The Complete Idiot's Guide to Writing a Novel

Rating:
Summary: Very useful
Review: I didn't like this book. The Author talked down to the reader like we really are idiots. Maybe we are for buying this book. I don't know who this guy thinks he is but, he's tring to tell us how to write a novel because he's written a dozen. Really? Yeah he did but THERE ARE ALL OUT OF PRINT!! Hello?!! anyone home!? Ussually out of print means no one read them. After trying to read this I can understand why.

Rating:
Summary: Not the best how-to
Review: I loved Monteleone's book on writing a novel, and I am making it required reading for a creative writing class which I teach. Mr. Monteleone has taken a difficult subject and made it simple, yet enriching. This is no easy task. I have also read several of Monteleone's novels and find his thriller "Blood of the Lamb" one of my favorite books.

Rating:
Summary: If you are serious about being published, pay attention...
Review: I read the reviews and opinions offered on the validity of this guide and I can say only this... Tom Monteleone knows what he is talking about. In a powerful presentation, both from the point of view of a successful novelist and the culmination of years of practical knowledge properly applied to his own and the careers of others, this book is invaluable. I fall into the category of the "others". I have followed Tom's advice and through hard work, I have published my first hardcover novel, released this fall, 2004. I can only encourage the serious writers out there. If you want to create a writing career, Tom's Idiot's Guide is the light to help guide you down the dark paths of the publishing world. Fellow writers buy this book and start walking.

Rating:
Summary: The Best Book on Writing a Novel Ever!
Review: I was very happy with the way this book was organized and presented. Of course, much of the information is available elsewhere . . . . but that is because SOME of it is so universally TRUE. There are certain things you must do if you want to write a novel, and there is no escaping that.

I am surprised at another reviewer finding Monteleone's writing to be condescending--I found it to be very friendly and conversational. Some people may mistake the writer's informal tone for arrogance, but that would be a mistake. This man is warm and oftentimes funny. His anecdotes and personal experiences in the writing business are worth the price of the book alone.

There are so many great pieces of advice here. Don't miss it!

Rating:
Summary: The Best Book on Writing a Novel Ever!
Review: I've read a lot of beginners novel-writing books and this has to be the friendliest, most useful, introduction to the craft by far. As usual with this series of books, everything you need to know is broken down into sensible and easy to understand language, with additional little tips and hints scattered alongside the main text. This format helps keep the book interesting and easy to reference. Mr. Monteleone takes you gently by the hand, gives you the benefit of his years of precious knowledge (he's written many fine novels), and tells you everything you need to know about how to get started on that novel you've always been itching to write.

As I said, I've read dozens of novel-writing books, (including the sometimes confusing, sometimes useless Writers Digest books someone else mentioned), and take it from someone who's not afraid to put their name on a review: for the beginner, there's nothing finer out there.

Get this book, have fun reading it, and write that novel!

Rating:
Summary: Your best introduction to novel writing
Review: I've read a lot of beginners novel-writing books and this has to be the friendliest, most useful, introduction to the craft by far. As usual with this series of books, everything you need to know is broken down into sensible and easy to understand language, with additional little tips and hints scattered alongside the main text. This format helps keep the book interesting and easy to reference. Mr. Monteleone takes you gently by the hand, gives you the benefit of his years of precious knowledge (he's written many fine novels), and tells you everything you need to know about how to get started on that novel you've always been itching to write.

As I said, I've read dozens of novel-writing books, (including the sometimes confusing, sometimes useless Writers Digest books someone else mentioned), and take it from someone who's not afraid to put their name on a review: for the beginner, there's nothing finer out there.

Get this book, have fun reading it, and write that novel!

Rating:
Summary: What a book!
Review: The book covers everything you need to know from setting up a work space to publishing. Easy to read, plain english. Mr Monteleone is encouraging, down to earth and, at times, amusing. I couldn't have picked a better book on the subject of writing. If anyone found this book condescending they have misjudged the author. If you can't relate to this book and are missing the point completely maybe creative writing is not a hobby you should pursue. I for one, am delighted to recommend this book to everyone.

Rating:
Summary: Rather disappointed
Review: There is a considerable amount of good information in this book, such as types of genre, the importance of being well-read, as well as the usual information that every other how-to writing book includes (plotting, characterization, etc.). And the format was very easy to read.

However, I did not find most of the information to be anything new. And I was a little put off by the writer's attitude. As a couple of other reviewers mentioned, the writer came across as being very arrogant and condescending. Mr. Monteleone also presented things in a black/white attitude. He mentions qualities you MUST have to be a writer(i.e. the RIGHT temperament, a support system, natural storytelling ability, etc.) While these are impotant factors in becoming a writer, I believe many of these qualities can be developed. I am currently reading "Immediate Fiction" by Jerry Cleaver, and I am finding that much more encouraging and helpful.

Rating:
Summary: Completely satisfied with this book!
Review: This "how-to" book is a fun, useful way to absorb what is needed to write that novel! The author speaks as if he is your best friend. His words are clear and he leaves no room for misunderstandings.

If only all "how-to" books were written in this manner, I'd know as much about plumbing as I now know about writing my novel. Mr. Monteleone, my thanks.