While I love a good book on the craft of writing, I wouldn’t normally say that such a book would be one of my most anticipated reads of the year. Gabriela Pereira’s DIY MFA, however, is a exception – and perhaps biasedly so. I’ve been a staff writer at DIY MFA’s website since November 2014. So, not only have I been eagerly awaiting the book’s release ever since Gabriela broke the news to us, but I also agree with her philosophy and the concepts she presents.

Last month, the DIY MFA Book was published last month by Writer’s Digest. I’ve had a chance to read it, and I’m thrilled to say it surpassed my expectations. Writing a review for a writing reference book, however, is different than writing one for fiction. I don’t want to spoil too many of the insights that Gabriela shares. Instead, I’ll give Five Reasons Why The DIY MFA Book Is a Must-Read for Writers. Then, if you like the sounds of it, you can fully immerse yourself in the DIY MFA learning experience. Ready?

Quick Disclaimer: Since I’m one of the staff writers for DIY MFA, it’s possible that my review may be biased. However, I purchased a copy of the DIY MFA Book, so I’m writing this review not because I’m expected to, but because I want to – and I believe so many writers out there will enjoy the book as well.

Reason #1: It’s a Great Representation of DIY MFA’s Core Concepts

The DIY MFA Book presents the three core concepts that Gabriela emphasizes at the website and in her webinars and conference presentations:

1. Write with Focus, where Gabriela goes over the mechanics of writing, from story structure to point of view, as well as revisions, brainstorming, and character development.
2. Read with Purpose, which discusses how to read like a writer and why it’s important to understand our responses to what we read.
3. Build Your Community, which touches on networking aspects, including literary conferences, writing workshops, critiquing / beta-reading, and submitting your work.

With so much to cover, you’d think it would be easy to lose focus on each section’s intent. Gabriela, however, nails it time and again. She delivers her tips concisely, with strong examples and clear explanations. Her unique writing voice and creative graphics (more on both shortly) also makes the DIY MFA Book engaging as well as informative.

And, if you’re following the Character Evolution Files here at the blog, the DIY MFA Book offers insights on story structure and character choices that fit seamlessly with the Journey Through the Character Arc posts. So, heads-up if you’re looking for more reference books with that kind of information. 😉

Reason #2: It Empowers Writers Without Denouncing the MFA Experience

In the book, Gabriela admits she created DIY MFA because of her dissatisfaction with traditional MFA systems. However, she makes it clear that MFA programs do work for some writers, and can be incredibly rewarding for those who want to pursue literary fiction, poetry, or creative nonfiction. She also highlights her gratitude for several teachers she worked with during her MFA pursuit.

Despite her feelings about her experience, Gabriela never bashes the MFA system. Her attitude when discussing it is honest yet professional. This naturally leads into the main reason why she created DIY MFA: to offer an alternative to a traditional MFA program. This approach also suits the books’ overall tone. Each section is written in an educational yet practical and encouraging manner, aiming to show respect to her readers and give them the knowledge and tools to help them succeed.

Reason #3: The Branding is Perfect, and the Graphics and Overall Presentation Are Gorgeous!

One of the first things I noticed about the DIY MFA Book was its appearance. It draws from the branding on the website, worksheets, webinars – everything having to do with DIY MFA’s online presence. Even the pen icons, color scheme, and chapter title / heading fonts match the site’s! These are minor details compared to the meat of the content. But not only is this level of continuity visually stunning, but also it also solidifies DIY MFA’s brand and allows readers to identify and remember it easily.

Also, after reading Jeff VanderMeer’s Wonderbook last year, I have an affinity for charts, images, and other graphics that accentuate the written content. The DIY MFA Book has plenty of its own. From the Character Compass to the Ending Matrix, these fun extras illustrate specific ideas so they’re easy to understand. You’ll also find sidebars that feature brainstorming activities, ask questions that prompt the reader to think critically about their process, and build further on the core concepts.

Reason #4: Beginning and Experienced Writers Alike Can Benefit From Its Wisdom

Some topics are geared toward writers who are still learning the nuts and bolts of their craft. However, writers who are further along in their process will also find plenty to glean. For example, now that I’m editing my WIP, I was most interested in topics that I’m either currently working on (Establish Your Circle of Trust, Create Your Author Identity, Network Like a Pro) or are upcoming steps in my journey (Work That Workshop, Submit Your Work). The critiquing chapter was especially helpful, with advice on how to make the most out of feedback you receive on your work.

Also, the DIY MFA Book gives advice on two subjects that all writers struggle with: motivation and rejection. Gabriela’s suggestions are intended to help even the most discouraged writer take control of their fears and protect their writing time while honoring their unique circumstances. And since both chapters appear early on, they’re instrumental in setting the book’s honest, empowering tone.

Reason #5: Gabriela’s Writing Is a Joy to Read

If you’ve read Gabriela’s DIY MFA posts or newsletters, listened to her podcasts, or attended her presentations or webinars, then you’re familiar with her writing and speaking style. It’s honest, intelligent, enthusiastic, and witty; and as Gabriela confesses in the DIY MFA Book, she uses millennial slang when she’s excited and repeatedly gives examples from Pride and Prejudice, The Hunger Games, and the Harry Potter series. Why? Because that’s who she is as a person, and those quirks and qualities imbue into her writing.

The DIY MFA Book is no different. It remains focused and instructive on the topic at hand, but delivers that information with clarity, crispness, and sparkling personality. You’ll feel as though Gabriela is right there, coaching you one on one and building your confidence so you can write that book / short story / etc. This alone makes the DIY MFA Book one of the most engaging print resources on the craft of writing I’ve ever read, and one of the biggest reasons why I recommend it.

Other Reviews on the DIY MFA Book

Curious to know what other bloggers thought of the DIY MFA Book? Check out their reviews here:

• Elisabeth Kauffman @ Writing Refinery
• Emma Nelson
• Kayla Dean
• Leanne Sowul @ Words From the Sowul
• Rhonda @ Late Blooming Rose

Lastly, if you’re curious about what Gabriela learned while working on the DIY MFA Book, you might enjoy her recent #5onFri post at DIY MFA.

Have you read the DIY MFA Book? Are you planning to read it in the future? Also, have you ever considered pursuing an MFA? What helped you decide one way or the other? If you didn’t pursue it, how have you learned more about writing, reading, or community-building on your own time?