How-To Books
If you're writing for yourself, no one will see or care how you write or use words or string sentences along. It's when the goal is to write a story that someone else will rave about or pay money for that the writer must look at what story is and how the patterns of prose and story engage the mind of another person.
The secret to a great story is that they are written and ruthlessly edited so that the words create a movie in the reader's mind.
There's nothing new about the craft of storytelling or the patterns of plot. To write quality stories requires learning those worthwhile story techniques and devices that have been handed down for centuries.
Every day writers go online and read blogs or listen to podcasts on the various aspects of writing. Trouble is, those are only quickie overviews. If a writer is serious about learning to write well and tell a story well, they invariable turn to the proven how-to books that teach a technique, device, or aspect of fiction or nonfiction.
I always advocate that a writer who wants the low-down on a particular aspect of storytelling to get at least three books on the subject, read each, take notes, study examples, and do any exercises those books recommend. And, no, I do not advocate buying the books. I recommend borrowing them from a local library. If one or all three (or more) books prove valuable, then spend the money to own the book and make it your bible. After all, such a book's author is your writing mentor.
I've said it before and I'll say it again—talent will take a writer only so far, it is craft that enhances talent and liberates creativity. Check out the shelves of your local library and consider using the Library Loan System to advantage and write the stories of your heart.
P.S. If you need a book recommendation on a technique or device, let me know.
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