Dancing on the Head of a Pen: The Practice of a Writing Life by Robert Benson is about writing and not writing and trying to write, basically how the life of a writer is challenging and rewarding at the same time. There is an obvious spiritual tone to the book, and when I looked up the author’s biography this made some sense as he has written about faith related topics before writing this book.

As someone who writer, or attempts to even if means just jotting down book reviews on this weblog, I could not help be feel a connection to many of the points made throughout the book. It reads like a series of essays covering various issues related to writing. Benson provides many anecdotes from his own experience as a professional writer and also weaves in bits of advice from what he has learned throughout his writing career.

Aside from what you will find inside the book, one point I liked about it (and I get that this won’t appeal to everyone) is the compact size of the book. It’s about 170 pages in a hard copy form, 5×7.5 inches, perfect to tuck into a purse or bag and carry with you. Plus the short essays are individual “quick reads” that you can take in small amounts.

For anyone who wants, tried, wishes, or attempts to write, this little book is a wonderful companion.

Note: I received this book from Blogging for Books to review.