Dear Writer is a warm, practical guide that unlocks your creative potential. From New York Times bestselling author Maggie Smith, this engaging collection blends ten heartfelt letters—each addressing a core creative concept—Attention, Wonder, Play, Surprise, Vulnerability, Vision, Restlessness, Tenacity, Connection, and Hope—with thought-provoking essays that deepen your understanding of creativity. Written for writers and creative minds of all levels who want more ease, purpose, and joy in their craft, Dear Writer invites you to trust your voice and explore new approaches.

The book is structured as ten intimate letters, each followed by thought-provoking essays that deepen the corresponding idea. The letters act as touchpoints you can revisit whenever you need a reset, while the essays illuminate how these ideas play out in practice. The experience is warm, human, and encouraging, guided by Maggie Smith's relatable voice.

Generative writing activities follow every letter, designed to put ideas into practice without intimidation. The prompts are portable and adaptable, making Dear Writer useful whether you're drafting poetry, nonfiction, or fiction. The pace stays friendly and exploratory, inviting experimentation while building confidence with each page, so you can carry the practice into your everyday writing life.

• Ten guiding letters on Attention, Wonder, Play, Surprise, Vulnerability, Vision, Restlessness, Tenacity, Connection, and Hope
• Thought-provoking essays that deepen each idea
• Generative writing activities after every letter to put concepts into practice
• Practical, portable tools for poetry, non-fiction, and fiction
• Accessible, friendly writing voice that welcomes writers at all levels

After finishing Dear Writer, you’ll gain a renewed sense of possibility—a practical toolkit of prompts, a clearer writerly voice, and a zest for experimentation that stays with you long after you close the book.