Dear writer... | The power of reading books on writing
Want to be a better writer and rediscover your love for the craft? Reading books on writing is an invaluable pastime; an essential tool for personal growth as a writer. These books offer practical advice, inspiration and a sense of connection with experienced authors; helping writers ignite their passion, hone their skills, and overcome creative challenges.
The advice has been drummed into us: If you want to be a half-decent writer, you need to read, you need to read widely, and you need to read A LOT! I’ll reference Stephen King on this: ‘If you want to be a writer, you must do two things above all others: Read a lot and write a lot.’
I am going to assume you have taken this imperative seriously and that your reading repertoire is as extensive as your TBR list.
But the motivation for this blog is not to encourage you to read more to become a better writer. (That's a given).
What I want to focus on is writers who make it their mission to read non-fiction books by fellow writers on the craft of writing.
Books that are written purely for writers are an invitation to sit at the feet of those who have gone before; to learn from their writing experiences, successes, struggles and mistakes.
Granted, some of these are better than others, and you have the freedom to pick and choose, but each one will leave you with something to take forward on your own writing journey.
It may be a tip, an insight, a quote, or perhaps a whole host of valuable wisdom that you can implement to improve your skill set, find your voice and grow as a wordsmith. (I strongly suggest having a notebook handy to jot these down, or coloured pencils to highlight moments of inspiration in the actual book).
Books on writing are powerful. They also tend to have a life of their own for each reader. But one thing is for sure: you'll be itching to get to your laptop to follow in these authors’ footsteps and just write!
The principle is simple: if they can do it, so can you.
Whatever type of writer you are - novelist, travel blogger, columnist, freelance content writer, (fill in the blank) etc. - there's something truly magical about delving into the art of writing penned by fellow authors. It's not just about learning the craft; it's about igniting your passion and finding your voice among the wonderful world of words.
Her are my 6 (surprising) outcomes from reading books on writing:
1. You’ll make new ‘friends’
What I love and appreciate most about writers who’ve penned ‘self-help’ books on writing is their raw and unfiltered honesty about their own struggles with the craft. This authenticity can be incredibly motivating for readers.
Good authors don’t sugarcoat the challenges; they talk openly and transparently about their battles with self-doubt, procrastination, deadlines, rejection and creative burnout.
Their brave vulnerability creates a connection between the writer and the reader.
Even the most successful authors have faced similar hurdles. It’s a reminder that ’life happens’, forcing you to realise that you’re not alone in your journey and that the path to great writing is often paved with setbacks and overcome with perseverance.
It’s that powerful moment of ‘me too’. And suddenly the author you are reading moves from stranger to friend.
I am proud to say that I can call Stephen King, Anne Lamott, Julia Bell, Cathy Rentzenbrink, Joe Moran and Anne Bogel all ‘friends’.
2. You’ll find your ‘muse’
I’m guessing that every writer has had that blank page/ blank screen experience; that moment where you’re unsure of where to begin or what to write. (It’s okay; it happens to the best of us).
Reading books on writing can be your secret weapon. Way more than manuals, they're like having a personal mentor whispering encouragement in your ear; giving you permission to write, explore and embrace your unique perspective.
When you immerse yourself in the experiences and advice of others, you start to see your own potential reflected back at you. These authors empower you to be the writer you say you are you. (They refuse to listen to your excuses or give ear to your imposter syndrome insecurities).
3. You’lI rediscover your passion
Writing isn't just a skill; it's a passion. Sometimes, that passion needs a little spark. Books on writing are like kindling for your creativity.
They remind you why you fell in love with storytelling in the first place.
Whether it's Stephen King's raw honesty, Anne Lamott's quirky wisdom, or Natalie Goldberg's zen-like approach to writing practice, each author brings their own writing flair and persona to the table. Their words light a fire under you, pushing you to experiment, grow, and push past the boundaries of what you thought possible.
4. You’ll give yourself permission to write
Have you ever felt guilty for taking time to write, like it's somehow indulgent or self-centred? Or perhaps you feel that your words don’t really matter? (Who’s going to read them anyway?). Reading books on writing helps erase that guilt and insecurity.
They remind you that writing isn't just something you do; it's an essential part of who you are.
They give you permission to prioritise your craft, to carve out time in your day for those precious moments of creativity and to get the job done.
5. You’ll hone your skills
Okay, so you're inspired. You've got that itch to write. Now what?
Books on writing don't just leave you hanging; they're packed with practical tips to help you build sustainable habits. (Not all are likely to work for you, but there will be some that capture your attention and get you motivated).
From establishing a daily writing routine (even if it's just 15 minutes a day) to battling the dreaded procrastination monster, these books are your roadmap to consistency. You have front row seats to the secrets of successful writers who've been in the trenches, offering insights on everything from battling writer's block to finding your ideal writing environment (if such a thing even exists).
6. You’ll break the procrastination rut
Let's face it: procrastination is the nemesis of many writers. Reading books on writing equips you with the tools to break free from that rut. They teach you to embrace imperfection, to silence your inner critic, and to approach your writing with renewed confidence.
When you see how others have overcome their own creative hurdles, you realise that you're not alone in this journey and that excuses won’t cut it anymore.
Bonus: A word on writing webinars
I have to admit that I’m a free webinar junkie. Hosted by fellow writers, these online sessions and masterclasses are goldmines of inspiration, practical advice and camaraderie.
Webinars give you the opportunity to learn directly from writers who’ve been where you are and found ways to overcome the same challenges.
Whether it's a deep dive into storytelling techniques, advice on overcoming writer's block, outlining the value of writing prompts, or tips on refining your voice, these webinars are a treasure trove; packed with actionable insights you can implement right away.
Plus, they offer a sense of community, connecting you with like-minded writers who share your struggles and triumphs. By taking advantage of these free resources you have access to fresh perspectives which will spark your creativity and remind you that you’re part of a larger, supportive writing community.
The magnanimity of webinar hosts in sharing their craft experience and mentoring expertise is a gift. Go and sign up.
So, dear writer…consider this your invitation to dive into the world of books on writing. Let them guide you and cheer you on. Let them reignite your passion, give you permission to write boldly, and equip you with the practical wisdom to turn your thoughts into words on a page and nurture the storyteller within.
Happy reading and writing, and may your words flow effortlessly onto the page as you make new writing ‘friends.’
PS... | Books on writing to get you started
Here are the books on writing I have read, am busy reading, or are on my TBR list:
(These are a mere drop in the ocean).
On Writing - Stephen King (An absolute must read. I have 2 copies).
Bird by Bird - Anne Lamott (A celebrated read for novice and seasoned writers).
First You Write A Sentence - Joe Moran (A book the author refers to as ‘A love letter to the sentence’).
Write It All Down - Cathy Rentzenbrink ( A firm favourite of mine, this is a gentle and helpful guide to putting words on paper).
The Creative Writing Course Book - Edited by Julia Bell & Paul Magrs (Takes you through every stage of the writing process with exercises)
Deep Work - Cal Newport (Technically, not a book on writing, but as a writer, you need to know how to do deep work).
The Meaning of Everything - Simon Winchester (My ‘show off read.’ Words are where it all starts. This is a fascinating, detailed read on the origins of the Oxford English Dictionary)
Writing Down the Bones - Natalie Goldberg (I have read reviews on this one so it has made it onto my reading wish list).
I’d Rather Be Reading - Anne Bogel (A book on reading. A collection of essays on Anne’s life as a reader and how reading enriches our lives)
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