Let me start by saying this book is like a Swiss Army knife for flash fiction writers. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned pro, there's something here to spark your creativity. I found myself constantly reaching for my notebook because the prompts and examples are just that inspiring.

The structure is brilliant - each essay makes a point about flash fiction, offers a writing exercise, and then shows an example. It's like having a personal writing coach in your pocket. I particularly loved how some exercises made me step out of my comfort zone and try new techniques.

One minor drawback - the introduction is quite lengthy (38 pages!). While informative, it might feel overwhelming if you're eager to dive into the practical stuff. But trust me, it's worth reading through as Tara Masih provides fascinating historical context about the genre.

What surprised me most was how this book improved my other writing too. The focus on concise, powerful storytelling has made my longer pieces tighter and more impactful. The 'Inside Job' example by Pamela Painter still sticks with me weeks later - now that's effective flash fiction!

If I had to nitpick, some of the example stories can be quite abstract. There were moments when I found myself scratching my head going 'What did I just read?' But that's probably more about my personal taste than the book's quality.

Practical tip: Get both physical and Kindle versions like I did. The paperback is great for home study with its easy-to-annotate format, while the Kindle version lets you sneak in quick inspiration during commutes or coffee breaks.

Final verdict? This guide delivers exactly what it promises - expert advice from multiple perspectives that will make you a better flash fiction writer. Just be prepared to pause frequently because you'll keep getting ideas for new stories!