I had a professor in college who returned our graded essays, walked up to the chalkboard, and wrote in huge letters: “SO WHAT?” She threw the piece of chalk down and said, “Ask yourself that every time you turn in a piece of writing.” It’s a lesson I never forgot.

The Vampire Test. It’s a simple way to know who you should let in and out of your life. If, after hanging out with someone you feel worn out and depleted, that person is a vampire. If, after hanging out with someone you still feel full of energy, that person is not a vampire. Of course, The Vampire Test works on many things in our lives, not just people—you can apply it to jobs, hobbies, places, etc.

Show Your Work is one of those short books that makes you think and change what you do. It short enough to not be a drag, but with enough substance to change minds. The book argues that the creative process is collaborative, perseverent and open. It comes with many gems of wisdom, common sense and a great pace of writing.

The books suggests to make our stories visible, ask for feedback and be clear on the main points: how, who, so what? It is very positive on expressing stories: as long as we passionately write about our interests, we find our nice. The more we write and express ourselves, the better we are. The more we add structure and motivation (so what? test) the better our stories become.

The book is not only for artists, but for everyone who is interested in communicating. What is amazing is that the book presents in such an easy way, that the reader feels compelled to at least try to be better.

What a wonderful book! Totally recommend.