Best Books On Writing
One of the most effective ways to learn how to write better is to read great writing, especially books about writing. The best books on writing will offer practical advice and techniques, but also demonstrate those principles in action through the author’s prose. These books go far beyond hollow writing advice. These books will actively cover the secrets of writing by not only delving into the theory of writing but also guiding readers toward a deeper understanding of the craft. Whether you’re writing creatively, for business, or academia, the books we’ve selected will support and inspire your journey to writing with confidence.
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The Elements of Eloquence: Best Overall
Our Take
The Elements of Eloquence, authored by Mark Forsyth, is our choice as the best overall book on writing. This book not only delivers an excellent educational experience, teaching its readers learning how to write, but also cleverly demonstrates the secrets of writing and the literary tricks writers use to tell their story. For instance, the book covers basic literary concepts of alliteration and antithesis. It then guides the reader to more complex writing elements that future writers and authors can use to tell their story.
Readers will be pleased to know that each chapter is designed and themed according to the writing element the author is teaching. It gives the reader examples on how to properly utilize them in writing and even offers real-life samples from notable authors of the past, and covers in detail the history behind these elements, along with their absurdity. While the book is only 256 pages long, it’s packed with dense information that is surprisingly entertaining, which, as a writer, you should know is a difficult quality to balance.
The Sense of Style: Best for Modern Style
Book Facts
- Author: Steven Pinker
- Date Published: 2015
- Publisher: Penguin Books
- Page Count: 368
Our Take
The Sense of Style, by Steven Pinker, is a New York Times bestseller that aims to help aspiring writers and authors learn and understand the importance of writing and how to write in the modern world with a modern style. There’s no denying that the modern world is constantly changing, with the evolution of social media and the implementation of artificial intelligence, writers and authors are battling to write engaging content to keep their readers entertained.
With just over 360 pages, the book covers in detail what good writing entails, how bad writing floods our society, and most importantly, how to write for your audience, amongst many other important lessons essential for writers and authors to understand. The book comprises relevant examples, ironic comic strips, and a deep understanding of English, so the reader can apply it in their writing.
The Book on Writing: Best for Beginners
Book Facts
- Author: Paula LaRocque
- Date Published: 2003
- Publisher: Grey & Guvnor Press
- Page Count: 254
Our Take
The Book on Writing by Paula LaRocque is an excellent guide for writers of all levels, ranging from beginning to professional writers who want to improve their craft or understand the commitment it takes to write well. LaRocque, a seasoned writing coach and former writing consultant for the Associated Press, distills decades of experience into this accessible and engaging manual.
However, rather than impede readers with theory or, worse, fluff, LaRocque offers actionable advice on syntax, clarity, tone, and style. She emphasizes the importance of simplicity and readability, reminding writers that great writing serves the reader above all else. She provides straightforward examples and entertaining commentary; the book walks readers through common writing pitfalls and shows how to avoid them.
LaRocque’s advice is universal whether you’re a journalist, novelist, marketer, or just a student. The Book on Writing is essential for anyone looking to write with greater impact, polish, and precision. And if nothing else to add, a great read, if we say so ourselves.
On Writing Well: Best for Nonfiction Writers
Book Facts
- Author: William Zinsser
- Date Published: 1976
- Publisher: Harper Perennial
- Page Count: 336
Our Take
On Writing Well by William Zinsser is a book that has stood the test of time and guided millions of writers eager to learn the craft of nonfiction. The book is revered for its clarity, practical approach, and easy-to-understand lessons. Although it was first published in 1976, it has been continually updated to maintain its freshness and modernity. The book offers invaluable lessons on how to write with simplicity, purpose, and style without being boring.
Zinsser strips writing down to its essential elements, urging writers to value clarity over clutter and authenticity over pretension. Through chapters on structure, voice, and editing, he encourages writers to find their unique tone while always respecting the reader. Whether you’re writing on the company blog, a business report, or a news article, Zinsser provides tools and insights that help writers flourish in their genre.
The War of Art: Best for Overcoming Writers Block
Book Facts
- Author: Steven Pressfield
- Date Published: 2002
- Publisher: Black Irish Entertainment LLC
- Pages: 190
Our Take
The War of Art, written by Steven Pressfield and edited by Shown Coyne, is a powerful and inspirational guide for anyone engaged in creative work. It applies to writers, painters, entrepreneurs, and innovators alike. In this book, the author explores the internal struggles many creatives often face, such as doubt and fear, which prevent people from realizing their full creative potential.
At the heart of the book is the concept of “Resistance”—a paralyzing force that manifests as the worst ingredients known to artists, such as procrastination, self-doubt, and distraction. Pressfield showcases how Resistance is the enemy of all creative endeavors and lays out a battle plan to overcome it. The author inspires the reader to adopt the mindset of a professional: to show up every day, put in the work, and push through fear and adversity. While the book is ultimately meant to motivate artists, and less on how to do it, it covers the most critical aspect: start your artistic craft and never look back.
The Takeaway
Being able to write well isn’t just about knowing the rules; it’s about understanding the craft, finding your voice, and overcoming the many challenges many writers face. Whether you’re a beginner searching for your sense of style, a seasoned writer seeking to hone your craft, or a literary creative struggling to start, the books featured in this article offer something for every stage of the journey. However, it’s important to note that writing well or undertaking it as an art form is an arduous journey, but keeping at it and never stopping is the key to unlocking success. For more in-depth training on learning how to write, check out the best online writing courses researched by Lucid Paradox.