Gaskill

This is an amazingly useful book for anyone who fantasizes about writing professionally.
There is excellent, practical advice about helping your writer's mind think in a writing way, overcoming writer's block, and generally lubricating the thought to words-on-paper process.

The book mixes instruction and advice with autobiographical tidbits that keep the reading interesting. There is advice and instruction on the practical aspects of writing professionally, including how to choose a copy editor, how to choose a publisher, and why you really do need an agent before you will make a living with your writing. There are also sections on self-publishing and e-publishing which are very much up to date.

Susie makes it clear that writing professionally is hard work and the money will come in slowly after many years of actually writing and writing and writing. If you are one of those people who "wants to be a writer" but never actually writes anything prepare for a slap in the face. Stop dreaming of eventually writing a home-run novel on the first try and retiring to your own island in the Caribbean. It's not going to happen. Just start actually writing.

Oh, right, the "dirty book" part. It's in there too. Fun and funny reading with practical advice from an expert. But really, this is a book about writing professionally. Susie narrates the book in her chuckly way which can sometimes be distracting but she speaks professionally and the reading is clear and lively. Despite the title, the book is not intended to titillate so don't expect much in that department.

If you are interested in writing professionally on any topic you will find this book extremely useful.