Best Books on How to Write a Novel: Because Even Shakespeare Needed a Ghostwriter

Writing a novel is a journey that requires not just creativity but also a deep understanding of the craft. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or a novice, the right guidance can make all the difference. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best books on how to write a novel, offering insights and techniques that can help you navigate the complex world of storytelling.
1. “On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft” by Stephen King
Stephen King’s “On Writing” is a must-read for anyone serious about writing. Part memoir, part masterclass, King shares his personal journey and offers practical advice on the art of writing. He emphasizes the importance of reading widely and writing consistently, advocating for a disciplined approach to the craft.
2. “The Elements of Style” by William Strunk Jr. and E.B. White
While not exclusively about novel writing, “The Elements of Style” is an indispensable guide for any writer. This classic book covers the fundamentals of English grammar and style, helping writers to communicate their ideas clearly and effectively. A strong grasp of these basics is essential for crafting compelling narratives.
3. “Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life” by Anne Lamott
Anne Lamott’s “Bird by Bird” is a heartfelt and humorous guide to writing. Lamott encourages writers to take their work one step at a time, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and self-compassion. Her advice on dealing with writer’s block and the inner critic is particularly valuable.
4. “Save the Cat! Writes a Novel” by Jessica Brody
Based on Blake Snyder’s famous screenwriting guide, “Save the Cat! Writes a Novel” adapts the principles of storytelling structure for novelists. Brody breaks down the essential beats of a successful story, providing a clear roadmap for writers to follow. This book is especially useful for those who struggle with plotting.
5. “The Hero with a Thousand Faces” by Joseph Campbell
Joseph Campbell’s exploration of the monomyth, or the hero’s journey, has influenced countless writers. “The Hero with a Thousand Faces” delves into the universal patterns found in myths and stories across cultures. Understanding these archetypes can help writers create more resonant and impactful narratives.
6. “Writing Down the Bones: Freeing the Writer Within” by Natalie Goldberg
Natalie Goldberg’s “Writing Down the Bones” is a celebration of the writing process. Goldberg encourages writers to embrace their creativity and let go of self-doubt. Her exercises and prompts are designed to unlock the writer’s inner voice and foster a more intuitive approach to storytelling.
7. “The Art of Fiction: Notes on Craft for Young Writers” by John Gardner
John Gardner’s “The Art of Fiction” is a comprehensive guide to the craft of writing. Gardner covers everything from character development to narrative structure, offering detailed advice and examples. His emphasis on the importance of technique and discipline makes this book a valuable resource for aspiring novelists.
8. “Story Genius: How to Use Brain Science to Go Beyond Outlining and Write a Riveting Novel” by Lisa Cron
Lisa Cron’s “Story Genius” takes a unique approach to novel writing by incorporating insights from neuroscience. Cron argues that understanding how the brain processes stories can help writers create more engaging and emotionally resonant narratives. Her method focuses on developing a deep connection between the protagonist and the reader.
9. “The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles” by Steven Pressfield
Steven Pressfield’s “The War of Art” is a battle cry for writers struggling with resistance. Pressfield identifies the internal and external forces that hinder creativity and offers strategies for overcoming them. His no-nonsense approach is both motivating and empowering.
10. “Steering the Craft: A Twenty-First-Century Guide to Sailing the Sea of Story” by Ursula K. Le Guin
Ursula K. Le Guin’s “Steering the Craft” is a practical guide to the nuts and bolts of writing. Le Guin covers topics such as point of view, sentence structure, and narrative voice, providing exercises to help writers hone their skills. Her wisdom and experience shine through in this concise and insightful book.
11. “The Anatomy of Story: 22 Steps to Becoming a Master Storyteller” by John Truby
John Truby’s “The Anatomy of Story” is a detailed and systematic approach to storytelling. Truby outlines 22 steps to crafting a compelling narrative, from developing a premise to creating complex characters. His method is particularly useful for writers who prefer a structured approach to plotting.
12. “The Writer’s Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers” by Christopher Vogler
Christopher Vogler’s “The Writer’s Journey” is another exploration of the hero’s journey, tailored specifically for writers. Vogler breaks down the stages of the monomyth and provides examples from popular films and novels. This book is a great resource for understanding the underlying structure of successful stories.
13. “Writing the Breakout Novel” by Donald Maass
Donald Maass’s “Writing the Breakout Novel” is aimed at writers who want to take their work to the next level. Maass offers practical advice on creating high-stakes plots, developing memorable characters, and crafting scenes that keep readers hooked. His insights are based on years of experience as a literary agent.
14. “The Emotional Craft of Fiction: How to Write the Story Beneath the Surface” by Donald Maass
In “The Emotional Craft of Fiction,” Donald Maass delves into the emotional core of storytelling. Maass argues that the most compelling stories are those that resonate on an emotional level. He provides techniques for creating deep emotional connections between characters and readers.
15. “The First Five Pages: A Writer’s Guide to Staying Out of the Rejection Pile” by Noah Lukeman
Noah Lukeman’s “The First Five Pages” focuses on the critical importance of a strong opening. Lukeman offers practical tips for crafting compelling beginnings that grab the reader’s attention and set the tone for the rest of the novel. This book is particularly useful for writers looking to make a strong first impression.
16. “The Sense of Style: The Thinking Person’s Guide to Writing in the 21st Century” by Steven Pinker
Steven Pinker’s “The Sense of Style” is a modern take on the classic style guide. Pinker combines linguistic theory with practical advice, offering insights into how to write clearly and effectively in the digital age. His emphasis on clarity and coherence is invaluable for writers of all genres.
17. “The Writing Life” by Annie Dillard
Annie Dillard’s “The Writing Life” is a poetic and philosophical exploration of the writer’s journey. Dillard reflects on the challenges and rewards of writing, offering a deeply personal perspective on the creative process. Her lyrical prose and profound insights make this book a source of inspiration for writers.
18. “The Art of Character: Creating Memorable Characters for Fiction, Film, and TV” by David Corbett
David Corbett’s “The Art of Character” is a comprehensive guide to character development. Corbett explores the psychological and emotional dimensions of creating believable and compelling characters. His practical exercises and examples help writers bring their characters to life.
19. “The Modern Library Writer’s Workshop: A Guide to the Craft of Fiction” by Stephen Koch
Stephen Koch’s “The Modern Library Writer’s Workshop” is a practical guide to the craft of fiction. Koch covers a wide range of topics, from generating ideas to revising drafts. His advice is grounded in the realities of the writing process, making this book a valuable resource for writers at any stage.
20. “The Paris Review Interviews” (Various Authors)
The Paris Review Interviews offer a unique glimpse into the minds of some of the greatest writers of our time. These interviews provide valuable insights into the creative process, offering inspiration and guidance for aspiring novelists. Reading about the experiences and techniques of successful writers can be both enlightening and motivating.
Related Q&A
Q: How do I choose the right book on writing for my needs? A: Consider your specific goals and challenges as a writer. If you’re struggling with structure, books like “Save the Cat! Writes a Novel” or “The Anatomy of Story” might be helpful. If you’re looking for inspiration and motivation, “Bird by Bird” or “The War of Art” could be more suitable.
Q: Can reading books on writing really improve my skills? A: Absolutely. Books on writing provide valuable insights, techniques, and exercises that can help you refine your craft. However, the key is to apply what you learn through consistent practice and writing.
Q: Are there any books on writing that focus specifically on genre fiction? A: Yes, many books cater to specific genres. For example, “Writing the Breakout Novel” by Donald Maass offers advice that can be applied to various genres, while “The Emotional Craft of Fiction” delves into creating emotional depth, which is crucial in genre fiction.
Q: How important is it to read widely as a writer? A: Reading widely is essential for any writer. It exposes you to different styles, voices, and storytelling techniques, which can enrich your own writing. As Stephen King advises in “On Writing,” “If you don’t have time to read, you don’t have the time (or the tools) to write.”
Q: What should I do if I feel overwhelmed by all the advice in these books? A: It’s natural to feel overwhelmed, but remember that writing is a personal journey. Take what resonates with you and leave the rest. Focus on one or two books at a time, and gradually incorporate the techniques that work best for you into your writing practice.