Over the course of a lifetime of writing, author and teacher Shawn Kerrivan has amassed a wealth of creative work. Collected now these stories, novel excerpts, nonfiction articles, critical writings, and more, exemplify what today's creative writers can expect from the practical application of their craft. Along with the broad survey of genres found in the book are the stories behind their creation, making this a memoir-textbook hybrid unlike any other. Teachers of creative writing can find dozens of real world writing examples that demonstrate process, product, and application, along with lessons highlighting reasonable expectations for students as they look towards careers in writing. Readers will enjoy the large selection of fiction, nonfiction, and reflection that allow entree into the creative process of a contemporary writer. Writers will find intricate insights into the craft of writing, illustrated in a thoughtful, accessible style designed to help them think about themselves and their work in new ways. -- taken from back cover.