Zak Parker
The thing about writing that they don’t tell you is that it teaches you not only the way to communicate effectively with the written word, but to think clearly as well, since before even typing a sentence you already have a clear idea of what you want your writing to say.
This translates to better verbal communication with others but also with yourself, being able to think more clearly about what you want and how you’ll get it is an immensely useful skill on any human endeavour.
Learn how to write (and think!) better with these books.
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#1 Everyday Writing: Tips and prompts to fit your regularly scheduled life by Midge Raymond
Book recommendation by Midge Raymond from Midge Raymond
I wrote this book for writers when I realized I was staring at my phone more often than engaging in the world around me — that is, observing, eavesdropping, and watching the mini dramas that occur every day on buses, in post office lines, in the grocery store, and everywhere a writer may find herself. This book aims to help writers be “everyday writers” — to live, breathe, and think as writers even when they don’t have time to sit down with a blank page.
Before buying a book make sure to compare price and outlet, we have included links below to several large book outlets for different regions in the world:
Read more reviews and buy the book here (Amazon)
Search for the audiobook here (Audible)
#2 On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King
Book recommendation by Dr. Jonathan Farley from Hollywood Math and Science Film Consulting
Even though Stephen King says his writing is the literary equivalent of a Big Mac and fries, no one can deny that McDonald’s fries are great and they sell like—well, like McDonald’s fries. This book is interesting because one gets to hear him talk about his life before he made it.
Before buying a book make sure to compare price and outlet, we have included links below to several large book outlets for different regions in the world:
Read more reviews and buy the book here (Amazon)
Search for the audiobook here (Audible)
#3 Grammar Girl Presents the Ultimate Writing Guide for Students by Mignon Fogarty
Book recommendation by Chloe Brittain from Opal Transcription Services
Don’t let the title mislead you! This book isn’t just for students: Writers of all ages will benefit from this comprehensive (yet concise) primer on English grammar, usage, and writing style. Mignon Fogarty writes in a conversational and entertaining style, making the book an easy read. After devouring it in just a few sittings, I’ve noticed improvements in my own writing.
Before buying a book make sure to compare price and outlet, we have included links below to several large book outlets for different regions in the world:
Read more reviews and buy the book here (Amazon)
Search for the audiobook here (Audible)
#4 On Writing Well by William Zinsser
Book recommendation by Calvin Rosser from Life Reimagined
A masterful and practical guide to writing better non-fiction work. In an immensely clear and compelling way, William Zinsser provides a wealth of time-tested advice that will enable you to critically analyze your writing, identify areas for improvement, and take the next step on your journey to mastery.
Before buying a book make sure to compare price and outlet, we have included links below to several large book outlets for different regions in the world:
Read more reviews and buy the book here (Amazon)
Search for the audiobook here (Audible)
#5 The War of Art by Steven Pressfield
Book recommendation by Calvin Rosser from Life Reimagined
If you write or create, this book is a must read. Writer Steven Pressfield names the killer of creative dreams: Resistance. He describes the many forms it takes and outlines a plan to overcome it. If you have creative dreams, Pressfield will prepare and inspire you for the war ahead.
Before buying a book make sure to compare price and outlet, we have included links below to several large book outlets for different regions in the world:
Read more reviews and buy the book here (Amazon)
Search for the audiobook here (Audible)
#6 On Your Mark by Cathy Fyock & Kevin Williamson
Book recommendation by Tony Schy
Have others told you that you should write a book, but you never thought you could? Well think again. In this simple approach, Fyock and Williamson online a process that will get you to a draft manuscript in 6 weeks or less, even if it’s your first book. This approach, plus a little coaching got me thru the book writing process for the first time and I already have my sights set on my second book.
Before buying a book make sure to compare price and outlet, we have included links below to several large book outlets for different regions in the world:
Read more reviews and buy the book here (Amazon)
Search for the audiobook here (Audible)
#7 Writing Down the Bones: Freeing the Writer Within by Natalie Goldberg
Book recommendation by Candess Zona-Mendola from MakeFoodSafe
This book teaches you to have a different approach to writing. The author believes that, by tapping into your inner Zen calm, you can become a better writer.
Before buying a book make sure to compare price and outlet, we have included links below to several large book outlets for different regions in the world:
Read more reviews and buy the book here (Amazon)
Search for the audiobook here (Audible)
#8 Writing Ourselves Whole by Jen Cross
Book recommendation by Carol Queen PhD from Good Vibrations
Jen Cross is a writing teacher with a difference: She specializes in workshops for people who have endured trauma. Even survivors of sexual assault or abuse, she teaches, can use the creative process to become whole again, and use the power and insight of the writing process to re-write one’s own story–even one’s own sexuality. This is a powerful, beautiful, inspiring and truly compassionate book.
Before buying a book make sure to compare price and outlet, we have included links below to several large book outlets for different regions in the world:
Read more reviews and buy the book here (Amazon)
Search for the audiobook here (Audible)
#9 Do I Make Myself Clear? Why Writing Well Matters by Harold Evans
Book recommendation by Riley Panko from Clutch
This book excels at teaching writing using innovative methods. This is the first writing book I’ve read in awhile that doesn’t fall on time-worn cliches, like “avoid passive voice.” Evans introduces new concepts, like zombies, flesh-eaters, and pleonasms. Instead of flowery language or metaphors, Evans hammers home the need for clarity – a much-needed writing tip in the internet age, where anyone can name themselves a journalist or author.
Before buying a book make sure to compare price and outlet, we have included links below to several large book outlets for different regions in the world:
Read more reviews and buy the book here (Amazon)
Search for the audiobook here (Audible)
#10 The Writer’s Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers by Christopher Vogler
Book recommendation by Kelly Hayes-Raitt from Author, How to Become a Housesitter: Insider Tips from the HouseSit Diva
This book, written by a Hollywood story consultant, is hands-down the best book I’ve read about story structure. It explores classic structure based on Joseph Campbell’s “A Hero’s Journey.” I use it in my writer’s workshops. Highly recommend for writers of fiction, memoir — and even “how to.” Screenwriters will find it will become their writing “bible”!
Before buying a book make sure to compare price and outlet, we have included links below to several large book outlets for different regions in the world:
Read more reviews and buy the book here (Amazon)
Search for the audiobook here (Audible)
#11 On Writing Well: The Classic Guide to Writing Nonfiction by William Zinsser
Book recommendation by Caleb Backe from Maple Holistics
You don’t need to be an advanced writer to pick up this book- anyone who’s looking to hone their writing skills can benefit from it. In this work, William Zinsser gives clear and practical advice on how to write whatever speaks to you. No matter if you’re interested in writing about business, people, technology or anything else, this book gives tons of insight to get the creative juices flowing and to have your writing be polished.
Before buying a book make sure to compare price and outlet, we have included links below to several large book outlets for different regions in the world:
Read more reviews and buy the book here (Amazon)
Search for the audiobook here (Audible)
#12 Zen in the Art of Writing by Ray Bradbury
Book recommendation by Caleb Backe from Maple Holistics
With plenty of writing experience under his belt, Ray Bradbury is the perfect person to take advice from when it comes to sharpening your writing skills. His book reviews how to find your own writing style and the importance of energy and curiosity in your pieces. The book also details Bradbury’s career as a writer, which is sure to inspire anyone who has the writing bug.
Before buying a book make sure to compare price and outlet, we have included links below to several large book outlets for different regions in the world:
Read more reviews and buy the book here (Amazon)
Search for the audiobook here (Audible)
#13 Writing the Breakout Novel by Donald Maass
Book recommendation by Jessica Ellicott from Jessica Ellicott
This book provides solid advice and helpful examples of ways to take an average novel or even an idea for a novel to the next level. It addresses structure, tension and characterization in an engaging manner and with an accessible style. Writers at all stages of their careers could find actionable advice in the this book to improvetheir own work.
Before buying a book make sure to compare price and outlet, we have included links below to several large book outlets for different regions in the world:
Read more reviews and buy the book here (Amazon)
Search for the audiobook here (Audible)
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