How I Write

Janet Evanovich has provided a provocative account of how she goes about creating memorable writing. She not only provides the technical details, but gives the reader a look inside her mind as she creates characters and events that make you want to keep turning the page. I am currently working on two manuscripts (a novel and a follow-on to my first book on leadership), and I keep "How I Write" on the desk. Whenever I hit a snag in my writing, I stop and read a few pages of her book. Its like one of those six-hour energy drinks - just gets me started again and keeps me going for hours. My only regret is that when I was writing "Things I Learned from my Grandmother about Leadership and Life" I didn't have Janet (her book, that is) at my side.Things I Learned from My Grandmother About Leadership and Life: (How to Light a Fire Under People Without Burning Them Out)

This book is full of strong advice for first time novelists and seasoned authors from a best selling author and creative writing instructor. Tips on incorporating humor and how to write effective dialogue were especially helpful.

I read this book over the weekend while trying to get motivated to write my own novel. It is in Q & A style and very easy to read. I liked the format and that she was positive and energetic. I had never read any of her books before. Not much technical or specific writing advice but I highly recommend it to get you or someone you know who's interested in writing kick-started. The gist of it was: just sit down and write, even if it's crappy.

Janet is so generous in her writing advice on her website and in this book. No you won't find stuff on how to get published but there are tons of other books that tell you how to do that. Plus she has great advice on her website about that. What this book does is makes you want to write. She makes writing fun. What could be more fun than drinking champagne and eating m and ms and writing sex scenes? It sure makes me want to start typing. Plus she gives great advice on characterization and plotting in a fun way. Many writing books are dry. I picked this book up at Borders - just saw it by chance, began reading it immediately and love it. Plus if you read carefully you will find lots of great writing tips on how to structure your novel and other important writing skills. I like the hard copy so much I just bought the audio edition!

It's no secret Janet Evanovich knows how to write. Her bestselling author status is testimony to that. It's also apparent she's a very generous author, open to sharing her insights and virtual "tricks of the trade" with aspiring writers. Evanovich clearly remembers her roots, and what it felt like to need the guidance and wisdom of more practiced, professional writers. Now she's ready to provide just that. Though Evanovich is known primarily as a writer of crime/police procedural novels, this book covers a wide range of topics crucial to good writing in all genres. Subjects range from tips on creating believable, interesting characters to the nuts and bolts mechanics of writing. In between are concrete tips on how to structure a story, tips on revising and editing, and also, ultimately, getting published once you're ready to take that next step. The book is written in a very clear, accessible style. Evanovich writes as if to a peer; there's no talking down or condescension to be found in her tone. Rather, the book is filled with very practical advice a writer could begin putting to use immediately. There's no high-flung pretense here. This is a book an aspiring writer can actually use. For those unfamiliar with Evanovich's books (and I'll admit I've never read any of her fiction, at least not yet) there's very good information about the author, her books and also a glimpse into what must be the basis of her appeal. Janet Evanovich comes off as a very grounded, somewhat earthy writer, who's also funny in a gritty, street-wise way. How I Write is a very generous gift from a very gifted writer. I cannot imagine how anyone even vaguely interested in writing wouldn't find something to take away from it. I recommend adding this one to your shelf of essential writing books.