On Writing

A Memoir of the Craft

By Stephen King

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Average Rating: (See all 8 reviews) Format: Paperback, 320 pages Published In: United States, July 2002 Quantity Available: 1087 Ships within 6-10 days The master storyteller takes readers into his mind in this revealing blend of memoir and a practical view of the writer's craft, comprising the basic tools of the trade every writer must have. With advice grounded in his vivid memories of childhood through his emergence as a writer, up through his near-fatal accident in 1999, King relates the daily process of practiced creativity that has guided him. From The Publisher: "Long live the King" hailed "Entertainment Weekly" upon the publication of Stephen King's "On Writing." Part memoir, part master class by one of the bestselling authors of all time, this superb volume is a revealing and practical view of the writer's craft, comprising the basic tools of the trade every writer must have. King's advice is grounded in his vivid memories from childhood through his emergence as a writer, from his struggling early career to his widely reported near-fatal accident in 1999 -- and how the inextricable link between writing and living spurred his recovery. Brilliantly structured, friendly and inspiring, "On Writing" will empower and entertain everyone who reads it -- fans, writers, and anyone who loves a great story well told. Publisher: Pocket Books ISBN: 0743455967 EAN: 9780743455961 Dimensions: 17.45 x 10.59 x 2.18 centimeters (0.15 kg)

Though far from the definitive writer's guideline, this book shines a unique perspective on the craft. Stephen King lays down the law and then teaches it. He shares his techniques, his pet peeves, and his own personal horrific experiences - both as child and adult - and he does it all within the cerebral classroom of the printed page. He wraps a juicy filling of personal tragedy, growth and experience within a tight covering of his famous story telling style.
As a human, I was touched by his childhood anecdotes and often laughed with him about his insecurities. I am still in awe at what he has recently had to overcome physically. I mean, damn.

As a writer, I am grateful for a brief glimpse into his vocational world. I gained confidence from learning about things I have been doing right and have changed many bad habits (may the adverb rest in peace). I've read several tomes on the subject and believe his reigns as the most complete.

I've been a fan of King's since the seventh grade when I was given The Dead Zone and Cujo as an Easter present. A year later I had read every book he'd published (with the exception of the dreaded Limited Editions of which I could opine negatively for hours - suffice it to say that writing should be for everyone to read, not just the rich). I've read or listened to all his books since. I can honestly say, that this is my favorite.

Sometimes the coldest hands to wrap around your neck are the true ones.

The only bad thing I can say about this book is that it's too short, something one rarely has the opportunity to state regarding the beloved author.

A huge thank you to Mr. King for a brief indulgence into the life of a genius.

Starting out with a quasi-autobiography, On Writing delivers some of the most insightful writing King has published in years. The very personal and revealing episodes of his childhood are fascinating, (they would even be to those unfamiliar with any of his work), as are the insights into his writing style and personal growth.

In the second half of the text, King takes a very casual approach to the art (and craft) of story-telling. The text deals with very little literature/English theory, but rather brushes across what King considers key-concepts on the art of creating successful stories. Very easy and enjoyable to read.

I found this a fascinating insight to the master of horror, and explained some things like his obsession with bleeding noses circa tommyknockers era is because he was suffering from them due to drug usage. His books made alot more sense when certain things were put into context. Fabulous advice for the want to be writer, but a great read for anyone who wants to try and understand the man behind the books.

If you've ever wondered how Stephen King, the master of the modern horror novel, creates his bestselling chillers, then this great book provides an inspirational insight into the workings of his phenomenal mind. It has an autobiographical feel as well as providing a valuable insight into the techniques used by writers.

Long live the King" hailed "Entertainment Weekly" upon the publication of Stephen King's "On Writing." Part memoir, part master class by one of the bestselling authors of all time, this superb volume is a revealing and practical view of the writer's craft, comprising the basic tools of the trade every writer must have. King's advice is grounded in his vivid memories from childhood through his emergence as a writer, from his struggling early career to his widely reported near-fatal accident in 1999 -- and how the inextricable link between writing and living spurred his recovery. Brilliantly structured, friendly and inspiring, "On Writing" will empower and entertain everyone who reads it -- fans, writers, and anyone who loves a great story well told.

If you've ever wondered how Stephen King, the master of the modern horror novel, creates his bestselling chillers, then this great book provides an inspirational insight into the workings of his phenomenal mind. It has an autobiographical feel as well as providing a valuable insight into the techniques used by writers.

Stephen King is a master storyteller-- and here he shares some of his secrets. He describes the artistic high points, and the low points, that occurred as he wrote many of his best-known novels. Unlike most writing instructors, he doesn't pretend to have a magic success formula for would-be authors. Instead, he simply details his own creative process, and in so doing, provides remarkable insight into the craft of fiction writing.

I particularly enjoyed his candor in printing the first draft of one of his stories-- and then printing his revisions. Not many authors would allow a first draft to see the light of day.

His prime rule for a writer: Write a lot, and read a lot. In King's view, all the writing instruction a writer will ever need is contained not in a creative writing seminar, but in the pages of other novels. He includes a recommended reading list of the best books he's read recently, and it's a wonderful list.

i loved this book. what got me interested was that it was by stephen king, one of my fav writers. the story is fantastic, with that classic touch of stephen king thrill, and i can safely say that this book is for any fan of his. loved it!! and i am sure you all will to. a definite, without a doubt 5 star ranking!

While Stephen King is great writer of horror and thriller fiction, in this half authobiography, half guide to writing he comes off as pompous and arrogant, and seems to forget that he's not widely considered from his literary value - he's just a guy who can write a good yarn, which is reflected by the fact that his books translate so well into hit movies. A grueling read.