Archive · 29 Oct 2025
Susan Orlean's Memoir 'Joyride' Offers Writing Advice
This book is a memoir by a writer named Susan Orlean.
It's like a personal story, but it's also full of advice for people who want to be writers.
Susan used to write for famous magazines, and in this book, she shares secrets about how she found interesting stories.
She tells people to write about things they don't know and to be super passionate about what they choose.
Even though she faced many rejections and failures, she kept going.
The book shows that even a seemingly 'small' life can become a great story if you look at it closely.
It's praised for being both a personal journey and a helpful guide for aspiring writers.
Susan Orlean's memoir, 'Joyride,' is being hailed as a valuable resource for aspiring writers.
The book offers unconventional advice, such as writing about what you don't know and pursuing intriguing topics with passion.
Orlean, known for 'The Orchid Thief,' shares her journey from early career struggles to success as a New Yorker staff writer.
The memoir includes insights into overcoming rejections, criticism, and missed deadlines.
Reviewers note that while Orlean often writes about fascinating subjects, her own life story in 'Joyride' also 'blossoms beautifully.'
- Who
- Susan Orlean, a veteran journalist and author
- What
- The release and review of her memoir, 'Joyride', which combines personal reflection with advice on writing and journalism.
- When
- The memoir has recently been released, with reviews appearing at this time.
- Where
- Reviews and mentions come from The Boston Globe, The Minnesota Star Tribune, The Washington Post, and Air Mail.
- Why
- The memoir offers insights into Orlean's successful career and provides unconventional writing advice to aspiring journalists and storytellers.
- Author
- Susan Orlean
- Book Title
- Joyride: A Memoir
- Key Themes
- Journalism, writing advice, memoir, passion, confidence, overcoming rejection
- Orlean's Previous Work
- The Orchid Thief
- Publication Mentioned
- The New Yorker