Google the term “Books on writing” and you’ll discover 1,540,000 options at your disposal to help hone your craft. The problem is that it would literally take a lifetime to read, heed, and apply the tips and techniques contained within these countless resources.The less time you spend reading about writing, the more time you have to actually “write“, make a difference, and earn a living. Unless you’re a hobbyist, isn’t that the ultimate goal?
In my many years of freelancing, I’ve read a boatload of books. Some good…some bad.
I proudly even boast my own library in my home office.
However, it wasn’t until the last few years that I became exposed to books that became more like Bibles.
These four reads serve as the ultimate “commandments” for today‘s writer seeking to work smarter not harder, and escape a life of sporadic income and endless Ramen Noodles.
Authored by experts in their respective fields, they have walked the talk. These reference manuals provide the 4-1-1 on everything from making good decisions, to making good money, from start-up to staying in the freelance game.
Every (serious) writer’s library should contain the following books:
1. THE TITLE: The Well-Fed Writer--by Peter Bowerman
Peter’s book caused a paradigm shift in my way of thinking that no book before it had. Here was a guy who had faced some of the same challenges I had starting out: he had no contacts in the business, no writing background, and didn’t want to embrace the “starving artist” mindset. Yet, was able to overcome these obstacles to become one of the most noted how-to authors in the freelancing genre. Familiar with his work online (and a starving-artist-in-training), I wasn’t sure whether I wanted to shell out the cash to purchase it out-right, so I borrowed it from my local library. I renewed it three times before I had to finally surrender it and invest in my own copy.
THE TAKE-AWAY VALUE?
Success as a writer is just as much about mindset and strategy as it is about having a facility with words. Especially in today’s competitive climate.
Contrary to popular opinion, you can make a good living at writing. But, it’s all about making the right choices. Here he gives readers guidance to make some of those tough choices. Additionally, he teaches us how copywriting can be the key to a more profitable and progressive writing career. It’s more than a book; it’s a lifestyle blueprint!
2. THE TITLE: Goodbye Byline, Hello Big Bucks!--by Kelly James Enger
Enger, a former attorney, provides some pretty compelling arguments for why this lucrative field should be a viable option for today’s writer. She addresses the why, what, where and how of ghost writing in a clear and clever way.
THE TAKE-AWAY VALUE?
Though many of us love the ego stroking that a byline brings, there’s something to be said for being paid well to tell someone else’s story. Did I mention, very well? Ghost writing is big business. From icons in the entertainment industry, to scorned lovers, to retired athletes, to businesses that feel the mandate to “publish or perish,” there’s no shortage of work in this field. And unlike penning pieces for publications that may pay months down the road, ghost writers, (as an industry norm), require substantial deposits before work even begins. Need I say more?
3. THE TITLE: A Step in the Write Direction--by Donna Clark Goodrich
Okay, so I admit that there may be a slight bias, in that I have a chapter I’ve authored included in this comprehensive guide. But, I’m convinced that you’ll love it too, because of its thorough treatment of an array of topics relevant to writers of all levels and genres.
THE TAKE-AWAY VALUE?
Longevity in writing requires a systematic approach and a business mindset. Between the many chapters, you’ll learn how to prepare your manuscript, time management tips, Microsoft Word shortcuts, and income tax for writers. Reading this book is like taking a course; you’ll learn many valuable lessons without the fear of test-anxiety.
4. THE TITLE: Don’t Worry, Make Money--by Richard Carlson, Ph.D.
Famous for his best-selling book, “Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff,” Carlson does it again with this engaging and enlightening read. Although it’s not actually about the “craft” of writing, as my previous mentions, it’s just as crucial to your prosperity and success. What writer couldn’t benefit from wise counsel on how to stress less and make more money?
THE TAKE-AWAY VALUE?
Readers will learn the correlation between moods and money, ways to create abundance through thoughts and actions, and conquering fears.
Whether you’re new to the freelancing world, or a seasoned journalist, you’ll find needed resources between these pages. And of course, no one can dispute that the best writers are those who understand the importance of reading!
Thoughts? Any reads you would recommend?
IMAGE CREDIT: SPFF
