Writing Resources
There are a lot of books about writing out there. These are a few of my favorites.
Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life, by Anne Lamott. I've never met Anne Lamott but she's one of those authors I wish lived on my street in Maine and regularly met me for coffee. There is so much wisdom and humor in her books! This terrific memoir on writing has "news you can use" but is also inspirational. One of my rituals on a Book Launch Day is to read, aloud, by myself, the chapter on "Publication" in this book. It puts everything in perspective.
On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft, by Stephen King. This is one of the best writing memoirs out there. Everyone agrees.
Writing Without Teachers, by Peter Elbow. My advisor in college, the writer John Elder, gave me this book. He handed me the very copy I own today, and I am forever grateful. Published in 1973, it's still in print and remains a fabulous resource.
Reading Like a Writer, by Francine Prose. This is what all writers should do: read with craft in mind. She gives countless examples of this, drawing from well-known classics as well as contemporary fiction.
Description, by Monica Wood. One of my favorite Maine authors delivers a useful volume in the Elements of Fiction Writing series.
Naming the World, and Other Exercises for the Creative Writer, edited by Bret Anthony Johnston. Filled with writing wisdom and prompts by some of our best contemporary writers.
Spilling Ink: A Young Writer's Handbook, by Anne Mazer and Ellen Potter. For middle grade to young adult writers. A witty, accessible, profoundly useful book for kids who write.
Seize the Story: A Handbook for Teens Who Like to Write, by Victoria Hanley. Terrifically helpful, plus filled with interviews from popular YA authors.
59 Reasons to Write: Mini-lessons, Prompts and Inspiration for Teachers, by Kate Messner. This very useful book is an outgrowth of Kate Messner's online summer writing "camp" for teachers called "Teachers Write." Great stuff here, even if you're not a teacher.
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