A Review on Sheeva Azma's How To Get Started in Freelance Science Writing
— Boston, MA
Pursuing a professional career can be daunting, especially when searching for a reliable job, which requires a specific skill set or follows a passion. Freelance science writer Sheeva Azma faced this problem right out of grad school. With free time and a neuroscience education, she took to a grand idea: being her own boss. On her journey, Azma learned valuable lessons, shared in her newly launched book, How to Get Started in Freelance Science Writing.
The first chapter begins with a basic Merriam-Webster definition of the word “freelance," followed by a detailed breakdown of the profession that still manages to speak to the common reader. Touching upon skill sets, lifestyle, marketing, education, and other essentials for freelance science writing, Azma is concise, giving enough background on the topic so that audiences are not left confused or questioning basic terms or general phrases. She also provides useful and informative resources for further clarification and uses bulleted lists as a form of artistry, providing concise information that provides brief topic overviews, providing sufficient clarity on important details.
While some writers sugarcoat topics to promote a professional passion, Azma is a breath of fresh air. She gives readers the good and the bad in her craft. Her transparency in topics like healthcare, time management, and finances help audiences prepare for the difficult road ahead, as well as engender trust in her teachings as she explains what makes the craft truly wonderful. With this trust and transparency, audiences are encouraged that they, too, can accomplish what Azma has, backed by research and experience, without fear of false optimism.
While freelance science writing appears to be a topic for a niche group, Azma's book provides something for everyone. Even if the reader's goal is not to become a freelance science writer, all who take an interest in writing, journalism, science, management, or simply pursuing their passion, can find value. Azma touches on essential work skills like creating a portfolio, flat and hourly rates, and dealing with rejection. Other ubiquitous topics include social skills, presentation skills, and marketing/advertisement. Offering readers a variety of topics, Azma proves that her book is not only essential for freelance science writing but business success, in general. With her attention to and explanation of crucial details, genuine transparency, and widespread topics for all interests, Azma’s How to Become a Freelance Science Writer is a must-read for everyone.
To purchase, visit: https://www.amazon.com/How-Started-Freelance-Science-Writing-ebook/dp/B08ZWSSH67
To find out more about Sheeva Azma, visit: https://sheevaazma.com/