I'm a writing book whore. I can't deny it. I know every how-to-write book says this ones is "the only writing book you'll ever need". But yeah, whatever. Not true. Every book on craft I pick up, I learn SOMETHING new. A new technique, a new way to look at things, an a-ha moment on something I was having trouble with. These books feed your writer brain like Reese's chocolate easter eggs feed your soul--wait, the egg thing may just be me, but you see what I'm getting at. So I figured I would compile a list from my personal stash of writing books to recommend.
Problem #1: You're a pantser and are dying to figure out a way to SIMPLY plot.
Though I have a little nerdgasm looking at pictures of people's plotting white boards with all their notes and post-its and color-coding and index carding, the idea of actually doing that to one of my stories makes my throat close up in anaphylactic shock. But, at the same time, I crave some organization, some rough map of where I'm going. Enter my newest favorite book, *pets its cover* Seriously, life-changing. I'm planning a guest post going into more detail on this one. But for now, just go buy it. : ) Don't worry that it says screenwriting, it totally applies to novels as well.
Save The Cat! The Last Book on Screenwriting You'll Ever Need
Problem #2: You keep getting partial requests but not follow-up full requests. So, you may, um, suck at openings.
Hooked: Write Fiction That Grabs Readers at Page One & Never Lets Them Go
Problem #3: You're writing your first book and are absolutely overwhelmed by the process.
Your First Novel: An Author Agent Team Share the Keys to Achieving Your Dream
Problem #4: Your stories seem to lose focus or meander during the process.
Or maybe you're getting feedback from critters saying--I'm not really sure why your character is doing this or this scene doesn't seem to have a focus/point. This means you need to get down to the bones that hold a character and story together. This one is a classic you'll hear recommended over and over.
http://www.debradixon.com/gmc.html (If you buy this one, get it from this link. It's cheaper directly from her site.)
Problem #5: You know you can write, but your books still aren't getting that agent or publisher.
You get feedback like, "You clearly have talent, but the story or characters just didn't resonate with me or reach out and grab me."
The Fire in Fiction: Passion, Purpose and Techniques to Make Your Novel Great
Problem #6: When you go back to edit your book, you have to cut a ton of scenes because they just aren't moving the story forward or adding anything.
Make a Scene: Crafting a Powerful Story One Scene at a Time
Problem #7 You need to write some hawt scenes, but whoa, shock of all shocks, sex isn't that easy to write! Who knew?
Passionate Ink: A Guide to Writing Erotic Romance
Problem #8: You've been told you need to "tighten" your writing.
A nuts and bolts guide that will get your waistband cinched up quicker than Jenny Craig...
The Book on Writing: The Ultimate Guide to Writing Well
Problem #9: You just want a kickass book on writing and want to hear Stephen King talk about what adverbs have to do with hell.
On Writing: 10th Anniversary Edition: A Memoir of the Craft
Yeah, so I don't have a tenth, I know. Round numbers and all, but whatevs. On a different note though, I do have a bit of news. I found out yesterday that my official release month for my book is January 2012! So you all need to make sure your New Year's Resolution next year is to treat yourself to some hawt romance and read CRASH INTO YOU. That is all. :)
So do you suffer from any of these above afflictions? Which one? Do you have any of these books? What's your favorite craft book and why?
