The quote on the front of this book by legendary food blogger, The Pioneer Woman, Ree Drummond really says it all for me. This indeed is the book I wish I had read before I began my stumbling journey into the vast world of food writing and blogging! I say stumbling because that’s exactly what it was, it wasn’t smooth and it wasn’t planned. When I look back at some of my very early posts, part of me cringes at just how all over the place they are, and then a huge part of me is incredibly proud because I was so unaware that it was those very posts, which would lead me to something I can call my day job! It’s true that the first step can often be the one most people procrastinate about, but realistically it is better to stand up and be counted than to never make any impression at all.
On my trip to NYC I spent a good few hours in Borders in the fantastic cookery section which included a large amount of books on Food Reference, which was where I picked up this little gem. Written by old school food writer Dianne Jacob who started writing about food for newspapers and magazines, has seen the rapid transitions food writing is making, from a time where only the select few were allowed to write about the topic, to the open field which now exists, where everyone with a passion for it can gush about it to anyone who will listen on the worldwide web! Rather than keeping her wealth of experience to herself, Dianne has written a comprehensive book which covers, pretty much every aspect of food writing you could imagine, from cookbooks, to blogs, to writing for press, all your questions will be answered.
When I came into this world, first of all it was a way to practice my food photography skills which were still VERY much in development, and most certainly not to show off any skills in creative writing which one of my school teachers pointed out, would never be one of my forte’s! As I’m sure you have noticed my spelling and grammar is not exactly my strong point but after reading this book I am totally inspired to improve it and write more competently.
Dianne uses quotes and examples to make important points and arguements about writing in different styles. Although as an Irish food blogger, I wasn’t aware of some of the top American food bloggers and writers, but this does not take away from the advice they offer up.
If you are an established food writer, food journalist, food blogger, cook book author, or aspiring to be all four, I promise you will devour this book page and page. The good news is that I have 2 copies to give away here on the blog… but if you can’t wait head over to Amazon to pick up a copy here.
To be in with a chance of winning, all you have to do is leave a comment below telling me what food writer most inspires you!
Please note that by entering this competition, you will be signing up for the donalskehan.com newsletter, but if you don’t wish to subscribe, please put “NS” after your answer. Entries will be selected at random and the competition will close on the 21st of March at 10am. Only one entry per person please! Winner will be chosen at random.
Good Luck!
