Rating: Summary: Doubly Interesting Review: I enjoyed the book because it was fun learning about writing tips from a master. In addition, it was fascinating to read about the author's life and the way his life has influenced his writing. I have read about half of King's books. I enjoy the types of stories he writes, but this was great. It was a personally revealing book and yet extremely enlightening on some tools of the writing trade.
Rating: Summary: Stellar Book Review: I *read* the unabridged audio, although I do have the printed book on my shelves (and have had it for a year!) and found that I enjoyed listening to King read the book. He added an extra and special element to my enjoyment. The book is part memoir, part writing suggestions, partly about how he writes. King never says "you must do it THIS/MY way", but he makes a good case for many writing techniques (including the use of adverbs--he calls them "dandelions in the garden of writing"---and the passive voice). He covered all aspects of the writing craft from his own personal point of view. I found it fascinating and would like to hear how he went about writing every single one of his books! I am not an avid fan of King's but do admire his craft, more so now that I have heard him tell of his early efforts, from his early teens and the early years of his marriage when they did not have even enough money to buy the "pink stuff" (liquid amoxicillin) for their daughter when she had an ear infection. Hearing him talk about his addictive behavior was enlightening in many ways, and heartbreaking as well. His relating of the story of the day he got his first advance brought tears to my eyes. You could still hear the joy in his voice these many years later. And I admired the way he so easily talks about his love for and devotion to his wife, whom he calls Tabby. She is truly his source of strength and a respected and equal partner. A really worthwhile read that should appeal to fans and non-fans alike.
Rating: Summary: Well Read It Already! Review: I suppose there are many books afloat these days that are essentially writers trying to tell other writers how to actually be writers. No one's quite sure what constitues A Writer, but a great many would likely agree that Stephen King is certainly one of them. His book chronicles the road he traveled in venturing toward publication and, ultimately, fame. It provides a healthy balance of instruction and inspiration. I am certainly not the most avid fan of King's work, but this one, in reading it, spoke to me and would likely speak to anyone else attempting to figure out how to successfully construct fiction. It's perhaps the most user-friendly of items in this incessantly expanding genre.
Rating: Summary: ON WRITING--TWO BOOKS IN ONE Review: ON WRITING is a literary sandwich. The two slices of bread. one at the beginning and one at the end form an autobiography. I loved to hear Mr. King tell about how he grew up and how he worked as a school teacher. I loved to hear about how he loved his wife and how she loved him. I knew she would love im no matter whether he was able to walk again after his horrible wreck, and I knew he would love being loved by her. My husband and I listened to this part of the tapes, and we had to shed a few tears because we love each other that way. Then there's the meat of the sandwich. In a short time with no wasted words, he shared his pearls about becoming a great writer. Some day I too will be a great writer in my own style. One of the people I will thank will be Stephen King.
Rating: Summary: A "must read" for anyone whose considered writing a novel Review: I LOVED this book! I've been an avid reader since I was a kid, and I've always toyed with the idea of being a novelist. The thought, however, seemed a bit too far-fetched and extremely overwhelming. I've never known a novelist, therefore I thought the trade wasn't for "normal working people." I read this book, and his love for writing really touched me. It made me realize that my dream is one that's worth pursuing, and that's exactly what I've done. After reading this book I started a manuscript and more or less adhered to his recommendation to write six days a week (to remain intimate with the story & the characters). Almost six months later I have over 300 pages and will start my peer review process in three weeks! This book really "did" open up a whole new world for me. I'd recommend it to anyone who's considered writing a novel. It will make you laugh, will motivate you, and most importantly, you'll love it.
Rating: Summary: What Every Budding Writer Should Carrie Review: More than just a great read, "On Writing" is a conversation from one writer to a budding writer highlighting the glory and the realism of what it takes to get your work recogized and published. Stephen King is a wonderful mentor--pushing you to persevere and to take the discipline seriously. He gives examples and "life lessons" to motivate, inspire, and move you. No blood, guts, or ghouls in this book--but it IS filled with the "spirit" of the author and his passion for the written word.
Rating: Summary: Excellent Review: Easy to read and understand, enjoyable;it's like having King sit down with you and discuss his life and writing. He gives practical information on writing and his own journey through the process.I highly recommend this book to aspiring writers and King fans.
Rating: Summary: Great Book! Review: This was the first book by Stephen King that I have ever read. I really had no interest in horror fiction, and because he's so popular, I kind of thought his writing must be simplistic and merely shocking. Since reading this book I have become a Stephen King freak! First of all, the man can write. The first third of the book is an autobiography, and it is inspirational, entertaining, funny and conversational--everything one would want an autobiography to be! Also, although his writing is terrific, it doesn't reek of that "Here I am writing" tone that a lot of writers get hung up on. As an instructional manual on writing, this is also not only entertaining, but also very helpful. I have always fancied myself a writer, yet I could never get around to finishing anything. I would have a decent idea for a story, and then I couldn't even imagine where the story might be going or where it was going to finish, so I would give up. But Stephen King makes it sound so easy! He suggests you simply put characters in situations, and ask questions, like What if? I know many people also harbor secret writing ambitions, and I would recommend this book over any other--it is the best book on writing I have ever read. I have actually finished several stories now, and I have Stephen King to thank! Stephen King is my muse!
Rating: Summary: How Interesting Review: Having never read any Stephen King books, I am however, interested in how does he create such masterpieces? He has millions of people across the globe reading his materials and watching movies based on his books. Simply amazing. I know I could never do it and admire him for his success. I was pulled into the book after the first page and couldn't put it down. To learn of how he struggled and kept his dreams alive...that he would be published is a great heart-lifting inspiration. Although I didn't participate in the book's exercises...it would be a valuable experience for anyone who is looking to find their words on the bookstore shelf. Simply, put your mind to it and believe in yourself.
Rating: Summary: fantastic read! Review: This book is a wonderful read! King takes you along on his journey though childhood, his trials as a young writer, then gives lots of great writing tips that ANY writer can use. Get this book!
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