Books Like...
Refuse to Be Done by Matt Bell is a comprehensive guide for writers of all levels, offering practical advice and exercises to navigate the process of drafting and editing a novel. Bell's writing style is engaging, inspirational, and filled with expert tips on how to improve writing skills and elevate the quality of a manuscript. The book is structured in a way that guides readers through different stages of novel writing, from creating a first draft to revising and polishing the final product.
If you liked Refuse to Be Done, here are the top 5 books to read next:
'Writing Down the Bones: Freeing the Writer Within' by Natalie Goldberg is a book that combines writing advice with Zen teachings to inspire and guide writers on their creative journey. The book is filled with writing prompts, personal stories, and practical tips to help writers overcome blocks, tap into their creativity, and develop a regular writing practice. Goldberg's writing style is described as simple, inspiring, and nurturing, focusing more on the mindset and process of writing rather than technical aspects.
AYEAR AGO on a December night in Santa Fe, New Mexico, I attended the birthday party of a young filmmaker I had known only briefly. For about half an hour I stood near the buffet table in conversation...'Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life' by Anne Lamott is a humorous and candid guide to the writing process, intertwined with insightful anecdotes and practical advice for aspiring writers. Lamott's writing style is described as witty, tender, funny, and forthright, making the book an enjoyable and engaging read. Through personal stories and reflections on life, Lamott offers a unique perspective on the challenges and joys of being a writer, blending writing advice with life lessons in a relatable and honest manner.
The book delves into the nuances of the writing life, exploring topics such as the creative process, self-doubt, and the importance of perseverance. Lamott's narrative style is described as enchanting, blackly funny, and like a conversation with a close friend, creating a sense of intimacy and connection with readers. By sharing her own experiences and insights, Lamott encourages readers to embrace the messy and imperfect nature of writing, inspiring them to find their voice and navigate the complexities of both writing and living.
The very first thing I tell my new students on the first day of a workshop is that good writing is about telling the truth. We are a species that needs and wants to understand who we are. Sheep lice d...- #3
Save:'A Swim in a Pond in the Rain' by George Saunders is a masterclass on writing, reading, and life, based on his experiences teaching Russian short stories at Syracuse University. The book delves into seven iconic short stories by Russian masters like Chekhov, Tolstoy, Turgenev, and Gogol, offering critical analysis and insights on character development, narrative construction, and plot escalation. Saunders encourages readers to find their own writerly voice through revision and close examination of literary works, emphasizing the importance of understanding the subtleties of storytelling.
For the last twenty years, at Syracuse University, I’ve been teaching a class in the nineteenth-century Russian short story in translation. My students are some of the best young writers in America. (... - #4
Save:'On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft' by Stephen King is a unique blend of memoir and writing advice. It delves into King's journey as a writer, offering insights into his life experiences that shaped his craft. The book is written in King's signature readable style, making it an engaging read for both aspiring writers and fans of the author. It covers topics ranging from practical writing strategies to personal anecdotes, creating a rich tapestry of storytelling and guidance.
A year or so later, my mother, my brother, and I were in West De Pere, Wisconsin. I don’t know why. Another of my mother’s sisters, Cal (a WAAC beauty queen during World War II), lived in Wisconsin wi... Readers find 'Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear' by Elizabeth Gilbert to be a delightful and insightful read that delves into the realm of creativity and living a fulfilling life. Through a mix of personal anecdotes and practical advice, Gilbert encourages readers to embrace their creative instincts and pursue their passions without the burden of financial expectations. The book emphasizes the importance of working hard, overcoming failures, and finding joy in the creative process, making it a valuable resource for aspiring writers, artists, and musicians.
Jack Gilbert was a great poet, but if you’ve never heard of him, don’t worry about it. It’s not your fault. He never much cared about being known. But I knew about him, and I loved him dearly from a r...
