Here are my jumbled thoughts on this unique and insightful book.

I think the most appealing part of the book was the history section. I really enjoyed learning how Terry was molded. It was very compelling to dig into the autobiographical nature of the book. I remember reading his first Shannara books and thinking to myself what Terry was like. His stories have always made me feel that he is very humble and approachable. I think this book demonstrated this.

The second half of the book was really interesting to read. I have toyed with the idea of writing and I can honestly say that after reading this book, I felt like I needed to drop his book and start my own! =)

Thanks again for this unique opportunity!

Submitted by: Shane DeSeranno (Tyren)

Sometimes the Magic Works explores many aspects of Terry Brooks and his writing. Chapters range from Terry's influences in writing, to his keen sence of creativity. A very personal bit of writing, Sometimes the Magic Works allows the fans of such series of the Shannara novels to better understand Terry Brooks. If you're a fan of any of his books don't fail to read it.

Submitted by Travis P. Adams (KinsonRavenlock)

It's not often I recommend a book about the writing process to non-writers but after reading Terry Brooks' upcoming book Sometimes the Magic Works, I feel confident that this book will appeal to any of Terry's fans. The book's candid conversational tone presents a no-nonsense glimpse into the world of publication. Terry's sense of humor is sprinkled liberally throughout the manuscript, moderating the tone of his stories and giving you the feeling that you are seated across from him as he shares his experiences with you.

One thing you'll quickly discover is that Terry isn't afraid to acknowledge his mistakes, yet he doesn't dwell on them; instead he takes the time to explain what he learned from the experience and moves on. You soon begin to gain a sense of the man as you discover that Terry is not really so different from most of us. Of course writing is his passion, and that creative process is an integral part of who he is.

Terry genuinely enjoys getting out and meeting his fans and discovering the connection his books have made with his readers. You'll have a better understanding of his respect for his fans once you've read the book, and if you don't think he pays attention to what fans have to say you might change your mind once you've read some of his comments about the various series of books he has written.

Reading about Terry's adventures with his intrepid grandson was a pure delight. Terry pointed out how children can often see the world with a clarity that defies adults and kids can often teach us some valuable lessons once we are willing to shut up and listen.

If you are interested in learning more about how to write, then this book is a must-have for your reference shelf. Terry doesn't just give vague platitudes about the processes of writing, he explains what he has found useful and gives concrete examples of his techniques.

If you aren't interested in becoming a writer, don't make the mistake of thinking this book will hold no interest for you. Any true fan of Terry Brooks will quickly realize that this is a must-have addition for your home library. This is the book version of the behind-the-scenes DVD's that have continued to grow in popularity. I can't recall a time when a single book provided such a candid look into the behind the scenes world of publication. Terry makes it clear that aspiring authors need to understand their priorities. I particularly liked how he described his first book-signing event. Few people showed up, and even fewer people purchased his first novel, even though The Sword of Shannara had already been on the New York Times bestseller list. However, he soon learned that time and additional success mattered little at these events. He might spend 5 hours signing autographs at one bookstore and the very next day, in another state, find only 5 people show up for the signing. But for Terry, this time is all about his fans. For those of you who have already met Terry, you know how dedicated he is about signing books. For those of you who haven't, this book will give you the opportunity to get to know the author a bit better.

If you've ever wondered what it might be like to sit down and have a conversation with Terry, you'll find this book is the next best thing. So even if you have no intentions of becoming a writer, do yourself a favor by adding this book to your wish list, you'll be glad you did once you've read Sometimes the Magic Works.

Submitted by: SteveS

My thoughts are gathered, most of what kept me was trying to think of something that I didnt like about the book, but alas, I've failed, there was truly nothing I didn't like about it. :) Here it is:

Being an aspiring writer myself, I wholly enjoyed Terry's memoir, Sometimes the Magic Works. The book changed my whole perspective on the writing procces, though I haven't read any other books on writing to compare it to. But I do know that the books is chock full of valuable advice, including the true meaning of Show, Dont Tell which my middle school teachers completly misinterpreted.

The whole book consist of a mix of writing tips, and anecdotes of his own life and the lessons he learns about writing even after being a proffesional for 20 years. Out of all the chapters my favorites are the two entitled The World According to Hunter, its marvelous how much the innocence of a five year old can teach us.

The book will take most only a few hours to read, even I read it in one sitting. But those few hours to read it will be more than worth it.

Submitted by Maudy

Sometimes The Magic Works: Lessons from a Writing Life, gives insight to the life of Terry Brooks, and the reasons behind the words in our favorite novels by him. From playing pretend as a child, to the decision to become a fulltime writer, the events that helped shape Terry Brooks' career are revealed in this book.

As well as giving a view of the life of Terry Brooks, this book gives valuable advice to aspiring writers. There is even a brief "tutorial" to aid in understanding some of the concepts Terry Brooks introduces and emphasizes to writers.

The events behind the publication of The Sword of Shannara and another unpublished Shannara book, as well as the meaning behind some of his stories are to be learned of in this book.

Writers as well as fans of his stories will undoubtedly enjoy this collection of stories and lessons from a writer's life.

Submitted by: Walt Williams (Ian Davion)

Everyone who has ever picked up a book has at some point or another wondered what it would be like to be a writer. To write stories that come from your imagination, some set in a very logical and realistic world like our own, some set in a totally different universe that follows different rules than our own. Terry Brooks will tell you what it is like to be a writer, and many of his different experiances in Sometimes the Magic Works. He will also tell you things that writers do when writing their books, and what they don't do. He even provides advice on how to write, but in such a way that you feel as if it were a close friend telling you rather than a dry text book.

As a reader I must admit that I was hesitant to begin reading this book. At the moment I didn't really want to read a book that told me how to write. But as I read it, I remembered why I loved Terry Brooks so much. He didn't tell you anything, he showed it to you. He gave you images and provoked emotions that put you into his own shoes. Terry is able to give to you his experiance and make it interesting, make it exciting. He is also able to show you the many difficulties he came across, yet how he was able to overcame them.

This book is one that expresses his admiration for the people he knew throughout his life. To his parents who raised and encouraged him in his decisions of what he wanted to do with his life. To Lester del Rey who showed him how to write in a way that people will read and enjoy. To his own grandson showing Terry the things that really matter when it comes to writing and life.

What kind of man is Terry? What is it like to be a writer? What sort of things should a writer do when writing? All of these and more are shared by Terry in Sometimes the Magic Works.

Submitted by: Erik

When one reads Sometimes The Magic Works they will feel like they are looking through a window into the life of one of today's most acclaimed fantasy writers. Brooks hands us his tried tested and true formula and dares us all to reach for our dreams. Filled with insight and humour one cant help but feel that they are taken on a personal tour of what it is like to be Terry Brooks himself. If you are an aspiring writer then be sure to read this book, and even if you aren't interested in writing, the tale of the rise of one of today's most prominent fantasy writers is something that can capture and inspire anyone. Sometimes The Magic Works, and in this case it obviously did.

Submitted by: Scott Andrus (Wizzardfire)

While not a writer myself, I was looking forward to reading the new book by one of my favorite authors, and I am pleased to say I was not disappointed.

Sometimes the Magic Works contains two parts; a memoir of Brooks' own experiences in becoming a bestselling author and the second part, giving advice to aspiring writers, both of which I thoroughly enjoyed

The autographical aspects of the novel were excellent, I particularly liked reading about Terry's love for 'make believe' when he was growing up, the challenges he faced and conquered in getting his first book published, and how amazed he was when it landed on the New York Times Trade Paperback bestseller list.

Terry also tells us of the disappointments he has faced throughout his writing career, and how a determined novelist must be prepared to go through these trials. One of my favorite parts of the book was the tales of the people who have influenced him in his career, especially the stories of the lessons he learned from his grandson Hunter.

Although I don't write myself I found the advice Terry offers to would-be writers both enlightening and enjoyable. He provides thoughtful and useful insights into the techniques he uses to write a bestselling novel, while keeping the reader entertained and amused throughout.

All through the novel I felt I could identify with Terry's love of books, and I also felt I learned more about what it takes to become a published author. At the end of the book I was left with the inspiration that if you believe in yourself and work hard enough you can accomplish anything. If you write or if you don't you will find this novel to be informative, thought provoking and entertaining.

Submitted by: Nicki Jacombs (Undomiel)

Let me begin by saying if you are a fan of Terry Brooks, and/or an aspiring writer then Sometimes the Magic Works shouldn't disappoint you. This book is on par with his caliber as he explains the writing field, as he knows it. Most of all how he was lucky to even have a chance at this career.

First off when you hear the phrases writing guide, and personal experience together what comes to mind first? Possibly a book with the first half containing an autobiography of how the author got into his career to get you interested, and the second half seeming like a manual. This doesn't seem to be in Magic Works. There seems to be a feeling that you get from listening to a guest lecturer offering advice instead of rules.

As a biography, there is not much I can say. An interesting read, but I am not one who regularly reads such things. Although I do recommend the book from that point to learn more about him, Terry Brooks, I cannot give you a comparison of any sort.

So, whether you want to be a writer, wishing to learn more about your favorite author, or simply wanting a good book to read I recommend Sometimes the Magic Works. From the history of how Shannara developed and how some of the books evolved, to the stories behind Hook and Star Wars: The Phantom Menace. There is something for everyone, and odds are you won't walk away displeased.

Submitted by: Steven McDole (Kai)