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If you loved
Books like How Not to Write a Novel
A hilarious, tough-love masterclass in self-editing that teaches you how to write well by showing you exactly how to write terribly. These 12 books are the closest matches in mood, pace and themes, with what each one shares with How Not to Write a Novel.
- lighthearted
- energetic
- humorous
- encouraging
- 01
100 Ways to Improve Your Writing
Gary Provost · 1985
A practical, desk-side companion that transforms the daunting task of writing into a series of manageable, actionable steps.
- 02
How to Write Science Fiction & Fantasy
Orson Scott Card
A pragmatic, encouraging masterclass that demystifies the architecture of speculative fiction.
- 03
How fiction works
James Wood · 2009
An illuminating masterclass that permanently alters the way you experience the architecture of a sentence.
- 04
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.
- 05
Dreyer's English
Benjamin Dreyer
A witty, conversational masterclass in the mechanics of prose that feels like grabbing drinks with your favorite, sharpest editor.
- 06
Nabokov's favorite word is mauve
Ben Blatt
A playful, data-driven peek behind the curtain of literary genius that turns the magic of writing into fascinating, measurable patterns.
- 07
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.
- 08
The Only Grammar Book You'll Ever Need
Susan Thurman; Larry Shea
A reassuring, no-nonsense guide that transforms grammatical anxiety into confident, polished communication.
- 09
Writing Tools
Roy Peter Clark · 2006
An encouraging, practical masterclass that breaks the daunting art of writing into fifty manageable, empowering lessons.
- 10
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.
- 11
How to Write a Lot
Paul J. Silvia
A swift, no-nonsense kick in the pants that replaces writing anxiety with actionable, guilt-free habits.
- 12
How Language Works
David Crystal
A delightful, eye-opening tour through the invisible architecture of the words we use every day.
