Who Knows When the Magic Will Work?

I almost done reading Terry Brooks' writing memoir Sometimes the Magic Works. It's hard not to compare it to Stephen King's magnus opus. Brooks' book is shorter and less detailed about how his life led into writing. Even so, it gives good advice and gives a realistic look at the world of writing and publishing. I enjoyed learning about the good and bad experiences he has had with the different series he has written. He gives a lot of credit to hard work and being in the right place, at the right time, with the right people. My takeaway is

• Work hard polishing your craft
• Stay around people who are already where you want to be
• Don't stray far from your heart in writing or life
  

Favorite Book

• Elfstones of Shannara (a photo finish with Magic Kingdom for Sale -- Sold, Sword of Shannara, and Armageddon's Children)

Least favorite

• The Black Unicorn (Kingdom of Landover Series)

Hardest Read

• Druid of Shannara (Heritage of Shannara Series)

Favorite characters

• Flick Ohmsford, Walker Bo, Allanon, John Ross, Ben Holiday, Abernathy, the Reaper
  

Least Favorite Character

• Willow
  

Terry, if you ever read this -- thank you for the wonderful adventures and memorable characters!