Top 10 Books for Writers - Seeking Your Nomination
January 2nd, 2007, by Michael Stelzner
Hey writers! Has there been a book that has inspired you?
Is there a resource you have referenced so many times, it is falling apart?
As the executive editor of the 22,000-reader WhitePaperSource Newsletter, I have been tasked to seek nominations for the top books for writers.
Please make a single nomination by replying to this message and include why you like the book (anonymous comments will be ignored).
The winners will be announced here and also in an edition of our newsletter.
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January 2nd, 2007 at 5:39 pm
Although it’s geared more towards writers of fiction, my favorite book for writers is Stephen King’s On Writing.
January 2nd, 2007 at 7:11 pm
I liked King’s book too (color me surprised), but my favorite writer’s book remains The Elements of Style by Strunk & White.
Straightforward (if a little straightjacketed by today’s standards), it’s all a writer needs.
Well, that and the will to write.
January 2nd, 2007 at 7:26 pm
I was inspired by Peter Bowerman’s ‘The Well-Fed Writer’. His conversational tone and sense of humour gave me the motivation I needed to start my writing business.
January 3rd, 2007 at 5:15 am
The writer on writing I would recommend is Julia Cameron. Both The Artist’s Way and Walking in this World are superb. But the one I’m reading and working with at the moment - The Right to Write - is especially powerful in developing the mindset and habits of being a writer.
January 3rd, 2007 at 7:05 am
I’d like to throw another Julia Cameron book into the pile, The Right to Write. Also I’m a huge fan of Marcia Yudkin. Her book on Writing to Persuade is priceless, and Website Makeover is also one of those books I’ve used so much the cover is about to fall off.
Then there is the writing factory himself, Roberty Bly. Anything by Bob is great.
Charles Brown
January 3rd, 2007 at 11:24 am
Richard Bayan’s Words That Sell has long been the most-used reference on my bookshelf. Presents word lists to describe product characteristics and phrases for openers, closers, and other types of promotional text.
Janice King, Author
Copywriting That Sells High Tech
www.writinghightech.com
January 3rd, 2007 at 1:29 pm
Over the last 12 months I have read a number of good books on writing, but I would have to say that ‘The Renegade Writer’ by Linda Formichelli and Diana Burrell would be my top pick. This was the first book I came across that said it was okay to think outside the square and break the rules when creating a freelance writing career. It’s become my bible.
Liz Lewis
January 3rd, 2007 at 2:27 pm
My favorite writing book is “The Elements of Copywriting” by Gary Blake and Bob Bly. For less than $20 you gain more solid copywriting knowledge than you can from some copywriting courses and seminars that cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
January 3rd, 2007 at 6:27 pm
I love these book lists!
I’m not a writer (yet) but have a ton of books on writing, sales, marketing, and copywriting. I’ve enjoyed Bowerman, Bly (and Blake with Bly), Yudkin, and King. I believe I even ran across an endorsement for Janice King’s book (mentioned above). Ah, now I remember. It was in Michael’s “Writing White Papers Book” which I just got in the mail today and am perusing.
But one of my favorite books is “Advertising Secrets of the Written Word” by Joe Sugarman of JS&A catalog and BluBlockers fame. I always admired and was fascinated by his catalogs way back when. Couldn’t put the book down.
By the way, the book is newly reincarnated (or at least it appears) as “The AdWeek Copywriting Handbook”.
January 3rd, 2007 at 7:34 pm
I agree with Steve Slaunwhite — I regularly refer people to the “Elements of Copywriting.” My copy is full of margin notes and underlinings. The other book I recommend *all the time* is Bly’s book, “Secrets of Freelance Writer.” Another good one, of a similar nature, is “Solo Success” by David Perlstein.
January 3rd, 2007 at 7:37 pm
PS — I forgot to add my favorite book of all, and one I used when teaching marketing writing: “Ogilvy on Advertising.” Also, don’t forget the ” Copy Workshop Workbook” by Bruce Bendinger.
January 4th, 2007 at 3:02 am
I have three favorite books. One is “If You Want to Write” by Brenda Uehland and my top favorite on the business side beyond all of Bob Bly’s is Nick Usborne’s “Net Words”.
And I just finished reading a stellar book, “the War of Art: Break Through The Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles” by Stephen Pressfield. I’m going to interview him in a couple weeks and the book is truly inspiring.
January 4th, 2007 at 8:22 am
Michael,
I have a shelf full of reference books for writing, publishing, and marketing, but the book I turn to more often than those books specifically designed for the craft of writing is one that was written for actors.
“Audition: Everything you need to know to get the part” by Michael Shurtleff is a book that I adore. No it is not falling apart because I have never held onto my copy for very long. I sing its praises and wind up loaning it to people and having to buy replacement copies. I never get it back.
I’ve probably bought that book ten times over, and it is the same version it was when it was first published in 1978 and it has never changed publishers or gone out of print. The mark of a classic backlist title.
Why do I like this book so much? Because Shurtleff gives examples of how actors should examine scripts and find the gold between the lines. He talks of how to build relationships, imagine the place the action takes place, and insists that actors fight for what they want.
I look at his book as telling actors what they should look for in scripts, and inversely what writers should put into their stories.
There is one line he used that has become my mantra in writing: “Conflict is drama.”
I love it and I doubt that many other writers will have heard of this book unless they decide to glean the drama shelves in their book stores as well as they look over the writing/publishing shelves.
Linda McCabe
http://lcmccabe.blogspot.com
January 4th, 2007 at 10:23 am
I haven’t read the book Linda recommends (yet) but I have used an actor’s strategy for getting into the minds of my intended readers for a long time now.
I remember wondering how really good actors could shed tears on cue (without the use of onions or water spray) for years before I read about the Stanislovsky method (called method acting). Now when I am beginning a copywriting project I write out a long list of what my readers want and why.
This helps me to see how to write my copy so that it targets readers wants and needs. Back in September I wrote an article on my blog about how the actor Forrest Whitaker uses these same techniques to prepare for a role. (see How a “Method Actor’s” Techniques Can Help Write Better Copy).
The take away here is that writers pull from so many places to write. No random bit of knowledge ever seems wasted for a writer.
Charles Brown
January 4th, 2007 at 2:35 pm
For children’s writers, I love Nancy Lamb’s book, The Writer’s Guide to Crafting Stories for Children. Also, Self-Editing for Fiction Writers by Renni Browne and Dave King is great, and of course The First Five Pages, by Noah Lukeman rocks.
January 4th, 2007 at 4:35 pm
While I second the noms for “The Renegade Writer” and anything by Marcia Yudkin, I’d go with Anne Lamott’s “Bird by Bird.”
She is screamingly funny and self-deprecating, and it’s so nice to know that she, too, writes “Sh**tty First Drafts” (one of the book’s chapters.)
January 4th, 2007 at 7:00 pm
The best book for writers in the world is Matin Vivaldi´s “Curso de redacción” -at least, the most effective one. Sorry, no English version of it; though it´d work perfectly for any writer of any language, provided that he/she can read in Spanish, elementary, Watson. (Would King bitch about that “perfectly?” I doubt it.)
Anyway, that´s the best book -a real bible on writing-, take it or leave it. You can ask any Spanish-speaking colleague if you want; and I mean, any. But since I´m beginning to sense it won´t get too many votes here, I´m going to cast mine for “Bird by Bird”, by Anne Lamott. That´s the best book for writers I´ve ever read in English, no question about it. I´m surprised nobody here mentioned it. It´s so much better than King´s, whom, for my taste, comes up rather empty in his memoir of the craft.
So that´s my pick: “Bird by Bird”, Anne Lamott.
January 5th, 2007 at 7:07 am
I keep the writing books written by Linda Formichellli and Diana Burrell (co-authors) and Kelly James-Enger on my desk at all times. I have encouraged other freelancers to purchase these books, and if they can’t afford to buy one (because they aren’t selling enough articles and are lacking $$$$), then I loan mine out for a few days.
So, here’s my list:
The Renegade Writer — Formichelli/Burrell
The Renegade Writer Query Letters that Rock — Formichelli/Burrell
Ready, Aim, Specialize — James-Enger
Six Figure Freelancing — James-Enger
January 5th, 2007 at 7:23 am
For the attitude and breaking into writing markets: “The Renegade Writer” by Linda Formichellli and Diana Burrell
For pure writing inspiration: “The Artist’s Way” by Julia Cameron
January 5th, 2007 at 7:28 am
William Zinsser’s On Writing Well is my essential writing reference. I try to reread it at least once a year. Aimed at nonfiction writers, its advice is equally applicable to fiction.
Second and third for me would be Strunk & White’s Elements of Style and Stephen King’s On Writing Well, as previously mentioned.
January 5th, 2007 at 8:13 am
As already mentioned, The Renegade Writer by Linda Formichelli and Diana Burrell is one of the best because it offers creative solutions to writing issues, as well as challenging many writing myths. My copy is well-worn.
January 5th, 2007 at 8:20 am
Three recommendations (though I confess I’m eager to go out and buy at least of a few that folks have suggested here):
The Renegade Writer — Formichelli and Burrell, which is liberating and has a ton of useful tips for a new freelancer.
Writing Successful Self-Help and How-To Books — Jean Marie Stine, which has a new and very helpful take on a tired topic.
Secrets of Screenplay Structure — Linda Cowgill, which really goes beyond screenwriting; it is a very sophisticated treatment of structure in writing and how it works for the audience; found it immensely helpful in writing everything from a novel to a short how-to article.
January 5th, 2007 at 8:50 am
I vote for Formichelli and Burrell’s two books: The Renegade Writer & Renegade Writer’s Query Letters That Rock
And a second vote for Kelly James Enger’s Six Figure Freelancing.
January 5th, 2007 at 9:07 am
I vote for Linda Formichelli and Diana Burrell’s “The Renegade Writer.” It is a fantasic book filled with practical advice. My second choice would be “Write Faster, Write Better” by David Fryxell. It’s a book that will help keep your writing strong and your deadlines met.
January 5th, 2007 at 9:29 am
My vote goes to “The Renegade Writer” by Linda Formichelli and Diana Burrell. I keep my own copy at hand and have given out many copies as gifts to fellow professionals and to aspiring writers. I am also a fan of Anne Lamott’s “Bird by Bird,” another wonderful book. However, “Renegard” is the hands-down first choice, in my opinion, for anyone serious about pursuing a freelance writing career. And it’s a great read besides!
January 5th, 2007 at 9:39 am
I love Anne Lamott “Bird by Bird” too and had an opportunity to interview her years ago and she truly is one of the most insightful writers I’ve met and down to earth.
January 5th, 2007 at 9:44 am
Wow. I guess I need to pick up a copy of “The Renegade Writer.” I also am currently reading “The Artist’s Way,” and highly recommend it.
However, one book writers should consider a must is “Writer’s Market.”
January 5th, 2007 at 10:10 am
I’d vote for The Renegade Writer. I also just got the new book, Query Letters that Rock by the same authors, and I haven’t finished it yet, but it’s going to be high on my recommended list, as well. Strunk & White’s Elements of Style, of course. Stephen King’s On Writing Well was a surprise for me–I’m not a horror fan, but this book is excellent.
January 5th, 2007 at 10:21 am
I dabbled at freelancing for quite a while - never quite fully understanding how to break in and make a living. I read a number of inspirational books and took a few classes but have to say ‘The Renegade Writer’ by Linda Formichelli and Diana Burrell helped put it all together for me.
January 5th, 2007 at 10:22 am
Hi All
IMPORTANT REMINDER: Only mention a single book for your nomination to be accepted.
Thanks!
Mike
January 5th, 2007 at 10:25 am
Here’s another vote for The Renegade Writer and the new one Query Letters that Rock. I’ve read other books and thought “I already know that,” but Linda and Diana bring a practical and useful voice to the market, even for full-time and experienced freelancers.
January 5th, 2007 at 10:34 am
The Renegade Writer and The Renegade Writer Query Letters that Rock by Linda Formichelli and Diana Burrell are my favorites (and I’ve read every how-to writing book on the market!). The advice is spot-on and the authors sense of humor makes these books informative AND enjoyable reads.
January 5th, 2007 at 10:42 am
OK. One book. I loved the new Renegade Writer’s Query Letters that Rock! The editors feedback on what makes a query letter ‘rock’ is invaluable.
January 5th, 2007 at 10:54 am
Please count my vote for (Formichelli & Burrell)! Their new book is fabulous too, but I’ll limit my vote to just one title as required.
January 5th, 2007 at 10:56 am
I love The Renegade Writer, by Linda Formicelli and Diana Burrell, which demystifies a lot of the rumors you hear about what to do and what not to do to be successful at freelancing.
January 5th, 2007 at 11:05 am
Somehow, the book title disappeared from my earlier post. My vote is for The Renegade Writer by Linda Formichelli and Diane Burrell.
January 5th, 2007 at 11:14 am
The Renegade Writer — Formichelli/Burrell — very useful!
January 5th, 2007 at 2:18 pm
I nominate The Renegade Writer by Linda Formichelli and Diana Burrell. I’ve been at this freelancing thing for more than 20 years and thought I’d heard it all, but Linda and Diana put a whole new and hilarious twist on the job. I love it as much for its entertainment value as for the amount of information it contains (which is considerable). A fun, fast, and amusing read, The Renegade Writer is a must have for any writer who’s serious about freelancing.
January 5th, 2007 at 2:21 pm
Formicelli and Burrell’s Query Letters That Rock offers successful queries and comments from both writers and editors to help explain the assignment process.
January 5th, 2007 at 2:39 pm
I am a Renagade fan (but I don’t like to spread it around because then too many people would benefit from their kick-ass advice.)
January 5th, 2007 at 2:40 pm
The Renegade Writer by Linda Formichelli and Diana Burrell. It’s the first book on freelancing that I ever read and I still refer to it often. It’s a must-read!
January 5th, 2007 at 3:48 pm
The Renegade Writer, by Linda Formichelli and Diana Burrell, is a must-have for any serious writer’s book shelf.
January 5th, 2007 at 7:00 pm
The Renegade Writer — candid and approachable style. Practical info you can act on–and up to date. Publishing changes quickly. Their suggestions include bios/anecdotes from other writers, which is also very helpful. Gives you other threads to follow. They lend a sense of community that’s inspiring and present writing as a colleagial profession.
January 7th, 2007 at 10:57 pm
“The Renegade Writer” by Linda Formichellli and Diana Burrell has some terrific tips, and great advice for breaking into markets.
January 8th, 2007 at 7:26 pm
I vote for “The Renegade Writer” by Linda Formichelli and Diana Burrell. I just finished reading it and I can’t wait to break all those rules. Also can’t wait to read their new book on proposal writing.
January 9th, 2007 at 9:53 am
The Well-Fed Writer by Peter Bowerman. If you want to start a freelance copywriting business, this book will make it seem like a realistic goal. It is comprehensive, encouraging and smart.
January 9th, 2007 at 2:36 pm
Thank you for all the nominations for The Renegade Writer and The Renegade Writer’s Query Letters That Rock!
Another good book I’d like to nominate is Six Figure Freelancing by Kelly James-Enger. This book gives writers advice on how to make the leap from “doing okay” to “doing great.” I just ordered her Six Figure Freelancing CD so I can get even more of a boost!
January 10th, 2007 at 9:37 am
I have to vote for Peter Bowerman’s “The Well-Fed Writer.” In addition to being an easy read, it provides useful, practical advice that I still refer to after freelancing for almost four years.
January 10th, 2007 at 9:12 pm
Thanks everyone for you nomination. We are still accepting them. - Mike Stelzner
January 10th, 2007 at 10:29 pm
Uhh, can I nominate the book I may someday write, but haven’t started?
I don’t know the topic, but I’m sure it’ll be killer.
January 14th, 2007 at 10:16 am
I have a few favorites on my shelf. But the most thoroughgoing manual for copywriters is still The Copywriter’s Handbook by Bob Bly. Especially the new edition which includes online copywriting.
November 18th, 2007 at 3:05 am
Writers’ Wonderful Web
December 11th, 2007 at 7:17 pm
Bird by Bird is interesting.