Our Favourite Books on Writing
WARNING: Reading books about writing, and websites about writing, and collections of famous writers' letters about writing is not, in fact, writing. Beware the subtle temptations of spending too long doing this stuff and not actually getting the words on the page.
How to Write a Million by Dibell, Scott Card and Turco. An intensely practical guide to plotting, character creation and dialogue; (the plot and character sections are personal favourites of Gaie's to the extent that she is about to buy a third copy, having read two copies to disintegration...)
On Writing by Stephen King. Whether or not you're a fan, King is one of the most prolific and popular writers of his generation. On Writing is not only a fascinating memoir, but full of useful information from a master of the craft of getting, and keeping, an audience hooked.
Bird by Bird by Ann Lamott. If you're looking for some encouragement, this is the place to get it. Full of tips for getting past the fear and on with the writing.
Story by Robert McKee. Even though this book is written for screenplay writers, it is full of invaluable advice on plot structure, realisitic dialogue and making every written word count, making it essential for novel writers too.
Lights, Camera, Fiction by Alfie Thomson. Fun and useful guide that teaches you about novel writing by referring to films. Packed with the kind of 'should have been obvious' advice that makes you mentally slap your forehead, and when you watch the films, you're actually doing research instead of just kidding yourself. What could be cooler?
The Writer's Journey by Christopher Vogler. Explains plot structure and characters using Joseph Campbell's theory of the universal myth and recurring archetypes. Easy to read, and the perfect tool for helping you figure out what's missing from your plot, or what should happen next.
Teach Yourself Writing a Novel by Nigel Watts. Part of the "Teach Yourself" series, and a complete and concise view of techniques and concepts in novel writing.