Stein on Writing

A Master Editor Shares His Craft, Techniques, and Strategies

By: Sol Stein

Narrated by: Christopher Lane

Length: 11 hrs and 17 mins

Publisher's summary

Stein on Writing provides immediately useful advice for writers of fiction and nonfiction, whether newcomers or accomplished professionals. As Sol Stein, renowned editor, author, and instructor, explains, "This is not a book of theory. It is a book of usable solutions, how to fix writing that is flawed, how to improve writing that is good, how to create interesting writing in the first place." With examples from his best sellers as well as aspiring students' writing, Stein offers detailed sections on characterization, dialogue, pacing, flashbacks, liposuctioning flab, the "triage" method of revision, using the techniques of fiction to enliven nonfiction, and more.

©1995 Sol Stein (P)2003 Blackstone Audiobooks

Completely changed my perspective on writing.

Im 40 now, and have not done much writing outside of highschool and college assignments. And I admit, if it were not for audiobooks, I would have no connection with books. But that said, I do enjoy a good story, and Ive started to dabble a bit in writing, and thought Id give this book a try, as Im ready and eager to learn more.

What I expected was a dry 'technical manual' on where to put punctuation, and what pro-nouns were and all that. What I got was a wonderfully rich exposure to what the purpose of a writer really is (to manipulate the readers experience), how to flesh out and define your characters and to understand various methods to revising and rewriting your work. All of this backed up by solid examples that show how authors (some bestsellers) have succeeded or fallen short of these ideas. And I found it fascinating.

This book has changed my appreciation for all that an author does, and all the responsibilities I must live up to when I write. And these lessons I will also apply in my artwork, comic books, and other story telling forms.

Again, I thought it it was going to be painfully slow and bland. Yet I found every chapter to be an insight on fresh ways to look at my writing/storytelling. And for me, it was fantastic and I only wish I was aware of these concepts earlier in life, as they are that profound.

excellent advice. clear, concise. practical tips

the advice in this book is improving my writing already. can be immediately applied. helpful illustrative examples throughout

Arrogant? Of course

This book, although I am admittedly only at the end of chapter 2 is exactly and precisely what I've been looking for, it really is a great read, the narration is incredibly well paced, clear, and concise. The apparent lack of a section on "writing for ones audience" really puts me off and I warn amatuer writers such as myself that this is a subject of serious importance for any writing. However, I really am enjoying this book and can already tell, even though I've only scracthed the surface of it, that it will be an invaluable tool in helping me to develop my own writing. It is a serious, great, and well written book, once you get past the sometimes arrogant opinions of course. :)

A Solid Place to Start

This book has really opened my eyes to any story being told. I now look at my writings, others writings, and even movies, in a whole new light. The hours listening to this book is well worth your times and I don't think there is even a class out there that can beat what is covered in this time frame.

For the writer in all of us

Even if I don't get published, my reading skills are better thanks to this book and its details, clarity and examples.

Very useful, but not in audiobook format.

Full of time-tested advice and techniques, and is certainly an essential item on any writer's bookshelf. However, I will almost certainly have to buy the physical book because trying to distill the advice from the audiobook as needed would be an exercise in frustration. The narrator does a serviceable job, but the material is pretty dry reading.

A Writer's Bible

A great listen-and-learn read! Narrator did an awesome job with ensuring the words of the late Sol Stein came through. Worth repeating! Highly recommended!

A great source of information

This book brings together many ideas you’ve probably heard before, but in a way that puts together a step by step guide to learn how to improve your writing and do your own edit and review, polishing you diamond before sending it to the jeweler.

Every bit useable, no flab.

A highly functional guide for fixing bad writing delivered with polished narration and a lively pace.

Top 3

One of the top 3 books I've ever read on the topic of Fiction Writing. Also touches on non-fiction. Great read