Hannah Aster, Author at Shortform Books

Science Literacy: Why Stephen Hawking Said It’s Vital

What is science literacy? Why might the future of the human race depend on the next generation of scientists? Science literacy is the understanding and knowledge of science. Before he passed, Stephen Hawking wrote that the survival of the human species will depend on future scientists because he believed the only way humans will avoid extinction is by colonizing space. Here’s why science literacy is so important—and how politics get in the way.

How to Find Your Unique Writing Style

Do you want to discover your unique writing style? What sets your writing apart from everybody else’s? You may be tempted to tailor your writing style to match what you often read online or in books, but that won’t gain you any popularity. Every good writer has their own personality and style, and it’s those differences that set them above the rest, not conformity. Here is how to develop a writing style that’s uniquely yours.

How to Use Humor in Writing (Without Being Cringy)

Do you want to know how to use humor in writing? How do you make your humor sound natural rather than forced? The rule of thumb is that if you find something funny, include it. Just make sure you’re not trying to force humor into your writing because the readers will be able to tell. Here are some tips on how to add humor to your writing, from On Writing Well by William Zinsser.

Stephen Hawking: God Is Unnecessary

Did Stephen Hawking believe in God? How are Hawking’s views of God similar to that of pantheistic religions? According to the late Stephen Hawking, God is unnecessary because science explains the universe better than religion. However, Hawking didn’t rule out the possibility of God—he said that “God” is the natural laws of the universe rather than a singular being. Here are Stephen Hawking’s ideas about God.

On Writing Well: Review & Critical Reception

Are you thinking of reading On Writing Well by William Zinsser? Can the book help you improve your nonfiction writing skills? No matter your current skill level, William Zinsser believes anyone can practice the craft of writing. On Writing Well offers a back-to-basics approach, focusing on honing essential writing skills rather than trying to employ complex stylistic techniques. Here’s our On Writing Well review, including the book’s approach, critical reception, and impact.

How to Inspire Creativity: Copy Other Artists

Do you want to create art but don’t know where to start? Why should you have creative mentors? Self-proclaimed “writer who draws” Austin Kleon believes that artists who are just starting out should surround themselves with artistic inspiration. Although this may just feel like copying, it’s a great way to start developing your own style. Here are Kleon’s ideas on how to inspire creativity as you embark on this journey.

Travel Writing: 5 Tips to Set Yourself Apart

Do you want to be a travel writer? What can you do to set yourself apart? The travel writing industry is booming. However, there are five common traps that travel writers fall into. If you avoid these traps, you will set your writing apart from the rest. Here are some tips to set yourself apart.

Stephen Hawking: Aliens Are Probably Out There

What did Stephen Hawking say about aliens in his book Brief Answers to the Big Questions? Did Hawking believe in the existence of extraterrestrials? According to famed theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking, aliens most likely exist, but there’s a good chance humanity will never encounter them. This is because Hawking believed that extraterrestrial life is likely unintelligent and lacks the technology to communicate with others. Here’s an in-depth look at Stephen Hawking’s theories about aliens.

How to Write Creative Nonfiction That’s Not Boring

Do you write creative nonfiction? What can you do to spice your nonfiction piece up? In his book On Writing Well, William Zinsser explains that nonfiction writing doesn’t have to be flat and bland. You can write nonfiction in ways that will grip readers as much as fiction writing. From interviews to memoirs to sports writing, here’s how to add some flare to your nonfiction.

Should You Share Your Art Online, Despite the Risks?

Is it a good idea to share your art online? What steps can you take to grow your following? How should you deal with criticism? In his book Steal Like an Artist, Austin Kleon advises sharing your artwork online so you can connect with other artists. However, when you put anything online there will always be risks involved. Here’s some advice from an artist about sharing your art with others.