In "Craft in the Real World," Matthew Salesses offers a revolutionary perspective on fiction writing, teaching, and workshop models that have long been considered standard in the literary world. With incisive clarity and an eye toward inclusivity, Salesses dismantles the traditional frameworks that have privileged the narratives and approaches of white male writers, arguing that these conventions often marginalize voices and stories from diverse backgrounds. Through a compelling examination of storytelling elements—such as plot, character, and conflict—Salesses invites readers to question and reimagine the very foundations of literary craft. His critique extends into the realm of writing workshops, challenging the dynamics that silence underrepresented writers and proposing new methodologies for fostering a more inclusive literary community. Salesses's narrative is both a manifesto and a practical guide, enriched with examples from global storytelling traditions and contemporary literary works that defy conventional norms. From "One Thousand and One Nights" to Ursula K. Le Guin's "A Wizard of Earthsea," he showcases how diverse narrative structures and themes can invigorate our understanding of story. "Craft in the Real World" is not just a critique but a path forward, offering tangible exercises, syllabi suggestions, and revision techniques for educators and writers alike. It is a call to action for a more equitable and expansive approach to storytelling, urging the literary world to embrace the richness of stories told from the multitude of voices that comprise our global community. This book is an essential read for anyone involved in the craft of writing or the education of writers, providing a lens through which to view literature—and the world—afresh.