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Wrede on Writing: Tips, Hints, and Opinions on Writing
How do I turn an idea into a novel? How do I build a character? How do I decide how to tell a story?
Patricia C. Wrede has been a stalwart of the sci-fi/fantasy world for decades, publishing dozens of books across multiple series, storming bestseller lists and corralling accolades from critics and fans alike. Now, with brilliant insight and a sparkling wit, Wrede shows beginning writers the ropes in WREDE ON WRITING.
How do I find the time to write? How do I decide when a book is finished? How do I get my book published?
Wrede tackles all issues for writers, from the basic how-to’s to the more advanced topics on character development and worldbuilding. In her conversational tone, she gives writers the tips and tricks her experience has brought. After WREDE ON WRITING, authors will have the knowledge to put their tools to better use. Thinking of starting a book? Trying to finish one? WREDE ON WRITING will guide you towards that superior draft to send to agents, to publishers, and to readers.
How do I calculate royalties? How do I plan my finances as an author? How do I write as a career?
Before she became a successful full-time writer, Patricia C. Wrede worked in finance, and she also provides for authors an extensive look at how to manage the money—from royalties to determining the financial potential of your next project, Wrede provides authors with deep insight into the business of writing.
A brilliant guide from a literary stalwart, WREDE ON WRITING is the book everyone with a novel under their beds or inside their heads should read.
Patricia C. Wrede has been a stalwart of the sci-fi/fantasy world for decades, publishing dozens of books across multiple series, storming bestseller lists and corralling accolades from critics and fans alike. Now, with brilliant insight and a sparkling wit, Wrede shows beginning writers the ropes in WREDE ON WRITING.
How do I find the time to write? How do I decide when a book is finished? How do I get my book published?
Wrede tackles all issues for writers, from the basic how-to’s to the more advanced topics on character development and worldbuilding. In her conversational tone, she gives writers the tips and tricks her experience has brought. After WREDE ON WRITING, authors will have the knowledge to put their tools to better use. Thinking of starting a book? Trying to finish one? WREDE ON WRITING will guide you towards that superior draft to send to agents, to publishers, and to readers.
How do I calculate royalties? How do I plan my finances as an author? How do I write as a career?
Before she became a successful full-time writer, Patricia C. Wrede worked in finance, and she also provides for authors an extensive look at how to manage the money—from royalties to determining the financial potential of your next project, Wrede provides authors with deep insight into the business of writing.
A brilliant guide from a literary stalwart, WREDE ON WRITING is the book everyone with a novel under their beds or inside their heads should read.
244 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2013
50 people are currently reading
1,331 people want to read
About the author
Patricia C. Wrede
63Ìýbooks3,956ÌýfollowersPatricia Collins Wrede was born in Chicago, Illinois and is the eldest of five children. She started writing in seventh grade. She attended Carleton College in Minnesota, where she majored in Biology and managed to avoid taking any English courses at all. She began work on her first novel, Shadow Magic, just after graduating from college in 1974. She finished it five years later and started her second book at once, having become permanently hooked on writing by this time.
Patricia received her M.B.A. from the University of Minnesota in 1977.
She worked for several years as a financial analyst and accountant, first with the Minnesota Hospital Association, then with B. Dalton Booksellers, and finally at the Dayton Hudson Corporation headquarters.
Patricia finished her first novel in late 1978. In January, 1980, Pamela Dean, Emma Bull, Will Shetterly, Steven Brust, Nate Bucklin, and Patricia Wrede -- all, at that point, hopeful but unpublished -- formed the writer's group that later became known as "The Scribblies." Several years later, they were joined by Kara Dalkey. In April of 1980, Patricia's first novel sold to Ace Books. It came out at last in 1982, which is the year she met Lillian Stewart Carl (who introduced her to Lois McMaster Bujold by mail).
In 1985, shortly before the publication of her fifth book, she left the world of the gainfully employed to try winging it on her own.
Her interests include sewing, embroidery, desultory attempts at gardening, chocolate, not mowing the lawn, High Tea, and, of course, reading.
She is a vegetarian, and currently lives in Minneapolis, Minnesota with her cat Karma. She has no children.
Patricia received her M.B.A. from the University of Minnesota in 1977.
She worked for several years as a financial analyst and accountant, first with the Minnesota Hospital Association, then with B. Dalton Booksellers, and finally at the Dayton Hudson Corporation headquarters.
Patricia finished her first novel in late 1978. In January, 1980, Pamela Dean, Emma Bull, Will Shetterly, Steven Brust, Nate Bucklin, and Patricia Wrede -- all, at that point, hopeful but unpublished -- formed the writer's group that later became known as "The Scribblies." Several years later, they were joined by Kara Dalkey. In April of 1980, Patricia's first novel sold to Ace Books. It came out at last in 1982, which is the year she met Lillian Stewart Carl (who introduced her to Lois McMaster Bujold by mail).
In 1985, shortly before the publication of her fifth book, she left the world of the gainfully employed to try winging it on her own.
Her interests include sewing, embroidery, desultory attempts at gardening, chocolate, not mowing the lawn, High Tea, and, of course, reading.
She is a vegetarian, and currently lives in Minneapolis, Minnesota with her cat Karma. She has no children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
December 5, 2013
Wrede on Writing is a book on writing by Patricia C. Wrede.
This was a Netgalley find.
Normally, I look upon books about writing by writers I've never heard of in the same light as telephone psychics offering me the winning lottery numbers. If the writer in question is so good, why aren't they too busy cranking out best sellers to write a book about writing? From the opening page, Wrede had me hooked.
Maybe it was the relaxed tone. Maybe it was her clear grasp of what it takes to go into a novel. Or maybe it was the book's underlying philosophy of "There is no One Way. Figure out what works for you and do that."
Unlike a lot of other writing books, at no point did I feel like the writer was trying to force me into using his or her writing methods. It reads like a beloved aunt is guiding me through the novel writing process but giving me enough space to do what I want.
Not only does Wrede reveal what has and hasn't worked for her over the years, she also relates anecdotes from other writers. She also shares examples from her own writing and that of other authors to illustrate her points.
Wrede covers a pretty wide range of topics, like viewpoints, pace, worldbuilding, outlining, even verb tenses. She even goes into the business end of things, even cryptic things like queries and agents, all the while reminding the reader that not all writers are the same and not all advice is going to work for every writer.
I guess the bottom line is get a good grasp of the English (or whichever) language, figure out what works for you, and do that. It should be obvious advice but it was really refreshing in a writing book.
Unless this book takes a nosedive in the little bit I have left, four out of five stars.
This was a Netgalley find.
Normally, I look upon books about writing by writers I've never heard of in the same light as telephone psychics offering me the winning lottery numbers. If the writer in question is so good, why aren't they too busy cranking out best sellers to write a book about writing? From the opening page, Wrede had me hooked.
Maybe it was the relaxed tone. Maybe it was her clear grasp of what it takes to go into a novel. Or maybe it was the book's underlying philosophy of "There is no One Way. Figure out what works for you and do that."
Unlike a lot of other writing books, at no point did I feel like the writer was trying to force me into using his or her writing methods. It reads like a beloved aunt is guiding me through the novel writing process but giving me enough space to do what I want.
Not only does Wrede reveal what has and hasn't worked for her over the years, she also relates anecdotes from other writers. She also shares examples from her own writing and that of other authors to illustrate her points.
Wrede covers a pretty wide range of topics, like viewpoints, pace, worldbuilding, outlining, even verb tenses. She even goes into the business end of things, even cryptic things like queries and agents, all the while reminding the reader that not all writers are the same and not all advice is going to work for every writer.
I guess the bottom line is get a good grasp of the English (or whichever) language, figure out what works for you, and do that. It should be obvious advice but it was really refreshing in a writing book.
Unless this book takes a nosedive in the little bit I have left, four out of five stars.
December 5, 2013
Wrede on Writing: Tips, Hints, and Opinions on Writing .Patricia C. Wrede
Review from Jeannie Zelos Book Reviews.
Like many many people I've always had a desire to write � many years ago I even started one of those online writing classes...but to be honest even I was bored reading what I’d written, so the rejection slips were no surprise. Looking back though I can see one huge mistake � I’d followed the course instructions to write short stories and articles, but I never read those, I love to read but novellas and short stories don't work for me, so how on earth did I think I could write them? Well, I’ve never got any further but seeing this book for review brought back that desire and I hoped I could learn from it. Like most would be writers I’ve no idea where to start, and so never actually get further than a few vague plots or snippets of what a want to write.
Anyway I've not read this cover to cover, but browsed through looking for what I need. And its full of such useful and encouraging information about where to start � not a 1-10 steps, but a series of ideas and the advice there isn't a blue print but try this, or this, or this :) Then having thought about where to start its got so much useful information on the actuality � the character building, creating worlds both real and fantasy, plotting and pitfalls. It's just so easy to read and understand. I felt as if Patricia was at my shoulder giving advice.
Then having written your best-seller (!!) she advises about such necessary � especially in today’s market, things to do like contacting agents and publishers, marketing, the finance side � and unless you're writing just to write and not to make money that’s essential. Looking back to my own experiences I can see so well where I went wrong, the acid test is will I manage to do it better this time round? Well, armed with this book I feel much more confident, just need to squeeze a few more hours in the day :) .... Where before I felt as if I was floundering in the dark, now I feel that I’ve some solid references for when I get stuck. Not to spoon feed me an answer, but to show me where to look next, how to research, what to add and really, really important � what to leave out. As a reader/reviewer I’ve read too many books that contain whole chapters that when I get to the end I think � what happened to/why was that mentioned/how did x get out of that?� you know � the stuff that’s in the book but doesn't add to the plot, the characters, the background, and is just filler and fluff taking up pages and reading time and is wasted effort for both reader and writer really. Somewhere in the beginning Patricia quotes advice given to her � and it's really apt to what I’ve read too many times. Three things a scene can do �1) advance the plot 2) explain the back story 3) deepen the characterisation. � If it doesn’t do any of those it isn't needed.
A skim through the index gives an idea of just how comprehensive this book is, it really does have a chapter about almost everything writers need to know, I reckon its should be the Writing Bible of all would be authors. At £3.14 for 263 pages its a bargain. No fluff, no unnecessary fillers just good solid advice and research tools.
Stars: five
ARC supplied via Netgalley
Review from Jeannie Zelos Book Reviews.
Like many many people I've always had a desire to write � many years ago I even started one of those online writing classes...but to be honest even I was bored reading what I’d written, so the rejection slips were no surprise. Looking back though I can see one huge mistake � I’d followed the course instructions to write short stories and articles, but I never read those, I love to read but novellas and short stories don't work for me, so how on earth did I think I could write them? Well, I’ve never got any further but seeing this book for review brought back that desire and I hoped I could learn from it. Like most would be writers I’ve no idea where to start, and so never actually get further than a few vague plots or snippets of what a want to write.
Anyway I've not read this cover to cover, but browsed through looking for what I need. And its full of such useful and encouraging information about where to start � not a 1-10 steps, but a series of ideas and the advice there isn't a blue print but try this, or this, or this :) Then having thought about where to start its got so much useful information on the actuality � the character building, creating worlds both real and fantasy, plotting and pitfalls. It's just so easy to read and understand. I felt as if Patricia was at my shoulder giving advice.
Then having written your best-seller (!!) she advises about such necessary � especially in today’s market, things to do like contacting agents and publishers, marketing, the finance side � and unless you're writing just to write and not to make money that’s essential. Looking back to my own experiences I can see so well where I went wrong, the acid test is will I manage to do it better this time round? Well, armed with this book I feel much more confident, just need to squeeze a few more hours in the day :) .... Where before I felt as if I was floundering in the dark, now I feel that I’ve some solid references for when I get stuck. Not to spoon feed me an answer, but to show me where to look next, how to research, what to add and really, really important � what to leave out. As a reader/reviewer I’ve read too many books that contain whole chapters that when I get to the end I think � what happened to/why was that mentioned/how did x get out of that?� you know � the stuff that’s in the book but doesn't add to the plot, the characters, the background, and is just filler and fluff taking up pages and reading time and is wasted effort for both reader and writer really. Somewhere in the beginning Patricia quotes advice given to her � and it's really apt to what I’ve read too many times. Three things a scene can do �1) advance the plot 2) explain the back story 3) deepen the characterisation. � If it doesn’t do any of those it isn't needed.
A skim through the index gives an idea of just how comprehensive this book is, it really does have a chapter about almost everything writers need to know, I reckon its should be the Writing Bible of all would be authors. At £3.14 for 263 pages its a bargain. No fluff, no unnecessary fillers just good solid advice and research tools.
Stars: five
ARC supplied via Netgalley
April 13, 2020
Super easy to read and packed with a lot of condensed yet very useful advice that definitely never would have been on my radar otherwise. Wrede is really direct and clear with her thoughts and I honestly loved how blunt she was at times. I liked that she made a lot of lists and I highlighted almost half of it.
The business side of things was definitely a huge wake up call that was super intimidating to read but it actually validated me that I'm in it for the right reasons to want to potentially take a crack at novel writing just for the fun of it without getting my heart set on actually getting published or making a living off it. Because holy cow if I was, I'd have a lot of new skills to learn besides just writing.
The brief chapter on Day Jobs actually did that for me tenfold too because I was actually relieved to hear that having a day job doesn't mean you'd have more time to write otherwise than if you did it full time. It's really more about having the discipline to find time to do it anyways. I really don't even know that I want to be published honestly and if I did, I definitely wouldn't want it to be that successful. So it seems like that's probably the right attitude since I really just want to do it to see what it's like, if I end up even doing it at all.
Thanks for rec, Hayley!
The business side of things was definitely a huge wake up call that was super intimidating to read but it actually validated me that I'm in it for the right reasons to want to potentially take a crack at novel writing just for the fun of it without getting my heart set on actually getting published or making a living off it. Because holy cow if I was, I'd have a lot of new skills to learn besides just writing.
The brief chapter on Day Jobs actually did that for me tenfold too because I was actually relieved to hear that having a day job doesn't mean you'd have more time to write otherwise than if you did it full time. It's really more about having the discipline to find time to do it anyways. I really don't even know that I want to be published honestly and if I did, I definitely wouldn't want it to be that successful. So it seems like that's probably the right attitude since I really just want to do it to see what it's like, if I end up even doing it at all.
Thanks for rec, Hayley!
May 27, 2020
Refreshing and interesting. Not as many annoying 'rules' as other writing books. good sections on the business of writing worth reading.
July 14, 2022
Very good collection of advice for beginning writers. Holds some good reminders even from experienced authors to draw from. Sometimes it's good to be reminded of the roots of the craft.
December 6, 2013
Invaluable resource on writing from Patricia C. Wrede. She approaches writing in a very practical, reflective progression that I'll admit inspired me as I read through the narrative. She doesn't give you exercises to do (not being a fan of the method personally), but rather she gives short talking points per section on things that are pertinent to the writing life. It flows very well, is easy to understand and follow while being encouraging to the writer perusing the work.
The book is organized into three sections: "Getting Started", "Not So Basics", and "The Business Side".
I think this is the kind of writing guide that could be perused either by the novice or the veteran writer. Some sections, like the "Getting Started" part, will be more useful to the former, but there are aspects that writers of any level of expertise can take when working on their projects. I will certainly frequent this as a guide in my own writing pursuits.
Overall score: 5/5 stars
Note: I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, from the publisher Diversion Books.
The book is organized into three sections: "Getting Started", "Not So Basics", and "The Business Side".
I think this is the kind of writing guide that could be perused either by the novice or the veteran writer. Some sections, like the "Getting Started" part, will be more useful to the former, but there are aspects that writers of any level of expertise can take when working on their projects. I will certainly frequent this as a guide in my own writing pursuits.
Overall score: 5/5 stars
Note: I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, from the publisher Diversion Books.
February 10, 2014
Patricia C. Wrede on all sorts of writing topics.
What the presence of a codfish dinner far inland means for your world-building. How the big issue with not caring about your grammar is not that it will mean automatic rejection (though it will), but that you have thrown away the chance to use run-ons or sentence fragments in a handful of places where they will have dramatic impact, because you are scattering them everywhere. How the grammar that you learned in school was good as far as it went, but it's the equivalent of learning to build blocky things in Legos; to be a writer, you want to go on and figure out how to put together words and sentences and paragraphs and scenes more artfully than that. (You even want to consider the letters, which bring in the sound, though you have less flexibility there, since you can't choose the spelling of a word.) The overemphasis on hooks and the importance of their being accurate. Business plans for writers.
And much more
What the presence of a codfish dinner far inland means for your world-building. How the big issue with not caring about your grammar is not that it will mean automatic rejection (though it will), but that you have thrown away the chance to use run-ons or sentence fragments in a handful of places where they will have dramatic impact, because you are scattering them everywhere. How the grammar that you learned in school was good as far as it went, but it's the equivalent of learning to build blocky things in Legos; to be a writer, you want to go on and figure out how to put together words and sentences and paragraphs and scenes more artfully than that. (You even want to consider the letters, which bring in the sound, though you have less flexibility there, since you can't choose the spelling of a word.) The overemphasis on hooks and the importance of their being accurate. Business plans for writers.
And much more
August 4, 2023
I reviewed the paperback edition on Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ
here
.
March 9, 2025
I like reading and listening to writers talk about their process. I don't have any immediate plans to write a book, but I might want to one day, and so I enjoy getting writing advice as well. Wrede gives advice in a straight-forward, down-to-earth way that is easy to read. She often stresses that writers should gather various advice and find what works for them, there is no single way to write. She also gives good, practical advice about the business side of writing.
July 31, 2020
Stephen King’s On Writing has always been my favorite, but this one ties with the King classic. Most books on writing are about inspiration and contacting THE MUSE. That’s all good- but sometimes you need someone not wearing any rosy shades to tell you what you’re signing up for...
Short chapters, lots of humor. Encouraging and practical advice.
Short chapters, lots of humor. Encouraging and practical advice.
Shelved as 'did-not-finish'
February 23, 2022It's not you, it's hoopla and my inability to track any sort of progress.
Maybe I'll come back and read this when I can get my hands on a physical copy. This was just beyond frustrating to try and read.
Maybe I'll come back and read this when I can get my hands on a physical copy. This was just beyond frustrating to try and read.
June 19, 2020
A very good guide for any writer. I strongly recommend this.
November 18, 2022
I did not read the final section completely, because it deals with the business side of book publishing, and I am not there yet.
April 7, 2024
the best book on writing that I have ever read
December 12, 2013
Patricia C. Wrede - Wrede on Writing - Tips, Hints, and Opinions on Writing
Anyone who has read Wrede’s books knows she can write. (See the bibliography of her novels at the end of this article, and it does not include her many short stories.) She does it all � beautiful prose, exciting plots, humorous touches, characters with depth and feelings. And those are all good things; but can she write about writing? The answer is a resounding “YES!�
I’ve been following her blog for a while now and have seen some of these articles in an earlier version. The ones I recognized had some minor re-writing and the articles have been placed in a logical progression for the new writer: leading from the obvious ‘Getting Started� through writing techniques and on into the business of being a writer. She gives good, sturdy, nuts-and-bolts kind of advice.
I loved her honesty.
“In my experience, most people don’t actually want to write a book; what they want is to have written a book (preferably without spending much in the way of time or effort). Even the ones who really do want to write a book are probably underestimating just how long it’s going to take and how sick of it they’re going to get before they finish.� - So You Want to Write a Book segment
She provides sound guidance about things that the writer may never have considered, and follows up with clear examples:
“Writing a short story is not the same as writing a novel. Oh, you need similar skills—knowing how to write dialogue, for instance—but there are fundamental differences that blindside an awful lot of writers who think that because they’ve learned how to write one, writing the other will just be more of the same.� - Cinderella at the Rock Concert segment
She approaches the business of writing as a beginning, not a happily ever after ending. Undoubtedly this is partly because of her background � she has her MBA and was a financial analyst and accountant at one time � and probably from watching the train wrecks of some other authors� careers due to their lack of understanding of the business.
“Unfortunately, for most writers, on-the-job training is all they ever get when it comes to the business end of things. (Quite a few don’t even want that much, and reality tends to be a nasty shock for them, because if you are writing and selling your stories, or hope to do so, you’re running a business whether you like it or not.)� - The Business of Writing segment
New writers? This is a great book to start you on your way and help you keep on track. Not-so-new writers? This is a great book to keep as a reference for those knotty problems we all face from time-to-time. Either way the book is a keeper�
The "Lyra" Series:
� SHADOW MAGIC
� DAUGHTER OF WITCHES
� THE HARP OF IMACH THYSSEL
� CAUGHT IN CRYSTAL
� THE RAVEN RING
The Chronicles of the Enchanted Forest:
� DEALING WITH DRAGONS,
� SEARCHING FOR DRAGONS
� CALLING ON DRAGONS
� TALKING TO DRAGONS
Regency Fantasy
The Kate and Cecy books:
� SORCERY AND CECELIA
� THE GRAND TOUR
� THE MISLAID MAGICIAN
The Mairelon books:
� MAIRELON THE MAGICIAN
� MAGICIAN'S WARD
Frontier Magic:
� THIRTEENTH CHILD
� ACROSS THE GREAT BARRIER
� THE FAR WEST
Standalones:
� THE SEVEN TOWERS
� SNOW WHITE AND ROSE RED
Copy received from Netgalley and publisher for an honest review.
Anyone who has read Wrede’s books knows she can write. (See the bibliography of her novels at the end of this article, and it does not include her many short stories.) She does it all � beautiful prose, exciting plots, humorous touches, characters with depth and feelings. And those are all good things; but can she write about writing? The answer is a resounding “YES!�
I’ve been following her blog for a while now and have seen some of these articles in an earlier version. The ones I recognized had some minor re-writing and the articles have been placed in a logical progression for the new writer: leading from the obvious ‘Getting Started� through writing techniques and on into the business of being a writer. She gives good, sturdy, nuts-and-bolts kind of advice.
I loved her honesty.
“In my experience, most people don’t actually want to write a book; what they want is to have written a book (preferably without spending much in the way of time or effort). Even the ones who really do want to write a book are probably underestimating just how long it’s going to take and how sick of it they’re going to get before they finish.� - So You Want to Write a Book segment
She provides sound guidance about things that the writer may never have considered, and follows up with clear examples:
“Writing a short story is not the same as writing a novel. Oh, you need similar skills—knowing how to write dialogue, for instance—but there are fundamental differences that blindside an awful lot of writers who think that because they’ve learned how to write one, writing the other will just be more of the same.� - Cinderella at the Rock Concert segment
She approaches the business of writing as a beginning, not a happily ever after ending. Undoubtedly this is partly because of her background � she has her MBA and was a financial analyst and accountant at one time � and probably from watching the train wrecks of some other authors� careers due to their lack of understanding of the business.
“Unfortunately, for most writers, on-the-job training is all they ever get when it comes to the business end of things. (Quite a few don’t even want that much, and reality tends to be a nasty shock for them, because if you are writing and selling your stories, or hope to do so, you’re running a business whether you like it or not.)� - The Business of Writing segment
New writers? This is a great book to start you on your way and help you keep on track. Not-so-new writers? This is a great book to keep as a reference for those knotty problems we all face from time-to-time. Either way the book is a keeper�
The "Lyra" Series:
� SHADOW MAGIC
� DAUGHTER OF WITCHES
� THE HARP OF IMACH THYSSEL
� CAUGHT IN CRYSTAL
� THE RAVEN RING
The Chronicles of the Enchanted Forest:
� DEALING WITH DRAGONS,
� SEARCHING FOR DRAGONS
� CALLING ON DRAGONS
� TALKING TO DRAGONS
Regency Fantasy
The Kate and Cecy books:
� SORCERY AND CECELIA
� THE GRAND TOUR
� THE MISLAID MAGICIAN
The Mairelon books:
� MAIRELON THE MAGICIAN
� MAGICIAN'S WARD
Frontier Magic:
� THIRTEENTH CHILD
� ACROSS THE GREAT BARRIER
� THE FAR WEST
Standalones:
� THE SEVEN TOWERS
� SNOW WHITE AND ROSE RED
Copy received from Netgalley and publisher for an honest review.
August 13, 2014
I received the book for free through Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ First Reads.
I was a little worried about after reading the first sentence: "What writers need to know before they start writing:" with a list of items and parenthetical questions. It just seemed like a formulaic approach to writing with the idea of a template for every story. But actually provides the gamut of writing elements that go into crafting a good story in short, digestible topics. The book is a wealth of helpful tips and useful guidance on the writing process and addressing common writers' problems.
Wrede takes a very matter-of-fact approach in the book and uses many (and I mean [i]many[/i]) little sections ranging from the "Where Do You Get Your Ideas" to "Information and How to Dump It" to "Deadlines." At first it seemed choppy with super short tips, but gradually I got used to her style and enjoyed the quick treatment of each element. By the end I thought it was a great treatment of the topic, providing just enough detail on the topics with a real world viewpoint. Little things, like creating an entire story out of a grocery shopping list, highlight Wrede's ability to approach writing as both a functional process and a creative endeavor.
I think this would be a great book for any aspiring or current writer to assist with the overall process or specific problems. Wrede doesn't approach writing with a professorial intent, but rather like a friendly colleague giving both useful advice and homey wisdom.
I was a little worried about after reading the first sentence: "What writers need to know before they start writing:" with a list of items and parenthetical questions. It just seemed like a formulaic approach to writing with the idea of a template for every story. But actually provides the gamut of writing elements that go into crafting a good story in short, digestible topics. The book is a wealth of helpful tips and useful guidance on the writing process and addressing common writers' problems.
Wrede takes a very matter-of-fact approach in the book and uses many (and I mean [i]many[/i]) little sections ranging from the "Where Do You Get Your Ideas" to "Information and How to Dump It" to "Deadlines." At first it seemed choppy with super short tips, but gradually I got used to her style and enjoyed the quick treatment of each element. By the end I thought it was a great treatment of the topic, providing just enough detail on the topics with a real world viewpoint. Little things, like creating an entire story out of a grocery shopping list, highlight Wrede's ability to approach writing as both a functional process and a creative endeavor.
I think this would be a great book for any aspiring or current writer to assist with the overall process or specific problems. Wrede doesn't approach writing with a professorial intent, but rather like a friendly colleague giving both useful advice and homey wisdom.
January 24, 2014
Review originally published at .
Patricia Wrede's new book on writing offers practical, commonsense advice for fiction writers, all of it with the underlying mantra, "there is no One True Way." There are very few hard-and-fast rules here, but lots of sage advice, plenty of humor and delightful examples, a few friendly warnings, and several dollops of reassurance -- much of it taken from her blog.
Wrede tackles the nuts and bolts of writing fiction, from the need for good grammar, accurate spelling, and a paucity of typos in work you submit, to the usual suspects of plot, characterization, setting, point of view, and even pacing. She talks about the building blocks of sounds, words, sentences, and paragraphs; discusses structure, worldbuilding, transitions, flashbacks, and other challenges; talks about getting started, finding (or learning to find) ideas, and writer's block; and suggests ways to build your writing skills. There's also an extensive section on the business side of writing, something too many writing guides neglect. From query letters and submissions to finding an agent to managing your backlist and your long-term career and even working in collaboration, Wrede lets you know what you should be aware of.
While not a substitute for specialized books on (for instance) the basic rules of English or specific suggestions for SF or fantasy worldbuilding, Wrede on Writing is one of the best general books on writing I've come across. It should be on every aspiring writer's shelves.
FTC disclosure: I received a review copy from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.
Patricia Wrede's new book on writing offers practical, commonsense advice for fiction writers, all of it with the underlying mantra, "there is no One True Way." There are very few hard-and-fast rules here, but lots of sage advice, plenty of humor and delightful examples, a few friendly warnings, and several dollops of reassurance -- much of it taken from her blog.
Wrede tackles the nuts and bolts of writing fiction, from the need for good grammar, accurate spelling, and a paucity of typos in work you submit, to the usual suspects of plot, characterization, setting, point of view, and even pacing. She talks about the building blocks of sounds, words, sentences, and paragraphs; discusses structure, worldbuilding, transitions, flashbacks, and other challenges; talks about getting started, finding (or learning to find) ideas, and writer's block; and suggests ways to build your writing skills. There's also an extensive section on the business side of writing, something too many writing guides neglect. From query letters and submissions to finding an agent to managing your backlist and your long-term career and even working in collaboration, Wrede lets you know what you should be aware of.
While not a substitute for specialized books on (for instance) the basic rules of English or specific suggestions for SF or fantasy worldbuilding, Wrede on Writing is one of the best general books on writing I've come across. It should be on every aspiring writer's shelves.
FTC disclosure: I received a review copy from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.
January 1, 2014
As a teacher of writing, I can't help from reading the occasional book about the craft. Patricia C. Wrede wastes no time in getting right to the point with this book of tips and hints about getting published. She gives specific information about how long it realistically takes to have a manuscript published (roughly 1-3 years), what to look for in an agent (common ground and ethics), how to approach deadlines, how to make and manage a living as an author, among many other tips. There were some instances where her chapters were a little redundant, however the advice she imparts to hopeful writers feels very feasible. In the end, beyond all of her personal examples and encouragement, she gives the best advice that any writer should hear: "just write."
July 2, 2014
Wrede provides a realistic look at book writing. She talks about what it takes and how much work it is. If you like her novels, you will like the humor and conversational tone of this book. It offers a good place for the beginner and even the more advanced writer to get some great tips about the publishing industry. The one area she doesn't speak at length about is self-publishing. While she mentions it, she doesn't go into detail. This is probably because she hasn't been through that experience. Overall if you are looking for a guide on traditional publishing this is an easy and enjoyable read with some insightful tips that will either scare you off writing (for it isn't for the faint of heart) or it will prepare you for the path you are considering.
December 25, 2016
I love Wrede's novels and her short stories (and I'm normally not a huge fan of short stories). Her book on writing is fun and easy to read. She gives good advice on a range of topics. Is it the only writing book you'll ever need? No. And it's certainly not a step by step how-to. But she takes the (often conflicting) writing advice of other books and puts it into perspective so you know what kinds of options you should consider, but not to feel guilty about not taking advice that doesn't work for you. It's both a good starting point for beginners to know what they're getting themselves into, and a fun read for writers who've been at it awhile and want another writer's valued opinion on all this writing stuff and what's really important. All in all a good read.
May 6, 2014
Full review:
Wrede on Writing is an excellent book for authors who are about to go on an adventure towards the world of writing. Wrede’s writing style is easy to follow and to take notes. This books pretty much clears the major aspects on writing. The only negative aspect I found was the lack of questions to actually guide the author. I tend to plot and create better if I am asked questions. Even if Wrede guidelines were clear and easy to follow, some questions for authors to reflect upon their own work would be perfect and worth the five stars.
Wrede on Writing is an excellent book for authors who are about to go on an adventure towards the world of writing. Wrede’s writing style is easy to follow and to take notes. This books pretty much clears the major aspects on writing. The only negative aspect I found was the lack of questions to actually guide the author. I tend to plot and create better if I am asked questions. Even if Wrede guidelines were clear and easy to follow, some questions for authors to reflect upon their own work would be perfect and worth the five stars.
September 7, 2016
Written as though by someone you already know, easy enough to read without feeling like you're being told " Do it this way or you're doing it all wrong!"
Still, it felt like I was reading a well compiled series of blog posts. I'm sure there will be an aspiring author who might get something important from this.
A free copy was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest unbiased review. Read more reviews, author interviews and enter giveaways
Still, it felt like I was reading a well compiled series of blog posts. I'm sure there will be an aspiring author who might get something important from this.
A free copy was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest unbiased review. Read more reviews, author interviews and enter giveaways
January 15, 2014
The book is an excellent resource for writers stepping into writing their first novel or short stories. Other than some basic questions like about getting ideas, the book also talks about more technical issues relating to developing a story and the differences between approach to a short story and a novel.
Shelved as 'on-break'
July 31, 2016This is not the kind of writing books that I like best (those would be the ones that put less emphasis on advice, more on leaving you inspired, like Bradbury’s “Zen in the Art of Writing�) � so I’m putting it down for now, even though all the advice is pretty good and I’m sure I’ll be dipping in and out and read it in full one day.
December 5, 2014
Disclaimer: This ARC was given to me for free in exchange for an honest review from Netgalley.
I really found this book both enlightening and helpful. She recommends what has worked for her, regardless if it goes against traditional advice.
I really found this book both enlightening and helpful. She recommends what has worked for her, regardless if it goes against traditional advice.
February 21, 2016
Clear, straightforward, thorough, and helpful. Wrede knows what she is talking about from her experience as a writer as well as from being a fervent researcher and big time reader. No cutesy bits here.
August 11, 2016
love and love her blog, so i really liked her book of writing advice as well!
January 27, 2015
Good, but more for writing *just* beginning on their journey. Did seem like a lot of copy/paste from her blog and one section in particular where there was no spelling/grammar checking before publication.
August 30, 2015
Brief sections on all sorts of writing/story/character/setting/etc related topics, similar to other writing books I've read.
My favorite part was the last third, on the business side. None of the writing books I've read say anything about this.
My favorite part was the last third, on the business side. None of the writing books I've read say anything about this.
August 10, 2014
To me, this reads like a textbook, which is why it took me so long to finish! But it's light-hearted as well as down to earth, and will make a great reference come time NaNoWriMo time.
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