Top Six Books For Writers
The Writer’s Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers by Christopher Vogler
This is a great book to read and build on. It alone won’t make “all clear,” but it’s a foundation book you have to read to get the most out of other theories.
Goal, Motivation and Conflict: The Building Blocks of Good Fiction by Debra Dixon
This is a must read book. Enough said.
Techniques of the Selling Writer by Dwight Swain
This book covers it all. It is a little harder to read and retain than say the Dixon book, but the advice is excellent. I do suggest you read Vogler’s book first.
Plot - The Elements of Fiction Writing by Ansen Dibell
Not as essential as some of the others, but the theory of set pieces alone was worth it to me.
The Comic Toolbox: How to be Funny Even if You’re Not by John Vorhaus
This book was actually suggested to me as part of a dialogue writing class. It has some great techniques for punching up your writing.
The Plot Doctor by Carolyn Greene
This is a workbook put together by Carolyn Green based on a number of writing books. (Goal, Motivation and Conflict; The Writer’s Journey; etc.) It is a really great tool for the beginning plotter. You have to order it directly from the author. http://www.plotdoctor.com/