For Writers:

Books You Must Read

I often receive emails from aspiring writers wanting my advice on how to break into publishing. My best advice is to do as I did (and continue to do): Read everything you can get your hands on...including lots of current books about the business of publishing. Follow the links for my recommendations.

For a general overview of publishing:

If you don't understand the basic process for getting a book published, start by reading How To Get Happily Published  by Judith Appelbaum.

Books about writing:

On Writing by Stephen King and Writing for the Soul by Jerry Jenkins. Even if you're not a fan of these writers, you should still read these books. Both King and Jenkins offer lots of sage advice and tips for all writers.

The Elements of Style by Strunk & White. This slim volume is widely considered a writer's best friend. Read it. Often.

The First Five Pages by Noah Lukeman. This is an excellent guide, especially for unpublished writers. The author (who is also an editor) tells you the biggest mistakes writers make in their writing, and how to correct them.

Self Editing for Fiction Writers by Renni Browne and Dave King. Although this book is targeted to novelists, nonfiction writers can learn a great deal from it, also. It is absolutely essential that you follow this guide if you wish to be published.

Your Life as Story by Tristine Rainer. Essential reading for those working on memoirs, autobiographies, or novels based on the author's life.

Books about the business of publishing:

The Shortest Distance Between You and a Published Book by Susan Page and Book Proposals That Sell: 21 Secrets to Speed Your Success by Terry Whalin. In my opinion, the best books on how to create nonfiction book proposals. Be sure to read them both. (You can also buy the eBook edition of Book Proposals That Sell and get lots of extras.)

How to Write Irresistible Query Letters by Lisa Collier Cool. In my opinion, best guide available on writing query letters for books or magazine articles.

The Writer's Guide to Conquering the Magazine Market by Connie Emerson. An in-depth look at how to break into magazine writing.

The Making of the Christian Bestseller by Ann E. Byle. This volume is packed with great advice from successful Christian writers and editors on how to get published, how to maintain craft, how to market your work, and more.

About Writing eBooks:

The Easy Way to Write & Sell eBooks.

More Resources for Writers

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