A Mollusk Without a Shell: Essays on Self-Care for Writers offers multiple perspectives and vital insights on caring for the artist behind the creative work. Julie Brooks Barbour and Mary Biddinger have compiled a reader-friendly collection of brief essays that address challenges faced by many contemporary writers. Each essayist also includes a writing prompt to help spark inspiration for readers. This volume is ideal for writers at various stages in their careers, from beginners to mid-career writers, and to those returning to the page after time away. Contributors to this volume are Kelli Russell Agodon, Abayomi Animashaun, Emily Corwin, Mixby Dickon, Sarah Freligh, Suzanne Frischkorn, Jeannine Hall Gailey, Charles Jensen, Lee Ann Roripaugh, and Jenny Sadre-Orafai.