Scrapbook Page Maps: Sketches for Creative Layouts by Becky Fleck

My review

rating: 4 of 5 stars
I think this may turn out to be the best scrapbooking idea book I've ever purchased. Everything about this book has been well thought out, from the fantastic sketches to the beautiful color examples to the fact that the book is spiral bound so it can lie flat on your work surface. The punch-out (and therefore portable, for shopping purposes) mini layout cards at the back of the book are an excellent bonus.

I anticipate getting a lot of use out of this one!


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Book Review: Writer Mama: How to Raise a Writing Career Alongside Your Kids

I've finished reading my first book of 2008 and it was probably the best thing I could have chosen to start off the year. In Writer Mama, author Christina Katz provides a realistic outline for working writing time into even the most hectic of schedules and provides aspiring writers with a plan for developing their skills and marketing their work.

The book itself is constructed of short, information packed chapters and interesting side bars that are conducive to reading in the short periods of time that are like gold to a busy mother.

Katz's tone makes her reader feel as though the two of you are sitting down for coffee together and are chatting about the writing life. Her enthusiasm for writing drips off the page and inspires you to run out and get started as soon as you can.

Since reading the book, I've re-enrolled in a writing course I began years ago and am eagerly awaiting my materials so I can see where my renewed enthusiasm and resolve finally take me. I can't wait until I have my first "writing success story" to share on the Writer Mama Blog!