John Dufresne says the very short story “doesn’t explain; it only indicates” and “is the call that awaits the response.” He talks about the differences between novels, short stories, and flash fiction, and some methods for approaching the writing of each, with the emphasis on flash fiction.

Some of the information here can apply to all writing. “We’ve got nothing to prove, but a world to explore,” and “A story is good when you continue to see more and more in it, and when it continues to escape you.” The advice here is valuable to all writers of fiction, which is something nice about the book.

There are plenty of writing exercises and prompts included to help spark the act of writing, and that’s another nice thing. The book can be kept handy and referred to when you need a prompt. It helps foster the mindset that those who want to write can engage with the world as writers who will create and bring ideas to life on the page. As Dufresne says, “The more you write, the more you will want to write. And all the writing you do today, goes to all the writing you will ever do.” ( )