#writers #research #craftbooks

After many months of reading, research, and writing, in a few days I’ll finish the first draft of my current work-in-progress. I suppose it’s technically more than a first draft since I’ve spent time going back to polish and tweak earlier chapters. My major dilemma is there are so many fascinating things about this character, it’s hard not to include all of them. I’ll have tough choices to make when I go over the manuscript.

Here’s another image from my research trip. This is Sissy, the sweet and helpful co-tour director, who bounded all over the grounds with me and tagged along as I traipsed through the house. She pointed out all her favorite areas, had a marvelous attitude, and her fees are quite reasonable. She doesn’t accept tips – only belly rubs. 🙂 Don’t you love her smile?

Now on to other news. Recently, I wrote an article for the Saturday Writers’ newsletter. It’s geared toward writers, but I’m sharing it here because I think the topic is interesting for anyone who enjoys a well-written book.

If I’ve forgotten your favorite, please do us all a favor and mention it in the comments!

My Six Favorite Writing Craft Books 

It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say there are probably a few hundred tomes that have been published on writing. The choices can be overwhelming, so I’d like to make the decision a tad easier. Here are the books I can personally recommend as enlightening, entertaining, and useful.

Everyone has a favorite writing book. Will yours make my list?

1. On Writing by Stephen King. Don’t expect to be scared silly. This isn’t horror, it’s the Big Kahuna of memoir/writing books. I read On Writing years ago, and can honestly say King’s work is the one that inspired me to believe writing wasn’t only a foolish dream. I’m not alone. Published in 2000, this little opus has sold more than 350 million copies. If you haven’t read On Writing yet, what are you waiting for?
2. Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott. Oh, the angst of writing. Lamott explores the ups and downs that happen to every writer, especially when real life problems get in the way of progress. I recognize myself in many of the topics she tackles, and her talent at turning lemons into lemonade with wry humor is what I love most about reading her work. Be forewarned: Lamott writes in a gritty style and never hesitates to use salty language.
3. Naked, Drunk, and Writing by Adair Lara. The title alone was enough to sell me on this one, and clearly shows Lara has a great sense of humor. This book helped me learn to think about essays in ways I hadn’t considered before. For anyone interested in writing memoir or personal essay, this is a most worthwhile read.
4. Super Structure by James Scott Bell. I am a definite planner, and I merrily underlined many of Bell’s suggestions. He claims his method of structuring works equally well for plotters (like me) as well as pantsers (those who like to write by the seat of their pants). Bell has written a number of craft books, but this one is by far my favorite.
5. Self-Publisher’s Legal Handbook by Helen Sedwick. While not quite as entertaining as some of my other choices, this is a must-have if you are considering self-publishing. Sedwick has over thirty years of legal experience, and although laws in each state are different, she does an excellent job at giving an overall view of items such as copyright, taxes, collaborations, and dealing with contractors. She also writes in a down-to-earth way that is highly readable.
6. Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi’s Thesaurus series. Ackerman and Puglisi have created a fabulous library of books that are indispensable for writers. Do you need ideas on how to show your character is frightened? Check out The Emotion Thesaurus. Want to realistically paint a country scene? Try The Rural Setting Thesaurus. How can you add a few flaws to a character? Check out The Negative Trait Thesaurus. There are seven books in the series, and guess what? I own every one of them.

Now that I’ve given you a few starter ideas, don’t procrastinate. We’re in the dog days of summer, so grab a book that adds to your knowledge base, layer on the sunblock, and read while you sip a margarita. Doesn’t that sound like a delightful way for any writer to end the hot and sweaty summer season?

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Pat Wahler is the author of Western Fictioneers’ Best First Novel of 2018 and Walter Williams Award Winner, I am Mrs. Jesse James. She is also the author of an award-winning contemporary romance series, The Becker Family Novels, and a Readers’ Favorite holiday-themed story collection, Let Your Heart Be Light: A Celebration of Christmas.