5 Books to Read Before Writing Your Novel
Review of the essentials
Embarking on the journey of writing a novel is an exciting and challenging endeavor.
Aspiring authors can benefit immensely from immersing themselves in the works of established authors who have mastered the art of writing and storytelling.
Here are the five essential books that have served as excellent sources of inspiration, knowledge, and guidance for my own writing.
1. Story by Robert McKee
This is it.
Although primarily aimed at screenwriters, Robert McKee's book is a treasure trove of storytelling principles that can be applied to novel writing.
Exploring the art of storytelling, character development, and plot structure, McKee offers in-depth insights that will enrich your understanding of crafting engaging narratives.
You cannot write a captivating novel without first understanding story.
Don’t cheat by speeding through this one. Take your time and don’t be afraid to the scribble notes on the margins of each page. An absolutely essential book.
2. Poetics by Aristotle
A cornerstone of literary theory, Poetics by Aristotle delves into the elements that make a story engaging and timeless.
From the concept of plot and character to the role of emotions and catharsis, Aristotle's insights continue to shape our understanding of storytelling, making it a must-read for aspiring novelists.
Read this book to gain a foundational understanding of storytelling principles as noted centuries ago.
3. The Elements of Style by William Strunk Jr. and E.B. White
Considered a timeless classic, this concise guidebook is an essential resource for anyone serious about writing.
Covering grammar, style, and clarity, Strunk and White's book provides practical tips and rules that will enhance your writing and help you communicate effectively with readers.
4. Dialogue by Robert McKee
Dialogue plays a crucial role in any novel, shaping characters, advancing the plot, and engaging readers.
In Dialogue, Robert McKee explores the nuances of crafting authentic and impactful conversations.
With practical tips and examples, he guides writers in developing dialogue that rings true and captures readers' attention.
5. Save the Cat! by Blake Snyder
While primarily focused on screenwriting, Save the Cat! by Blake Snyder offers valuable insights for novelists as well.
Snyder breaks down storytelling into beats, providing a blueprint for creating engaging narratives.
Learn about story structure, character arcs, and the importance of captivating openings and satisfying endings.
By immersing yourself in these five essential books, you will equip yourself with a literary toolkit to enhance your novel writing journey.
From Robert McKee's masterful exploration of storytelling to Aristotle's timeless analysis of what makes a story captivating, William Strunk Jr. and E.B. White's practical guide to effective writing, and Blake Snyder's beat sheet approach, these books provide a comprehensive foundation.
With these invaluable resources at your disposal, you are well-equipped to embark on the exhilarating adventure of writing your novel.
Consider sharing this review with a friend to grow the C.S.M. Fiction community:
Or explore the C.S.M. Fiction archive.
