RESOURCES
Nothing is more important to a learning writer than books and advice from other writers. I’ve assembled some of my favorite books and blogs below.
BOOKS
I’ve read each of these books personally and have even put some of the tips and techniques into practice. They include not only craft books, but those that I feel have helped with character building, setting, or research. I hope to be adding to this list frequently.
The Emotional Craft of Fiction
Veteran literary agent and expert fiction instructor Donald Maass shows you how to use story to provoke a visceral and emotional experience in readers.
Story Genius
Following on the heels of Lisa Cron’s breakout first book, Wired for Story, this writing guide reveals how to use cognitive storytelling strategies to build a scene-by-scene blueprint for a riveting story.
Refuse To Be Done
Refuse To Be Done will guide you through every step of the novel writing process, from getting started on those first pages to the last tips for making your final draft even tighter and stronger.
If there are any books you’d like to recommend be added to this list, contact me. Although it won’t be added unless I read it, I’ll make my best effort to get it in my queue.
A few of these books you can order from my curated reading list at Writing Craft (bookshop.org), an online book retailer dedicated to supporting local bookstores.
I do make a small commission if you purchase through those links, at no cost to you or the author. Thank you for supporting independent authors, small business owners, and local bookstores!
BLOGS
I might not have been through every single article on these blogs, but they are from trusted sites.
Book Launch
Do you need help marketing your book? Of course you do! Tim Grahl has some great articles, resources, and books for you to reach your book sales goals.
Helping Writers Become Authors
K.M. Weiland’s blog is all about story structure, character arcs, and the writer’s life.
Ink and Quills
A great blog with short articles on the craft of storytelling.
Jane Friedman
This is an amazing website devoted to the business of writing. Jane has years of experience in the publishing industry and she has a TON of content. Try not to get overwhelmed!
Life Of A Storyteller
In-depth blog posts from writing, to publishing, to marketing.
Query Shark
When querying agents or publishers, this is the place to learn the how. She’s tough, so abide by her single most important rule: read every. single. post.
The Story Grid
Editor Shawn Coyne shares his 25 plus years experience through podcasts, blogs, and classes. Well worth a look to dive deeper into story than you ever imagined.
The Book Show Editor
Although no longer posting new content, they’re still relevant and one of my favorite for learning how to pre-edit your work. The podcasts are funny and informative.
The Creative Penn
Joanna Penn interviews some of the best in the industry and passes on tips about craft and how to successfully self-publish.
Well Storied
Kristen gives advice on the craft of storytelling. Follow her on her journey to writing her own novels.
Write Good Books
Jason puts things simply for the newest writer.
Writer's Digest
Articles, competitions, and education abound in this comprehensive one stop shop for writers.
Writers Helping Writers
Another comprehensive collection of posts on the writing craft and home of the Thesaurus collection of books.
If there are any blogs or websites you’ve found useful, contact me and I’ll check them out. Who knows? Maybe next time you’re back you’ll see your favorite blog has been added to the list.