Six Outstanding Books on Writing by Writers You Absolutely Need

Learning from the pros

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There is no shortage of books on writing out there, just as there is no shortage of aspiring writers. Most of these books are written by people you’ve never heard of, which isn’t bad in itself — great players don’t always make great coaches, after all — but there is something reassuring in the advice you get from someone who’s actually successful in the area they presume to give advice about. What follows is a list of six books by well-known authors that can help you on your literary journey.

1. On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King. Part memoir and part writing guide, this instant classic from the master of horror has been at the top of every books on writing list since its release more than 20 years ago, and for good reason. It’s an amazing book, even if you’re not normally a Stephen King fan. In one extremely helpful section, King uses one of his own short stories to demonstrate his process for doing the thing writers hate most: editing. It’s a rare look inside the mind of one of the most prolific writers ever. Also, if you get the chance, listen to it on audiobook as well — King reads it himself.

2. Letters to a Young Novelist by Mario Vargas Llosa. This is an excellent book for writers at any stage in their career, but especially…