Get That Novel Written!

Donna Levin's wonderfully nitty-gritty manual covers characterization, dialog, plots, sub-plots, point of view, voice, etc. She takes the novice fiction writer through these topics, giving numerous examples from simple to advanced. She includes practical writing exercises incorporating her lessons after each chapter. When Levin is done revealing the intricacies of novel creation, readers have learned how to write a book of their own. Get That Novel Written! will benefit those with a serious interest in writing fiction.

I love this book. Donna Levin really understands the craft, not just as an art, but also as a trade. I couldn't put the book down because every page gave wonderful advice on how to improve your writing and make it more marketable. Lots of books will tell you the how's and what's of good writing, but this book really takes the time to explain the why's. And best of all it is inspirational and fun to read. I highly recommend this book, and I've bought copies as gifts for my writer friends.

I purchased this book for my husband who found it to be extremely informative and positive. Unfortunately, I purchased "An Idiot's Guide to Getting Published" as well, and he read that one first. He almost put down his pencil right then and there. However, I encouraged him to read "Get That Novel Written" and he was renewed, felt inspired, and back on track! The book answers so many questions new novel writers have, and gives clear examples of how to get out of a jam! We would highly recommend this book to anyone writing a novel for the first time, or even the second or third time. A great addition to any writer's reference material.

I have had a story evolving in my mind for the past few years. When I gave a brief explaination of the story to a friend of mine, she insisted that I write the book. My problem is that I have no idea where to start...until now. This book is extremely useful in providing aspiring writers with a way to organize your thoughts and put that story together right. The concepts are even broken down into Basics for us beginners, then into more complex concepts in a seperate sub-chapter called The Finer Points for when you are feeling a little more confident. Then the last sub-chapter is designed to be read after you have started to give you an ever more refined end product. A must have for those that have never tried to write a novel before.

This book does wonders for getting you past your writer's block. Not only does Levin provide terrific articles on the fundamentals of writing a novel, she also provides some very helpful writing exercises to get your creativity going again. I find that I use this book for my short stories as well.