3 Best Books to Help Improve Your Writing

In my last post about writing, my first tip was to read. Reading is one of the best things that writers can do because it keeps ideas flowing and exposes you to new, interesting perspectives. Reading different genres are useful too, but there are also some fantastic books about writing out there. Here are 3 great ones that I recommend:

1. Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott

More specifically, I highly recommend the section titled “Shitty First Drafts”. I firmly believe in those first drafts because you can’t get a great final draft without that shitty first one. She suggests that you first just get it all out on the page, no matter how bad or embarrassing you think it is. But the best part? You already have something to work from when you go back to it and a starting point where you can make as many revisions as you want.

2. Woe is I: The Grammarphobe's Guide to Better English in Plain English by Patricia O’Conner

O’Conner provides a humorous take to the sometimes overwhelming world of grammar. It’s a quick read as she explains the intricacies of grammar and the rules that go along with them. She teaches you what you need to know while also making jokes and makes everything not as daunting. Even if you think you’re an absolute master of grammar this book is still helpful and an entertaining refresher.

3. On Writing; A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King

I finally had the chance to read this and I highly recommend you read it too. King’s books may not be for everyone, but this book is. If you aren’t a fan of his books, please don’t be afraid of this one. Part memoir, part advice, he effortlessly explains the craft of storytelling and offers great insight to help empower any writer.

So get reading and get writing!

Have you read any of these? What other books do you think would be helpful for writers? Leave them in the comments below!