Welcome to the ultimate list of books about writing!
If you are looking for guidance and inspiration, then get your hands on these books for writers. Whether you’re just getting started or an absolute pro, you’ll find a book to give you that much needed boost.
Wonderbook
If you’re looking for some creative inspiration and a detailed exploration of the writing process then this is definitely the book for you. It is primarily focused on creative fiction writing but some of the principles can be applied more generally as well. This book is gorgeous and is a bible for creatives.
Complete Creative Writing Course
I’ve had this one out the library for months now as it is such a great reference book to have on hand. This book is packed full of information and exercises for a huge variety of styles of writing. It breaks down the technical details of writing, such as grammar, nouns, verbs etc and adds in ‘workshops’ for each of the hefty 21 chapters.
The Writer's Tale
In case you can’t tell from the picture above, this is one chunk of a book. And each word of it is complete gold. This is not a book about Doctor Who really, it is about writing. So don’t worry if you haven’t seen the show at all, instead it is a fascinating overview of creating and writing this juggernaut TV show from start to finish. It is funny, inspiring, and heartwarming and the perfect behind-the-scenes look at the writing process.
Back to Creative Writing School
For those needing a push, this book is a great way to get those creative juices flowing. Laid out into three ‘terms, each chapter is a lesson and exercise to try out yourself. It’s a cool way to prompt you into the habit of writing and seeing where you end up.
Everybody Writes
I am a writer. I didn’t grasp that until I read this book. But most importantly, so are you. Everybody is a writer! In the same way you are a reader if you read, no matter what you’re reading. If you write in anyway, even just answering emails, you are a writer. Everybody Writes is perhaps one of my favourite writing books and super easy to read. If you’re going to pick up any book from this list, make it this one.
The Artist's Way
The Artist’s Way… but I’m not an artist, I’m a writer. Well, same difference as what they have in common is creativity. This book is renowned for awakening readers around the world. It is essentially a 12 week course to help unlock your inner creative self and is very motivational.
How To Write Better Essays
This may seem like an odd choice for the list, but stick with me. My writing until recently has been mainly academic, having spent about 20 years in education. I don’t think I’ve ever written more in my life than in my third year at University and this book got me through. What I learnt about structuring and technique from this book has stayed with me until this day. The basic principles are important to get right and so it’s worth considering reading ‘out the box’ when it comes to books about writing.
The Creative Writing Coursebook
This coursebook leads you through the writing process like an old friend. Beginning with how to get started, all the way to publishing, this is the ultimate guide to writing a novel. It’s written less like a text book and more like a general non-fiction book, but with some exercises thrown in for good measure.
The Geek's Guide to the Writing Life
This book is less about how to write and more about being a writer. It is for those writing geeks who want to learn and be entertained by all things writing. For a boost of energy and motivation this is a book that tells it like it is, sharing tips and thoughts on all things writing.
Big Magic
I first read this as an audiobook which is read by Gilbert herself and it was an experience like no other! Never have I felt more inspired and in tune with my creative self than when reading this book. Big Magic is about living as a creative and tapping in to the energy that is inside all of us. Gilbert is the writing coach we all need and deserve.
