that I hadn't heard of Ariel Gore until last week, when I stumbled upon this book at Quimby's bookstore in Chicago. I bought it and read it (and highlighted it, which is what I do to the books I love so I don't forget the parts I love most) over the course of last weekend. And now, three days later, I have founded the new Silver Lining zine and a writing group by the same name, finally attended and networked at a literary reading series I'd always meant to go to, and contacted several of my favorite authors (starting with Ariel) to tell them how much I love their work and to pick their brains a bit about writing. That's right! That's just how inspiring and practical this book is. Plus it's a blast to read. Buy it now and use it to further your passions!