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I believe that about 90% of all the “How to Write” books are crap. Talk about those who can’t do… But here are a few I’ve come across that are not only helpful, but good reads as well.
On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King
The first half is King’s story. Who he is, how he got started, and so forth. The second half is one of the most pragmatic, straight forward manuals about writing. I would imagine that King was a terrific teacher in his day.
Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott
Funny, smart and simply a classic. Lamott, an amazing writer, doesn’t discuss the nuts and bolts of the craft as King does, but you learn just as much. She also throws in a couple of life lessons.
Lessons From a Lifetime of Writing: A Novelist looks at his Craft by David Morrell
Probably best known for his debut novel, First Blood, Morrell has written some other outstanding novels. This book is similar to King's in that he discusses craft and structure more than theory. Morrell's view of writing can be rather black-and-white at times, and while I may not agree with all of his “rules,” this book is terrific and anyone looking to learn more about writing should read it.
Playwriting: Writing, Producing and Selling Your Play by Louis E. Catron
The brilliant Karen Hall turned me on to this and I see why she recommended it. Practical, inspiring and filled with writing exercises that actually work. Whether you want to write plays, movies, television or prose, this is a very helpful book.
Fiction
No, not a book called “Fiction,” I’m talking fiction in general. If you want to become a better writer, the single best thing you can do for yourself is read. Read novels, short stories, plays, scripts, anything you can get your hands on. Just READ. You will be amazed at how much it helps your writing.
I always have an audio book going in my car, a book by my bed, a book in my briefcase, and one in my trunk. I read any chance I get. Waiting on line at the bank, at a restaurant, in the bathroom, at the doctor’s office, before the movie starts, on the sofa instead of mindlessly flipping channels.
Books are wonderful, magical things. You can literally carry an entire other world full of new and interesting people around with you all the time. Just open the book and you’re in that world. Anytime you want, anywhere you want. Can a DVD do that?
Seriously, read.
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