10 Books To Help You Become A Better Writer

We all know that reading can really help us learn and grow as writers. While reading fiction, particularly in the genre we have chosen to write in can help give us ideas and inspiration, there is also a lot to be said for reading more practical guides to writing too. There are thousands of books for writers out there which can help give you insight into the industry as well as excellent writing tips and advice.

So what are the top 10 books that can help you become a better writer?

Here are some of our favourites

1. On Writing by Stephen King

“Writing isn’t about making money, getting famous, getting dates, getting laid, or making friends. In the end, it’s about enriching the lives of those who will read your work, and enriching your own life, as well. It’s about getting up, getting well, and getting over. Getting happy, okay? Getting happy.”

On Writing is one of the most revered books for writers, full of words of wisdom from one of the greats!

2. The Writers and Artists Yearbook edited by Alysoun Owen

The Writers and Artist Yearbook is one that every writer should have on their shelves. Packed with practical information and tips as well as advice from published authors, this book is ideal for anyone looking to get published. It is the directory of all publications, publishing houses, agents and so on - so you can find the best people to send your manuscript to all in one place.

3. Self-Editing for Fiction Writers by Renni Browne and Dave King

If you want to learn how to edit like a pro this book is for you. It’s fantastically written and is crammed with advice on how to polish that manuscript, so it’s in the very best shape possible - giving you the highest chance of success.

4. Story Genius by Lisa Cron

“Each thing you add to your story is a drop of paint falling into clear water; it spreads through and colors everything.”

Lisa Cron's storytelling methods are well thought out and truly unique. This book will guide writers right from the very beginnings of an idea, through to the finished piece. A must-read for anyone who wants to write a brilliant book.

5. Steering the Craft by Ursula K. LeGuin

“Ultimately you write alone. And ultimately you and you alone can judge your work. The judgment that a work is complete — this is what I meant to do, and I stand by it — can come only from the writer, and it can be made rightly only by a writer who’s learned to read her own work. Group criticism is great training for self-criticism. But until quite recently no writer had that training, and yet they learned what they needed. They learned it by doing it.”

This book makes storytelling seem simple. It’s well set out, easy to follow and will help writers of all abilities craft wish narratives and improve their use of language.

6. Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon

“Draw the art you want to see, start the business you want to run, play the music you want to hear, write the books you want to read, build the products you want to use — do the work you want to see done.”

If you are ever suffering from writer's block or have periods where you are feeling short of ideas, this clever book by Austin Kleon will help you find inspiration once more.

7. Zen in the Art of Writing by Ray Bradbury

This collection of essays by Ray Bradbury should be on every writer's nightstand and is perfect to browse through when you need a little writing pick me up as Bradbury’s love of writing shines through and can’t help but inspire us all.

8. Writing Fiction for Dummies by Peter Economy and Randall Ingermanson

If you are just starting out, Writing Fiction for Dummies covers all the basics and is a handy guide for novice writers, helping them to understand what makes good fiction writing and to avoid the oh so common traps that many writers fall into.

9. Techniques of the Selling Writer by Dwight V. Swain

If you are looking for a no-nonsense, yet highly practical guide into the art of writing and selling books then this insightful book will be right up your street.

10. Wonderbook: The Illustrated Guide to Creating Imaginative Fiction
by Jeff VanderMeer

This rather beautiful book is perfect for writers who want to tap into their creativity and write some imaginative fiction. With drawings, maps and exercises this book is perfect for those who are looking for something a little different.

These ten books are perfect for anyone who loves writing, whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro. They will help you become better, give you new perspectives and teach you not to give up.

Bethany Cadman -author of 'Doctor Vanilla's Sunflowers'

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