# 5 Underappreciated Writing Books Every Aspiring Author Should Read
Written on
Chapter 1: Introduction to Essential Writing Resources
When I began seriously diving into the art of writing, many popular lists of recommended books often highlighted titles like Stephen King’s On Writing, Anne Lamott’s Bird by Bird, and Ray Bradbury’s Zen in the Art of Writing. While there's nothing inherently wrong with these selections—indeed, I would suggest them as well—they predominantly emphasize the writer's mindset rather than practical strategies that can elevate a rough draft into a polished piece.
If you're looking for books that provide hands-on lessons to enhance your writing, here are five titles that will help you the next time you sit down to create your next bestseller.
Section 1.1: Outlining Your Novel: Map Your Way to Success
- Outlining Your Novel: Map Your Way to Success by K.M. Weiland
If you’ve ever taken part in the chaotic experience known as NaNoWriMo, you might be familiar with the terms "pantser" and "plotter." Regardless of your approach, it’s beneficial to sketch out at least a brief outline of your narrative. This can help you identify potential plot holes before they make it to the page. K.M. Weiland’s book provides guidance on effective outlining while explaining crucial storytelling elements so that you grasp not just how a successful story functions, but why it works.
Moreover, there’s an accompanying workbook that lets you apply her insights to your current project in real-time. For additional inspiration, her blog is filled with valuable posts on storytelling techniques and character development.
Section 1.2: Which Lie Did I Tell? Insights from William Goldman
- Which Lie Did I Tell? by William Goldman
This book serves as both a memoir and a writing guide, offering humorous yet invaluable insights into the creative process. While Goldman’s Adventures in the Screen Trade is frequently recommended for screenwriting students, I find Which Lie Did I Tell? to be even more beneficial for writers of all kinds, whether you’re crafting films, novels, or anything in between!
Goldman shares his creative thought process, work ethic, and practical storytelling advice through entertaining anecdotes from his time in Hollywood. It’s both an enjoyable and informative read.
The 4 Best Books on Writing Every Fiction Writer Must Read explores essential reading materials that can significantly enhance your writing skills.
Section 1.3: The Write Great Fiction Series
- Write Great Fiction Series
This entire series is a fantastic addition to any writer's library, whether you view yourself as a novice, a bit rusty, or an experienced author. Each book addresses a specific component of the storytelling process, such as descriptions, settings, or revision. If you’re struggling with a particular aspect of writing, you can easily find a title in this series that focuses on that area and explains it in clear, accessible language.
Among the series, Plot and Structure by James Scott Bell stands out as a personal favorite. Perhaps I’m biased since plotting is often my Achilles' heel, but Bell’s unique insights on the subject helped me grasp concepts that others had failed to convey.
Section 1.4: Creating Short Fiction by Damon Knight
- Creating Short Fiction by Damon Knight
Although Damon Knight may not be a household name, he was a prolific writer known for his short stories, particularly "To Serve Man," which inspired one of the most famous episodes of The Twilight Zone. Don’t be misled by the title—Knight’s teachings are relevant to all writers, whether you’re working on short stories, novellas, or lengthy novels like those by Brandon Sanderson.
This book is packed with valuable advice on crafting stories and characters from scratch, ensuring they behave realistically even in the most absurd situations, and providing wise counsel on making your narrative resonate with readers.
Section 1.5: Now Write! Series
- Now Write! Series
I’ve saved this series for last for a reason: many writing books sadly lack a focus on the actual act of writing. Too often, I find myself wading through pages of philosophical reflections without encountering a single prompt urging me to put pen to paper.
The Now Write! series is entirely the opposite. It aims to get writers creating as quickly as possible! Each installment revolves around a specific genre or theme—like Mysteries or Nonfiction—and features writing exercises crafted by masters in each field. For instance, the screenwriting book includes exercises from screenwriters who have produced acclaimed films such as Raging Bull and Cape Fear.
With these resources on your shelf, you’ll always have motivation to write!
I Read The 3 Best Books On Writing (So You Don't Have To) and Here's What I Learned reviews essential writing literature that can enhance your skills without the need to read them all.