WRITING BOOKS
Sometimes books can change the path your life takes. I thought I'd include all the books I have found inspirational on my path to authordom. These have helped me craft my skill and learn what this publishing malarky is all about. So if you would like to follow me down the road to writing then these books are the best place to start.
The Elements of Style
By William Strunk Jr and E.B.White
You know the authors' names. You recognize the title. You've probably used this book yourself. This is The Elements of Style, the classic style manual, now in a fourth edition. A new Foreword by Roger Angell reminds readers that the advice of Strunk & White is as valuable today as when it was first offered.This book's unique tone, wit and charm have conveyed the principles of English style to millions of readers. Use the fourth edition of "the little book" to make a big impact with writing.
Hazel's Comment: I love this book - very simple. It's really things we should all know and do, but sometimes forget.
On Writing - A Memoir
Stephen King
Find out what books and films influenced the young writer, his first idea for a story and the true life tale that inspired CARRIE. For the first time, here's an intimate autobiographical portrait of his home life, his family and his traumatic recent accident.
Citing examples of his work and those of his contemporaries, King gives an excellent masterclass on writing - how to use the tools of the trade from building characters to pace and plotting as well as practical advice on presentation.
Hazel's Comment: I can't read his books as they are too good and traumatise me however I can't recommend this enough. Really insightful.
Writing Fiction for Dummies
Randy Ingermason and Peter Economy
A complete guide to writing and selling your novel. Writing Fiction for Dummies is a complete guide designed to coach you every step along the path from beginning writer to royalty–earning author. Writing Fiction For Dummies takes you from being a writer to being an author. It can happen—if you have the talent and persistence to do what you need to do.
Hazel's Comment: This is exactly what it says on the cover. It details everything you need to know as an author. Good for a quick dive into or as an extensive study course. Well worth buying.
Sometimes The Magic Works
Terry Brooks
Terry Brooks tells his story - from beginner to bestselling author - and shares his secrets for creating unusual, memorable fiction. More than just a writing guide, SOMETIMES THE MAGIC WORKS is Terry Brooks' self-portrait of the artist. Here are sketches of his midwestern boyhood, when comic books, radio serials, and a vivid imagination launched a lifelong passion for weaving tales of wonder; recollections of the fateful collaboration with legendary editor Lester Del Rey - an event that changed not only the author's life but the course of publishing history; and an eye-opening look at the ups and downs of dealing with Hollywood, gleaned while Brooks was writing official novels based on major movies by both Steven Spielberg and George Lucas.
Hazel's Comment: Great insight into the mind and craft of one of the best fantasy authors out there.
Self-Editing for Fiction Writers
Renni Browne and Dave King
This is a outstanding little book for writers who are serious about improving their fiction writing. It has detailed chapters on "Show and Tell", "Point of View", "Dialogue Mechanics", "Interior Monologue" and other techniques which will help make your writing more professional. Each theme is illustrated with entertaining examples and each chapter includes writing exercises.
Hazel's Comment: This is the best book I’ve read so far on editing - I read it in one sitting. It offers really straight-forward, simple to follow advice, examples to enable you to test your understanding and checklists for future reference. A good one to add to your library.