You have to love a book that begins with three separate forewords, the second of which begins with the sentence… This is a short book because most books about writing are filled with bullshit.

During my high school years, I began reading Stephen King’s novels because there was something unapologetically rebellious about delving into a book filled with horror and devilish madness. His book, The Stand, was absolutely brilliantly in my opinion.

I don’t read his novels as often today, since the horror genre isn't really my thing anymore. Also, and I say this with the highest amount of respect, but it seems more often than not, I have a hard time getting into his novels, because he has a tendency to "overwrite" sometimes when it comes to developing the psyche of his characters.

Still, I hold a tremendous amount of respect for the man and what he has accomplished during his writing career, so I bought his book on writing several years ago, thinking I would pick up some helpful hints for my own.

What a wonderful surprise I found when I opened this book! The entire first half is his autobiography, written with a humorous, down-to-earth quality. It begins with a child and the road that led to his eventual career in writing. In my opinion, out of any of his books, Stephen King's ability to turn a great story shines most of all in this one. I felt as though I’d just been given the opportunity to have lunch with him and I walked away with a higher admiration. He defined his own character with such a superb sense of humor and modesty.

The second half of his book contains several, easy-to-understand tips of writing, written in the same down-to-earth slant. His hints offered several “aha” moments for me that not only helped my own writing but gave me several laughs. Unlike most other books on writing, this one didn’t feel like a lesson. It felt like I'd received advice from a friend.

18+ and above not easily offended by profanity or blunt sarcasm.

The down-to-earth quality of his writing.

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Write a story.

Inspired.

Whether you are are aren’t a fan of Stephen King's writing, you should read this book either way. Especially if you are a writer.

It's a great story that will teach you some things and make you laugh!!

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Created Dec 30, 2008 at 1:05pm • Submit your own review...