Posted by Looking for a gift to give that writer friend of yours? Here are some of my favourite books about writing that would make any author, blogger, writer, content creator, or other wordy type on your list happy.
Rules of the Red Rubber Ball: Find and Sustain Your Life’s Work
by Kevin Carroll
A book about following your dreams and chasing your passion. That sounds cheesy, I know. But it’s actually very inspiring and a complete pleasure to read. And even if you have no desire to read it, you’ll love the design. It’s an inexpensive gift that anyone would love, not just writers.
Letting Go of the Words
by Janice Redish
I’ve mentioned this book in a previous post and I think it deserves a spot on this list as well. It’s a must-read for anyone who writes for the web, but I think it can also serve as a guide for effective communication in general.
Bird by Bird
by Anne Lamott
I just looked through my past posts and realized that I’ve never mentioned this book. That’s shameful. Bird by Bird is one of my favourite books on writing. I’ve read it several times and recommend it to anyone who wants to write. And if you don’t want to write, you will after reading this book.
On Writing
by Stephen King
My husband bought me this book back when we were dating after I shyly told him that I wanted to be a writer. I’m not saying that this is what made me fall in love with him, but let’s just say it didn’t hurt. Stephen King’s On Writing is the best book about writing. Period. Whether you like his books or not, this memoir will inspire and educate you on what it takes to be a writer. If I ever met Mr. King, I would thank him for writing this book.
The Elements of Style (Illustrated)
by William Strunk and E.B. White
Every writer should own the classic book The Elements of Style. But I also think the illustrated version deserves a spot on their shelves. The illustrations give the book a completely different feel and make reading through it more fun. It’s playful and stylish, and sometimes writers just want to look at pretty pictures.
