Metro is exactly the kind of text that meets the needs of multi-genre creative writing courses, which are the ones offered at the introductory or beginning level and in which students are exploring the various genres and the craft of writing. Metro explores with them and covers all of the concerns and issues brought forth by students and addresses them realistically. I would tell colleagues that, with Metro, you have a co-teacher.

Metro's major strengths are the breadth of its exercises, its chapter on reading, and the "Alternative Guided-Writing Scenarios." My favorite chapter is the one on reading because it adds a crucial dimension to any discussion of the writing process, especially in the context of multi-genre creative writing courses, where students are getting perhaps their first introduction to the whole notion of creative writing. It solidly dispels the too-common perception that "creative writing" happens in a vacuum and the mistaken idea that influence is a surrender that leads to slavish imitation.

Metro sets a new standard for books on the creative writing process.

This is a wonderful combination of theory and application for the creative writing classroom. Bishop helps us step away from the tired tricks of introductory writing classes and create a learning environment that's beneficial to students and teachers at all levels. She encourages teachers to position ourselves as "senior learners" and to implement writing exercises that make it so that every student leaves the class with the seed for a new piece of writing. Best of all, she does it in plain language that doesn't cause headaches. This isn't a classroom text, but a teaching text. Great theory, sample exercises that leave room for personalization, and a boost for my teaching inspiration.

The Heidi Chronicles is a fabulous play that so many "open the door for yourself" women can relate to. However, this as well as all of Wasserstein's plays miss the point if they are only read. The true nuances in the text lend themsleves to being performed. Without seeing the play performed, you still do not have a true grasp of the story.

Heidi is the girl we all want to grow up and be or for our daughters to grow up and be. She has the strength of character that in no way makes her sacrifice charm and romance. A head turning, thought-provoking, ideal story for all of us. It is something we can achieve even if life passes us a hard lot. This shows that life can be fun at any age.

Having read this book, I can certainly understand why Wendy Wasserstein has made an established name for herself. The three plays are a testament to Ms Wasserstein's talent, with each play exhibiting more insight and depth. Would love to see these plays performed.