13 Must-Read Books For Aspiring Writers To Master The Craft

Whether you dream of publishing a bestseller, writing for magazines, or just sharpening your storytelling skills, the right books can be your best mentors. The good news? There’s no shortage of amazing books out there to guide you. The bad news? There are too many books, and it’s easy to get lost in the sea of writing advice.

That’s why I’ve rounded up some of the best books every wannabe writer should read—books that will teach you not just how to write, but how to think, feel, and live like a writer. Let’s dive in!

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So, You Want To Be A Writer? 

That’s awesome! But let’s be real—writing can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re just starting out. The good news? You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Some of the world’s best writers have shared their wisdom in books that can teach, inspire, and guide you on your writing journey.

Whether you need help with storytelling, editing, overcoming self-doubt, or just getting started, the right book can make all the difference. Below, I’ve rounded up some of the best books for wannabe writers—classics and hidden gems that will help you go from dreaming about writing to actually doing it.

Must-Read Books for Aspiring Writers 

1. “On Writing” by Stephen King

If you read only one book about writing, make it this one. Part memoir, part writing manual, Stephen King’s On Writing is a masterclass in storytelling, discipline, and creativity. King shares personal stories from his life (including his near-fatal accident) and breaks down his writing process in a way that’s both practical and inspiring.

Why you should read it:

• It’s brutally honest—King doesn’t sugar-coat anything.
• You’ll learn the importance of daily writing habits.
• His tips on editing (“kill your darlings”) are gold.

RELATED:

Why You Should Read Stephen King: His Best Novels

2. “Bird by Bird” by Anne Lamott

Want a book that’s part writing guide, part life philosophy? Bird by Bird is it. Anne Lamott takes a humorous, heartfelt approach to writing, offering advice on tackling self-doubt, overcoming writer’s block, and handling criticism.

Why you should read it:

• It helps with imposter syndrome (we all feel like frauds sometimes!).
• Lamott’s storytelling makes you feel like she’s your personal writing coach.
• The title alone is a great reminder: Take things one step at a time.

3. “The Elements of Style” by Strunk & White

Every writer—whether fiction, non-fiction, or even bloggers—needs to master the basics of grammar, structure, and style. This little book is a classic, offering essential writing rules that will help you write cleaner, sharper prose.

Why you should read it:

• It’s short but packed with wisdom.
• You’ll learn to “omit needless words” and write with clarity.
• It’s a must-have reference for any serious writer.

4. “Save the Cat! Writes a Novel” by Jessica Brody

If you want to write novels but struggle with structure, this book is a lifesaver. Based on Blake Snyder’s Save the Cat! screenwriting method, Jessica Brody adapts it for novelists, breaking down the storytelling beats that make a book unputdownable.

Why you should read it:

• It helps you outline your novel without feeling overwhelmed.
• The storytelling “beats” give your book a strong narrative arc.
• Perfect for both beginners and experienced writers struggling with plot.

5. “Writing Down the Bones” by Natalie Goldberg

Writing isn’t just about technique—it’s also about practice. In Writing Down the Bones, Natalie Goldberg blends Zen philosophy with writing advice, encouraging writers to develop a daily practice and embrace the messiness of creativity.

Why you should read it:

• It shifts your mindset: Writing is an art, not just a skill.
• Encourages freewriting to unlock creativity.
• It’s full of short, insightful chapters—perfect for daily inspiration.

6. “The War of Art” by Steven Pressfield

Ever sat down to write… and suddenly felt the urge to clean your entire house? That’s Resistance, and The War of Art is here to help you fight it. Pressfield dives deep into the psychology of creative struggles, helping writers push past fear, procrastination, and self-doubt.

Why you should read it:

• It’s like a pep talk for your creative soul.
• Helps you recognize and overcome creative blocks.
• Teaches discipline and how to treat writing like a real job.

7. “Big Magic” by Elizabeth Gilbert

If writing feels more like pain than passion, you need Big Magic in your life. Elizabeth Gilbert (author of Eat, Pray, Love) explores the joy of creativity, showing writers how to embrace curiosity, playfulness, and inspiration without fear.

Why you should read it:

• It helps you stop taking writing so seriously.
• Encourages a fearless, joyful approach to creativity.
• Great for writers who struggle with self-doubt.

8. “Steering the Craft” by Ursula K. Le Guin

Want to sharpen your actual writing skills? Steering the Craft is a no-nonsense guide from the legendary Ursula K. Le Guin, packed with exercises and techniques to help you improve your prose.

Why you should read it:

• It focuses on the craft of writing, not just the mindset.
• Exercises help you develop your unique voice.
• A must-read for writers who want to master style and structure.

RELATED:

Why You Should Read Ursula K. Le Guin: Her Best Novels

9. “You Are a Writer (So Start Acting Like One)” by Jeff Goins

This book isn’t just about writing—it’s about owning the title of “writer” and treating your craft seriously. Jeff Goins focuses on both the mindset and practical strategies you need to build a writing career.

Why you should read it:

• Helps you overcome self-doubt and embrace your identity as a writer.
• Covers both the creative and business side of writing.
• Encourages writers to start publishing rather than just dreaming.

10. “Writing Fiction” by Janet Burroway

If you’re serious about writing fiction, this is a must-read. It’s a comprehensive guide covering everything from character development to plot, dialogue, and revision. Many creative writing programs actually use this book as a textbook.

Why you should read it:

• One of the best technical guides on crafting compelling fiction.
• Packed with exercises to improve your storytelling skills.
• Great for beginners and experienced writers looking to sharpen their craft.

11. “Zen in the Art of Writing” by Ray Bradbury

Want a book that makes you fall in love with writing? Ray Bradbury’s passionate, energetic take on creativity is incredibly inspiring. He shares his personal experiences as a writer and provides practical insights into the joy of storytelling.

Why you should read it:

• Bradbury’s enthusiasm for writing is contagious.
• It reminds writers to have fun and enjoy the process.
• A great motivational read for when you feel stuck.

RELATED:

Why You Should Read Ray Bradbury: His Best Novels

12. “Self-Editing for Fiction Writers” by Renni Browne & Dave King

Writing is rewriting, and this book teaches you how to edit your own work like a pro. From fixing awkward dialogue to cutting unnecessary fluff, it’s an essential tool for any writer serious about improving their craft.

Why you should read it:

• Helps you spot and fix common mistakes in your writing.
• Covers everything from dialogue to pacing and narrative style.
• A must-have for self-editing before sending your work to an editor.

13. “The Writing Life” by Annie Dillard

This is less of a how-to book and more of a deep, philosophical look at the writer’s journey. Annie Dillard’s poetic, thoughtful insights on the highs and lows of writing will resonate deeply with anyone who has ever struggled to put words on the page.

Why you should read it:

• Beautifully written and full of thought-provoking insights.
• A great reminder that writing is both difficult and rewarding.
• Perfect for writers who love literary, reflective prose.

Conclusion

Reading about writing won’t magically turn you into a bestselling author overnight. But the right books can inspire, educate, and motivate you to keep going—even when writing feels impossible. So, pick one (or a few!) from this list, start reading, and most importantly… start writing. Because the best way to become a writer? Write!

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