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"The teaching of creative writing just entered a whole new era . . . Heavens, what a joy this book is." —Lynne Truss, New York Times–bestselling author of Eats, Shoots & Leaves "What do you think of my fiction book writing?" the aspiring novelist extorted. "Darn," the editor hectored, in turn. "I can not publish your novel! It is full of what we in the business call 'really awful writing.'" "But how shall I absolve this dilemma? I have already...

Drawing on his years of experience as one of the most acclaimed professionals in publishing, Wizards of the Coast editor Athans explains how to set your novel apart--and break into this lucrative field. From devising clever plots and building complex characters to inventing original technologies and crafting alien civilizations, Athans gives you the techniques you need to write strong, saleable narratives.

Agents and editors agree: Improper story beginnings are the single biggest barrier to publication. Why? If a novel or short story has a bad beginning, then no one will keep reading. It's just that simple. Here you'll find detailed instruction on how to develop your inciting incident; keys for creating a cohesive story-worthy problem; tips on how to avoid opening gaffes like overusng backstory; a rundown on basics like opening scene length and transitions;...

After nearly forty years of marriage, Joan and Joe Castleman are complements. Where Joe is casual, Joan is elegant. Where Joe is vain, Joan is self-effacing. And where Joe enjoys his very public role as Great American Novelist, Joan pours her considerable intellect, grace, charm, and diplomacy into the private role of Great Man's Wife. Joe is about to be awarded the Nobel Prize for his acclaimed and prolific body of work. Joe's literary star has blazed...

"Want to write a book? Well, the spunky, know-it-all narrator of this side-splitting story can tell you just how to do it. Packed with her signature wit and charm, bestselling author Lloyd-Jones--with whimsical illustrations from beloved illustrator Layton--delivers an outrageously silly story that is sure to have young readers--and writers!--howling with laughter"-- Provided by publisher.

Walter Snow gets caught up in the hijinks of two new friends. But things quickly spin out of control as the trio's ultimate diuretically inspired prank leads to an unexpected, shocking conclusion, and Walter is left to wonder if the only things you ever keep in this life are the things you let slip through your fingers.

"This collection of more than twenty-five critical essays, speeches, and biographical pieces written and/or chosen by Diana Wynne Jones will be required reading for the author's many fans and for students and teachers of the genre. Reflections includes insightful literary criticism alongside autobiographical anecdotes about reading tours (including an account of the author's famous travel jinx), revelations about the origins of the author's books,...

"After making his debut in 1997's 'Killing floor,' Jack Reacher has quickly become one of the most popular--and most enduring--fictional heroes to emerge in the past half century. Now, his creator tells the stories behind the stories. These are the origin tales of all of the Reacher novels written solely by Lee Child, chock full of colorful anecdotes and intriguing inspirations. One by one, they expand upon each novel and place it in the context not...