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Ray Bradbury
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Zen in the Art of Writing: Essays on Creativity Paperback – August 1, 1994

by Ray Bradbury (Author)
"Bradbury, all charged up, drunk on life, joyous with writing, puts together nine past essays on writing and creativity and discharges every ounce of zest and gusto in him."--Kirkus Reviews ¶"Zen and the Art of Writing is purely and simply Bradbury's love song to his craft."--Los Angeles Times
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  1. Print length
    176 pages
  2. Language
    English
  3. Publisher
    Joshua Odell Editions
  4. Publication date
    August 1, 1994
  5. Dimensions
    5.5 x 0.5 x 8 inches
  6. ISBN-10
    1877741094
  7. ISBN-13
    978-1877741098
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Ray Bradbury

Ray Bradbury

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In a career spanning more than seventy years, Ray Bradbury, who died on June 5, 2012, at the age of 91, inspired generations of readers to dream, think, and create. A prolific author of hundreds of short stories and close to fifty books, as well as numerous poems, essays, operas, plays, teleplays, and screenplays, Bradbury was one of the most celebrated writers of our time. His groundbreaking works include Fahrenheit 451, The Martian Chronicles, The Illustrated Man, Dandelion Wine, and Something Wicked This Way Comes. He wrote the screen play for John Huston's classic film adaptation of Moby Dick, and was nominated for an Academy Award. He adapted sixty-five of his stories for television's The Ray Bradbury Theater, and won an Emmy for his teleplay of The Halloween Tree. He was the recipient of the 2000 National Book Foundation Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters, the 2004 National Medal of Arts, and the 2007 Pulitzer Prize Special Citation, among many honors.

Throughout his life, Bradbury liked to recount the story of meeting a carnival magician, Mr. Electrico, in 1932. At the end of his performance Electrico reached out to the twelve-year-old Bradbury, touched the boy with his sword, and commanded, "Live forever!" Bradbury later said, "I decided that was the greatest idea I had ever heard. I started writing every day. I never stopped."

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Customer reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars
507 global ratings

Customers say

Customers find the book delightful and fun to read, with great advice for both beginning and experienced writers. They appreciate its inspirational content, with one customer noting how the philosophy and cheerfulness brighten their day. The book provides interesting insights into the author's specific works, and one customer describes it as a 170-page exploration of creativity. Customers find the humor engaging, with one highlighting the hilarious stories of serendipity.

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ReadabilityWriting adviceInspirational contentInsightAdvice qualityCreativityHumorInspiration
36 customers mention "Readability"35 positive1 negative

Customers find the book delightful and fun to read, with one mentioning it's particularly suitable for AP English classes.

"...But still, a great book but not for every Bradbury fan. If you don't care about his process, you can safely skip." Read more

"Easy to read / heavy subject. Bradbury's takes on creativity [in any of the arts] are provocative and, [of course], well written...." Read more

"My daughter highly recommended this, and it truly is a pleasant read!..." Read more

"This book is amazing!!! I'm more of an artist, less of a writer, but the principals in here can be applied to any form of creativity...." Read more

35 customers mention "Writing advice"32 positive3 negative

Customers appreciate the writing advice in the book, particularly noting it is great for beginners and serves as an incentive to actively pursue their craft.

"Must read for writers. Ray was a very spiritual writer. His creations were not technical, but from the soul." Read more

"Great advice from one of the greatest writers. I rented this book once from the library and hated to return it. So glad I found it." Read more

"This is a must read for all writers. Bradbury is one of my favorite writers and one of my biggest inspirations...." Read more

"Little too much on playwrites but great tips for writers!" Read more

23 customers mention "Inspirational content"22 positive1 negative

Customers find the book inspirational, with one mentioning how its philosophy and cheerfulness brighten their day, while another appreciates its genuine compassionate nature.

"Inspiring, quick read" Read more

"I've read it twice and recommend it many. It is both inspiring and helpful." Read more

"Loving the humour of the man and is an inspiring read...." Read more

"so encouraging; i'm sticking it out" Read more

13 customers mention "Insight"12 positive1 negative

Customers appreciate the book's insights, particularly how it provides interesting details about his specific books.

"Bradbury is one of the most delightful, insightful and eminently READABLE authors I have found. And here he is, telling us why and how." Read more

"...You get to read the man's diary practically here. One of the most insightful books when it comes to understanding the through process and creative..." Read more

"excellent source of motivation and ideas for my writing ambitions. great insight. would highly recommend reading this book. ray bradbury excellent." Read more

"Insightful and fun to read!" Read more

12 customers mention "Advice quality"11 positive1 negative

Customers find the book's advice incredibly helpful in a practical way, with one customer specifically noting its guidance on finding one's voice.

"Great advice from one of the greatest writers. I rented this book once from the library and hated to return it. So glad I found it." Read more

"Ray Bradbury taught himself to write and these essays are helpful and informative...." Read more

"I have always liked Ray Bradbury and he gives good advice in this book...." Read more

"...I read it straight through. He gives good advice throughout, including: write every day. He says one must have a passion to write. Very good book!" Read more

12 customers mention "Creativity"12 positive0 negative

Customers find the book's exploration of creativity engaging, with one customer noting it's 170 pages of fun, and another mentioning it includes many fascinating tales.

"...It wasn't just his amazing imagination and his ability to transport you into his fantastic worlds, but also his love of humanity, and his excitement..." Read more

"Easy to read / heavy subject. Bradbury's takes on creativity [in any of the arts] are provocative and, [of course], well written...." Read more

"...Rich in Information and ideas. I give this book to writer friends." Read more

"...For us lifelong fans there are many fascinating tales of how he came to write some of his great works, and hilarious stories of serendipity that..." Read more

6 customers mention "Humor"5 positive1 negative

Customers enjoy the humor in the book, finding it funny and appreciating the author's wit, with one customer specifically mentioning the hilarious stories of serendipity.

"...surprised his memoir-style writing advice is every bit as compelling, funny and addictive as his stories. If you don't know Bradbury you should...." Read more

"Loving the humour of the man and is an inspiring read...." Read more

"..."Zen in the Art of Writing" is a great resource of insight, wit, and what it takes to write...." Read more

"Came to me in good condition. Ray Bradbury is a wonderfully absurd man who's optimism in the face of writing is wildly intimidating...." Read more

6 customers mention "Inspiration"6 positive0 negative

Customers find the book inspirational, appreciating its collection of essays. One customer mentions it can be read alone for inspiration.

"Zen in the Art of Writing is a collection of essays which provides autobiographical information on Ray Bradbury's life and some advice on the..." Read more

"I LOVE this book both as a person and a writer! Inspiration on every page...." Read more

"Loved the book. Will refer back to it often for insight & inspiration." Read more

"This book is a compilation of essays on everything from finding and inspiring your muse to seeing your way out of what is known as writer's block...." Read more

Cover bent close to tearing
5 out of 5 stars
Cover bent close to tearing
Content is exactly what I wanted. However the cover came bent and creased all up. The pages are close to tearing at that creased. The packaging came fine it was packed this way. Going to get an exchange.
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Top reviews from the United States

  • DVB
    5.0 out of 5 stars Don't Think!
    Reviewed in the United States on September 20, 2019
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    Bradbury expertly motivates anyone who wants to be a writer by reminding them that the only thing standing in their way is themselves. His constant reminder to not overthink the writing process and get out of their own way and let the story write itself. The separation into essays makes it an easy read, and makes it easy to sit down and reread an essay whenever you're looking for a little motivation. As an avid Bradbury fan, he truly shows why he's one of the greats and anyone looking to be a writer will benefit from this book. He reminds us that when you truly love what you do, work quickly turns into an act of relaxation, and you'll soon find yourself succeeding with more fervor than ever before.
    3 people found this helpful
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  • Larry
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great advice from a Master
    Reviewed in the United States on April 26, 2020
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    Ray Bradbury was a Master Author. Most of the works I've read of his have been in the science-fiction category. His love and enthusiasm for his craft, as expressed in this book, is palpable. I only wish I'd come across this work decades ago.
    If you are interested in a career as a wordsmith, you MUST READ THIS (and the younger you are, the better). But do note, it is not about technique; or selecting a genre' to express yourself; nor is it about style; simply it is about his journey from novice to master. A journey of love, of enthusiasm, of 110% dedication. What a journey that was! ! !
    5 people found this helpful
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  • HippieGalaxyWitch
    5.0 out of 5 stars Cover bent close to tearing
    Reviewed in the United States on May 7, 2025
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    Content is exactly what I wanted. However the cover came bent and creased all up. The pages are close to tearing at that creased. The packaging came fine it was packed this way. Going to get an exchange.
    Customer image
    HippieGalaxyWitch
    5.0 out of 5 stars
    Cover bent close to tearing

    Reviewed in the United States on May 7, 2025
    Content is exactly what I wanted. However the cover came bent and creased all up. The pages are close to tearing at that creased. The packaging came fine it was packed this way. Going to get an exchange.
    Images in this review
    Customer image
    Helpful
     Report
  • Nikolaus Bautista
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great Advice for the Writer & Reader, from an American Literary Master
    Reviewed in the United States on August 13, 2024
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    Ray Bradbury's undoubtedly an American Master of Literature. From "The Martian Chronicles to "Dandelion Wine", he captures feelings, thoughts, fears and hope- all on the printed page. For the Writer- Aspiring or Established, "Zen in the Art of Writing" is a great resource of insight, wit, and what it takes to write. A collection of his essays, it should be on every writer, and every fan of Bradbury's bookshelves- with a bit of wear, from reading it for advice and inspiration.
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  • Amazon Customer
    4.0 out of 5 stars Fun romp and exploration of creativity
    Reviewed in the United States on November 26, 2022
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    Ray Bradbury’s Zen in the Art of Writing: Essays on Creativity is 170 pages of fun. Mr. Bradbury advocates play as a means of freeing the subconscious, and encourages the writer to relax into the art of writing.
    Favorite quotes:
    * You must stay drunk on writing so reality cannot destroy you.
    * The first thing a writer should be is--excited.
    * Passion often saves the day.
    * Life is short, misery sure, mortality certain. But on the way, in your work, why not [incorporate] Zest
    and Gusto.
    * Read poetry every day of your life.
    * What we are trying to do is find a way to release the truth that lies in all of us.
    * Can we borrow cups of fire from the sun? We can and must and light the world.
    On revision: “The main thing is compression.” He says: “there are two arts: number one, getting the [story] done; and then, the second great art is learning how to cut it so you don’t kill it or hurt it in any way.” And: “The artist learns what to leave out.”

    This collection of essays doesn’t delve into craft mechanics, but does provide an encouraging overview of the creative journey.
    2 people found this helpful
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  • tumblingdie
    5.0 out of 5 stars The Zen of Ray Bradbury
    Reviewed in the United States on August 15, 2017
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    I'd heard of RB and even held a few of his books in hand a time or two, but never read them. This book, which I originally checked out of the library is right down my alley in that it's a personal statement about writing by an accomplished writer! Can't get much better than that, into the inner processes of their outlook and motivations. As with a few books a year that I have checked out, some are worth it to me to own, this book is one of them as his philosophy and cheerfulness will brighten your day and give you not only motivation to write but a purpose and mission to write as well!
    3 people found this helpful
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  • Trish C
    5.0 out of 5 stars Ray Bradbury has Zen down to an art
    Reviewed in the United States on November 12, 2019
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    I honestly don't think I've ever read a Ray Bradbuy novel. However, since becoming a full-time writer, I find I gravitate towards more books that will help me with my own writing. Zen and the Art of Writing is chocked full of essays written by Bradbury throughout his life. The imagery he provides is glorious and I find myself swept away in the pages.
    Even though I haven't notice him giving me step-by-step instructions on how to write, his wisdom is found intertwined in his words and I'm afraid when I finish this little book, I'll be left wanting more. Great read!
    10 people found this helpful
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  • P. A. Muccigrosso
    5.0 out of 5 stars Bradbury on Writing
    Reviewed in the United States on October 3, 2013
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    I have been a writer (and been writing) for most of my life. My library of writing books is extensive but the one I turn to when I need inspiration, a break and even a few laughs is Zen In The Art of Writing. Bradbury doesn't give you rules or tell you how to create plots or build characters. He tells you how to use what you see, hear and live in/through every day as fodder for your writing. Sounds small but, as a writer, it is HUGE. I first realized that characters and plot lines could be drawn from the writer's own life when reading a biography of Mark Twain who incorporated most of his relatives and friends into his books. That was an aha moment for me. Bradbury's book was an aha experience - taking that sliver of information and exploding it into 11 essays that show writers why putting words to paper is such a joy. I wish I could find a first edition, hardback. I would give it to my grandson who is studying writing at Pitt. As it is, I gave him a paperback when he left for college and hope it helps him find his joy as quickly as it helped me retreive mine.
    One person found this helpful
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Top reviews from other countries

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  • Sleep-shopping Zombie @ Foxes
    5.0 out of 5 stars Imperdible
    Reviewed in Mexico on September 12, 2019
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    Best book ever!!! No soy fan de la ciencia ficción ni de Bradbury en general, pero este libro (que no es de ciencia ficción) pone al descubierto de forma honesta el desarrollo de la imaginación del autor.
    Report
  • Tiggy
    5.0 out of 5 stars A wonderful read
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on November 8, 2012
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    This was an expensive book, but worth every penny. It is beautifully written, inspiring and full of enthusiasm and joy. I limited myself to reading one essay at a time and then taking a pause to ponder and absorb. He is a better writer than poet, but that is really to be a little nit-picky. I keep dipping back to re-read sections and remind myself not only to write with gusto, but to live with it too. And now I intend to go back and read a whole lot more of his other writing.
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  • David Nevin
    5.0 out of 5 stars Quite Simply Brilliant
    Reviewed in Spain on March 19, 2013
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    For anyone interested in creativity and the fun that lies in seducing the muse this book is for you. Clear, intelligent and friendly; this book reminds us all of our common difficulties and joys in the arena of creative endeavors. This book will remain one of my favorite gift ideas to good friends for many years to come.
    Report
  • David J. Widmann
    5.0 out of 5 stars My third copy of this book
    Reviewed in Canada on June 19, 2014
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    I really have to stop loaning this out to people. It never comes back. Yes, I'd like a Kindle edition. :)

    Many writers have put out many memoirs about their writing lives. They've done a good job of covering the "what" (their subject matter, genre, form, influences) and the "how" (techniques, style, business, schedules), but none have done better than Bradbury at getting to the meat of the "why" of writing. I'm returning to writing after a long absence caused in part by the fact that it just became a drudgery every single day. After dabbling again for a while, I picked up this book and remembered why, as a child, I was drawn to writing in the first place. Bradbury was truly an artist.
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  • Janina
    3.0 out of 5 stars El contenido genial, el exterior...
    Reviewed in Spain on August 3, 2017
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    Normalmente no suelo tener quejas con los envíos pero es el segundo libro que me llega doblado por el tránsito y no sé a que se debe. Espero que para futuros envíos tengan un poco más de cuidado con estas cosas.
    Report