The Writer's Journey by Christopher E. Vogler - This has been one is a carryove from my film school days, it's been one of my favorites for years. A GREAT look at plotting and the three act structure. It's aimed at the screenplay, but it works just as well for novels. I like to take my finished draft and compare it to the steps in the journey and see if I'm getting the most out of my story. It can also help if you're stuck on a plot point.
The Power Of Point Of View: Make Your Story Come To Life by Alicia Rasley - Lots of great info on POV, the benefits of each kind, staying in the POV you've chosen, and how to choose the best POV for your story.
Story Structure Architect by Victoria Lynn Schmidt - Another cool one with tons of plot/structure ideas. It's fun to flip through when I'm stuck, but also gives a good understanding of how plot structure works if you just read through them.
Writing the Breakout Novel by Donald Maass - A book loaded with info. I mean, literally LOADED, it tackles everything from POV to plot to editing by an agent who knows what he's talking about.
Self-Editing for Fiction Writers: How to Edit Yourself Into Print by Renni Browne, Dave King - I'm actually about to dive into this one this week. I haven't read it yet but I've heard nothing but good things about it.
On Writing by Stephen King - because, well, it's Stephen King.
What are some of your favorite books on writing?
7 comments:
Yay! Thank you so much for posting these!!! I love finding new wonderful writing books! I hear so much about Stephen King's book I'm going to have to pick this up!!
Thanks, Valerie! I love the Breakout books by Donald Maass. I started SK's On Writing many years ago, but didn't get much out of it. I was in a different stage of my writing career, though. I've heard so much about it from others more recently, that I think I'll check it out again. Thanks again! And good luck with your self-editing. =)
I just quoted Stephen King's On Writing this morning!
I have also read The Complete Handbook of Novel Writing, How to Write and Sell Your First Novel, and one other on building a character that I don't see on my shelf at the moment. Of all the books I've read, On Writing is still the best.
I loved On Writing. I've just started The Breakout Novel, I'd heard so much about it. Have to check out these others you've mentioned. Thanks.
Yes! Yes! Yes! I have been wondering what to buy next (I love On Writing) because I've practically worn out my favorites. This rocks! :-)
I finally read Donald Maass's book recently and just loved it. In fact, I think I might have to reread it soon to make sure all its wisdom has sunk in. One writing book that's really stuck with me is Hooked by Les Edgerton - I don't think I'll ever look at beginnings the same way again.
BIRD BY BIRD has helped me through many a first draft.
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