About the Book A compilation of selected crafts talks by faculty at the Pacific University MFA program, this book is an exciting introduction to some of the most alert and engaged minds in literary writing in the US across many genres. The collection allows readers to see how the authors think about writing and about teaching writing. Book Synopsis When the Rewards Can Be So Great is a selection of craft talks delivered by faculty at the Pacific University MFA in Writing program. The essays in this exciting collection are at times deeply personal, providing insight into the development of the writers in their craft; and at times sharply practical and filled with long-tested approaches for writing with power and effectiveness. All are characterized by care, generosity, and good humor and reflect a wonderfully welcoming eclecticism of styles, interests, traditions, and diversity of voices. Includes essays by Carolyn Coman, John McNally, Marvin Bell, Pam Houston, Scott Korb, Benjamin Percy, Claire Davis, Sandra Alcosser, Valerie Laken, Mike Magnuson, Ellen Bass, Kwame Dawes, Steve Amick, Laura Hendrie, David Long, Mary Helen Stefaniak, Dorianne Laux, and Debra Gwartney. Review Quotes Theres a wealth of knowledge in these pages, especially for writers and poets embarking on a period of serious work and looking for dependable guidelines. The contributors bring a lifetime of experience and decades of seasoned thought to their presentations. -- Barry Lopez Insightful, inspiring, entertaining and wise, these terrific essays are like getting a crash course from one of the best creative writing programs in the country. -- Jess Walter A necessary tool for every writer, both illuminating and inspiring. It takes on the questions that arise as we stare at the blank page, and all those questions that come up before we even sit down. -- Maaza Mengiste