Every Word Matters

‘In Every Word Matters, Ranjana Srivastava takes up the most important question for any writer who wants to make change in the world. Who are you writing for? With the rich and compelling stories that have made her Guardian column a joy to read for years, this little book is a masterclass, filled with the essential writing tips, tools, and strategies for finding and using your voice as a writer.’

‘In a smart and insightful how-to manual that upends a traditionally dry genre, Ranjana Srivastava gives us a window into the process, puzzles, risks, and rewards of writing essays, op-eds, and advocacy pieces. Drawing on her own rich career as a physician-writer, she takes readers behind the scenes to elucidate key motives, steps, and missteps and helps them plan for the potential reactions when their writing takes on a life of its own. A skilled and compelling storyteller, Srivastava carries readers along, demonstrating essential writing strategies even as she articulates them, offering many spoonfuls of delightful sugar to help the instructional medicine go down.’

‘Dr Srivastava's columns have always made me think philosophically about what it means to live a meaningful life, although she is never didactic. This is writing with a clear and strong heartbeat, that places the human being at the centre of the story.’

‘A piece of writing from Ranjana Srivastava is a gift. Few full-time writers, let alone physician writers, ever achieve the clarity, truthfulness and courage that have become the hallmarks of Srivastava’s work. I always learn something from reading her words; she helps me see my patients and my work anew.’

‘Ranjana Srivastava is a natural storyteller with a faithful following among readers. Her empathy and kindness, as well as her fierce intelligence and deep knowledge of her profession and the human condition shine through in everything she writes. Any aspiring writer would benefit from the clear-eyed and compassionate advice in this book.’

‘Many doctors write. Few write as well as Dr Ranjana Srivastava. I have always thought that there is something therapeutic in her essays. Reading this book I realise that her writing is part of her vocation, a vocation that can be taught as one can teach a student to read an EKG or chest x-ray. In Every Word Matters, Srivastava articulates the power, and value, of writing.’

‘In Every Word Matters Ranjana Srivastava warmly welcomes readers into her journey from aspiring writer to columnist, offering an honest account of the rewards and challenges of her work. Srivastava's candid exploration of the writing process is surprisingly relatable. She provides guidance on how writers can make space to write, seek the human angle in complex topics, weave evidence into compelling narratives, and cultivate a vibrant practice fuelled by curiosity and consistent reading. Packed with helpful tips and example columns, this book is an inspiring read for both budding and seasoned columnists.’