The 7 Best Book for Writers
Writers are also readers. Books are in our blood. But now, most of us go to the internet for inspiration. Sometimes, getting untangled from the web and reading a book about writing can be a refresher. I joke about being a recovering writing book addict, but buying and reading those books is how I used to deal with writer’s block. I’ve read books with terrific advice and wasted money on some real stinkers. The following seven are my personal faves, and I’m betting a couple will be new to you.
Hey there, fellow word lovers! We’re not just writers, are we? No, we’re devout readers too, books coursing through our veins. But let’s be real – we’ve all become internet dwellers, hunting inspiration in the vast wilderness of the web. Yet, every once in a while, it’s rejuvenating to unplug, retreat, and nestle into a good ol’ book about the art of writing itself.
Confession time – I might as well run a self-help group called “Writing Book Addicts Anonymous” because, believe me, I’ve been there. Whenever writer’s block had me in a headlock, my solution was simple: buy and devour another book about writing. Over time, I’ve stumbled upon some life-changing gems and, well, let’s not talk about the duds that took a bite out of my wallet.
But hey, every cloud has a silver lining, right? So, here’s a list of my top seven writing guidebooks, ones that have truly stood the test of time. And just to pique your curiosity, I’m willing to bet there’s a couple in here that’ll be a delightful surprise. Dive in, my friends!
Why Read Books on Writing?
Writing, my friends, can sometimes feel like you’re on a deserted island – it’s just you, your imagination, and a blank page. It’s this beautiful, yet challenging, solo voyage, and to survive it, you’ve got to be fully immersed – dreaming, living, breathing your stories. You gotta love it, right down to your bones.
So, where do books on writing fit into this picture? Well, they’re like trusty travel guides on this writing expedition. They let you tap into the wisdom of those who’ve tread the path before you. They’re your lifeline when the writing gets tough, your personal cheerleader providing that much-needed spark of inspiration.
Beyond that, these books are like a treasure chest, bursting with new ideas for your characters or plot twists that you hadn’t even dreamt of before. They’re not just about stories; they’re your personal toolbox, equipping you with the finer points of the craft.
Reading about writing? It’s not just a good idea, folks. It’s like having a mentor, teacher, and muse all rolled into one, always ready on your bookshelf. So here are the books that we feel are the best books for writers to have.
The Best Books for Writers
Best Book for Writers: Help for Plot Structure
The Writer’s Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers by Christopher Vogler
This is the ultimate guide to writing a story based on Joseph Campbell’s monomyth, or hero’s journey. It helps you outline your novel and keep track of all the details like character arcs, plot points, and more. This book has been around since 1992 and is still one of the most popular writing books around.
Best Book for Writers: Help Grabbing a Reader
The First Five Pages by Noah Lukeman
This book is all about making a good first impression with your readers. It helps you understand how to hook your readers from the very beginning and keep them engaged until the end. If you’re having trouble getting started on your novel, this book will help you overcome that hurdle.
Best Book for Writers: Must-Have for All Writers
The Elements of Style by William Strunk Jr. and E.B White
One of the most referenced books in the profession of writing while being written in 1918, it holds up today as one of the best books on writing ever published. It teaches you everything from grammar to style, including how to write with clarity and precision so your readers will understand what they’re reading! This is a must-have for every writer.
Best Book for Writers: Writing Process
Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life by Anne Lamott
This book is a classic. It’s been around since 1994 and it still delights readers with its honest, funny look at the writing process. Lamott never claims to have all the answers—she just wants you to know that everyone struggles with their writing, even when they’re published authors! This book will also give you some great writing prompts that you can use for your own stories.
Best Book for Writers: Character Naming
The Character Naming Sourcebook by Sherrilyn Kenyon
This book is a one-stop-shop for names: first names, surnames, names organized by culture. The best part of the book is that it has a CD-Rom with even more character-naming resources, including baby name websites and ethnic names from every country on Earth. I highly recommend this book for writers who struggle to find good names for their characters.
Best Book for Writers: Inspiration with a Twist
The Art of War for Writers by James Scott Bell
Sometimes you just need a little boost. Bell gives this through the eyes of Sun Tzu. A different look at writing that is both inspiring and instructional, Bell breaks down the process of writing into easily understandable steps that will help you to write faster, better, and with more confidence.
Best Book for Writers: Best Overall
On Writing, by Stephan King
I know that many people hate on Stephen King because he writes horror, but people forget that he was once a teacher and his writing advice is some of the best out there. On Writing isn’t just a book about writing—it’s also part memoir and it offers hilarious insights into his life as well. Do yourself a favor and read this book right now! You’ll be a better writer for it.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Books for Writers
Final Thoughts about the Best Books for Writers
Now, here’s the straight talk: There’s no ‘magic bullet’ book on writing out there. You’ll find plenty of authors and experts doling out advice on penning the next big hit, and they do have their merits. But remember, at the end of the day, it’s all about you and your craft. So, what’s the ultimate key to mastering writing? Roll up your sleeves and get busy writing, my friends!
So, tell me, what’s the one book that’s transformed your writing journey? I’d love to hear all about it in the comments below! And check out our writing resource page for more support.