Book Review: Dancing on the Head of a Pen {Blogging for Books}

This post contains *affiliate links. See Disclosure/Policies.

Dancing on the Head of a Pen: The practice of a writing life by Robert Benson*
ISBN: 97814000743589
Hardcover, 192 pages
Publisher: WaterBrook Press
Retail: $14.99

About the book (from the inner flap):
The Life of the Spirit Meets the Life of Art
A compelling combination of advice and inspiration, Dancing on the Head of a Pen will challenge and encourage writers, artists, musicians, painters--anyone drawn to a life of artistic expression.

Digging deeply into a his own writing habits, failures, and successes, Robert Benson helps you choose the ideal audience for your work, commit to it, and overcome the hurdles that inevitably confront both aspiring artists and accomplished professionals.

Extending beyond the craft of writing, this gentle book moves into a rich discussion o n the relationship between spirituality and art. Including wisdom from revered writers past and present, Dancing on the Head of a Pen is a beautiful mosaic of inspiration, practical help, and a glimpse into the disciplines that shape one writer's life. 

About the author:
Robert Benson is the author of numerous books, including The Echo Within, Digging In, and Home by Another Way. A retreat leader, Benson writes and speaks often on the life of prayer and contemplation, the practice of faith and spirituality, and the art and craft of writing. He is a graduate of and an adjunct faculty member for the Academy for Spiritual Formation, a program of the Upper Room. He is married to the literary agent Sara Fortenberry. Benson lives in Nashville, Tennessee, and he dances on the head of a pen every day no matter where he happens to be.

My thoughts:

A small book full of wonderful bits of inspiration and help. This is not a how-to for writing. Originally, I thought it was going to be more specific in the areas of 'do this for this outcome this reason'; I am very pleased that it is not. It is a charming book full of the author's own experiences. 

There are, as is mentioned in the description, many bits of wisdom from other authors, not just of books. James Taylor, one of my all-time favorite musicians is quoted. There are many that I do not know of but after reading this little book, I am compelled to find them out. Also, I'd never heard of Robert Benson prior to this review book. His books are now on my to-find and to-read booklists. 

I recommend this book to those who are serious about writing but not for those who are looking for a formula for writing. I especially appreciated the following chapters: Six Hundred Words, The Jury Box, Hat Tricks, and Under the Influence. 

Write, don't talk. ~Robert Benson, p. 151

At the end of the book Benson lists books and authors that he's been influenced by (some mentioned in the chapter titled "Under the Influence") and quoted from in this book.  

Thank you, WaterBrook Multnomah, for giving me this book for free for the purpose of this review. See Disclosure/Policies.