Theresa’s Favorite Writing Books
Plot & Structure by James Scott Bell
A new book I recently discovered, that has terrific section on how to generate new story ideas, but also asks wonderful questions that are essential that you figure out ahead of time so that you really “know” your book and characters so when you do sit down to write, it’ll be easier.
Writing The Breakout Novel by Donald Maass
Book I come back to before starting a new story for inspiration and to remind me of the basics and goals in writing a bestseller.
The Making of a Bestseller by Brian Hill and Dee Power
Book I come back to before starting a new story. A fascinating book that relates success stories from authors and editors, agents and booksellers behind them.
Dare to be a Great Writer by Leonard Bishop
Book I come back to before starting a new story. Comprehensive writing and publishing business organized in a different way
How to Tell a Story
by Peter Rubie and Gary Provost
Book I come back to before starting a new story. Clear, concise reminder of the basics.
GMC, Goal, Motivation & Conflict by Debra Dixon
My epiphany book that taught me basic story structure and plotting
Story by Robert McKee
A screenwriting book that every
fiction writer should read to help develop masterful plotting and wonderful
characters. Contemporary readers demand
that stories be told quickly. They want
to be sucked in and whirled through a captivating story. Film media has a very finite time schedule;
therefore successful screenwriters are masters at making each word count. They are masters of characterization,
plotting and dialogue.
Creating Unforgettable Characters by Linda Seger
Great for learning characterization
The Writer’s Journey by Christopher Vogler
A classic
Techniques of the Selling Writer by Dwight Swain
Classic How to book
Lessons From a Lifetime of Writing by David Morrell
For Inspiration & realism. Interesting view of the writing life and the process behind it.
On Writing by Stephen King
For inspiration & realism. Interesting view of the writing life and the process behind it from one of the most well-respected contemporary literary talents.
Guide to Literary Agents by Writer’s Digest Chuck Sambuchino, Editor
Comes out every year, and it’s the best resource for information on literary agents—both script, fiction and nonfiction and literary conferences.
How to be Your Own Literary Agent by Richard Curtis
Wonderful way to understand the publishing world, literary contracts and negotiation techniques