Unlocking the Craft: 5 November Book Recommendations on Storytelling for Writers

Books About the Art of Storytelling

NaNoWriMo is just around the corner - I mean, it starts WEDNESDAY. I don’t know about you all, but I’m feeling ready. I’m feeling nervous, but I’m feeling ready. As I was looking at my bookshelf looking at all the fun books I could recommend, I realized… nothing would be MORE helpful to you right now than books ABOUT storytelling.

Storytelling is a powerful art form, an age-old tradition that has the remarkable ability to captivate, inspire, and transport us to different worlds. For writers, storytelling is not just a pastime but a craft to be mastered, a journey of exploration and creativity. Whether you're an aspiring novelist, a seasoned author, or someone simply enamored by the magic of storytelling, the right guidance can make all the difference.

So I’ve gathered a selection of books that I hope will serve as invaluable companions on your writing journey this month. These are the texts that dissect the art of storytelling, shedding light on its inner workings, unraveling its mysteries, and revealing some really amazing techniques.

1. The Anatomy of Genre by John Truby

With a legendary teacher as your guide, you'll uncover the three unbreakable rules of genre writing and gain insight into the essential plot events, or "beats," that define each genre. By learning to expertly blend these beats, you can transform your stories into captivating and marketable works of art.

Truby reveals how the most skilled writers combine elements from different genres to craft unique and unforgettable stories that rise above the ordinary. Just as Truby's previous work, "The Anatomy of Story," revolutionized the world of storytelling, "The Anatomy of Genres" promises to elevate the quality of your writing and amplify your stories' impact on the world. Dive into this essential resource and transform your storytelling prowess today.

2. Story Genius by Lisa Cron

In "Story Genius," Cron guides you through a meticulous, step-by-step process of crafting a novel. From the initial spark of an idea to the creation of a multi-layered blueprint, complete with fully realized scenes, this method transforms your first draft into a work with the authority, richness, and magnetism typically achieved only after six or seven drafts.

Discover the untapped potential of your storytelling with "Story Genius" and revolutionize the way you approach your craft.

3. The Emotional Craft of Fiction: How to Write the Story Beneath the Surface by Donald Maass

In “The Emotional Craft of Fiction,” Donald Maass reveals the art of using storytelling to elicit visceral and emotional responses from your readers. In the realm of writing, the debate may rage on about showing versus telling or plotting versus pantsing, but one universal truth remains: to craft compelling fiction, you must connect with your readers on an emotional level. The reader's journey should be a profound emotional experience, just as enthralling as the struggles, discoveries, and triumphs of your characters are for you.

Readers can consume a novel passively, or they can become immersed in its world. "The Emotional Craft of Fiction" is your guide to making the latter a reality. Experience the transformative potential of your writing as it connects with readers on a profound emotional level.

4. The Art of Memoir by Mary Karr

In "The Art of Memoir," Karr masterfully synthesizes her roles as a professor, therapy patient, writer, and spiritual seeker. As both a recovered alcoholic and a "black belt sinner," she provides a distinctive perspective on the mechanics and art of memoir writing, all while infusing her irreverent, insightful, and entertaining style into the genre.

This book, anchored by excerpts from Karr's favorite memoirs and stories from fellow writers, peels back the layers of her own creative process. It unravels the essential elements of exceptional literary memoirs, challenging our notions of memory and identity. Through her words, Karr illuminates the therapeutic and transformative power of revisiting the past. Whether you're a writer or a reader with a complex history and an inner life, you'll find resonance and connection in "The Art of Memoir."

"The Art of Memoir" is an elegant and accessible exploration of one of today's most beloved literary forms. It's a tour de force that provides a unique insight into the craft, with a master storyteller pulling back the curtain on her artistry.

5. How Fiction Works by James Wood

Drawing inspiration from literary giants like E. M. Forster and Milan Kundera, this scintillating study dives deep into the magical realm of fiction. As one of our era's most distinguished and stylish critics, Wood dissects the inner workings of storytelling, probing the core questions that lie at the heart of the craft. What defines our understanding of a fictional character? How do we recognize a pivotal detail, and when does a metaphor truly shine? Is Realism always reflective of reality, and why do certain literary conventions lose their luster while others remain timeless?

In his exploration, Wood traverses the literary landscape, from the classics like Homer to the beloved "Make Way for Ducklings," from the sacred texts to the espionage tales of John le Carré. "How Fiction Works" is a dual marvel, serving as both a detailed examination of the art of storytelling and an alternative history of the novel. Its pages are adorned with both playfulness and profound insights, making it an illuminating companion for writers, readers, and anyone with an enduring fascination for the power of words on the page. Delve into this captivating journey and discover the transformative impact of storytelling with James Wood as your guide.

Let me know in the comments if you’ve read any of these and which one was your favorite!

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