Nobody Wants to Read Your Sh*t: And Other Tough-Love Truths to Make You a Better Writer by Steven Pressfield

Nobody Wants to Read Your Sh*t: And Other Tough-Love Truths to Make You a Better Writer by Steven Pressfield is a fast-paced and inspiring guide for any aspiring author. It explains complex concepts in an engaging and straightforward style. In the book, Pressfield dives into areas such as craftsmanship, the creative process, procrastination and self-doubt, and the importance of following through.

The book's main message is that success as a writer requires sweat and hard work, regardless of talent. It emphasizes that any individual that seeks to become a successful and competent writer must be willing to go through the challenges of the craft. Pressfield reassures his readers that mastering the craft of writing is a process contrary to the public perception of authors easily receiving the 'gift of writing'.

Pressfield clearly states that the hardest part of writing is tackling the writer's self-doubt and resistance. He believes that these two traits should not discourage the writer nor should these interfere with their creativity. Instead, Pressfield encourages his readers to defeat these traits by accepting that every draft of one’s writing is garbage, and as a result, more optimistic ideas and solutions will start to emerge.

In the book, Pressfield outlines the importance of following through with committed projects, and of being honest in the evaluation of those projects. He recognises that it is easy to become discouraged after submitting something that was not accepted, especially if it was a project closely identified with the writer. However, he reminds his readers that if their work gets rejected, that it simply means that the piece was not suitable for the particular project, however, that does not mean it is bad or not worthy of another project.

The book also stresses the value of finding the right audience for that project. Having the right target audience in mind allows the writer to make sure they capture the correct tone, subject matter, size and structure of the piece. This way, it becomes easier for editors, customers and readers to fall in love with the piece.

Nobody Wants to Read Your Sh*t is a must-read for any aspiring author who wants to further their writing skills and learn how to stay in control of their writing process. Although the book is 'tough-love', Pressfield’s advice is practical and universal. The advice is ones that any aspiring author can implement in order to stay motivated and focused. Ultimately, this is a book about making writing an effortless and enjoyable experience that not only brings imaginative ideas to life, but also leads to success, regardless of the author's expertise.