I am generally a disappointed reader in self-help, reference and guide books, because I seek nuanced, fresh and practical advice and insights.
I started Beat the Bots with low expectations because of my reading and writing experience. What intrigued me was the topic.
Generative AI is commonly praised whereas we need to be extra mindful, critical and clever about it.
Jane K. Cleland does not only talk about the shortcomings of AI and how it lacks nuance. She also walks you through what matters in stories (plot), how to find the hows and whys of your writing as well a whats with a series of questions/writing and thinking exercises and how AI generated some not great responses to her prompts (also my experience, and it is so validating to see her examples).
I loved Cleland’s approach to writing, creativity, AI and what she values in storytelling.
Her guide is practical and can be implemented in writing classes, groups or as a writer, on your own.
I see why she also added the video prompts for TikTok, while they were not personally relevant to me.
Nearly five stars. I am just too picky.

A wonderful read!
Highly recommend!
Many thanks to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for my ARC. All opinions are my own.