Essential Reading for Writers
Four Great Books on the Writing Process and the Craft of Writing
Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life (Anchor Books, 1994)
by Anne Lamott
Part instruction manual, part self-help book, part autobiography, Lamott's Bird by Bird is a great read. Lamott offers short essays about a topic such as plot, characters, and dialogue, each one offering personal anecdotes and examples. She also talks about some of the overarching realities of the writing life, such as procrastination, jealousy and perfectionism.
While aimed particularly at fiction writers, any writer could benefit from reading this book. Bird by Bird is funny, helpful, and it will make you think.
On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft (Pocket, 2002)
by Stephen King
Stephen King's autobiography, On Writing, is honest, hilarious and full of helpful advice. He talks about his childhood and how he first started writing, and goes on to describe his intial successes – and failures - as an author.
While overall an inspiring read, he never makes it seem like writing is easy. He advises writers to stick to a schedule and to write with the door closed, edit with it open. Even if you're not a fan of his fiction, you'll like this book.
Writing down the Bones: Freeing the Writer Within (Shambhala Publications, 1986)
by Natalie Goldberg
Natalie Goldberg's approach to writing is grounded in her Zen meditation practice. She advises readers to pay attention to detail, to free write and to be spontaneous. Her book urges creativity and expression.
She urges writers to be honest in their working, saying, “our task [as writers] is to say a holy yes to the real things of our life as they exist – the real truth of who we are.”
Organised into short chapters, Writing down the Bones is easy to read in one sitting or to flip open when you need a prompt. Goldberg provides lots of exercises and starting off points, and plenty of inspiration.
The Elements of Style (Allyn & Bacon 4th Ed., 2000)
by Strunk & White
E.B. White, the children's author of Charlotte's Web, and William Strunk Jr teamed together in 1979 to create this grammar classic. Essential for any writer, it provides detailed grammar rules for almost any situation. It also explains the difference between common errors such as “affect and effect” and “among and between.”
The final chapter, “An Approach to Style” tackles common mistakes writers and lays out the principles of good writing. The Elements of Style is a good one to have on the bookshelf. You'll find yourself referring to it again and again.
You can't learn how to write by reading books about writing. But if you need a bit of inspiration, some tips on craft or a grammar pointer, these books can help you out.
