How to write a novel: Reading recommendations for new writers
In my last column article, I expressed the necessity of learning how to write before you begin to pen your story. Though seemingly obvious, I neglected this in my haste to start writing – I subsequently kicked myself for it. This week, I am going to offer suggestions of how to go about studying the craft. What I found most useful as a young writer was taking lessons from successful authors. I would understand their wisdom of the craft and process, then apply it to my own work. Studying the basics is essential for any skill, and what better way to do so than learning from the masters? So, I have compiled a list of recommendations that I found invaluable when I began my writing journey.
On Writing by Stephen King
The first book I was recommended to read was On Writing. Going into it, I expected the typical, formulaic, essay-styled guide of how to write. I thought that knowing the rules would instantaneously make me a better writer and hoped that King would help. On Writing is nothing like this. Firstly, it is incredibly funny, something I didn’t expect at all. It should be mentioned that I haven’t actually read anything by King before; I only knew him as the author who crafts unimaginable horrors. Secondly, it is written in the form of a memoir. He details his experience in becoming a writer and his writing practices. A lot of writing advice out there comes across in a tone of “if you don’t follow these rules, you will meet with unspeakable disaster”, but King’s thoughts are refreshingly relaxed and down to earth. The advice he offers is mainly foundational principles of writing; the basics that are essential for new writers. However, he also recognises that every writer is different and encourages other writers to embrace their unique voice. On Writing is easily one of the best things for a new writer to read, in my humble opinion.
How Novels Work by John Mullan
In this compendium, Mullan picks apart novels from the last twenty years and illuminates the techniques that make them great works of fiction. In highlighting elements from title, plot, and dialogue to meta-narrative and prolepsis, Mullan goes through every aspect of the novel and makes visible the techniques authors use to craft their creations. I found this book an incredible source of information, not just for opening my eyes to authorial techniques and craft but also reading recommendations of exceptionally well written novels. A key piece of advice writers are given is to read widely, but what we’re not often told is what books to read and how we ought to read them. Mullan takes works from the literary masters and analyses them critically, demonstrating the best way aspiring authors can learn their craft; by picking apart what works and how it works in other novels. This skill is critical to learn for writers both new and experienced.
Save the Cat by Blake Snyder
In the writing community, Save the Cat is a popular starting point for artists learning their craft. Though predominantly targeted for screenwriters, Snyder’s lessons can be easily applied to those seeking advice and knowledge with novels and other narrative forms. That being said, Snyder is often criticised for his advice being too rigid, necessitating readers to take some of his teachings with a grain of salt and ignoring that which doesn’t work for them. Overall, I would recommend this book for writers who have a bit more experience in the field and know what practices suit their style.
Story by Robert McKee
As an alternative to Save the Cat, McKee’s Story is a fantastic resource for beginners and professionals alike. In it, McKee goes into detail of structure and basic principles in an easily digestible way. While this book is also tailored more towards screenwriting, its principles for writing character and narratives are unparalleled. The focus on audience and the reactions elicited by a story helps newer writers to come to terms with how their narrative choices can keep an audience engaged and how to orchestrate emotional beats. McKee’s advice breaks down the ways in which a story is successful and allows readers the insight needed to craft their own simple, yet effective stories.
That concludes this week’s column. I hope this collection of books can be useful to the writers and readers among you. In my next column, I will be taking a different focus, detailing platforms for those thinking of going into the publishing industry and ways of getting your foot in the door of this highly competitive industry. It will be out on Monday 23rd December so keep an eye out!
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