“It’s none of their business that you have to learn to write. Let them think you were born that way.”
– Ernest Hemingway
This collection of books for writers contains relevant industry information as well as passionate prose from prolific writers Personally, it’s a powerful reminder that writing is difficult for the amateur and the professional. A tribe of like-minded creatives is essential to keep you writing. If you don’t have your own group of tormented scribblers, these books are like grabbing coffee with a gifted author. Climb into the minds of some of my favorites. As an Amazon Associate, I benefit from qualifying purchases. What can I say? I’ll do anything for more books.
Bird By Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life by Anne Lamott
Anne was the first author who gave me permission to share neurotic, funny and desperate ideas behind faith and life. When you decide to write the book that’s been burning a hole in your soul but then spiral into the rabbit hole of creative insecurity. Sit down with Anne, she’s been there. When your daughter laments about her teacher grading her fist draft and angrily professes–“Grammar? First drafts are supposed to be %&$*@.” You’ll let it pass because she’s quoting Ms. Lamott. (Someone should write a book about being raised by a writer–it’d be cheaper than therapy and probably has a wider market than I could imagine.)
On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King
Another honest peek into the mind of a prolific writer including the chaos of his early years that became fodder for his startling ideas. King’s work ethic is ridiculously admirable. I’m thankful for writers who share why, and how they work.
The Writing Life by Annie Dillard
This book is as poetic as it is honest. It will soothe the writer’s nerves and lull you back into the creative groove with its delicious turn of phrase.
The Artist Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity by Julie Cameron Also: The Artist Way for Parents
This is a practical guide to turning inspiration into a regular practice. Any creative endeavor will eventually run out of steam. Cameron teaches life-giving tools to nourish your writer’s mind and soul. Filled with hands-on activities and encouragement to feed the artist in all of us.
Daily Rituals: How Artist Work by Mason Curry Daily Rituals: How Women Work by Mason Curry
Each of these books is a treasure to me. The short bios of great artists and thinkers make the perfect little push into productivity. Curry originally wrote How Artists Work and admitted that his lack of female representation spurred him to write the sequel How Women Work. His discoveries about the obstacles many women face to find time for their personal work is fascinating. An insightful contribution to the creative community.
By the Book: Writers On Literature and the Literary Life from the New York Times Book Review
Curated conversations on literature and inspiration from the most influential writers of the last 20 years including, Neil Gaiman, Joyce Carol Oats, J. K. Rowling, Colin Powell, Sheryl Sandberg.
Practically Speaking: Technical Books on Writing
The Emotions Thesaurus: A Writer’s Guide to Character Expression
A fantastic tool recommended by my tribe. I’ve used this book so often to describe physical and emotional responses.
The Business of Being a Writer by Jane Friedman
Jane is a relevant and insightful publishing writer. Her input has shaped everything from how I lead my critique group to what my website looks like.
This is currently on my nightstand and comes highly recommended by my crew of writers. Shayla is deeply invested in turning manuscript dreams into published works and helping writers flourish.
Don’t Fear the Reaper: Why Every Author Needs an Editor By Blake Atwood
Blake has been a friend and writing a resource for several years. He thoughtfully stewards passion projects into reality and got his start at Art House Dallas.
Writers Market 2020: The Most Trusted Guide to Getting Published
Spend a little time with this giant book of publishing information to build your strategic plan for 2020. Need an agent, conference, editor, publisher? This up to date guide is worth the pages it’s printed on.
Looking for a fictional escape? Try one of these international adventures for all ages.
Keep writing!
Photo by Patrick Fore
