10 Great Books on Writing

I learned from this book the crucial difference between the situation, and the story, as the title implies. Just as useful for fiction as personal narrative, because understanding this principle is necessary to both forms.

I really love her chapter called "Shitty First Drafts." It always reminds me that when I'm writing a first draft, I should just let loose and tell the editor in my head to go take a hike. The first draft is act; the following drafts are art. Also a wealth of other info pertaining to writing and life.

A Classic. One of my favorites; I return to it again and again. Reminds me that "Writing is not a performance but a generosity."

This is a new book by one of my mentors, a very Jungian approach to writing. As much about mindfulness as it is about writing.

Especially if you're just starting out, it's hard to think about writing without reading Natalie Goldberg. She cuts right to the heart of the matter. If this books for you, I encourage you to explore the whole series.

Well, I love anything that helps me to be less afraid, and since writing can be scary, this is a must read. It was very helpful to me in the early stages of my writing.

This book fascinated me, and opened me to the concept that writing comes out of the body, not the mind. I've recommended this book to many, many writers.

Another classic, especially important for women who have been silenced by their culture or their family responsibilities or the demands of their job.

Essential reading for anyone working on her memoir. I referred to it often while writing "Sixtyfive Roses."

I'm working on my first novel, so this is one of the books I'm reading right now. Like a complete Master's course on Fiction, in a book.