You’re a busy writer, I’m a busy writer. Here’s a quick book guide that can aid you in your writing journey.
1. DIY MFA
If you’re craving the Creative Writing MFA experience but cannot for whatever reason (money, time, location, etc.), this book is for you. Pereira breaks down the MFA structure into three sections: writing, reading, and community. Her straightforward curriculum makes it easy to incorporate its principles into your daily life.
2. The Artist’s Way
If you are seeking a fresh way to understand writing, here it is. Instead of viewing the writing process as mechanical, Cameron argues that writing is a spiritual experience. She also urges writers to rethink what it really means to be a writer.
3. The Right to Write
While also written by Cameron, it was too awesome to pass up. She offers guidance on overcoming common writing roadblocks and living a writerly life. As a side note, I highly encourage reading The Artist’s Way first and then diving into this book.
4. 2k to 10k
If you are in a writing slump or want to write more, this is an excellent resource filled with tips and tricks to becoming a more productive writer.
5. ON WRITING AND WORLDBUILDING
From active voice to lore building, this hefty trilogy offers comprehensive advice on numerous writing topics. If the number of pages makes you anxious or brings a sense of dread, remember it is a reference book. Read the sections that interest you! The link for each book is here: Volume 1, Volume 2, and Volume 3.
6. METAPHORS WE LIVE BY
This is a tough read. However, it made me really think about how metaphors shape our understanding of the world. If you want to get into the nitty-gritty of language, then I recommend this eye-opening book written by two academic scholars.