Thursday Review—The Art of War for Writers

The Art of War for Writers: Fiction Writing Strategies, Tactics, and Exercises
James Scott Bell

I collect books on writing like I collect...well...books. For me, the library I've compiled has been a big part of how I learned the craft of writing. It has also been how I've kept current in the industry. There is one particular shelf where I keep my favorites, and this small gem can be found there.

Actually, all of James Scott Bell's books on writing are there.

He's written several, seven actually and they can all be found in bookstores everywhere and of course, on his website. I've also had the opportunity to sit in his classes. If you have the opportunity to take any of his classes, don't pass it by.


Of all his books, I think I like The Art of for War for Writers best.

Writing publishable fiction takes the planning and preparation of an invasion campaign. From fighting self doubt to navigating the mine fields of the industry itself, victory can seem unattainable. As a successful novelists himself, Jim Bell knows that battle first hand. This book on writing is a work packed full of practical strategies and focused exercises, guaranteed to equip any writer for the conflict ahead. I love the way it's written in digestible bites as he translates Sun Tzu's "The Art of War" into an indispensible handbook for novelists.

Personally, this is one book I recommend frequently, but rarely let out of my site. I recommend it wholeheartedly to aspiring and veteran novelists alike.

So I'm curious, do you have some favorite writing books?

Don't forget to join the conversation!
Blessings,
Edie