A few days ago, I wrote about some of the annoying problems that make life difficult, especially for us elders. Yesterday, I encountered a positive review of my latest book, and I immediately felt a sense of elation. I guess the secret to a happy life is to concentrate on the good things. Anyway, since I plan to write a column about book reviews and reviewing soon, I decided to share the following recent on-line review from Midwest Book Review:

Seniorwriting: A Brief Guide For Seniors Who Want To Write, by Marlys Marshall Styne, is a succinct 81-page instruction manual specifically designed and intended for older men and women wanting to record their thoughts, their memories, their experiences, their observations, and their commentaries for the benefit of themselves, their friends and family, and future generations. Short writing examples and samples are provided based on Marlys Styne's own writing skills, expertise, and personal experience as a retired college English teacher who took up writing an award-winning book at the age of 73. Seniorwriting is a non-technical "how to" manual and guide that is ideal for those who have never written anything before -- and holds much of value for those who have written things earlier in their lives, but who have not done anything along those lines since. There are no rigid rules or straight-laced requirements in Seniorwriting, only practical advice, inspiring examples, alternative ideas, and motivating choices. If you are a senior and would like to record your thoughts be they simple observations or the next Great American Novel, then give Seniorwriting your attention. It will be one of the most rewarding reads you can do!

(Seniorwriting [Infinity, 2007] is available on line from www.buybooksontheweb and from www.amazon.com. The ISBN number is 0741442965.)