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Islington Branch Book Club - Past Titles: "Bird by Bird" by Anne Lamott

Take a look through previous titles we've discussed at our Islington Branch Book Club

About the Author: Anne Lamott

Anne Lamott is an American author and writing instructor known for her insightful and humorous observations on life and writing. Here is a brief biography of Anne Lamott:

Early Life:

  • Anne Lamott was born on April 10, 1954, in San Francisco, California, USA.
  • She comes from a literary background; her father, Kenneth Lamott, was also a writer.

Education:

  • Lamott attended Drew School in San Francisco.
  • She later studied at Goucher College in Baltimore, Maryland.

Writing Career:

Teaching:

  • Anne Lamott is a sought-after writing instructor and has taught at various writing conferences and workshops.
  • She has shared her wisdom and practical advice on the writing process with aspiring writers.

Themes in Her Work:

  • Lamott's writing often explores themes of faith, recovery, and the messy realities of life.
  • Her humorous and honest approach to storytelling has resonated with readers, making her a beloved figure in the literary world.

Personal Life:

  • Anne Lamott has been open about her struggles with alcoholism and her journey to recovery.
  • She is known for her candid and relatable portrayal of life's challenges and joys.

Legacy:

  • Anne Lamott's books have had a significant impact on both aspiring writers and readers seeking insight into the complexities of life.
  • "Bird by Bird" has become a classic in the field of writing advice and is widely recommended for its practical and compassionate guidance.

Anne Lamott continues to be an influential voice in literature, inspiring others with her unique blend of humor, wisdom, and vulnerability.

Synopsis

For a quarter century, more than a million readers--scribes and scribblers of all ages and abilities--have been inspired by Anne Lamott's hilarious, big-hearted, homespun advice. Advice that begins with the simple words of wisdom passed down from Anne's father--also a writer--in the iconic passage that gives the book its title: "Thirty years ago my older brother, who was ten years old at the time, was trying to get a report on birds written that he'd had three months to write. It was due the next day. We were out at our family cabin in Bolinas, and he was at the kitchen table close to tears, surrounded by binder paper and pencils and unopened books on birds, immobilized by the hugeness of the task ahead. Then my father sat down beside him, put his arm around my brother's shoulder, and said, 'Bird by bird, buddy. Just take it bird by bird.'"

Discussion Questions

  1. What does the metaphor "bird by bird" mean in the context of the book, and how does it relate to the process of writing and life in general?

  2. Lamott emphasizes the importance of writing shitty first drafts. How has this perspective changed your approach to writing, and do you find it applicable to other aspects of life?

  3. The author shares personal anecdotes and stories throughout the book. How does Lamott's storytelling style enhance the book's message and make it more relatable?

  4. In the chapter on "Perfectionism," Lamott discusses the challenges of perfectionism in writing and life. How have you personally grappled with perfectionism, and what strategies resonate with you for overcoming it?

  5. The concept of "shitty first drafts" and the need for persistence are recurring themes. How do these ideas apply beyond writing, and in what areas of your life can you adopt a similar mindset?

  6. Anne Lamott touches on the role of empathy in writing and life. How can cultivating empathy enhance both our writing skills and our relationships with others?

  7. The book addresses the importance of finding one's voice as a writer. How do you interpret this concept, and how have you worked towards finding your own voice in your creative endeavors?

  8. Lamott discusses the role of community and feedback in the writing process. How has sharing your work with others influenced your writing, and what benefits do you see in collaborative creative processes?

  9. The author explores the theme of faith and spirituality in writing. How does faith, whether in a religious or broader sense, play a role in the creative process for you?

  10. In the chapter "Radio Station KFKD," Lamott talks about the inner critical voices. How do you deal with your own inner critic, and what strategies does the author suggest for quieting those negative voices?

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