The Art of the Handwritten Note. Finished 4-17-20, 3/5 stars, reference, 153 pages, pub. 2002
For those who enjoy writing notes, or those who value doing so but find themselves intimidated by the task, acclaimed calligrapher Margaret Shepherd has created both an epistolary tribute and rescue manual. Just as you cherish receiving personal mail, you can take pleasure in crafting correspondence. Love, gratitude, condolences, congratulations–for every emotion and occasion, a snippet of heartfelt prose is included, sure to loosen the most stymied letter writer. from Goodreads
Civilized, stolen right from the title, is the perfect work for this letter writing reference. Shepherd starts with the why of a personal, handwritten note and during these crazy times of social distancing I think we all can agree that a heartfelt note in the mailbox can really brighten your day. Gage and I made crafty heart cards for all of our neighbors on the street and spread some love closer to home. It’s a great time to pick up a pen and paper and practice your cursive skills.
There’s quite a bit of time spent on the paper to choose, the different kinds of pens, and how to improve your handwriting before she gets into the nitty-gritty of what to say. I liked reading about what to say and what not to say, but the whole thing felt a little bit tone deaf in 2020. I picked this up at the library book sale a few months ago and it was a good time to read it.
Stacy's Books 
I can’t remember the last time I received a letter. Thanks for sharing your thoughts
I know some people, like my sister, who write the best letters, but I’m not that good at it. Too bad this book wasn’t a little bit better.
Stacy — thanks for the recommendation. Being an old-fashioned girl I grew up writing letters and thank yous to people. More recently I’ve been making greeting cards and using them for birthday and sympathy, wedding and new baby and “just because”. Blessings and love always to you and Gage!!
Jan