andrew-kane-gem-writer

Build a Ruby gem following Andrew Kane's patterns by defining a clear entry point, using class macro DSLs for configuration, and avoiding heavy metaprogramming. This approach yields clean, maintainable gems with explicit APIs and minimal external dependencies.

Implement a simple, informative error hierarchy in your gem so users can distinguish failure modes and handle them appropriately. Kane's pattern emphasizes explicit, predictable error types over generic exceptions.

Use ActiveSupport.on_load to hook your gem into Rails without forcing it as a hard dependency. This pattern loads gem features only when Rails is present, enabling Rails-friendly integration while keeping the gem usable standalone.

Yes. Kane's gem patterns standardize on Minitest-based testing, providing a lightweight, convention-driven test structure that aligns with Ruby's ecosystem and avoids external test framework dependencies.

Avoid heavy metaprogramming, implicit side effects, and unclear entry points. Kane's approach prioritizes explicit Ruby APIs, single-purpose macro DSLs, and straightforward class structures that remain readable and maintainable long-term.

Yes. The patterns apply to refactoring existing gems into Kane-style architecture—streamlining APIs, reducing dependencies, clarifying entry points, and adopting consistent error and testing conventions.