Autobiography: A Reader for Writers. 2nd Edition

If you're new to creative writing, or if you teach an introductory creative writing course, I strongly recommend that you read this book. It uses a structured approach to the different aspects of writing (writing about places, situations, people, etc.) and includes many thought-provoking exercises at the end of each section. The book also includes many excerpts of autobiographical writings from well-known male and female authors, including Annie Dillard and George Orwell. Finally, the editor ties it all together with several essays that help teachers and students get the most out of the excerpts and writing exercises. I have used the book successfully for many years to refresh my own writing skills and to build the skills and confidence of my writing students. I only wish that a newer edition would be published.