CREATIVE WRITING WITH MISS MARY MAC

An impassioned teacher reflects on the joys of self-expression.

Setting out to celebrate writing as an art form rather than a technical craft, Miss Mary Mac—an endlessly observant, spritelike woman and a stand-in for real-life educator McInerney—wanders through theaters and studios, catching glimpses of artists at work: dancers, painters, and, of course, writers. But how do authors create the tales that so move us? Miss Mary Mac urges readers to think big, relish small details, and notice everything. She also suggests sources of inspiration, including life experiences and literary influences. Moving intuitively through a variety of ideas to spark and sustain creativity, she concludes by encouraging the prospective creator to simply write—after all, one becomes a writer only by committing to the act of creation. LaFille’s illustrations are essential to communicating McInerney’s message, immersing readers in both artistic and sensory experiences. In one memorable scene, the author encourages readers to imagine the sensations of consuming a fresh, juicy orange—a vivid exercise to help aspiring writers visualize imagery. Rendered in elegantly dreamy pastels, this book will both soothe and stimulate the scared or stymied creator; it’s an ideal text for creative writing instruction and a surprising treat for unsuspecting casual readers. Mac is pale-skinned; other characters, including the creators whom she observes, vary in skin tone.

An eloquent and gently inspirational writing guidebook.