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Time to Write: Inspiring lessons and practical skills for writing the novel you've always wanted
Have you always wanted to write a novel?
Emily Winslow will help you develop the mindset and skills to get you started, keep you going, and see you through. Time to Write is a creative writing guide aimed at anyone who wants to write a novel and could use some support.
It contains 49 lessons, each easy to read and packed with insights based on experience. Emily has taken her own work to high levels with major publishers, and has learned from teaching at Cambridge University what makes students light up and what makes their work drastically, excitingly improve.
This book is full of encouragement, recognizing and affirming different work styles. It's a total handbook, teaching a broad range of specific writing skills with insight and clarity as well as covering topics around writing in-depth, such as how to give and take critique and how to evaluate publishers and agents.
It's time to write the stories inside you.
Acclaimed, multipublished authors love Emily’s
“Emily Winslow is a uniquely brilliant teacher. I would highly recommend that anyone who cares about improving their writing follow her advice.” Sophie Hannah
"Emily has taught a range of students of all ages, nationalities, and experiences, from first timers to those already in the early stages of a writing career. Students blossom with the confidence she provides." Elizabeth Speller
“This book is packed full of fantastic insights to ignite and stoke creative inspiration. Every teacher and student of creative writing will want it on their shelves.” Menna Van Praag
Popular life and business coach Kristen King recognizes the value of creative writing on mental health and self
“Emily’s insights skillfully draw out not just words and stories, but also self-awareness, perspective, and connection. Whether you're working on a book-length project, dabbling in personal essay, or just trying to figure out who the hell you are, this book is a must-have for anyone who thinks their words and stories aren't enough.”
Emily Winslow will help you develop the mindset and skills to get you started, keep you going, and see you through. Time to Write is a creative writing guide aimed at anyone who wants to write a novel and could use some support.
It contains 49 lessons, each easy to read and packed with insights based on experience. Emily has taken her own work to high levels with major publishers, and has learned from teaching at Cambridge University what makes students light up and what makes their work drastically, excitingly improve.
This book is full of encouragement, recognizing and affirming different work styles. It's a total handbook, teaching a broad range of specific writing skills with insight and clarity as well as covering topics around writing in-depth, such as how to give and take critique and how to evaluate publishers and agents.
It's time to write the stories inside you.
Acclaimed, multipublished authors love Emily’s
“Emily Winslow is a uniquely brilliant teacher. I would highly recommend that anyone who cares about improving their writing follow her advice.” Sophie Hannah
"Emily has taught a range of students of all ages, nationalities, and experiences, from first timers to those already in the early stages of a writing career. Students blossom with the confidence she provides." Elizabeth Speller
“This book is packed full of fantastic insights to ignite and stoke creative inspiration. Every teacher and student of creative writing will want it on their shelves.” Menna Van Praag
Popular life and business coach Kristen King recognizes the value of creative writing on mental health and self
“Emily’s insights skillfully draw out not just words and stories, but also self-awareness, perspective, and connection. Whether you're working on a book-length project, dabbling in personal essay, or just trying to figure out who the hell you are, this book is a must-have for anyone who thinks their words and stories aren't enough.”
- GenresWritingNonfiction
229 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 6, 2023
83 people are currently reading
87 people want to read
About the author
Emily Winslow
14 books135 followersEmily Winslow is the author of a series of crime novels and a memoir. Her books have been published by Random House, HarperCollins, Allison & Busby, and Shanghai Translation Publishing House.
Her novels (The Whole World, The Start of Everything, The Red House, and Look For Her) have been called “brilliant” (The Washington Post), “vivid” (Parade magazine) and “dazzling” (Shelf Awareness). Her memoir, Jane Doe January, is “meticulously constructed and ultimately terrifying” (The New York Times), “potent” (Kirkus), and “compelling” (Bustle).
She grew up in the U.S. and now lives in Cambridge, England teaching for the University of Cambridge and for Cambridge Creative Writing Company.
Her novels (The Whole World, The Start of Everything, The Red House, and Look For Her) have been called “brilliant” (The Washington Post), “vivid” (Parade magazine) and “dazzling” (Shelf Awareness). Her memoir, Jane Doe January, is “meticulously constructed and ultimately terrifying” (The New York Times), “potent” (Kirkus), and “compelling” (Bustle).
She grew up in the U.S. and now lives in Cambridge, England teaching for the University of Cambridge and for Cambridge Creative Writing Company.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
October 24, 2023
If you have a dream in your heart to write, this book is for you. If you value writing for personal enjoyment, this book is for you. If you love books and reading and want to develop your understanding of writing craft, then this book is for you, too. Emily Winslow has given us a gift: a gift of rest, daydreaming and of course, writing. She’s compiled her years of novel writing into a single book full of inspiring lessons and practical skills for others wanting to do the same. You’ll learn writing skills, storytelling skills and technical skills. You’ll learn how to get started, face the messy middle and explore ways to share your work with an audience. I personally loved her ideas about grocery bags and maypoles, wonder and worry. This book is sure to inspire.
November 3, 2023
*I received a free copy of this book with thanks to the author and WoW! Women on Writing. The decision to review and my opinions are my own.*
I love reading about books and writing – it is pretty much the only kind of non-fiction reading I enjoy – so I obviously jumped at the chance to review Emily Winslow’s Time to Write… and I am so glad I did!
The book is split into eight parts, each dealing with a different aspect of the writer’s craft – ideas, skills, editing, critiques and reviews, getting published, marketing – and each of those parts is made up of short, to the point chapters, full of useful insights and practical tips.
I consider myself strictly a reader, reviewer and editor but found myself suddenly inspired to jot down a few story ideas of my own while reading the sections dealing with story, structure and development, and I know I will definitely be referring back to the technical skills in my editing work. It is always nice to be able to check technical details with a reliable source!
My original plan was to dip in and out of the book, maybe focusing on the areas that interested me most personally and professionally, but instead I found myself simply reading the whole book cover-to-cover. It was just all so interesting (especially being one of my areas of special interest to start with) and so easy to read too, that I kept on turning the pages, eager to find more tips and advice along with entertaining practical examples.
I would definitely recommend this writing guide to anyone looking to get started or improve their craft, to fellow editors or similar professionals as a useful resource and anyone with a general interest in the subject. I will certainly be personally recommending it to writer clients and friends in future, as well as keeping my copy to hand on my work desk.
I might even take a look at some of those ideas I jotted down…!
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
I love reading about books and writing – it is pretty much the only kind of non-fiction reading I enjoy – so I obviously jumped at the chance to review Emily Winslow’s Time to Write… and I am so glad I did!
The book is split into eight parts, each dealing with a different aspect of the writer’s craft – ideas, skills, editing, critiques and reviews, getting published, marketing – and each of those parts is made up of short, to the point chapters, full of useful insights and practical tips.
I consider myself strictly a reader, reviewer and editor but found myself suddenly inspired to jot down a few story ideas of my own while reading the sections dealing with story, structure and development, and I know I will definitely be referring back to the technical skills in my editing work. It is always nice to be able to check technical details with a reliable source!
My original plan was to dip in and out of the book, maybe focusing on the areas that interested me most personally and professionally, but instead I found myself simply reading the whole book cover-to-cover. It was just all so interesting (especially being one of my areas of special interest to start with) and so easy to read too, that I kept on turning the pages, eager to find more tips and advice along with entertaining practical examples.
I would definitely recommend this writing guide to anyone looking to get started or improve their craft, to fellow editors or similar professionals as a useful resource and anyone with a general interest in the subject. I will certainly be personally recommending it to writer clients and friends in future, as well as keeping my copy to hand on my work desk.
I might even take a look at some of those ideas I jotted down…!
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
September 12, 2023
There is a saying: 'Everyone has a story inside, waiting to get out,' which often leads to 'everyone can write a novel'. This is _sort of_ true, but not everyone is able to write a novel that is actually good enough to read. Which is a great pity for those who really do want to write - and write well - but do not know how to go about it.
Step in Ms Emily Winslow with her very easy to read and understand 'how to' guide, Time To Write.
I have been a published author for over thirty years now, with two notable periods being a very sharp learning curve - when I was first accepted by William Heinemann (now part of Random House UK) back in 1993, and when I made the decision to go 'indie' (self-publish) in 2006 with my nautical series of novels. On both occasions (and yes, through the years in between,) I discovered 'how to' and 'how _not_ to' do things. I do rather wish that I'd had Ms Winslow's excellent book to hand during that time!
The desire to write a novel can be very strong. For many it is a case of 'when I get round to it,' but for the serious 'wannabe' that time is somehow found because the compulsion to write is, well, compulsive. Where and how to start though? Ms Winslow delves into those initial steps of 'getting going' and through easy to understand examples keeps you going.
In my opinion, Time To Write is one of the best creative writing guides that I've come across, not merely because the author clearly knows what she is talking about, but because she is genuinely encouraging and enthusiastic. She explains that in most instances there are no hard and fast rules about writing - it's your novel, you write it how you want to write it, but where there are rules she explains them and why they are important.
By taking you through the initial idea you have for your story, Ms Winslow goes on to explain structure, plot, writing skills, storytelling skills and technical skills. And includes what to do next - the getting your book published, whether through an agent, traditional publisher of self-publishing. Marketing v promotion and the disappointment of rejection, the elation of celebration.
Even experienced writers with several successful titles under their belts will find something of useful interest in Time To Write, especially, I think, indie (self-published) authors who do not have the benefit of an agent or publishing house editor to lean upon during those solitary periods of self-doubt. (And believe me, we have them!)
If you want to write, or need that extra nudge to keep writing, read this book.
Step in Ms Emily Winslow with her very easy to read and understand 'how to' guide, Time To Write.
I have been a published author for over thirty years now, with two notable periods being a very sharp learning curve - when I was first accepted by William Heinemann (now part of Random House UK) back in 1993, and when I made the decision to go 'indie' (self-publish) in 2006 with my nautical series of novels. On both occasions (and yes, through the years in between,) I discovered 'how to' and 'how _not_ to' do things. I do rather wish that I'd had Ms Winslow's excellent book to hand during that time!
The desire to write a novel can be very strong. For many it is a case of 'when I get round to it,' but for the serious 'wannabe' that time is somehow found because the compulsion to write is, well, compulsive. Where and how to start though? Ms Winslow delves into those initial steps of 'getting going' and through easy to understand examples keeps you going.
In my opinion, Time To Write is one of the best creative writing guides that I've come across, not merely because the author clearly knows what she is talking about, but because she is genuinely encouraging and enthusiastic. She explains that in most instances there are no hard and fast rules about writing - it's your novel, you write it how you want to write it, but where there are rules she explains them and why they are important.
By taking you through the initial idea you have for your story, Ms Winslow goes on to explain structure, plot, writing skills, storytelling skills and technical skills. And includes what to do next - the getting your book published, whether through an agent, traditional publisher of self-publishing. Marketing v promotion and the disappointment of rejection, the elation of celebration.
Even experienced writers with several successful titles under their belts will find something of useful interest in Time To Write, especially, I think, indie (self-published) authors who do not have the benefit of an agent or publishing house editor to lean upon during those solitary periods of self-doubt. (And believe me, we have them!)
If you want to write, or need that extra nudge to keep writing, read this book.
October 16, 2023
I often wonder if reading another craft book will help me on my writing journey. Sometimes I am disappointed, but in this case, I found a lot to love about this book.
The book is broken down into seven sections in an easy to read, straightforward manner. First, Winslow outlines the two different skills that are necessary for writers to have—writing and storytelling. Writing skills discussed include everything from metaphors and similes to showing and telling to flashbacks and exposition. Storytelling skills include structure, plot, and scenes. Winslow continues on with sections on technical skills (such as, punctuation, and transitions), facing the middle (cause and effect, revelations), being understood by others (depth, clarity), the professional life (publishers, agents), and your future.
My favourite section is “Being Understood by Others”, which goes in depth into critiques, something which is a continual source of frustration to many writers including me. I love how Winslow states that praise is just as important as criticism, how criticism is not supposed to be thought of as fixing something bad, but making something good become even better, and how there is a difference between critiquing intention and execution (hint: one is a no no).
I unearthed many other tiny gems throughout the book, such as the most important part of description is its relevance.
I recommend this to any writer wherever you are on your writing journey.
The book is broken down into seven sections in an easy to read, straightforward manner. First, Winslow outlines the two different skills that are necessary for writers to have—writing and storytelling. Writing skills discussed include everything from metaphors and similes to showing and telling to flashbacks and exposition. Storytelling skills include structure, plot, and scenes. Winslow continues on with sections on technical skills (such as, punctuation, and transitions), facing the middle (cause and effect, revelations), being understood by others (depth, clarity), the professional life (publishers, agents), and your future.
My favourite section is “Being Understood by Others”, which goes in depth into critiques, something which is a continual source of frustration to many writers including me. I love how Winslow states that praise is just as important as criticism, how criticism is not supposed to be thought of as fixing something bad, but making something good become even better, and how there is a difference between critiquing intention and execution (hint: one is a no no).
I unearthed many other tiny gems throughout the book, such as the most important part of description is its relevance.
I recommend this to any writer wherever you are on your writing journey.
September 22, 2023
Writing can be an intimidating endeavor, even for those who feel they have a story inside them. The sheer thought of where to begin, how to structure ideas, and the complexities of navigating the publishing world can halt even the most passionate aspiring authors. In Time to Write, Emily Winslow steps in as a guiding light, offering a structured, compassionate approach to the world of writing.
One of the book's standout features is its ability to speak to a diverse audience. Whether you're a seasoned writer looking for a fresh perspective or someone just starting, Winslow's words resonate. Reading Time to Write is like having a mentor in paperback form. Winslow doesn't just teach you about writing, but she includes important lessons on various topics surrounding writing such as publishing, marketing, and mindset. She empowers you to believe in your own voice and stories. For anyone starting their writing journey or looking for renewed inspiration, this book is not just a recommendation—it's a necessity.
One of the book's standout features is its ability to speak to a diverse audience. Whether you're a seasoned writer looking for a fresh perspective or someone just starting, Winslow's words resonate. Reading Time to Write is like having a mentor in paperback form. Winslow doesn't just teach you about writing, but she includes important lessons on various topics surrounding writing such as publishing, marketing, and mindset. She empowers you to believe in your own voice and stories. For anyone starting their writing journey or looking for renewed inspiration, this book is not just a recommendation—it's a necessity.
September 29, 2023
Writing a book can be so intimidating, and having recently started the journey myself, and found myself struggling a bit, I was eager to see what advice and help Winslow had offered inside this book. This exceeded my expectations - it’s easy to read, full of encouragement, and I feel like I have a clearer path forward now, and a lot more confidence than I used to. I think one of the things that really stood out to me is Winslow doesn’t tout one writing style as better than another, and is very accepting of a variety of styles (which I greatly appreciate). Winslow’s love for creative writing clearly shines through the pages, and I would love to have had her as a professor when I was still in college. I cannot recommend this enough, whether you’re just starting out on your journey, somewhere in the middle, or more experienced and looking to improve your craft. A must-read for creative writers!
October 21, 2023
I wish this book was around when I first began my writing and publishing journey, as it’s jam packed with useful, easy-to-digest tips; information and guidance on getting started.
Established author and Cambridge lecturer, Emily Winslow’s talent and enthusiasm for all things writing shine through in this how-to teaching guide and includes writing and storytelling skills; the technical skills of writing, seeking feedback on your work and what you might expect on your publishing journey.
In addition to how well-written and engaging ‘Time to Write’ is, I also love how well presented and accessible it is; with 49 lesson chapters covering all aspects of writing and publishing. I know that I will be dipping into this book again and again. I also hope to see more books on writing from Emily Winslow.
To begin or improve your writing, I highly recommend ‘Time to Write’: you will not regret it!
Established author and Cambridge lecturer, Emily Winslow’s talent and enthusiasm for all things writing shine through in this how-to teaching guide and includes writing and storytelling skills; the technical skills of writing, seeking feedback on your work and what you might expect on your publishing journey.
In addition to how well-written and engaging ‘Time to Write’ is, I also love how well presented and accessible it is; with 49 lesson chapters covering all aspects of writing and publishing. I know that I will be dipping into this book again and again. I also hope to see more books on writing from Emily Winslow.
To begin or improve your writing, I highly recommend ‘Time to Write’: you will not regret it!
July 7, 2024
This book has a simple but very important message for budding writers: relevance.
The placing of every word is a choice, and the writer must understand the effect of each choice on the progress of the overall work and the effect of that choice on the reader’s experience. The key is to make every word and its placement as relevant as possible. This improves the quality of writing as well as the quality of storytelling.
Relevance underpins just about every literary technique, and the author demonstrates this from several angles. In particular, relevance assists in achieving clarity, which enables the reader to follow the story without effort and hence become immersed.
Although this is a short book that covers a wide range of aspects relating to professional writing in summary form, it is clear and consistent in its message, full of wisdom simply but effectively expressed. There are plenty of gems in here, making this a resource to read again and again. Four stars.
The placing of every word is a choice, and the writer must understand the effect of each choice on the progress of the overall work and the effect of that choice on the reader’s experience. The key is to make every word and its placement as relevant as possible. This improves the quality of writing as well as the quality of storytelling.
Relevance underpins just about every literary technique, and the author demonstrates this from several angles. In particular, relevance assists in achieving clarity, which enables the reader to follow the story without effort and hence become immersed.
Although this is a short book that covers a wide range of aspects relating to professional writing in summary form, it is clear and consistent in its message, full of wisdom simply but effectively expressed. There are plenty of gems in here, making this a resource to read again and again. Four stars.
September 24, 2023
"A Time to Write" is a masterful conpendium of thoughts, ideas, information and lessons for ANY writer, not just those who've already published or those writing novels. Short chapters zeroing in on writing specifics such as POV, Metaphors and Similies, Showing and Telling, First Person, Third Person, etc. are given with unique samples and examples. Laced in with the basics are tidbits of Ms. Winslow's philosphy of writing; things you'll not find in any other book on writing, such as the importance of daydreaming, brainstorming and what-iffing to the writing process.
I binge read this book on writing! Who does that? It's that good. I wish it had been available before I finished my novel. If you can only buy one book on writing, buy this one! You won't go wrong with TIME TO WRITE!
I binge read this book on writing! Who does that? It's that good. I wish it had been available before I finished my novel. If you can only buy one book on writing, buy this one! You won't go wrong with TIME TO WRITE!
October 11, 2023
Insightful, bite-sized masterclasses, and so easy to read!
When I started it, pen and paper ready, I had expectations of moving through this book like a writing workshop. Instead, I found myself gobbling up each chapter the same way I'd rush through a captivating novel.
Thankfully it's well signposted for each chapter, so finding the sections I've wanted to re-read has been easy.
Several sections have ushered in intense writing periods, as well as thoughtful reflection on my characters, their motivations, and the plot. I had felt "stuck" for months, but now am gradually starting to work my way through this now.
Thank you, Emily, for putting together something so helpful, while also really enjoyable to read!
When I started it, pen and paper ready, I had expectations of moving through this book like a writing workshop. Instead, I found myself gobbling up each chapter the same way I'd rush through a captivating novel.
Thankfully it's well signposted for each chapter, so finding the sections I've wanted to re-read has been easy.
Several sections have ushered in intense writing periods, as well as thoughtful reflection on my characters, their motivations, and the plot. I had felt "stuck" for months, but now am gradually starting to work my way through this now.
Thank you, Emily, for putting together something so helpful, while also really enjoyable to read!
September 30, 2023
What a wonderful book on writing this is! Author Emily Winslow takes you through every stage and aspect of writing a book. From gathering ideas to your writing technique to word choices to dialogue to everything else in between, she offers helpful tips to help you get out of your own way and write. What I loved was how short and easy to read the chapters were. She provides just enough information for you to feel as if you really gained enough material about a topic and leave you with thoughts on how to possibly change your approach. She's not about hard and firm rules but rather offering you a perspective on maybe a better way. Definitely a book I recommend!
October 12, 2023
I’m only on page 55 of Time to Write I’m already thinking of all the ways I’ll use this book in my Creative Writing classes.
The latest from novelist Emily Winslow, Time to Write is packed with tips for new writers—and experienced writers—but wow, it’s a treasure trove for teachers/teaching artists.
Emily Winslow's conversational tone is wonderfully engaging, as she offers a variety of writing skills and examples, making this book a breezy, absorbing read.
Rich, insightful, and extremely useful, I highly recommend Time to Write.
The latest from novelist Emily Winslow, Time to Write is packed with tips for new writers—and experienced writers—but wow, it’s a treasure trove for teachers/teaching artists.
Emily Winslow's conversational tone is wonderfully engaging, as she offers a variety of writing skills and examples, making this book a breezy, absorbing read.
Rich, insightful, and extremely useful, I highly recommend Time to Write.
October 9, 2023
Emily Winslow’s enthusiasm for nurturing the work of her students and readers radiates from every page. Not only was it a pure delight to read from beginning to end, but I also know that I’ll dip in and out to refresh myself for nuggets of advice as and when I need them in the future. A beautiful wee package of practical wisdom.
February 3, 2024
A little book full of big ideas
Really good book for those new to writing, even useful to the seasoned writer. Set out in a concise yet clear way, there is more than one nugget of advice on nearly every page. If you want to write then here is a good place to start.
Really good book for those new to writing, even useful to the seasoned writer. Set out in a concise yet clear way, there is more than one nugget of advice on nearly every page. If you want to write then here is a good place to start.
February 11, 2024
This was possibly my favorite writing book to read. The author managed a good balance brevity with breadth of topics covered, going just deep enough into everything to be a good first stop for writing advice before doing more advanced research.
May 28, 2024
Good tips on Writing
I liked how she explained show, not tell and the POVs. It was eye opening and I could see my errors in my writing with this book guiding me.
I liked how she explained show, not tell and the POVs. It was eye opening and I could see my errors in my writing with this book guiding me.
January 7, 2024
Time to Write by Emily Winslow is an awesome author craft book written by someone who is an author and professor teaching writing. Over the years, Winslow taught many different classes and finally decided to put them all together into a book.
What I loved about this craft book is that it is less about what you must do and more about things you should keep in mind when writing. She doesn't say "Write your book this way," but instead suggests you think about things like the difference between plot and structure, consider what tense you are using and why, and figure out how to find your writing tribe. What's more, this book is perfect for beginners or for authors who've written several books already. Regardless of where you are, you'll get something from her lessons.
For me, the best lesson was on daydreaming. I've always hated to admit that I don't write every day. I feel so undisciplined. However, Winslow suggests that daydreaming is part of the writing process as you imagine characters, scenes, plot ideas, twists, and more. With this in mind, I do write every day - just not necessarily words on the page!
This is a must-read for anyone who writes or is considering it!
What I loved about this craft book is that it is less about what you must do and more about things you should keep in mind when writing. She doesn't say "Write your book this way," but instead suggests you think about things like the difference between plot and structure, consider what tense you are using and why, and figure out how to find your writing tribe. What's more, this book is perfect for beginners or for authors who've written several books already. Regardless of where you are, you'll get something from her lessons.
For me, the best lesson was on daydreaming. I've always hated to admit that I don't write every day. I feel so undisciplined. However, Winslow suggests that daydreaming is part of the writing process as you imagine characters, scenes, plot ideas, twists, and more. With this in mind, I do write every day - just not necessarily words on the page!
This is a must-read for anyone who writes or is considering it!
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews