I’m a proponent of well-refined books of time-tested ideas. Recently, many books lack these former fundamental properties. But because finishing a book means capturing the right ways to say what can change readers’ lives, I’ve whittled my long list of writer-help books down to the ones I think you need to read, regardless of what you write. Not only have they been the most helpful to me as a writer, editor, and author coach over the past 20 years, I’ve seen countless writers apply their advice and go on to create careful, beautiful, and sometimes even top-selling work.
Bird by Bird, Anne Lamott
Have a book inside you? Bird by Bird will get it out. How to capture a vision, eliminate distractions, overcome obstacles and finish.
The Artist’s Way, Julia Cameron
The seminal work on establishing the creative habit, and an international bestseller, millions of readers have used this invaluable guide to develop their process.
The War of Art, Steven Pressfield
Bestselling novelist and screenwriter Steven Pressfield identified the resistance we all must face, and outlined a completely genius battle plan to conquer it.
Walking on Water, Madeline L’Engle
By the beloved author of A Wrinkle In Time, this book just makes you want to write.
Letters to a Young Poet, Rainer Maria Rilke
Rilke’s timeless letters about writing, sensitive observation, and the complex workings of the heart and mind of writers. This inspiring, insightful book is one I read every year.
