Whether you write non fiction or fiction, this book is quite useful in pointing out things about the industry, as well as giving helpful lessons in writing. It's a bit dry in some parts, which is to be expected. The best thing about this book is how the information is relayed to the reader. Creative non fiction is really what makes up the foundation of the lessons. Journalists writing about their experiences and adventures in a creative fashion, makes for good reading.

There are many parts that read like a textbook; again, not surprising since this book is a guide. I would recommend this book to those who want to improve their writing, whether it be creative fiction or non fiction. ( )

I've been sampling stuff from this book, TELLING TRUE STORIES, off and on for more than a year now. It makes a great "in-between-books" book, because the essays herein are all about writing - of all kinds: narrative reporting, researching, rewriting and editing, finding your own true voice, etc. The book would be an excellent textbook in any creative writing program. The contributing writers include famous writers and many not-so-famous, but still skilled professionals all. Some of the names you'll recognize are: Nora Ephron, Tom Wolfe, Susan Orlean, David Halberstam, Gay Talese, Tracy Kidder and Katherine Boo. Editors Wendy Call and Mark Kramer do a masterful job of categorizing and extrapolating the essays. A worthy collection of thoughts on writng and getting published from a wide spectrum of writers. Well done. ( )