These are some of the books I keep within reach while I'm writing. I will continue to update this list as time permits, so check back occasionally. If you have an indispensable writing book that's not here, send me an email and tell me about it.
Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion, Robert B. Cialdini, Ph.D.
Revered by marketing and sales professionals, this book deftly examines the six psychological principles that drive the powerful urge to comply. Written in an engaging, conversational style, Influence helps the average person understand and defend against the forces of persuasion. Why do I recommend this book for writers? Because it neatly delivers all the effective tools for producing persuasive copy—improving any writer's chance of achieving his or her most wanted response. Add it to your library and refer to it often.
The American Heritage Dictionary, Fourth Edition, paperback
Just as writers do, dictionaries have their specialties. One may be best suited for a technical writer, another for a medical writer. A good way to judge whether a particular dictionary will meet your needs is to make a list of ten words unique to your interests, then compare their definitions in the various dictionaries available at your local book seller. I like this paperback edition of The American Heritage Dictionary because it's a good general reference and employs contemporary language. It's well designed and easy to use, making it a quick and handy resource in my writing library.
The Elements of Style, William Strunk Jr. and E.B. White.
Affectionately referred to by its author as "the little book," this compact volume contains a wealth of no-nonsense instruction. The Elements of Style efficiently and effectively presents the timeless standards of good writing, emphasizing brevity and clarity above all else. Originally published nearly a century ago—and now in its fourth revision—this classic remains relevant and useful today because of its precise and unpretentious manner.
The Chicago Manual of Style, University of Chicago Press
This is the latest update of the classic resource for writers, editors, and publishers. It's considered to be the authoritative source for proper style because of its extensive presentation of grammar, punctuation, and style guidelines. From the ordinary (comma versus semicolon) to the obscure (editing classical Greek) you'll find a definitive answer here—though it may take some persistence to make sense of the manual's quirky structure. Many professional writers consider this an essential tool for their craft.
The Synonym Finder, J.I. Rodale
For writers—like me—who are less than enthusiastic about the typical thesaurus, The Synonym Finder is a fabulous (incredible, amazing, wondrous, superb) resource. Because the entries are arranged alphabetically in a dictionary-style format, it's quick and easy to use. This hefty volume delivers an abundant selection of synonyms to help you select just the right word.
The Copywriter's Handbook, Robert Bly
Bly is considered a master copywriter and this is his original classic. Some of the information is dated, but the knowledge he shares is timeless. Here he offers a step-by-step guide to writing effective copy for print advertising, direct mail, public relations, and other collateral marketing pieces. Whether you're a freelancer or an agency writer, you'll find lots of good advice in this book.
The Well-Fed Writer, Peter Bowerman
This is the book that convinced me I could actually make a living as a freelance writer. It's packed with savvy, relevant content that's invaluable for the writer who plans to succeed on his or her own terms. Like a personal trainer and cheerleader in one, Bowerman mentors and motivates with wit and wisdom, delightfully delivering his advice without a hint of pomposity. When you've finished reading this one, be sure to follow with his second book, TWFW Back for Seconds.
Can You Say This About Your Copywriter?
"I'm extremely pleased with Jonelle's work. Her copy is well written, and in perfect keeping with the style my company is going for. She seems to understand, with little or no instruction, precisely what will work for us. She is responsive, answers all emails and inquiries promptly, meets all deadlines, and demonstrates professionalism in all that she does. We are delighted to be working with her and plan to continue to use her services in the future."
Rachel Hillman, Sage Commerce LLC
The Well-Fed Writer by Peter Bowerman
This book delivers a solid plan to achieve financial self-sufficiency as a freelance writer in six months or less. It's packed with savvy, relevant content that's invaluable for the writer who plans to succeed on his or her own terms.
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