What books have helped you?

[sobresaliente]

By this I mean what books have helped you with your writing? Have you read any books on writing? How did it affect your writing?

I'm just wondering...I recently bought some books to help get me focused on writing, and how to make it better. I have never really tried to actually make something of what I write other than what I have written in school.

I have always been intrigues with the art of it all and creating a whole new place with people you create even if it's only in your mind. I don't know if I ever want to publish anything, I think I want to start as a hobby and try to improve my skills by writing and also reading some books that will help me in areas I struggle with...I'm not exactly sure what those are yet, since I just started on my fist short story, but I'll find out I'm sure...I am also doing writing excercises that are helping me find where I want to go with my writing.

Thanks so much to all who respond.

May you all be blessed,
Sobresaliente

 

[wgjones3]

Stephen King's "On Writing." The first part of the book is a memoir. I skipped it. After the little anticdote about his aunt sitting on his head and farting, I'd had enough. The second part of the book is an actual writer's handbook. Very useful. The man is a genius, even if you don't particularly like his work.

Stunk and White's "The Elements of Style." Buy it. Read it. Learn it. Know it. It's one of the best english textbooks I've ever seen.

I've read others, but those two contained the most relevant information for me.