The Book I Want to Write
Paul ZakrzewskiExcavating how we tell our stories — in writing and in life. Back in 2026 with new essays, conversations, and a focus on writing, patriarchy, and the work of being honest. Home of The Book I Had to Write podcast.
| Platform |  | Pricing | Freemium | Publishes | Weekly |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Issues | 80 | Founded | 3 years ago | Last Issue | 4 months ago |
| Active | |||||
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bookiwanttowrite.substack.comLatest Issues
Looking to Interview Men for My Book!
Things have been unusually quiet over here at The Book I Want to Write over the past year, as I’ve been hard at work on my own book, as well as moving across the country, among other big life transitions.
I’ve also started writing again ab...
Two reasons you're not landing a memoir book deal in 2024, with Courtney Maum
If you enjoy listening, leave me a comment below telling me what you connected with most.
Also…for those who practice, I wish you and your families a shana tova (or a L’shana tova)—a happy new year. May it bring (much) more sweetness and g...
From a rejected memoir to a 6-figure book deal with Melissa Petro
Today’s Episode
In today’s episode I talk with author and cultural journalist about her new book, Shame On You: How to Be a Woman in the Age of Mortification. The book explores how, in a patriarchal society, shame is often weaponized...
Book coach Joelle Hann: There's a big gap between the dream and the published book (Re-release)
A quick note to say thanks for listening to the new episodes from Season 4. For today’s episode, I’ve updated and am re-releasing an episode from last summer, since it’s still incredibly relevant today. And there are two more new episodes o...
Joan Leegant:"I have no clue what I'm going to do when I sit down to write stories"
In today’s episode, I’m joined by to discuss her new short story collection, Displaced Persons. Joan shares insights into her writing process, including how she often begins stories with no preset idea and allows stories to emerge from a f...
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I'm a writer and book coach/writing instructor. Working on a hybrid memoir. I host The Book I Had to Write podcast; & my newsletter, The Book I Want to Write, was chosen by Sarah Fay as one of “20 Best Creative Writing Substacks."
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