Books for writers

Obviously, I consider all books to be essential for writers, but there’s a few I’ve found helpful on the subject of writing itself. Here’s a short selection, in alphabetical order…

DBC Pierre, Release the Bats

This is my favourite book about writing as it gave me the confidence to stop faffing and just get some words on a page.

AJ Ayer, Language, Truth and Logic

More philosophical pondering than writing instruction, but useful for understanding the importance of language.

Albert Camus, Create Dangerously

Camus' speech exhorts us to do bold, 'dangerous' things with our creativity.

Joe Moran, First You Write a Sentence

Looking back over my writing in 2020, I can see a change for the better that coincides with the point where I read this book.

George Orwell, Books v. Cigarettes

Orwell’s views on matters ranging from books and cigarettes, to critics, and patriotism.

Rainer Maria Rilke, Letters to a Young Poet

Poetry advice from a poet.

Writers’ & Artists’ Yearbook 2021

The definitive reference book for anyone looking to make some money from their writing.

All of the above are available from my ‘shop’ at Bookshop.org. If you buy any of them, I’ll get a little cut of the price, so please shop away!

LINK: https://uk.bookshop.org/lists/books-for-writers-1ebef879-3447-4d1b-bdcf-ec756590bb1b