Books on Craft
Plotting + Structure
A solid plot and structure are the backbone of any great story. These books offer invaluable insights into crafting compelling narratives, whether you’re outlining your first draft or fine-tuning your story’s pacing and flow.
by Lisa Cron
Lisa Cron’s Story Genius delves into the psychology behind great storytelling, helping you plot your story by understanding your protagonist’s internal journey. It’s perfect for writers looking to build solid, emotionally engaging structures.
Why I recommend it: It offers a fresh approach to plotting by focusing on the internal motivations that drive characters and story events.
by Blake Snyder
This book breaks down the essential “beats” or plot points that should appear in any well-crafted story. Though originally for screenwriters, its principles are just as effective for novelists.
Why I recommend it: If you enjoy having a clear, structured roadmap for your stories, this is a fantastic resource.
by John Truby
Truby’s The Anatomy of Story goes beyond basic structure, offering in-depth advice on crafting characters, themes, and plot. It’s ideal for writers who want to dig deep into storytelling and create complex, layered narratives.
Why I recommend it: It’s comprehensive, with a focus on the broader, intricate elements of storytelling that will elevate your work.
by Robert McKee
McKee’s Story is an essential read for anyone serious about understanding story structure. While it was written for screenwriters, its principles are universally applicable, covering everything from plot to character arcs.
Why I recommend it: If you want to learn the nuts and bolts of great storytelling and dive into the technical aspects of plot, this is your go-to guide.
Character Development
Characters are the heart of any story, and these books dive deep into creating complex, believable individuals that readers will connect with. Whether you’re building your protagonist or exploring secondary characters, these resources will help you bring them to life with depth and authenticity.
by Dwight V. Swain
Swain’s guide to character creation is one of the most practical resources for writing multidimensional characters. He provides step-by-step exercises to help you develop fully realized characters with depth.
Why I recommend it: This book is a go-to for writers who want to understand how to build characters that feel real and engaging.
by Donald Maass
The Emotional Craft of Fiction teaches writers how to evoke emotion in readers by delving deep into character psychology. Maass explains how to make readers emotionally invested in your story, making your characters’ journeys feel personal and impactful.
Why I recommend it: If you want to take your characters from “good” to unforgettable, this book is a must.
by David Corbett
Corbett’s The Art of Character is a deep dive into creating complex, authentic characters. He focuses on the emotional and psychological layers that make characters resonate with readers.
Why I recommend it: This book is ideal for writers who want to enrich their characters with depth and subtlety, going beyond basic traits and motivations.
General Craft
Mastering the fundamentals of writing is key to becoming a stronger storyteller. This section covers everything from writing basics to refining your unique style, offering timeless wisdom that can elevate every aspect of your craft.
by Stephen King
Stephen King’s On Writing is both a memoir and a writing guide. King shares insights on his own writing journey and offers no-nonsense advice on everything from character development to pacing.
Why I recommend it: A blend of storytelling and craft advice, it’s a great read for writers of all genres.
by Anne Lamott
With humor and wisdom, Anne Lamott’s Bird by Bird offers practical advice on writing and the writing life. It’s an inspirational and comforting read for anyone navigating the ups and downs of the creative process.
Why I recommend it: Lamott’s honesty and humor make this book a great resource for writers struggling with self-doubt or creative blocks.
by Ursula K. Le Guin
In Steering the Craft, Ursula K. Le Guin brings a mix of practical exercises and philosophical reflection on the craft of writing. It’s ideal for writers looking for both structure and depth.
Why I recommend it: Le Guin’s expertise and thoughtfulness provide a refreshing, thoughtful perspective on the writer’s craft.