Must Have!
Katrina, a sometimes magazine writer..., 06/13/2003

I attribute much of my success as a writer to my journaling, and this book is what inspired me to USE my journal as something more than a daily list of the day's happenings. After having read the book, I like to write a copy of her Basic Diary Devices. They come in two groups: The Four Natural Modes of Expression (catharsis, description, free-intuitive writing and reflection) and Seven Special Techniques (portrait, map of consciousness, guided imagery, altered point of view, unsent letter and dialogue). And that's only the first 100 pages! Although written in the late 1970s, this book doesn't feel outdated. She references the pop psych of the time, but it's nothing that isn't easily overlooked.

Wonderful!
A reviewer, a student in DC, 03/29/2001

Reading through this book really helps you find a direction in your diary writing. It gives creative tips to help you open up your creativity and also how to be more honest with yourself naturally. It really helped me focus on who I really was. I recommend it for anyone who's having trouble keeping a steady journal, or even those that keep a steady one!

A must have for any journal writer
Satia (satia62@yahoo.com), the writer of an online journal, 07/24/2000

I bought this book at a bargain book store. If I had found it at a library first, I would definitely have bought it at any price. This book is an absolute treasure. I plan to buy another copy to loan out to my friends and loved ones. I admit that the first three chapters didn't excite me because there was nothing new for me as I have read many books about journaling. However, once past those first few chapters,I was floored. I found myself filling it with stick-it-notes and pulling all sorts of interesting quotes. I will be working through this fabulous book for a long time to come.

Also recommended: The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron and At a Journal Workshop by Ira Progoff