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If you loved
Books like How fiction works
An illuminating masterclass that permanently alters the way you experience the architecture of a sentence. These 12 books are the closest matches in mood, pace and themes, with what each one shares with How fiction works.
- contemplative
- illuminating
- intellectual
- 01
How to Write Science Fiction & Fantasy
Orson Scott Card
A pragmatic, encouraging masterclass that demystifies the architecture of speculative fiction.
- 02
Techniques of the Selling Writer
Dwight V. Swain
A pragmatic, nuts-and-bolts guide that demystifies the mechanics of writing compelling fiction.
- 03
Steering the Craft
Ursula K. Le Guin
A masterclass in the rhythm and mechanics of storytelling, delivered by a wise, exacting, and deeply encouraging mentor.
- 04
Aspects of the novel
Edward Morgan Forster · 1947
A witty, conversational masterclass on the mechanics of fiction, delivered through sharp bursts of insight by a master novelist.
- 05
How to read and why
Harold Bloom
An impassioned, erudite invitation to treat the reading of great literature as a profound act of self-discovery.
- 06
Artful
Ali Smith
A ghostly, genre-defying conversation about love, loss, and the literature that keeps us alive.
- 07
Reading Like a Writer
Francine Prose
An invitation to slow down, pull up a chair, and marvel at the architecture of a perfectly crafted sentence.
- 08
If you want to write
Brenda Ueland
A warm, inspirational guide that acts as a supportive companion for anyone looking to unlock their creative voice.
- 09
How to read literature like a professor
Thomas C. Foster · 2003
A friendly, fireside chat with your favorite English teacher that permanently changes how you consume stories.
- 10
Literary theory
Terry Eagleton
An engaging, unpretentious journey through the major movements of contemporary literary thought.
- 11
How Language Works
David Crystal
A delightful, eye-opening tour through the invisible architecture of the words we use every day.
- 12
How Not to Write a Novel
Howard Mittelmark and Sandra Newman
A hilarious, tough-love masterclass in self-editing that teaches you how to write well by showing you exactly how to write terribly.
