Hannah's bookshelf: writing-guides en-US Thu, 13 Mar 2025 01:32:31 -0700 60 Hannah's bookshelf: writing-guides 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg <![CDATA[Zen in the Art of Writing: Essays on Creativity]]> 9629 176 Ray Bradbury 1877741094 Hannah 5 4.17 1973 Zen in the Art of Writing: Essays on Creativity
author: Ray Bradbury
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.17
book published: 1973
rating: 5
read at: 2019/10/11
date added: 2025/03/13
shelves: non-fiction, writing-guides, adult
review:

]]> Thrill Me: Essays on Fiction 28015101
Anyone familiar with the meteoric rise of Benjamin Percy's career will surely have noticed a certain shift: After writing two short-story collections and a literary novel, he delivered the werewolf thriller Red Moon and the postapocalyptic epic The Dead Lands. Now, in his first book of nonfiction, Percy challenges the notion that literary and genre fiction are somehow mutually exclusive. The title essay is an ode to the kinds of books that make many readers fall in love with fiction: science fiction, fantasy, mysteries, horror, from J.R.R. Tolkien to Anne Rice, Ursula K. Le Guin to Stephen King. Percy's own academic experience banished many of these writers in the name of what is "literary" and what is "genre." Then he discovered Michael Chabon, Aimee Bender, Cormac McCarthy, Margaret Atwood, and others who employ techniques of genre fiction while remaining literary writers. In fifteen essays on the craft of fiction, Percy looks to disparate sources such as Jaws, Blood Meridian, and The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo to discover how contemporary writers engage issues of plot, suspense, momentum, and the speculative, as well as character, setting, and dialogue. An urgent and entertaining missive on craft, Thrill Me brims with Percy's distinctive blend of anecdotes, advice, and close reading, all in the service of one dictum: Thrill the reader.]]> 173 Benjamin Percy 1555977596 Hannah 3 4.30 2016 Thrill Me: Essays on Fiction
author: Benjamin Percy
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.30
book published: 2016
rating: 3
read at: 2024/10/17
date added: 2024/10/17
shelves: adult, fiction, non-fiction, writing-guides
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Editor's Companion: An Indispensable Guide to Editing Books, Magazines, Online Publications, and More]]> 21971495
The editor's job encompasses much more than correcting commas and catching typos. Your chief mission is to help writers communicate effectively--which is no small feat. Whether you edit books, magazines, newspapers, or online publications, your ability to develop clear, concise, and focused writing is the key to your success.

The Editor's Companion is an invaluable guide to honing your editing skills. You'll learn about editing

   •� Analyze and develop writing that is appealing and appropriate for the intended audience.
   •� Ensure strong beginnings and satisfying endings, and stick with one subject at a time.
   • PRECISE Choose the right words, the right voice, and the right tense for every piece.
   •� Recognize common mistakes in punctuation, parts of speech, and sentence structure--and learn how to avoid them.
You'll also find valuable editing resources and checklists, advice on editorial relationships and workflow, and real-life samples of editing with explanations of what was changed and why. The Editor's Companion provides the tools you need to pursue high quality in editing, writing, and publishing--every piece, every time.]]> 240 Steve Dunham 1599639025 Hannah 0 3.84 2014 The Editor's Companion: An Indispensable Guide to Editing Books, Magazines, Online Publications, and More
author: Steve Dunham
name: Hannah
average rating: 3.84
book published: 2014
rating: 0
read at:
date added: 2024/01/18
shelves: writing-guides, non-fiction, adult
review:

]]> On Becoming a Novelist 32532 On Becoming a Novelist contains the wisdom accumulated during John Gardner's distinguished twenty-year career as a fiction writer and creative writing teacher. With elegance, humor, and sophistication, Gardner describes the life of a working novelist; warns what needs to be guarded against, both from within the writer and from without; and predicts what the writer can reasonably expect and what, in general, he or she cannot. "For a certain kind of person," Gardner writes, "nothing is more joyful or satisfying than the life of a novelist." But no other vocation, he is quick to add, is so fraught with professional and spiritual difficulties. Whether discussing the supposed value of writer's workshops, explaining the role of the novelist's agent and editor, or railing against the seductive fruits of literary elitism, On Becoming a Novelist is an indispensable, life-affirming handbook for anyone authentically called to the profession. "A miraculously detailed account of the creative process."—Anne Tyler, Baltimore Sun]]> 150 John Gardner 0393320030 Hannah 0 4.10 1983 On Becoming a Novelist
author: John Gardner
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.10
book published: 1983
rating: 0
read at: 2016/03/17
date added: 2024/01/18
shelves: writing-guides, non-fiction, adult
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Revising fiction: A handbook for writers]]> 3139849 315 David Madden 0760731012 Hannah 0 4.23 1988 Revising fiction: A handbook for writers
author: David Madden
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.23
book published: 1988
rating: 0
read at: 2016/08/20
date added: 2024/01/18
shelves: writing-guides, non-fiction, adult
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Hooked: Write Fiction That Grabs Readers at Page One & Never Lets Them Go]]> 414771 *The first and only fiction-writing book that focuses exclusively on beginnings--no other book on the market addresses story beginnings in a comprehensive manner

Agents and editors agree: Improper story beginnings are the single biggest barrier to publication. Why? If a novel or short story has a bad beginning, then no one will keep reading. It's just that simple. Hooked provides readers with a detailed understanding of what a beginning must include (setup, backstory, the inciting incident, etc.); instruction on how to successfully develop the story problem; tips on how to correct common beginning mistakes; exclusive insider advice from agents, acquiring book editors, and literary journal editors; and much more.

]]> 256 Les Edgerton 1582974578 Hannah 0 4.01 2007 Hooked: Write Fiction That Grabs Readers at Page One & Never Lets Them Go
author: Les Edgerton
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.01
book published: 2007
rating: 0
read at: 2016/05/06
date added: 2024/01/18
shelves: writing-guides, non-fiction, adult
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Art of Subtext: Beyond Plot]]> 136354 The Art of, a new series on the craft of writing, with the wit and intelligence he brought to his celebrated book Burning Down the House: Essays on Fiction.

Fiction writer and essayist Charles Baxter's The Art of Subtext: Beyond Plot discusses and illustrates the hidden subtextual overtones and undertones in fictional works haunted by the unspoken, the suppressed, and the secreted. Using an array of examples from Melville and Dostoyevsky to contemporary writers Paula Fox, Edward P. Jones, and Lorrie Moore, Baxter explains how fiction writers create those visible and invisible details, how what is displayed evokes what is not displayed.

The Art of Subtext is part of The Art of series, a new line of books by important authors on the craft of writing, edited by Charles Baxter. Each book examines a singular, but often assumed or neglected, issue facing the contemporary writer of fiction, nonfiction, or poetry. The Art of series means to restore the art of criticism while illuminating the art of writing.]]> 182 Charles Baxter 1555974732 Hannah 0 4.02 2007 The Art of Subtext: Beyond Plot
author: Charles Baxter
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.02
book published: 2007
rating: 0
read at: 2015/10/14
date added: 2024/01/18
shelves: writing-guides, non-fiction, adult
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Structuring Your Novel: Essential Keys for Writing an Outstanding Story]]> 18371991
Why do some stories work and others don’t? The answer is structure. In this new guide from the author of the bestselling Outlining Your Novel, you will discover the universal underpinnings that guarantee powerful plot and character arcs. An understanding of proper story and scene structure will help you to not only perfectly time your story’s major events, but will also provide you with an unerring standard to use in evaluating your novel’s pacing and progression.

Structuring Your Novel will show you:

� How to determine the best methods for unleashing your unique and personal vision for your story.
� How to identify common structural weaknesses and flip them around into stunning strengths.
� How to eliminate saggy middles by discovering your “centerpiece.�
� Why you should NEVER include conflict on every page.
� How to discover the questions you don’t want readers asking about your plot—and then how to get them to ask the right questions.

Story structure has empowered countless bestselling and classic authors. Now it’s your turn!]]> 295 K.M. Weiland 0985780401 Hannah 3 4.32 2013 Structuring Your Novel: Essential Keys for Writing an Outstanding Story
author: K.M. Weiland
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.32
book published: 2013
rating: 3
read at: 2022/04/12
date added: 2023/10/31
shelves: adult, writing-guides, non-fiction
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Story: Substance, Structure, Style and the Principles of Screenwriting]]> 520837 Story provides insight and inspiration for screen and television writers, novelists, playwrights, journalists - anyone with a story to tell.

'In difficult periods of writing, particularly with structure, I often turn to Robert McKee's wonderful book, Story, for guidance.' -- Dominic Dunne, novelist of Another City, Not My Own, The Two Mrs Grenvilles.

'...stimulating, innovative, refreshingly practical.' -- Lawrence Kasdan, screenwriter/director of The Accidental Tourist, The Big Chill, Body Heat, The Empire Strikes Back

'McKee is the arch defender of story; his book is a revelation.' -- Griffin Dunne, screenwriter/director/producer of After Hours, Addicted To Love, Running On Empty, Chilly Scenes Of Winter

'An amazingly important course.' -- John Cleese

'Since I first attended Robert McKee's course, I have sold four screenplays and two novels. I could not have done so without the wisdom and inspiration he provided.' -- Tim Willocks, novelist/screenwriter of Bad City Blues, Green River Rising, Swept From The Sea]]> 442 robert-mckee 0413715604 Hannah 5 From Beginning to Bookend.



A superb book that illuminates the purpose of writing stories and the most effective approach to penning tales that transcend the ordinary.]]> 4.27 1997 Story: Substance, Structure, Style and the Principles of Screenwriting
author: robert-mckee
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.27
book published: 1997
rating: 5
read at: 2023/01/22
date added: 2023/01/21
shelves: non-fiction, writing-guides, adult
review:
to watch a video review of this book on my channel, From Beginning to Bookend.



A superb book that illuminates the purpose of writing stories and the most effective approach to penning tales that transcend the ordinary.
]]> <![CDATA[Writing Interactive Fiction With Twine]]> 27782534 411 Melissa Ford 0789756641 Hannah 4 4.19 Writing Interactive Fiction With Twine
author: Melissa Ford
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.19
book published:
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2023/01/01
shelves: adult, non-fiction, writing-guides
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Grammar Girl's Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing (Quick & Dirty Tips) (Quick & Dirty Tips)]]> 2347035 238 Mignon Fogarty 0805088318 Hannah 4 2022 Best Books of the Year [#11 of 11]]]> 4.23 2008 Grammar Girl's Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing (Quick & Dirty Tips) (Quick & Dirty Tips)
author: Mignon Fogarty
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.23
book published: 2008
rating: 4
read at: 2022/11/06
date added: 2022/12/26
shelves: adult, non-fiction, writing-guides, best-of-the-year
review:
2022 Best Books of the Year [#11 of 11]
]]> <![CDATA[Woe Is I: The Grammarphobe's Guide to Better English in Plain English (Fourth Edition)]]> 40141039
In this expanded and updated edition of Woe Is I , former editor at The New York Times Book Review Patricia T. O'Conner unties the knottiest grammar tangles with the same insight and humor that have charmed and enlightened readers of previous editions for years. With fresh insights into the rights, wrongs, and maybes of English grammar and usage, O'Conner offers in Woe Is I down-to-earth explanations and plain-English solutions to the language mysteries that bedevil all of us.

"Books about English grammar and usage are... never content with the status quo," O'Conner writes. "That's because English is not a stay-put language. It's always changing--expanding here, shrinking there, trying on new things, casting off old ones... Time doesn't stand still and neither does language."

In this fourth edition, O'Conner explains how the usage of an array of words has evolved. For example, the once-shunned "they," "them," and "their" for an unknown somebody is now acceptable. And the battle between "who" and "whom" has just about been won, O'Conner says ( It wasn't by "whom"). Then there's the use of "taller than me" in simple comparisons, instead of the ramrod-stiff "taller than I." "May" and "might," "use to" and "used to," abbreviations that use periods and those that don't, and the evolving definition of "unique" are all explained here by O'Conner. The result is an engaging, up-to-date and jargon-free guide to every reader's questions about grammar, style, and usage for the 21st century.]]> 320 Patricia T. O'Conner 0525533052 Hannah 3 4.35 1996 Woe Is I: The Grammarphobe's Guide to Better English in Plain English (Fourth Edition)
author: Patricia T. O'Conner
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.35
book published: 1996
rating: 3
read at: 2022/12/21
date added: 2022/12/20
shelves: adult, non-fiction, writing-guides
review:

]]> <![CDATA[It Was The Best Of Sentences, It Was The Worst Of Sentences: A Writer's Guide To Crafting Killer Sentences]]> 40717966 In this wickedly humorous manual, language columnist June Casagrande uses grammar and syntax to show exactly what makes some sentences great--and other sentences suck.
With chapters on "Conjunctions That Kill" and "Words Gone Wild," this lighthearted guide is perfect for anyone who's dead serious about writing, from aspiring novelists to nonfiction writers, conscientious students to cheeky literati. So roll up your sleeves and prepare to craft one bold, effective sentence after another. Your readers will thank you.

"From the Trade Paperback edition."

]]> 226 June Casagrande Hannah 4 non-fiction, writing-guides 4.21 2010 It Was The Best Of Sentences, It Was The Worst Of Sentences: A Writer's Guide To Crafting Killer Sentences
author: June Casagrande
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.21
book published: 2010
rating: 4
read at: 2021/08/31
date added: 2021/08/30
shelves: non-fiction, writing-guides
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Best Punctuation Book, Period]]> 18240276 PUNCTUATE WITH CONFIDENCE--NO MATTER THE STYLE

Confused about punctuation? There's a reason. Everywhere you turn, publications seem to follow different rules on everything from possessive apostrophes to hyphens to serial commas. Then there are all the gray areas of punctuation--situations the rule books gloss over or never mention at all. At last, help has arrived.

This all-in-one reference from grammar columnist June Casagrande covers the basic rules of punctuation plus the finer points not addressed anywhere else, offering clear answers to perplexing questions about semicolons, quotation marks, periods, apostrophes, and more. Better yet, this is the only guide that uses handy icons to show how punctuation rules differ for book, news, academic, and science styles--so you can boldly switch between essays, online newsletters, reports, fiction, and magazine and news articles.

Style guides don't cover everything, but never fear! This handbook features rulings from an expert "Punctuation Panel" so you can see how working pros approach sticky situations. And the second half of the book features an alphabetical master list of commonly punctuated terms worth its weight in gold, combining rulings from the major style guides and showing exactly where they differ. With The Best Punctuation Book, Period, you'll be able to handle any punctuation predicament in a flash--and with aplomb.]]> 243 June Casagrande 1607744937 Hannah 5 4.46 2014 The Best Punctuation Book, Period
author: June Casagrande
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.46
book published: 2014
rating: 5
read at: 2021/08/22
date added: 2021/08/26
shelves: non-fiction, writing-guides, adult
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Perfect English Grammar: The Indispensable Guide to Excellent Writing and Speaking]]> 29624373 Language learners of all levels can turn to this easy-to-navigate grammar guide again and again for quick and authoritative information. From conjugating verbs to crafting sentences to developing your own style, Grant Barrett provides you with the tools and motivation to improve the way you communicate.

Perfect English Grammar helps you clearly say what you want to say—and the best way to say it.

Never Be Wrong: Catchy examples help you remember core grammar rules Sharpen Your Style: Composition guidelines let you express yourself fully Look It Up: Seamless navigation makes it easy to find answers quickly Geek Out: Explore the tricky questions with Grant Barrett’s help

Whether you’re a busy professional or on the job hunt, Perfect English Grammar makes it easier than ever to improve your grasp of grammar.

]]> 240 Grant Barrett 1623157153 Hannah 4 writing-guides, non-fiction 4.01 2016 Perfect English Grammar: The Indispensable Guide to Excellent Writing and Speaking
author: Grant Barrett
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.01
book published: 2016
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2021/08/21
shelves: writing-guides, non-fiction
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Eats, Shoots & Leaves: The Zero Tolerance Approach to Punctuation]]> 8600 209 Lynne Truss 1592402038 Hannah 4 3.86 2003 Eats, Shoots & Leaves: The Zero Tolerance Approach to Punctuation
author: Lynne Truss
name: Hannah
average rating: 3.86
book published: 2003
rating: 4
read at: 2021/07/20
date added: 2021/07/19
shelves: writing-guides, non-fiction, adult
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Around the Writer's Block: Using Brain Science to Solve Writer's Resistance]]> 13543222 Discover the tricks that your brain uses to keep you from writing—and how to beat them.

Do you:

Want to write, but find it impossible to get started? Keep your schedules so full that you don’t have any time to write? Wait until the last minute to write, even though you know you could do a better job if you gave yourself more time? Suddenly remember ten other things that you need to do whenever you sit down to write? Sabotage your own best efforts with lost files, missed deadlines, or excessive self-criticism?

The good news is that you’re not lazy, undisciplined, or lacking in willpower, talent or ambition. You just need to learn what’s going on inside your brain, and harness the power of brain science to beat resistance and develop a productive writing habit.

In Around the Writer’s Block, Rosanne Bane-- a creativity coach and writing teacher for more than 20 years-- uses the most recent breakthroughs in brain science to help us understand, in simple, clear language, where writing resistance comes from: a fight-or-flight response hard-wired into our brain, which can make us desperate to flee the sources of our anxieties by any means possible.

Bane’s three-part plan, which has improved the productivity of thousands of writers, helps you develop new reliable writing habits, rewire the brain’s responses to the anxiety of writing, and turn writing from a source of stress and anxiety into one of joy and personal growth.]]> 320 Rosanne Bane 158542871X Hannah 4 4.20 2012 Around the Writer's Block: Using Brain Science to Solve Writer's Resistance
author: Rosanne Bane
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.20
book published: 2012
rating: 4
read at: 2021/07/02
date added: 2021/07/01
shelves: adult, non-fiction, writing-guides
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Elements of Style [Illustrated]]]> 453553 The Elements of Style. The book’s mantra, make every word tell, is still on point. This much-loved classic, now in its fourth edition, will forever be the go-to guide when in need of a hint to make a turn of phrase clearer or a reminder on how to enliven prose with the active voice. The only style manual to ever appear on bestseller lists has explained to millions of readers the basic principals of plain English, and Maira Kalman’s fifty-seven exquisite illustrations give the revered work a jolt of new energy, making the learning experience more colorful and clear.
--back cover]]> 147 William Strunk Jr. 0143112724 Hannah 3 4.35 1918 The Elements of Style [Illustrated]
author: William Strunk Jr.
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.35
book published: 1918
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2021/06/25
shelves: adult, non-fiction, writing-guides
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Characters, Emotion & Viewpoint: Techniques and Exercises for Crafting Dynamic Characters and Effective Viewpoints]]> 68318 Create Complex Characters

How do you create a main character readers won't forget? How do you write a book in multiple-third-person point of view without confusing your readers (or yourself)? How do you plant essential information about a character's past into a story?

Write Great Fiction: Characters, Emotion & Viewpoint by award-winning author Nancy Kress answers all of these questions and more! This accessible book is filled with interactive exercises and valuable advice that teaches you how to:

•Choose and execute the best point of view for your story
•Create three-dimensional and believable characters
•Develop your characters' emotions
•Create realistic love, fight, and death scenes
•Use frustration to motivate your characters and drive your story


With dozens of excerpts from some of today's most popular writers, Write Great Fiction: Characters, Emotion & Viewpoint provides you with the techniques you need to create characters and stories sure to linger in the hearts and minds of agents, editors, and readers long after they've finished your book.]]> 232 Nancy Kress 1582973164 Hannah 3 4.00 2005 Characters, Emotion & Viewpoint: Techniques and Exercises for Crafting Dynamic Characters and Effective Viewpoints
author: Nancy Kress
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2005
rating: 3
read at: 2021/06/16
date added: 2021/06/15
shelves: adult, non-fiction, writing-guides
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Dreyer's English: An Utterly Correct Guide to Clarity and Style]]> 40063024 A witty, informative guide to writing "good English" from Random House's longtime copy chief and one of Twitter's leading enforcers of proper grammar--a twenty-first-century Elements of Style

As authoritative as it is amusing, this book distills everything Benjamin Dreyer has learned from the hundreds of books he has copyedited, including works by Elizabeth Strout, E. L. Doctorow, and Frank Rich, into a useful guide not just for writers but for everyone who wants to put their best foot forward in writing prose. Dreyer offers lessons on the ins and outs of punctuation and grammar, including how to navigate the words he calls "the confusables," like tricky homophones; the myriad ways to use (and misuse) a comma; and how to recognize--though not necessarily do away with--the passive voice. (Hint: If you can plausibly add "by zombies" to the end of a sentence, it's passive.)

People are sharing their writing more than ever--on blogs, on Twitter--and this book lays out, clearly and comprehensibly, everything writers can do to keep readers focused on the real reason writers write: to communicate their ideas clearly and effectively. Chock-full of advice, insider wisdom, and fun facts on the rules (and non-rules) of English, this book will prove invaluable to everyone who wants to shore up their writing skills, mandatory for people who spend their time editing and shaping other people's prose, and--perhaps best of all--an utter treat for anyone who simply revels in language.]]> 269 Benjamin Dreyer 0812995708 Hannah 3 4.34 2019 Dreyer's English: An Utterly Correct Guide to Clarity and Style
author: Benjamin Dreyer
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.34
book published: 2019
rating: 3
read at: 2021/05/16
date added: 2021/05/15
shelves: non-fiction, writing-guides, adult
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Writing Past Dark: Envy, Fear, Distraction and Other Dilemmas in the Writer's Life]]> 52518072 “In the spirit of Annie Dillard's The Writing Life, Friedman...gives heartfelt counsel to those who need to be coaxed into the creative process."�Washington Post

An indispensable guide for writers that explores the emotional side of writing and offers insightful advice on overcoming writer’s block, procrastination, guilt, and more. 

Charting the emotional side of the writer's life, Writing Past Dark is a writing companion to reach for when you feel lost and want to regain access to the memories, images, and the ideas inside you that are the fuel of strong writing.

Combining personal narrative and other writers' experiences, Bonnie Friedman explores a whole array of emotions and dilemmas writers face—envy, distraction, guilt, and writer's block—and shares the clues that can set you free so that you can write the book you’ve always dreamed of writing.

Supportive, intimate, and reflective, Writing Past Dark is a comfort and resource for all writers.]]> 176 Bonnie Friedman 0062981102 Hannah 4 3.70 1993 Writing Past Dark: Envy, Fear, Distraction and Other Dilemmas in the Writer's Life
author: Bonnie Friedman
name: Hannah
average rating: 3.70
book published: 1993
rating: 4
read at: 2021/05/15
date added: 2021/05/14
shelves: adult, non-fiction, writing-guides
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Dialogue: The Art of Verbal Action for Page, Stage, and Screen]]> 27416067
Robert McKee's popular writing workshops have earned him an international reputation. The list of alumni with Oscars runs off the page. The cornerstone of his program is his singular book, Story, which has defined how we talk about the art of story creation.

Now, in Dialogue , McKee offers the same in-depth analysis for how characters speak on the screen, on the stage, and on the page in believable and engaging ways. From Macbeth to Breaking Bad, McKee deconstructs key scenes to illustrate the strategies and techniques of dialogue. Dialogue applies a framework of incisive thinking to instruct the prospective writer on how to craft artful, impactful speech. Famous McKee alumni include Peter Jackson, Jane Campion, Geoffrey Rush, Paul Haggis, the writing team for Pixar, and many others.]]> 312 Robert McKee 1455591912 Hannah 3 4.31 2016 Dialogue: The Art of Verbal Action for Page, Stage, and Screen
author: Robert McKee
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.31
book published: 2016
rating: 3
read at: 2021/05/07
date added: 2021/05/07
shelves: adult, non-fiction, writing-guides
review:

]]> <![CDATA[A Swim in a Pond in the Rain: In Which Four Russians Give a Master Class on Writing, Reading, and Life]]> 56799103 A Swim in a Pond in the Rain, he shares a version of that class with us, offering some of what he and his students have discovered together over the years. Paired with iconic short stories by Chekhov, Turgenev, Tolstoy, and Gogol, the seven essays in this book are intended for anyone interested in how fiction works and why it’s more relevant than ever in these turbulent times.

In his introduction, Saunders writes, “We’re going to enter seven fastidiously constructed scale models of the world, made for a specific purpose that our time maybe doesn’t fully endorse but that these writers accepted implicitly as the aim of art—namely, to ask the big questions, questions like, How are we supposed to be living down here? What were we put here to accomplish? What should we value? What is truth, anyway, and how might we recognize it?� He approaches the stories technically yet accessibly, and through them explains how narrative functions; why we stay immersed in a story and why we resist it; and the bedrock virtues a writer must foster. The process of writing, Saunders reminds us, is a technical craft, but also a way of training oneself to see the world with new openness and curiosity.

A Swim in a Pond in the Rain is a deep exploration not just of how great writing works but of how the mind itself works while reading, and of how the reading and writing of stories make genuine connection possible.]]> 432 George Saunders Hannah 4 4.54 2021 A Swim in a Pond in the Rain: In Which Four Russians Give a Master Class on Writing, Reading, and Life
author: George Saunders
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.54
book published: 2021
rating: 4
read at: 2021/04/25
date added: 2021/04/25
shelves: adult, non-fiction, short-stories, writing-guides, translated-literature
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Slay the Dragon: Writing Great Video Games]]> 26207943 225 Robert Denton Bryant 1615932290 Hannah 3 3.74 2015 Slay the Dragon: Writing Great Video Games
author: Robert Denton Bryant
name: Hannah
average rating: 3.74
book published: 2015
rating: 3
read at: 2021/03/29
date added: 2021/03/28
shelves: adult, non-fiction, writing-guides
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Handling the Truth: On the Writing of Memoir]]> 16087843
Writing memoir is a deeply personal, and consequential, undertaking. As the acclaimed author of five memoirs spanning significant turning points in her life, Beth Kephart has been both blessed and bruised by the genre. In Handling the Truth , she thinks out loud about the form—on how it gets made, on what it means to make it, on the searing language of truth, on the thin line between remembering and imagining, and, finally, on the rights of memoirists. Drawing on proven writing lessons and classic examples, on the work of her students and on her own memories of weather, landscape, color, and love, Kephart probes the wrenching and essential questions that lie at the heart of memoir.

A beautifully written work in its own right, Handling the Truth is Kephart’s memoir-writing guide for those who read or seek to write the truth.]]> 272 Beth Kephart 159240815X Hannah 5 4.15 2013 Handling the Truth: On the Writing of Memoir
author: Beth Kephart
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.15
book published: 2013
rating: 5
read at: 2021/02/21
date added: 2021/02/20
shelves: adult, non-fiction, writing-guides
review:

]]> <![CDATA[A Dash of Style: The Art and Mastery of Punctuation]]> 232311 206 Noah Lukeman 0393329801 Hannah 4 4.21 2005 A Dash of Style: The Art and Mastery of Punctuation
author: Noah Lukeman
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.21
book published: 2005
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2021/01/04
shelves: writing-guides, non-fiction, adult
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Self-Editing for Fiction Writers: How to Edit Yourself Into Print]]> 180467
Hundreds of books have been written on the art of writing. Here at last is a book by two professional editors to teach writers the techniques of the editing trade that turn promising manuscripts into published novels and short stories.

In this completely revised and updated second edition, Renni Browne and Dave King teach you, the writer, how to apply the editing techniques they have developed to your own work. Chapters on dialogue, exposition, point of view, interior monologue, and other techniques take you through the same processes an expert editor would go through to perfect your manuscript. Each point is illustrated with examples, many drawn from the hundreds of books Browne and King have edited.]]> 288 Renni Browne 0060545690 Hannah 4 4.24 1993 Self-Editing for Fiction Writers: How to Edit Yourself Into Print
author: Renni Browne
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.24
book published: 1993
rating: 4
read at: 2015/06/29
date added: 2021/01/04
shelves: writing-guides, non-fiction, adult
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The First Five Pages: A Writer's Guide To Staying Out of the Rejection Pile]]> 263254 The First Five Pages

Editors always tell novice writers that the first few pages of a manuscript are crucial in the publishing process -- and it's true. If an editor or agent (or reader) loses interest after a page or two, you've lost him or her completely, even if the middle of your novel is brilliant and the ending phenomenal. Noah Lukeman, an agent in Manhattan, has taken this advice and created a book that examines just what this means, and I have to tell you, it's one of the best I've read.

I've written (and seen published) pretty close to a dozen novels in as many years -- some are still to be published and will be out shortly; others are already out of print after four years. But I wish I had read Lukeman's book, The First Five Pages, when I began writing fiction.

I'm glad I did now. It has helped, immediately. I'm already embarrassed about some of the goofs I made in my writing -- and I've been revising recent prose with his advice in mind.

First off, Lukeman is a literary agent who once was an editor, and his editorial eye is sharp. If every novelist and short story writer in this country had Lukeman as an editor, we'd have a lot more readable prose out there.

He writes:

Many writers spend the majority of their time devising their plot. What they don't seem to understand is that if their execution -- if their prose -- isn't up to par, their plot may not even be considered.


This bears repeating, because in all the books I've read on writing, this is an element that is most often forgotten in the rush to come up with snappy ideas and sharp plot progressions. You can always send a hero on a journey, after all, but if no reader wants to follow him, you've wasted your time.

In a tone that can be a bit professorial at times, Lukeman brings what prose is -- and how it reads to others -- into sharp focus. He deals with dialogue, style, and, most importantly, sound.

Sound.

How does prose sound?

It must have rhythm, its own kind of music, in order to draw the reader into the fictive dream. Lukeman's tips and pointers are genuinely helpful, and even important with regard to the sound of the prose itself.

Lukeman also brings in on-target exercises for writers of prose and the wonderful advice for novelists to read poetry -- and often.

Those first five pages are crucial, for all concerned. But forget the editor and agent and reader. They are important for you, the writer, because they determine the sharpness of your focus, the completeness of your vision, the confidence you, as a writer, need to plunge into a three- or four- or five-hundred-page story.

The First Five Pages should be on every writer's shelf. This is the real thing.P#151;Douglas Clegg

Douglas Clegg is the author of numerous novels and stories, including The Halloween Man and the collection The Nightmare Chronicles. In addition, Clegg is the author of the world's first publisher-sponsored Internet email novel, Naomi.]]> 208 Noah Lukeman 068485743X Hannah 4 3.97 2000 The First Five Pages: A Writer's Guide To Staying Out of the Rejection Pile
author: Noah Lukeman
name: Hannah
average rating: 3.97
book published: 2000
rating: 4
read at: 2015/06/30
date added: 2021/01/04
shelves: writing-guides, non-fiction, adult
review:

]]> Bird by Bird 12543 A newer edition of this title can be found here.

"Thirty years ago my older brother, who was ten years old at the time, was trying to get a report on birds written that he'd had three months to write. [It] was due the next day. We were out at our family cabin in Bolinas, and he was at the kitchen table close to tears, surrounded by binder paper and pencils and unopened books on birds, immobilized by the hugeness of the task ahead. Then my father sat down beside him, put his arm around my brother's shoulder, and said. 'Bird by bird, buddy. Just take it bird by bird.'"

With this basic instruction always in mind, Anne Lamott returns to offer us a new gift: a step-by-step guide on how to write and on how to manage the writer's life. From "Getting Started,' with "Short Assignments," through "Shitty First Drafts," "Character," "Plot," "Dialogue." all the way from "False Starts" to "How Do You Know When You're Done?" Lamott encourages, instructs, and inspires. She discusses "Writers Block," "Writing Groups," and "Publication." Bracingly honest, she is also one of the funniest people alive.

If you have ever wondered what it takes to be a writer, what it means to be a writer, what the contents of your school lunches said about what your parents were really like, this book is for you. From faith, love, and grace to pain, jealousy, and fear, Lamott insists that you keep your eyes open, and then shows you how to survive. And always, from the life of the artist she turns to the art of life.

]]> 238 Anne Lamott Hannah 3 4.24 1994 Bird by Bird
author: Anne Lamott
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.24
book published: 1994
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2021/01/04
shelves: writing-guides, non-fiction, adult
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Writing Fiction: A Guide to Narrative Craft]]> 41591142 More than 250,000 copies sold!

A creative writer’s shelf should hold at least three essential books: a dictionary, a style guide, and Writing Fiction. Janet Burroway’s best-selling classic is the most widely used creative writing text in America, and for more than three decades it has helped hundreds of thousands of students learn the craft. Now in its tenth edition, Writing Fiction is more accessible than ever for writers of all levels—inside or outside the classroom.

This new edition continues to provide advice that is practical, comprehensive, and flexible. Burroway’s tone is personal and nonprescriptive, welcoming learning writers into the community of practiced storytellers. Moving from freewriting to final revision, the book addresses “showing not telling,� characterization, dialogue, atmosphere, plot, imagery, and point of view. It includes new topics and writing prompts, and each chapter now ends with a list of recommended readings that exemplify the craft elements discussed, allowing for further study. And the examples and quotations throughout the book feature a wide and diverse range of today’s best and best-known creators of both novels and short stories.

This book is a master class in creative writing that also calls on us to renew our love of storytelling and celebrate the skill of writing well. There is a very good chance that one of your favorite authors learned the craft with Writing Fiction. And who knows what future favorite will get her start reading this edition?]]> 240 Janet Burroway 022661669X Hannah 5 4.15 1987 Writing Fiction: A Guide to Narrative Craft
author: Janet Burroway
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.15
book published: 1987
rating: 5
read at: 2020/05/19
date added: 2020/12/31
shelves: non-fiction, writing-guides, adult
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Screenplay: The Foundations of Screenwriting Paperback � November 29, 2005]]> 141560 American Beauty to Lord of the Rings�Screenplay presents a step-by-step, comprehensive technique for writing the screenplay that will succeed in Hollywood. Discover:

•Why the first ten pages of your script are crucially important
•How to visually “grab� the reader from page one, word one
•Why structure and character are the essential foundation of your screenplay
•How to adapt a novel, a play, or an article into a screenplay
•Tips on protecting your work—three legal ways to claim ownership of your screenplay
•The essentials of writing great dialogue, creating character, building a story line, overcoming writer’s block, getting an agent, and much more.

With this newly updated edition of his bestselling classic, Syd Field proves yet again why he is revered as the master of the screenplay—and why his celebrated guide has become the industry’s gold standard for successful screenwriting.]]> 309 Syd Field 0385339038 Hannah 5 4.00 1979 Screenplay: The Foundations of Screenwriting Paperback – November 29, 2005
author: Syd Field
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.00
book published: 1979
rating: 5
read at: 2019/10/13
date added: 2020/12/31
shelves: non-fiction, writing-guides, adult
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Making of a Story: A Norton Guide to Creative Writing]]> 6645106 A Los Angeles Times bestseller: wonderfully lucid and illuminating, Alice LaPlante’s guide to writing fiction “recalls Francine Prose’s bestseller, Reading Like a Writer� (Library Journal).

The Making of a Story is a fresh and inspiring guide to the basics of creative writing—both fiction and creative nonfiction. The book is perfect for writers working alone as well as for creative writing classes, both introductory and advanced. .]]> 677 Alice LaPlante 0393337081 Hannah 5 4.22 2009 The Making of a Story: A Norton Guide to Creative Writing
author: Alice LaPlante
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.22
book published: 2009
rating: 5
read at: 2019/03/22
date added: 2020/12/31
shelves: non-fiction, writing-guides, adult
review:

]]> The Anatomy of Story 5216342 "If you're ready to graduate from the boy-meets-girl league of screenwriting, meet John Truby . . . [his lessons inspire] epiphanies that make you see the contours of your psyche as sharply as your script."
--LA Weekly

John Truby is one of the most respected and sought-after story consultants in the film industry, and his students have gone on to pen some of Hollywood's most successful films, including Sleepless in Seattle, Scream, and Shrek. The Anatomy of Story is his long-awaited first book, and it shares all his secrets for writing a compelling script. Based on the lessons in his award-winning class, Great Screenwriting, The Anatomy of Story draws on a broad range of philosophy and mythology, offering fresh techniques and insightful anecdotes alongside Truby's own unique approach to building an effective, multifaceted narrative.]]> 445 John Truby 0865479933 Hannah 4 The Anatomy of Story is not your average writing guidebook. What sets it apart is Truby's emphasis on interconnection between characters (specifically how the hero is not as important as how the hero relates to other characters and how those secondary and tertiary characters must be a reflection of some aspect of the hero) and the importance of early story components that are crucial to achieving an arresting, memorable pay-off by the conclusion. He also approaches villains from a different angle than most authors, thereby deepening one's understanding of how to craft a more complex antagonist and/or opponent.

Organizationally, Truby's many layers within layers of storytelling can be challenging to follow, and the final chapters feel hasty, but there's good meat here. Definitely recommend this informative guidebook to writers of film, plays, books and short stories.]]> 4.33 2007 The Anatomy of Story
author: John Truby
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.33
book published: 2007
rating: 4
read at: 2018/08/08
date added: 2020/12/31
shelves: non-fiction, writing-guides, adult
review:
The Anatomy of Story is not your average writing guidebook. What sets it apart is Truby's emphasis on interconnection between characters (specifically how the hero is not as important as how the hero relates to other characters and how those secondary and tertiary characters must be a reflection of some aspect of the hero) and the importance of early story components that are crucial to achieving an arresting, memorable pay-off by the conclusion. He also approaches villains from a different angle than most authors, thereby deepening one's understanding of how to craft a more complex antagonist and/or opponent.

Organizationally, Truby's many layers within layers of storytelling can be challenging to follow, and the final chapters feel hasty, but there's good meat here. Definitely recommend this informative guidebook to writers of film, plays, books and short stories.
]]> <![CDATA[The Writer's Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers]]> 590778 The updated and revised third edition provides new insights and observations from Vogler's ongoing work on mythology's influence on stories, movies, and man himself. The previous two editions of this book have sold over 180,000 units, making this book a 'classic' for screenwriters, writers, and novelists.

]]> 370 Christopher Vogler 193290736X Hannah 4 From Beginning to Bookend.



An approachable and informative re-imagining of The Hero With a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell, replete with a simplified hero's journey and examples using modern books and films.
]]> 4.21 1992 The Writer's Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers
author: Christopher Vogler
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.21
book published: 1992
rating: 4
read at: 2017/11/01
date added: 2020/12/31
shelves: non-fiction, writing-guides, adult
review:
to watch a video review of this book on my channel, From Beginning to Bookend.



An approachable and informative re-imagining of The Hero With a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell, replete with a simplified hero's journey and examples using modern books and films.

]]> <![CDATA[Write Your Novel From The Middle: A New Approach for Plotters, Pantsers and Everyone in Between (Bell on Writing)]]> 22057813 88 James Scott Bell 0910355118 Hannah 3 From Beginning to Bookend.

]]> 4.23 2014 Write Your Novel From The Middle: A New Approach for Plotters, Pantsers and Everyone in Between (Bell on Writing)
author: James Scott Bell
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.23
book published: 2014
rating: 3
read at: 2017/07/28
date added: 2020/12/31
shelves: non-fiction, writing-guides, adult
review:
to watch a video review of this book on my channel, From Beginning to Bookend.


]]> <![CDATA[The Plot Thickens: 8 Ways to Bring Fiction to Life]]> 114822 ]]> 218 Noah Lukeman 0312309287 Hannah 4 The Plot Thickens is a quick and comprehensive read that makes simple suggestions for improving one's written work.

Stories are necessary. Like food or water, stories have always been of supreme importance to the human race. They speak to us on a primal level, and they fill a need. Life can seem aimless, structureless, unjust, without resolution. Stories are the antidote to life: they offer purpose, structure, justice, resolution- not to mention romance, suspense, conflict, adventure. They offer meaning. If our lives cannot always have it, our stories can.

The book is divided into eight chapters, and each chapter explores one of the following topics: the outer life of characters, the inner life of characters, characterization, the journey, suspense, conflict, context, and transcendency.

Each chapter briefly explains one of the aforementioned topics, then provides several examples that are easily understood and digested. The author then presents a rapid fire array of applicable questions to push writers toward examining their own work-in-progress to discover where improvements can be made. Chapters conclude with pertinent exercises.

The author sometimes relies on well-known books for his examples, but in many instances he makes reference to popular television or movies, making his examples accessible to a broader audience.

I [reference films] because my chief concern is illustrating (sometimes abstract) points, and by referencing films there is a greater chance that more readers will recognize the reference. I also reference films because film is a medium that has devoted itself to plot, and I would be remiss to ignore them.

The Plot Thickens earns its rightful place in the collection of books owned by any published or aspiring author.]]> 3.83 2002 The Plot Thickens: 8 Ways to Bring Fiction to Life
author: Noah Lukeman
name: Hannah
average rating: 3.83
book published: 2002
rating: 4
read at: 2017/02/28
date added: 2020/12/31
shelves: non-fiction, writing-guides, adult
review:
The Plot Thickens is a quick and comprehensive read that makes simple suggestions for improving one's written work.

Stories are necessary. Like food or water, stories have always been of supreme importance to the human race. They speak to us on a primal level, and they fill a need. Life can seem aimless, structureless, unjust, without resolution. Stories are the antidote to life: they offer purpose, structure, justice, resolution- not to mention romance, suspense, conflict, adventure. They offer meaning. If our lives cannot always have it, our stories can.

The book is divided into eight chapters, and each chapter explores one of the following topics: the outer life of characters, the inner life of characters, characterization, the journey, suspense, conflict, context, and transcendency.

Each chapter briefly explains one of the aforementioned topics, then provides several examples that are easily understood and digested. The author then presents a rapid fire array of applicable questions to push writers toward examining their own work-in-progress to discover where improvements can be made. Chapters conclude with pertinent exercises.

The author sometimes relies on well-known books for his examples, but in many instances he makes reference to popular television or movies, making his examples accessible to a broader audience.

I [reference films] because my chief concern is illustrating (sometimes abstract) points, and by referencing films there is a greater chance that more readers will recognize the reference. I also reference films because film is a medium that has devoted itself to plot, and I would be remiss to ignore them.

The Plot Thickens earns its rightful place in the collection of books owned by any published or aspiring author.
]]> <![CDATA[How to Read Literature Like a Professor]]> 33565630 336 Thomas C. Foster 8900720163 Hannah 5 From Beginning to Bookend.




How to Read Literature Like a Professor offers an extensive introduction to literary analysis for the purpose of finding deeper meaning in one's everyday reading.

One of the central precepts of the book is that there is a universal grammar of figurative imagery, that in fact images and symbols gain much of their power from repetition and reinterpretation.

Memory. Symbol. Pattern. These are the three items that, more than any other, separate the professorial reader from the rest of the crowd.

Chapters are divided into relatively similar page counts and, while each chapter explores a topic and provides helpful examples from literary works, the length of each chapter allows for digestion of information in small bites.

Citing folklore, religious dogmas, and Greek mythology, the author delicately introduces varied or contrasting belief systems for interpretation of literature in an unoffensive and unbiased manner.

Every reader's experience of every work is unique, largely because each person will experience various elements to differing degrees, and those differences will cause certain features of the text to become more or less pronounced.

While this book provides a thorough examination of theme, symbols, and contexts, the author freely admits that it is by no means a complete compilation; one could hardly fit all elements of literary assessment, all interpretations of symbols, or all references to venerable lore into just one book. The writing is consistently comprehensive and entertaining, occasionally infused with Foster's personal quips and moments of charming self-deprecation. His points, whether serious or silly, are stated with eloquence.

The author's examination of various classic works are liable to tantalize readers to pick up new reads, and a long list of recommended reads at the back of the book further encourage the accumulation of TBR books.

Before the book reaches its end, the author tackles a difficult question: should we really give so much credit to writers by interpreting their works in such a special and meaningful way, especially when he/she hasn't been proven to be a good writer? His answer is illuminating and his conclusions ultimately encourage the examination of literature and the sharing of books and conversation such that we might all bring new perspectives to our shared experience.

How to Read Literature Like a Professor is a highly recommended resource for unearthing the hidden meaning interwoven in books (and film).]]> 3.72 2003 How to Read Literature Like a Professor
author: Thomas C. Foster
name: Hannah
average rating: 3.72
book published: 2003
rating: 5
read at: 2017/01/29
date added: 2020/12/31
shelves: non-fiction, writing-guides, adult
review:
to watch a video review of this book on my channel, From Beginning to Bookend.




How to Read Literature Like a Professor offers an extensive introduction to literary analysis for the purpose of finding deeper meaning in one's everyday reading.

One of the central precepts of the book is that there is a universal grammar of figurative imagery, that in fact images and symbols gain much of their power from repetition and reinterpretation.

Memory. Symbol. Pattern. These are the three items that, more than any other, separate the professorial reader from the rest of the crowd.

Chapters are divided into relatively similar page counts and, while each chapter explores a topic and provides helpful examples from literary works, the length of each chapter allows for digestion of information in small bites.

Citing folklore, religious dogmas, and Greek mythology, the author delicately introduces varied or contrasting belief systems for interpretation of literature in an unoffensive and unbiased manner.

Every reader's experience of every work is unique, largely because each person will experience various elements to differing degrees, and those differences will cause certain features of the text to become more or less pronounced.

While this book provides a thorough examination of theme, symbols, and contexts, the author freely admits that it is by no means a complete compilation; one could hardly fit all elements of literary assessment, all interpretations of symbols, or all references to venerable lore into just one book. The writing is consistently comprehensive and entertaining, occasionally infused with Foster's personal quips and moments of charming self-deprecation. His points, whether serious or silly, are stated with eloquence.

The author's examination of various classic works are liable to tantalize readers to pick up new reads, and a long list of recommended reads at the back of the book further encourage the accumulation of TBR books.

Before the book reaches its end, the author tackles a difficult question: should we really give so much credit to writers by interpreting their works in such a special and meaningful way, especially when he/she hasn't been proven to be a good writer? His answer is illuminating and his conclusions ultimately encourage the examination of literature and the sharing of books and conversation such that we might all bring new perspectives to our shared experience.

How to Read Literature Like a Professor is a highly recommended resource for unearthing the hidden meaning interwoven in books (and film).
]]> <![CDATA[On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft]]> 7143113 Entertainment Weekly upon the publication of Stephen King's On Writing.
Part memoir, part masterclass by one of the bestselling authors of all time, this superb volume is a revealing and practical view of the writer's craft, comprising the basic tools of the trade every writer must have. King's advice is grounded in his vivid memories from childhood through his emergence as a writer, from his struggling early career to his widely reported, near-fatal accident in 1999—and how the inextricable link between writing and living spurred his recovery.
Brilliantly structured, friendly and inspiring, On Writing will empower and entertain everyone who reads it—fans, writers, and anyone who loves a great story well told.]]> 291 Stephen King 1439156816 Hannah 5 On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft offers an illuminating look at Stephen King's life, highlighting moments that shaped him as an author and revealing lessons he gained from decades of practice and publication.

King is unapologetically himself, blending whit and honesty with sophomoric humor and the occasional curse word. For example, when discussing the sin of using passive voice, King provides an example of how not to construct a sentence, followed by the type of commentary one can expect to find throughout his book:

How about this: My first kiss will always be recalled by me as how my romance with Shayna was begun. Oh, man - who farted, right?

When it comes to writing, King offers advice in a comprehensive manner; he is concise and straightforward in his presentation of the fundamental approaches to writing that have shaped him as an author.

There is no Idea Dump, no Story Central, no Island of the Buried Bestsellers; good story ideas seem to come quite literally from nowhere, sailing at you right out of the empty sky: two previously unrelated ideas come together and make something new under the sun. Your job isn't to find these ideas but to recognize them when they show up.

King explains his approach to writing and reveals, without indirectly stating, that he is a discovery writer. He goes so far as to dismiss the validity of first plotting a book before writing. This was the only element of the book that warranted a raised eyebrow. Some authors are plotters and some are discovery writers. Readers are well advised to remember that either approach to writing is acceptable.

From simple stories about writing newspaper articles as a child, to the gut wrenching tale of his recovery from a near-fatal accident, Stephen King's narrative of his own life is arresting from start to finish. On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft is a go-to book for aspiring authors, fans of Stephen King, and any artist feeling creatively stumped that would benefit from a kick in the rear. ]]> 4.49 2000 On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft
author: Stephen King
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.49
book published: 2000
rating: 5
read at: 2016/11/19
date added: 2020/12/31
shelves: memoir, writing-guides, non-fiction, adult
review:
On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft offers an illuminating look at Stephen King's life, highlighting moments that shaped him as an author and revealing lessons he gained from decades of practice and publication.

King is unapologetically himself, blending whit and honesty with sophomoric humor and the occasional curse word. For example, when discussing the sin of using passive voice, King provides an example of how not to construct a sentence, followed by the type of commentary one can expect to find throughout his book:

How about this: My first kiss will always be recalled by me as how my romance with Shayna was begun. Oh, man - who farted, right?

When it comes to writing, King offers advice in a comprehensive manner; he is concise and straightforward in his presentation of the fundamental approaches to writing that have shaped him as an author.

There is no Idea Dump, no Story Central, no Island of the Buried Bestsellers; good story ideas seem to come quite literally from nowhere, sailing at you right out of the empty sky: two previously unrelated ideas come together and make something new under the sun. Your job isn't to find these ideas but to recognize them when they show up.

King explains his approach to writing and reveals, without indirectly stating, that he is a discovery writer. He goes so far as to dismiss the validity of first plotting a book before writing. This was the only element of the book that warranted a raised eyebrow. Some authors are plotters and some are discovery writers. Readers are well advised to remember that either approach to writing is acceptable.

From simple stories about writing newspaper articles as a child, to the gut wrenching tale of his recovery from a near-fatal accident, Stephen King's narrative of his own life is arresting from start to finish. On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft is a go-to book for aspiring authors, fans of Stephen King, and any artist feeling creatively stumped that would benefit from a kick in the rear.
]]> <![CDATA[How to Write Science Fiction & Fantasy]]> 31363
Here, science fiction great Orson Scott Card shares his expertise in these genres. You'll learn:

- What is and isn't science fiction and fantasy, and by whose standards -- and where your work fits in.
- How to build, populate, and dramatize a credible, inviting world your readers will want to explore.
- How to use the MICE quotient -- milieu, idea, character, event -- to structure a successful story.
- Where the markets are and how to reach them to get published.

The knowledge and skills you gain through this book will help you effectively lead your readers into the strangeness you create -- one tantalizing step at a time.]]> 144 Orson Scott Card 158297103X Hannah 5 How to Write Science Fiction and Fantasy provides a brief yet informative education on what tools can be utilized to construct compelling speculative fiction.

This book is dedicated specifically to the information writers of speculative fiction need to know: world creation, alien societies, rules of magic, and imagining possible futures (readers who wish to learn about characterization, point of view, plotting, style, or dialogue are referred by the author to his other published works on writing).

Though the book identifies itself as a writing guide for science fiction and fantasy, much of the book is dedicated to exploring science fiction, examining various methods for writing about time travel and space exploration. Nonetheless, this book is a valuable resource for writers of fantasy.

Excellent advice is given in the form of the author's beliefs:

I believe, when it comes to storytelling - and making up maps of imaginary lands is a kid of storytelling - that mistakes are often the beginning of the best ideas.

I firmly believe a good storyteller's education never ends, because to tell stories perfectly you have to know everything about everything. Naturally, none of us actually achieves such complete knowledge - but we should live as if we were trying to do so.

The book closes with a chapter on the business of writing, highlighting the same stark prospects of being published as nearly every writing guidebook does, but the author ends on a positive note and encourages writers to get back to work. [Note: this book was first published in 1990, so some of the information in this chapter is a bit dated.]

Storytelling is important. You really do have an effect on the world, and it matters that you write your tales and have them published.]]> 3.92 1990 How to Write Science Fiction & Fantasy
author: Orson Scott Card
name: Hannah
average rating: 3.92
book published: 1990
rating: 5
read at: 2016/11/04
date added: 2020/12/31
shelves: non-fiction, writing-guides, adult
review:
How to Write Science Fiction and Fantasy provides a brief yet informative education on what tools can be utilized to construct compelling speculative fiction.

This book is dedicated specifically to the information writers of speculative fiction need to know: world creation, alien societies, rules of magic, and imagining possible futures (readers who wish to learn about characterization, point of view, plotting, style, or dialogue are referred by the author to his other published works on writing).

Though the book identifies itself as a writing guide for science fiction and fantasy, much of the book is dedicated to exploring science fiction, examining various methods for writing about time travel and space exploration. Nonetheless, this book is a valuable resource for writers of fantasy.

Excellent advice is given in the form of the author's beliefs:

I believe, when it comes to storytelling - and making up maps of imaginary lands is a kid of storytelling - that mistakes are often the beginning of the best ideas.

I firmly believe a good storyteller's education never ends, because to tell stories perfectly you have to know everything about everything. Naturally, none of us actually achieves such complete knowledge - but we should live as if we were trying to do so.

The book closes with a chapter on the business of writing, highlighting the same stark prospects of being published as nearly every writing guidebook does, but the author ends on a positive note and encourages writers to get back to work. [Note: this book was first published in 1990, so some of the information in this chapter is a bit dated.]

Storytelling is important. You really do have an effect on the world, and it matters that you write your tales and have them published.
]]> <![CDATA[The Magic Words: Writing Great Books for Children and Young Adults]]> 28789704 This master class in writing children's and young adult novels will teach you everything you need to know to write and publish a great book.

The best children’s and young adult novels take readers on wonderful outward adventures and stirring inward journeys. In The Magic Words, editor Cheryl B. Klein guides writers on an enjoyable and practical-minded voyage of their own, from developing a saleable premise for a novel to finding a dream agent. She delves deep into the major elements of fiction—intention, character, plot, and voice—while addressing important topics like diversity, world-building, and the differences between middle-grade and YA novels. In addition, the book’s exercises, questions, and straightforward rules of thumb help writers apply these insights to their own creative works. With its generous tone and useful tools for story analysis and revision, The Magic Words is an essential handbook for writers of children’s and young adult fiction.]]> 368 Cheryl B. Klein 039329224X Hannah 3 The Magic Words is a book of lists -- of lists within lists. It's list inception (listception?).

While the book covers a broad range of topics like Point of View, Narrative Voice, Plotting and Prose, much of it reads like a very general, surface-level overview. Though examples are few in number, the book offers myriad exercises for writers who are either in the process of creating a novel or who have a completed manuscript that needs editing.

Tackling a more modern topic, the author discusses the need for more diverse books, written about diverse characters, crafted by diverse authors. Helpful tips are provided on researching culture, avoiding tropes, and steering clear of cultural appropriation.

Unfortunately, a fair amount of the material in The Magic Words was taken from the author's previous book, Second Sight: An Editor's Talks on Writing, Revising, and Publishing Books for Children and Young Adults. On one hand, it was good to review the material. On the other, it was disappointing to have paid -- twice -- for the same material.

The Magic Words: Writing Great Books for Children and Young Adults provides a general overview of basic writing and editing tips, and the author demonstrates a thorough understanding of how books impact young readers:

Through the invocation of the right words in the right order -- the magic words -- books can change lives. And that is never more true than in childhood and young adulthood, when books introduce their readers to worlds both fantastical and right next door, inhabited by characters who share their challenges and joys.]]> 4.42 2016 The Magic Words: Writing Great Books for Children and Young Adults
author: Cheryl B. Klein
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.42
book published: 2016
rating: 3
read at: 2016/10/07
date added: 2020/12/31
shelves: writing-guides, non-fiction, adult
review:
The Magic Words is a book of lists -- of lists within lists. It's list inception (listception?).

While the book covers a broad range of topics like Point of View, Narrative Voice, Plotting and Prose, much of it reads like a very general, surface-level overview. Though examples are few in number, the book offers myriad exercises for writers who are either in the process of creating a novel or who have a completed manuscript that needs editing.

Tackling a more modern topic, the author discusses the need for more diverse books, written about diverse characters, crafted by diverse authors. Helpful tips are provided on researching culture, avoiding tropes, and steering clear of cultural appropriation.

Unfortunately, a fair amount of the material in The Magic Words was taken from the author's previous book, Second Sight: An Editor's Talks on Writing, Revising, and Publishing Books for Children and Young Adults. On one hand, it was good to review the material. On the other, it was disappointing to have paid -- twice -- for the same material.

The Magic Words: Writing Great Books for Children and Young Adults provides a general overview of basic writing and editing tips, and the author demonstrates a thorough understanding of how books impact young readers:

Through the invocation of the right words in the right order -- the magic words -- books can change lives. And that is never more true than in childhood and young adulthood, when books introduce their readers to worlds both fantastical and right next door, inhabited by characters who share their challenges and joys.
]]> <![CDATA[The Essential Guide to Getting Your Book Published: How to Write It, Sell It, and Market It . . . Successfully]]> 19174251 A complete author's The guide that demystifies every step of the publishing process.

No matter what type of book you want to write—fiction, nonfiction, humor, sci-fi, romance, cookbook, children's book—here is how to take an idea you're passionate about, develop it into a manuscript or proposal, get it published, and deliver it into the hands and hearts of readers. Includes interviews with dozens of publishing insiders—agents, editors, besteslling authors, and booksellers. Real-life success stories and the lessons they impart. Plus sample proposals and query letters, a resource guide, and more.

Updated to cover ebooks, self-publishing, digital marketing, the power of social media, and more.

This complete author's toolkit includes information locating, luring, and landing an agent
- perfecting your pitch
- the nuts and bolts of a book proposal
- conquering the query letter
- finding the right publisher for YOU
- four steps to reaching readers online
- making Amazon work for you
- kickstarting your Kickstarter campaign
- the ins and outs of ebooks
- 10 things you should have on your author website
- turning rejection into a book deal
- new frontiers in self-publishing
Ěý±Ő±Ő> 802 Arielle Eckstut 0761163980 Hannah 5 The Essential Guide to Getting Your Book Published came as a recommendation from a panel of authors, editors, and literary agents at the 2015 Bay Area Book Festival. It's not difficult to see why the panelists were quick to make this recommendation. This book is exhaustive (not to be confused with exhausting). It covers everything an aspiring author needs to know about what to expect and how to proceed upon completion of a manuscript, though writers are well advised to read this book at any stage in their career, whether they've just penned an idea for a book, are seeking an agent, or recently signed with a literary agency.

Most books about writing perpetuate a negative attitude toward writers and writing. Not so in this case. The Essential Guide to Getting Your Book Published is honest with its readers about the challenges they'll face in the quest to be published, but the authors remain delightfully upbeat about the joy of writing. ]]> 4.16 2005 The Essential Guide to Getting Your Book Published: How to Write It, Sell It, and Market It . . . Successfully
author: Arielle Eckstut
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.16
book published: 2005
rating: 5
read at: 2016/09/15
date added: 2020/12/31
shelves: writing-guides, non-fiction, adult
review:
The Essential Guide to Getting Your Book Published came as a recommendation from a panel of authors, editors, and literary agents at the 2015 Bay Area Book Festival. It's not difficult to see why the panelists were quick to make this recommendation. This book is exhaustive (not to be confused with exhausting). It covers everything an aspiring author needs to know about what to expect and how to proceed upon completion of a manuscript, though writers are well advised to read this book at any stage in their career, whether they've just penned an idea for a book, are seeking an agent, or recently signed with a literary agency.

Most books about writing perpetuate a negative attitude toward writers and writing. Not so in this case. The Essential Guide to Getting Your Book Published is honest with its readers about the challenges they'll face in the quest to be published, but the authors remain delightfully upbeat about the joy of writing.
]]> <![CDATA[The Forest for the Trees: An Editor's Advice to Writers]]> 9500098
Quickly established as an essential and enduring companion for aspiring writers when it was first published, Betsy Lerner's sharp, funny, and insightful guide has been meticulously updated and revised to address the dramatic changes that have reshaped the publishing industry in the decade since. From blank page to first glowing (or gutting) review, Betsy Lerner is a knowing and sympathetic coach who helps writers discover how they can be more productive in the creative process and how they can better their odds of not only getting published, but getting published well. This is an essential trove of advice for writers and an indispensable user's manual to both the inner life of the writer and the increasingly anxious place where art and commerce the boardrooms and cubicles of the publishing house.]]> 285 Betsy Lerner 159448483X Hannah 3 The Forest for the Trees is divided into two parts. Part One is a disappointment, because the author dedicates several chapters to perpetuating negative stereotypes about authors and encouraging unhealthy attitudes about writing and writers. Not a single chapter expresses the joy of creating or the wonder found in writing stories or crafting literature.

The book transitions into an informative tool in the second half. Part Two provides advice on seeking an agent and writing query letters. It also informs aspiring authors of what to anticipate in terms of rejection letters, working with editors, how a book is published, and what to expect after publication.

The Forest for the Trees is a recommended read for writers and aspiring authors, though if time is limited, skipping over Part One is advisable. ]]> 3.99 2000 The Forest for the Trees: An Editor's Advice to Writers
author: Betsy Lerner
name: Hannah
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2000
rating: 3
read at: 2016/08/24
date added: 2020/12/31
shelves: writing-guides, non-fiction, adult
review:
The Forest for the Trees is divided into two parts. Part One is a disappointment, because the author dedicates several chapters to perpetuating negative stereotypes about authors and encouraging unhealthy attitudes about writing and writers. Not a single chapter expresses the joy of creating or the wonder found in writing stories or crafting literature.

The book transitions into an informative tool in the second half. Part Two provides advice on seeking an agent and writing query letters. It also informs aspiring authors of what to anticipate in terms of rejection letters, working with editors, how a book is published, and what to expect after publication.

The Forest for the Trees is a recommended read for writers and aspiring authors, though if time is limited, skipping over Part One is advisable.
]]> <![CDATA[Second Sight: An Editor's Talks on Writing, Revising, and Publishing Books for Children and Young Adults]]> 10465738 * What makes a strong picture book manuscript
* Why the Harry Potter series was such a tremendous success
* Finding the emotional heart of your story
* Worksheets and checklists for building characters and bolstering plot
* The Annotated Query Letter from Hell
* And an Annotated Query Letter That Does It Right With its wit, intelligence, and practical tools for analyzing and revising your work, Second Sight will be a first resource for writers of children's and young adult fiction. If you're trying to decide between this book and Cheryl's later title, The Magic Writing Great Books for Children and Young Adults, , you should know that The Magic Words is a revised, focused, and improved version of Second Sight , and it focuses solely on middle-grade and young adult novels, walking authors through the writing process from the initial idea through deciding how to publish. Second Sight includes a talk on picture books as part of its cheerful hodgepodge of collected essays. Both of them can help you with your writing and offer insights into the publishing business, but if you're working on a novel, The Magic Words is probably the way to go. This book has not been endorsed or approved by J. K. Rowling or any of her publishers or representatives, and all thoughts expressed here on all matters, including the Harry Potter series, are solely Cheryl B. Klein's own, and should not be taken as the official opinions, intentions, or interpretations of any of the writers or publishers mentioned.]]> 320 Cheryl B. Klein 0615420826 Hannah 4 Second Sight is an instructive collection of blog posts and speeches given by editor Cheryl Klein at writer's conferences. The book offers helpful examples and contains several writing exercises. What sets this book apart from other writing guides is Klein's experience working as a continuity editor on the American editions of the sixth and seventh Harry Potter books; she often discusses J.K. Rowling's narrative style and examines the HP books in order to teach successful storytelling. ]]> 4.50 2011 Second Sight: An Editor's Talks on Writing, Revising, and Publishing Books for Children and Young Adults
author: Cheryl B. Klein
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.50
book published: 2011
rating: 4
read at: 2016/08/11
date added: 2020/12/31
shelves: writing-guides, non-fiction, adult
review:
Second Sight is an instructive collection of blog posts and speeches given by editor Cheryl Klein at writer's conferences. The book offers helpful examples and contains several writing exercises. What sets this book apart from other writing guides is Klein's experience working as a continuity editor on the American editions of the sixth and seventh Harry Potter books; she often discusses J.K. Rowling's narrative style and examines the HP books in order to teach successful storytelling.
]]> <![CDATA[Wonderbook: The Illustrated Guide to Creating Imaginative Fiction]]> 15842650
Praise for

“Jammed with storytelling wisdom.� � Fast Company ’s Co.Create blog

“This is the kind of book you leave sitting out for all to see . . . and the kind of book you will find yourself picking up again and again.� � Kirkus Reviews online

“If you’re looking for a handy guide to not just crafting imaginative fiction like sci-fi, fantasy, and horror, but to writing in general, be sure to pick up a copy of Steampunk Bible author Jeff Vandermeer’s lovingly compiled Wonderbook ." —Flavorwire

“Jeff Vandermeer and Jeremy Zerfoss have created a kaleidoscopically rich and beautiful book about fiction writing.� � Star Tribune

“Because it is so layered and filled with text, tips, and links to online extras, this book can be read again and again by both those who want to learn the craft of writing and those interested in the process of others.� � Library Journal]]> 332 Jeff VanderMeer 1419704427 Hannah 4 Wonderbook is an unexpected treasure trove of reading recommendations. ]]> 4.33 2013 Wonderbook: The Illustrated Guide to Creating Imaginative Fiction
author: Jeff VanderMeer
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.33
book published: 2013
rating: 4
read at: 2016/08/05
date added: 2020/12/31
shelves: writing-guides, non-fiction, adult
review:
An eclectic array of artwork to inspire creativity, unusual writing prompts, advice from myriad successful authors, and the usual info typically found in writing guides. As an added bonus, Wonderbook is an unexpected treasure trove of reading recommendations.
]]> <![CDATA[Revision & Self-Editing: Techniques for Transforming Your First Draft Into a Finished Novel]]> 2319168 Spot and Fix Manuscript Missteps

Don't let the revision process intimidate you any longer. Discover how to successfully transform your first draft into a polished final draft readers won't be able to forget.

In Write Great Fiction: Revision & Self-Editing, James Scott Bell draws on his experience as a novelist and instructor to provide specific revision tips geared toward the first read-through, as well as targeted self-editing instruction focusing on the individual elements of a novel like plot, structure, characters, theme, voice, style, setting, and endings. You'll learn how to:

•Write a cleaner first draft right out of the gate using Bell's plotting principles
•Get the most out of revision and self-editing techniques by honing your skills with detailed exercises
•Systematically revise a completed draft using the ultimate revision checklist that talks you through the core story elements


Whether you're in the process of writing a novel, have a finished draft you don't know what to do with, or have a rejected manuscript you don't know how to fix, Revision & Self-Editing gives you the guidance you need to write and revise like a pro.]]> 266 James Scott Bell 1582975086 Hannah 4 4.18 2008 Revision & Self-Editing: Techniques for Transforming Your First Draft Into a Finished Novel
author: James Scott Bell
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.18
book published: 2008
rating: 4
read at: 2016/05/20
date added: 2020/12/31
shelves: writing-guides, non-fiction, adult
review:

]]> <![CDATA[The Writer's Guide to Crafting Stories for Children]]> 417097
Nancy's instruction covers everything from format and content to setting and characterization. She also draws from a range of children's classics, including "Where the Wild Things Are," "Charlotte's Web" and "Bridge to Tarabithia" to explore and illuminate the unique nature of children's literature.

Nancy also shares writing tips and tricks accumulated through years of successful storytelling–invaluable advice for crafting fiction that resonates with children of all ages, from 4 to 14 and beyond.]]> 240 Nancy Lamb 1582970521 Hannah 3 4.15 2001 The Writer's Guide to Crafting Stories for Children
author: Nancy Lamb
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.15
book published: 2001
rating: 3
read at: 2016/05/11
date added: 2020/12/31
shelves: writing-guides, non-fiction, adult
review:

]]> <![CDATA[How to Write Dazzling Dialogue: The Fastest Way to Improve Any Manuscript (Bell on Writing)]]> 22384327 There is one sure-fire way of improving your novel fast. . . You may know the fundamentals of how to write fiction. You may be more than competent in plot, structure and characters. But if your dialogue is dull it will drag the whole story down. On the other hand, if your dialogue is crisp and full of tension it immediately grabs the reader. And if that reader is an agent or editor, sharp dialogue will give them instant assurance that you know what you're doing as a writer. Writing a bestseller or hot screenplay is no easy task, but dazzling dialogue is an absolute essential if you want to get there. The best part is, the skills of the dialogue craft are easy to understand and put into practice. #1 bestselling writing coach James Scott Bell has put together and expanded upon the dialogue lectures from his popular writing seminars. In How to Write Dazzling Dialogue you'll What fictional dialogue is ... and isn't The 11 secrets of crafting memorable dialogue The 5 essential tasks of dialogue 5 ways to improve your dialogue ear 4 can't-miss methods to increase conflict and tension in any dialogue exchange The top 10 dialogue issues, and how to resolve them You'll also see dazzling dialogue in action with examples from hit novels and screenplays. Don't sabotage your chances of selling your work to readers or publishers because the dialogue is unexceptional. Dazzle them with what the characters say. How to Write Dazzling Dialogue will give you the tools to do it.]]> 138 James Scott Bell Hannah 3 4.18 2014 How to Write Dazzling Dialogue: The Fastest Way to Improve Any Manuscript (Bell on Writing)
author: James Scott Bell
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.18
book published: 2014
rating: 3
read at: 2016/04/13
date added: 2020/12/31
shelves: writing-guides, non-fiction, adult
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Writing Irresistible KidLit: The Ultimate Guide to Crafting Fiction for Young Adult and Middle Grade Readers]]> 13665361
Recognize the differences between middle grade and young adult audiences and how it impacts your writing.
Tailor your manuscript's tone, length, and content to your readership.
Avoid common mistakes and cliches that are prevalent in YA and MG fiction, in respect to characters, story ideas, plot structure and more.
Develop themes and ideas in your novel that will strike emotional chords.
Mary Kole's candid commentary and insightful observations, as well as a collection of book excerpts and personal insights from bestselling authors and editors who specialize in the children's book market, are invaluable tools for your kidlit career.

If you want the skills, techniques, and know-how you need to craft memorable stories for teens and tweens, Writing Irresistible Kidlit can give them to you.]]> 240 Mary Kole 1599635763 Hannah 5 4.46 2012 Writing Irresistible KidLit: The Ultimate Guide to Crafting Fiction for Young Adult and Middle Grade Readers
author: Mary Kole
name: Hannah
average rating: 4.46
book published: 2012
rating: 5
read at: 2016/03/25
date added: 2020/12/31
shelves: writing-guides, non-fiction, adult
review:

]]> <![CDATA[Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear]]> 24453082 Big Magic cracks open a world of wonder and joy.]]> 276 Elizabeth Gilbert 1594634718 Hannah 5 From Beginning to Bookend.

]]> 3.95 2015 Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear
author: Elizabeth Gilbert
name: Hannah
average rating: 3.95
book published: 2015
rating: 5
read at: 2016/03/01
date added: 2020/12/31
shelves: writing-guides, non-fiction, adult
review:
to watch a video featuring this book on my channel, From Beginning to Bookend.


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