Writing the Novel: From Plot to Print
by Lawrence Block

Writer's Digest Books (Cincinnati, Ohio): 1979. Trade paperback: viii, 198 pages. ISBN-10: 0-89879-208-8 ISBN-13: 978-0898792089 Suggested retail price: $14.99 (US) Tag: Writing Tactical strength: [7/10]

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Probably one of the most practical guides about writing that I have seen. Block makes one thing incredibly clear: if you don't sit down to write, you will never finish your novel. Second most important: finish your first novel no matter how badly it goes; by finishing the first one, you are much more likely to finish any other novels you begin.

Block reflects on the solutions to problems that he has experienced as well as referring to a survey he made of twenty or more recognized authors. Block presents good advice that is also motivating and informative. His approach is very down to earth: set goals, read the type of fiction you want to write (if you don't like to read it, how do you expect to be able to write it?), diagram the structure of a novel in the genre you want to write in, and above all sit at your typewriter every day.

He does refer mostly to the typewriter, but this is the only outdated element. All of the advice can apply to writing fiction whether by pen or word processor. Block is very specific about writing: what works for one may be anathema to another. Try a piece of advice. If it works, use it; if it doesn't, don't despair.