twenty-eight essays by instructors of the Clarion West Writers Workshop - essays that illuminate their authors' experiences of writing and of living as professional writers.

Included here is advice for handling writer's block, working with voice, and using allegory, as well as methods for scene-setting, landing a good finish, writing despite distractions, mentoring, and so much more.

Since 1984, the six-week writer's workshop has provided resources to more than 600 science fiction, fantasy, and horror writers, many of whom work today as professional and award-winning authors and editors.