Resources

Best Books

On Writing by Stephen King Part memoir, part how-to, this is one of the best books on writing. There is no secret formula, no one template for becoming a writer, but by learning about the processes of other writers and authors, we can learn things to try. Writing is a lot of trial and error, and you won’t know what works for you until you try.
Wired For Story by Lisa Cron This book explores the evolution of the writer from the early stages of storytelling and what lives in our cellular memories. Includes exercises.
Save the Cat! By Blake Snyder This classic gives the 15 story beats needed for a good screenplay. You can’t paint like Picasso until you know the basics. This book stays in print for a reason, and the lessons within are adaptable to non-screenplay writing, as well. Accompanying website provides even more instruction and examples.
Save the Cat! Writes a Novel by Jessica Brody Need some assistance adapting the story beats to a novel? Jessica Brody is here.
No Plot? No Problem! By Chris Baty This 30-day novel-writing boot camp became the international program, NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) and will give you the kick in the pants you might need.