20 Best Books For Writing Fiction (2023 Update)

More than 250,000 copies sold! a creative writer’s shelf should hold at least three essential books: a dictionary, a style guide, and writing fiction. janet burroway’s best-selling classic is the most widely used creative writing text in america, and for more than three decades it has helped hundreds of thousands of students learn the craft. now in its tenth edition, writing fiction is more accessible than ever for writers of all levels—inside or outside the classroom. this new edition continues to provide advice that is practical, comprehensive, and flexible. burroway’s tone is personal and nonprescriptive, welcoming learning writers into the community of practiced storytellers. moving from freewriting to final revision, the book addresses “showing not telling,” characterization, dialogue, atmosphere, plot, imagery, and point of view. it includes new topics and writing prompts, and each chapter now ends with a list of recommended readings that exemplify the craft elements discussed, allowing for further study. and the examples and quotations throughout the book feature a wide and diverse range of today’s best and best-known creators of both novels and short stories. there is a very good chance that one of your favorite authors learned the craft with writing fiction. and who knows what future favorite will get her start reading this edition?

Capture the minds, hearts, and imaginations of 21st century readers! whether you're a commercial storyteller or a literary novelist, whether your goal is to write a best-selling novel or captivate readers with a satisfying, beautifully written story, the key to success is the same: high-impact fiction. writing 21st century fiction will help you write a novel for today's readers and market, filled with rich characters, compelling plots, and resonant themes. author and literary agent donald maass shows you how to: – create fiction that transcends genre, conjures characters who look and feel more "real" than real people, and shows readers the work around them in new ways. – infuse every page with an electric current of emotional appeal and micro-tension. – harness the power of parallels, symbols, metaphors, and more to illuminate your novel in a lasting way. – develop a personalized method of writing that works for you.with an arsenal of thought-provoking prompts and questions, plus plenty of examples from best-selling titles, writing 21st century fiction will strip away your preconceived notions about writing in today's world and give you the essential tools you need to create fiction that will leave both readers and critics in awe.

"a straightforward, friendly guide for aspiring writers" (los angeles times): no more excuses. with award-winning author walter mosley as your guide, you can write a novel now. "let the lawn get shaggy and the paint peel from the walls," bestselling novelist walter mosley advises. in this invaluable book of tips, practical advice, and wisdom, mosley promises that the writer-in-waiting can finish their novel in one year. intended as both inspiration and instruction, this book provides the tools to turn out a first draft painlessly and then revise it into something finer. mosley teaches you how to: create a daily writing regimen to fit any writer's needs — and how to stick to it. determine the narrative voice that's right for every writer's style. hook readers with dynamic characters. get past those first challenging sentences and into the heart of a story. and much more. "no-nonsense advice that is sure to set beginning writers along the righteous path to real authorhood." –seattle post-intelligencer

A rare work of nonfiction from edith wharton, the writing of fiction contains timeless advice on writing and reading well from the first woman ever to win a pulitzer prize—now with a new introduction by brandon taylor.in 1921, edith wharton won a pulitzer prize for her first novel, the age of innocence. over the course of her career, she would continue to produce beloved, bestselling work—from the house of mirth to the custom of the country—and gained a reputation for her incisive critiques of her upper-class social circle. to each new generation of readers, her work remains fresh, formally remarkable, and endlessly entertaining. the writing of fiction is a window into wharton’s mind as she ponders the intertwined arts of writing and reading. wharton provides invaluable insight on the subjects of character, the challenge of finely-tuned short stories, the construction of a novel, and more. beyond a treatise on craft, the writing of fiction is a sweeping meditation by a masterful practitioner and a rare chance to experience the inimitable voice of one of america’s most influential novelists.

Story-structure series, which reveals the 15 essential plot points needed to make any novel a success.novelist jessica brody presents a comprehensive story-structure guide for novelists that applies the famed save the cat! screenwriting methodology to the world of novel writing. revealing the 15 "beats" (plot points) that comprise a successful story–from the opening image to the finale–this book lays out the ten story genres (monster in the house; whydunit; dude with a problem) alongside quirky, original insights (save the cat; shard of glass) to help novelists craft a plot that will captivate–and a novel that will sell.

A complete guide to writing and selling your novel so you want to write a novel? great! that’s a worthy goal, no matter what your reason. but don’t settle for just writing a novel. aim high. write a novel that you intend to sell to a publisher. writing fiction for dummies is a complete guide designed to coach you every step along the path from beginning writer to royalty-earning author. here are some things you’ll learn in writing fiction for dummies: strategic planning: pinpoint where you are on the roadmap to publication; discover what every reader desperately wants from a story; home in on a marketable category; choose from among the four most common creative styles; and learn the self-management methods of professional writers. writing powerful fiction: construct a story world that rings true; create believable, unpredictable characters; build a strong plot with all six layers of complexity of a modern novel; and infuse it all with a strong theme. self-editing your novel: psychoanalyze your characters to bring them fully to life; edit your story structure from the top down; fix broken scenes; and polish your action and dialogue. finding an agent and getting published: write a query letter, a synopsis, and a proposal; pitch your work to agents and editors without fear. 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.

For an aspiring novelist, nothing is more intimidating than a blank page or computer screen. this step-by-step guide helps you get past that hurdle, start writing, and cross the finish line to first draft in only twenty-six weeks! this guide covers the entire novel-writing process–from polishing an idea to finding an agent and submitting to publishers. this practical guide takes you through the ins and outs of writing and publishing your first book, including how to: create authentic characters, engaging plotlines, and believable settings edit for tone, structure, and pacing find the right agent market and sell your work to publishers build a career as a novelist complete with writing exercises, inspiring examples, and expert advice from bestselling novelists, this book is an excellent starting place for anyone interested in the art, craft, and business of writing fiction.

The new york times book review said james thayer's "writing is smooth and clear. it wastes no words, and it has a rhythm that only confident stylists achieve." the essential guide to writing a novel is a practical, step-by-step manual on how to craft your novel. the essential guide presents a set of tools for large issues such a story development and scene construction (kirkus reviews said thayer's novels are "superbly crafted,") and it also examines techniques that will make your sentence-by-sentence writing shine "thayer's prose is clear and clean," said the seattle times. how do the masters do it? the essential guide shows you the techniques of writers such as john grisham, maeve binchy, jeffery deaver, and charles dickens. what makes their novels hard to put down? how do mario puzo, sinclair lewis, patricia cornwell, and tom wolfe make their stories so riveting and their prose so good? the essential guide sets out their techniques in concise detail. just beginning your novel? or in the middle of the novel and needing some guidance? the essential guide to writing a novel will show you the way. among the many topics: the six traits necessary for a successful protagonist and three more traits that will make him or her stand out. twenty-two techniques that will make your character's dialogue compelling. creating dynamic settings that advance the story. point of view-a critical skill–made easy. five pace-killers and how to avoid them. plotting the novel using the advantage shift. constructing scenes to propel the reader to the next scene. "thayer writes a vivid tale," the cleveland plain dealer said. in the essential guide to writing a novel, he'll help you write your own vivid tale.

Get advice from the best in the business on every stage of the novel-writing and publishing process!. inside this comprehensive resource, readers will find hundreds of pages showing them how to master the novel-creation process, generate saleable ideas, implement invaluable techniques, and find the inspiration they need to finish their work. | the complete handbook of novel writing, 3rd edition, provides an extraordinary gathering of more than 70 best-selling authors and publishing insiders whose advice and experience will help readers turn those ideas, notes, and half-finished manuscripts into finely polished novels that are ready to sell.

The only writing book you'll ever needfrom the legendary creator of the writer's loft in chicago, comes a writing course for those who want to see results now. immediate fiction covers the entire process of writing including manuscript preparation, time management, finding an idea, getting words on the page, staying unblocked, and submitting to agents and publishers.with insightful tips and advice, jerry cleaver helps writers manage doubts, fears, blocks, and panic all while helping to develop their writing in minutes a day. a practical and accessible resource, this book has everything the aspiring writer needs to write and sell novels, short stories, screenplays, and stage plays.

The only writing book you'll ever needfrom the legendary creator of the writer's loft in chicago, comes a writing course for those who want to see results now. immediate fiction covers the entire process of writing including manuscript preparation, time management, finding an idea, getting words on the page, staying unblocked, and submitting to agents and publishers.with insightful tips and advice, jerry cleaver helps writers manage doubts, fears, blocks, and panic all while helping to develop their writing in minutes a day. a practical and accessible resource, this book has everything the aspiring writer needs to write and sell novels, short stories, screenplays, and stage plays.

Here's what i tell my students on the first day when i teach one of my creative writing courses: you will be published if you possess three qualities–talent, passion, and discipline.in write away, new york times bestselling author elizabeth george offers would-be writers exactly what they need to know about how to construct a novel. she provides a detailed overview of the craft and gives helpful instruction on all elements of writing, from setting and plot to technique and process. to illustrate her points, george presents excerpts from a number of well-known writers, including barbara kingsolver, harper lee, e. m. forster, john irving, toni morrison, stephen king, ernest hemingway, and alice hoffman.in addition to being a clear and concise guide to fiction writing, write away also opens a window into the life of elizabeth george. it reveals the inspiring personal story of how the distinguished author came to be published and how she meticulously researches and crafts her novels.i have a love-hate relationship with the writing life. i wouldn't wish to have any other kind of life . . . and on the other hand, i wish it were easier. and it never is. the reward comes sentence by sentence. the reward comes in the unexpected inspiration. the reward comes from creating a character who lives and breathes and is perfectly real. but such effort it takes to attain the reward! i would never have believed it would take such effort. george's solid understanding of the craft is conveyed in the enticing manner of a true storyteller, making write away not only a marvelous, interesting, and informative book but also a glimpse inside the world of a beloved writer.

Immensely helpful and illuminating to any aspiring writer, this special edition of stephen king’s critically lauded, million-copy bestseller shares the experiences, habits, and convictions that have shaped him and his work.“ long live the king” hailed entertainment weekly upon publication of stephen king’s on writing. part memoir, part master class by one of the bestselling authors of all time, this superb volume is a revealing and practical view of the writer’s craft, comprising the basic tools of the trade every writer must have. king’s advice is grounded in his vivid memories from childhood through his emergence as a writer, from his struggling early career to his widely reported, near-fatal accident in 1999—and how the inextricable link between writing and living spurred his recovery. brilliantly structured, friendly and inspiring, on writing will empower and entertain everyone who reads it—fans, writers, and anyone who loves a great story well told.

This inspiring book will unlock children's ideas for writing stories, poems, comics, blogs, reviews, movie scripts and more. as well as activities for writing compelling story outlines, dialogue and lively characters, there are tips for writing horror stories, romance and thrillers, and even shock journalism. with lots of space to write in – but no scary blank pages.

The most important thing to know about writing a novel is this: you can do it. and if you've already written one, you can write an even better one. author and former literary agent nathan bransford shares his secrets for creating killer plots, fleshing out your first ideas, crafting compelling characters, and staying sane in the process. read the guide that new york times bestselling author ransom riggs called "the best how-to-write-a-novel book i've read." more praise for 'how to write a novel: "nathan bransford's primer is full of thoughtful, time-proven advice on how to write a novel. nathan can sound both like a reassuring friend and a tough, no-nonsense coach. whatever kind of novel you're writing, nathan's insights will make you think about your process and help you find your own way to success."- jeff abbott, new york times bestselling author of downfall "nathan bransford is sharp, thoughtful, and a must-read for all aspiring authors. his advice is not only funny and insightful, it's essential for writers at any stage in their careers."- tahereh mafi, new york times bestselling author of shatter me "nathan bransford's book on how to write a novel is smart, generous and funny as hell. read it. no matter where you are in your writing life, whether you're on your first book or are a grizzled, multi published veteran, you'll find practical advice to help you through the process — and plenty of wisdom to inspire you along the journey."- lisa brackmann, author of rock paper tiger "equal parts encouraging and butt-kicking, hilarious and wise, nathan bransford's no-nonsense manifesto talks you through the process of getting the book of your dreams out of your head and onto the page. whether you've been writing for five minutes or fifty years, this is the guide for you." – sarah mccarry, author of all our pretty songs

The success and popularity of creative writing courses at universities across the country belies the myth that writing can't be taught. the creative writing coursebook, edited by julia bell and paul magrs, takes aspiring writers through three stages of essential practice: gathering – getting started, learning how to keep notes, making observations and using memory; shaping – looking at structure, point of view, character and setting; and finishing – being your own critic, joining workshops and finding publishers. fully updated to include a new foreword by marina warner and contributions from authors such as kit de waal, amy liptrot and keith jarrett, this is the perfect book for people who are just starting to write as well as for those who want some help honing work already completed. filled with a wealth of exercises and activities, it will inspire budding writers to develop and sharpen their skills. whether writing for publication, in a group or just for pleasure, this comprehensive guide is for anyone who is ready to put pen to paper.

Calling all aspiring writers, speakers, coaches, experts, entrepreneurs, business professionals or anyone considering writing a book for the first time… if the thought of writing a book has been confusing for you in the past, then here's the simplest strategy for writing your first book and ensuring you're a successful author! do you have a book idea that you've wanted to write for a while but were confused on the steps? are you overwhelmed by all of the books on writing, publishing and marketing? with a proven formula for success how to write your first book will help you to write better and to understand the fundamentals of writing your first book no matter your writing level or ability. if you are motivated to take your career to the next level or simply want to publish the fiction idea that's been floating around in your mind, the simple and easy to use formula called the w.r.i.t.e. method will help you to accomplish your goal of becoming a published author. whether you are a new author hoping to find success with your very first book or a professional using it to brand your business, this formula works! the fact of the matter is a well-written book does not always guarantee success. with the w.r.i.t.e. method, you are given the tools you need to attract your audience and make a consistent passive income from your books so that you can write for a living. in this book, all of the questions you didn't even know you had will be answered. you'll learn: – the formula for writing a book that ensures success! – how to research your book idea to determine if it's profitable before you write the book! – how to choose between traditional or self-publishing based on your time, writing goals and budget! – how to write specifically for your target audience so that you can sell more books! – how to create a book title, cover, and book description that will garner you massive sales! – what to consider with respects to your very first book launch and while creating an author platform! – and much more! perfect gift idea for writers! if you've been waiting to write a bestseller because you just didn't know how to get started, look no further! this step-by-step guide places you on the path to success! buy how to write your first book today and be one step closer to becoming a published author in 2018! stefanie is an expert in her field and that shows through in her writing. i have been writing for quite some time, but this book gave me information i didn't know anything about. this is definitely a must for anyone thinking about writing a book for publication. – sarah s.

The second book in the writer's compass series from professional writing instructor elizabeth lyon offers both aspiring and established authors the fundamentals of writing and selling a great novel or short story. in addition to the basics of characterization, plot, pacing, and theme, a writer's guide to fiction also features a plan for revising fiction, a guide to marketing, samples of cover and query letters, and methods of honing the writing craft.

Ben bova, best-selling author and six-time hugo award winner for best editor explains step by step all the elements you need to write profesionally selling science fiction. bova was editor of both analog and omni magazine, two of the best-ever markets for short fiction, as well as a best-selling novelist and former president of sfwa – so nobody knows what sells better than ben bova. the book breaks down every aspect of writing and analyzes it in depth, including with complete example short stories that he examines for how they tick. the book targets science fiction in particular since it's one of the hardest genres to write, but his explanations are applicable to fiction of any genre. – this is a must-read for anyone trying to break into the professional science fiction writing field. – contents:chapter one – how to get out of the slushpile – chapter two – science fiction – chapter three – character in science fiction: theory – chapter four – character in science fiction – fifteen miles – a complete short story – chapter five – character in science fiction: practice – chapter six – background in science fiction: theory – chapter seven – background in science fiction – sepulcher – a complete short story – chapter eight – background in science fiction: practice – chapter nine – conflict in science fiction: theory – chapter ten – conflict in science fiction – crisis of the month – a complete short story – chapter eleven – conflict in science fiction: practice – chapter twelve – plot in science fiction: theory – chapter thirteen – plot in science fiction – the shining ones – a complete short story – chapter fourteen – plot in science fiction: practice – chapter fifteen – think before you write: preparing for the novel – chapter sixteen – the long siege: writing the novel – chapter seventeen – into the cold, cruel world: marketing your fiction – chapter eighteen – the thematic novel – chapter nineteen – ideas, style and inspirationbibliographyabout the authorben bova, author of more than eighty futuristic novels and nonfiction books, has been involved in science and high technology since the beginning of the space program. formerly president of science-fiction and fantasy writers of america and president emeritus of the national space society, bova is a frequent commentator on radio and television, and a popular lecturer. he has also been an editor and an executive in the aerospace industry. – his novels, such as mars, the exiles trilogy, and the grand tour series, combine romance, adventure, and scientific accuracy to explore the impact of technological developments on individuals and on society as a whole. his nonfiction books, such as welcome to moonbase and assured survival, show how modern technology can be used to solve economic, social and political problems. – bova has taught science fiction writing at harvard university and at the hayden planetarium in new york city. he lectures regularly on topics dealing with the space program, energy, the craft of writing, and the art of predicting the future. his audiences have included the national geographic society, government and corporate executive groups, writers' workshops and university students. he has worked with film makers and television producers, such as woody allen, george lucas and gene roddenberry. – bova has appeared on hundreds of radio and television broadcasts. he was a regular guest on cbs morning news, and has appeared frequently on good morning america and the today show. – he was editorial director of omni magazine and editor of analog magazine. he received the science fiction achievement award (the "hugo") for best professional editor six times. – don't keep making the same mistakes – take your writing to the next level by reading the craft of writing science fiction that sells today!

Ben bova, best-selling author and six-time hugo award winner for best editor explains step by step all the elements you need to write profesionally selling science fiction. bova was editor of both analog and omni magazine, two of the best-ever markets for short fiction, as well as a best-selling novelist and former president of sfwa – so nobody knows what sells better than ben bova. the book breaks down every aspect of writing and analyzes it in depth, including with complete example short stories that he examines for how they tick. the book targets science fiction in particular since it's one of the hardest genres to write, but his explanations are applicable to fiction of any genre. – this is a must-read for anyone trying to break into the professional science fiction writing field. – contents:chapter one – how to get out of the slushpile – chapter two – science fiction – chapter three – character in science fiction: theory – chapter four – character in science fiction – fifteen miles – a complete short story – chapter five – character in science fiction: practice – chapter six – background in science fiction: theory – chapter seven – background in science fiction – sepulcher – a complete short story – chapter eight – background in science fiction: practice – chapter nine – conflict in science fiction: theory – chapter ten – conflict in science fiction – crisis of the month – a complete short story – chapter eleven – conflict in science fiction: practice – chapter twelve – plot in science fiction: theory – chapter thirteen – plot in science fiction – the shining ones – a complete short story – chapter fourteen – plot in science fiction: practice – chapter fifteen – think before you write: preparing for the novel – chapter sixteen – the long siege: writing the novel – chapter seventeen – into the cold, cruel world: marketing your fiction – chapter eighteen – the thematic novel – chapter nineteen – ideas, style and inspirationbibliographyabout the authorben bova, author of more than eighty futuristic novels and nonfiction books, has been involved in science and high technology since the beginning of the space program. formerly president of science-fiction and fantasy writers of america and president emeritus of the national space society, bova is a frequent commentator on radio and television, and a popular lecturer. he has also been an editor and an executive in the aerospace industry. – his novels, such as mars, the exiles trilogy, and the grand tour series, combine romance, adventure, and scientific accuracy to explore the impact of technological developments on individuals and on society as a whole. his nonfiction books, such as welcome to moonbase and assured survival, show how modern technology can be used to solve economic, social and political problems. – bova has taught science fiction writing at harvard university and at the hayden planetarium in new york city. he lectures regularly on topics dealing with the space program, energy, the craft of writing, and the art of predicting the future. his audiences have included the national geographic society, government and corporate executive groups, writers' workshops and university students. he has worked with film makers and television producers, such as woody allen, george lucas and gene roddenberry. – bova has appeared on hundreds of radio and television broadcasts. he was a regular guest on cbs morning news, and has appeared frequently on good morning america and the today show. – he was editorial director of omni magazine and editor of analog magazine. he received the science fiction achievement award (the "hugo") for best professional editor six times. – don't keep making the same mistakes – take your writing to the next level by reading the craft of writing science fiction that sells today!