Favorite Writing Manuals

Undergraduate fiction writing classes are full of questions like, Is it possible to learn to write? Or is it a gift - you have it or you don’t?

All I can say is that if you love to write, and seemingly can’t stop doing it, you are a writer. And if you want to be a good writer, you should probably get professional help.

Seriously, you should probably find someone to teach you more about the art of writing, whether you find that person by way of a writing manual, or at an MFA program.

And since scientists have determined that it takes 10 years to build competence in anything, you might as well start now. Here are a few places to begin:

The Art of Fiction by John Gardner

If I were stuck on a desert island with only one fiction writing manual, it would be this one.

What If? by Anne Bernays and Pamela Painter
This one has a lot of fun exercises for the beginning writer. Also helpful for anyone who feels stuck.

Alone With All That Could Happen by David Jauss
Each essay discusses issues of relevance for the intermediate writer with clarity and wisdom. A must-read.

Mr. Potato Head vs. Freud by Clint McCown
Okay, admittedly, I haven’t read this one yet, but this author is hilarious and it’s on my shelf, so check it out!