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On Writing  By  cover art

On Writing

By: Stephen King
Narrated by: Stephen King, Joe Hill, Owen King
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Editorial reviews

To begin with, you've got Stephen King, a writer so talented in the art of thrill-generation that he could insert excitement into the assembly instructions for a bookshelf. Or, say, a book about writing and grammar. And that's precisely what King does in On Writing, an improbably fascinating, relentlessly compelling trip through the mind, style, life, and work of one of our greatest popular writers.

Hearing this unique combination of anecdotes and insider's advice told in King's charmingly nasal voice makes an already insightful narrative even more personal and powerful. If you want to write, this audiobook will quickly become a treasured resource, because it will improve your writing. But even if you have no interest whatsoever in writing, King's anecdotes and instructions into the art and process will probably make you a better, more informed reader.

Publisher's summary

Twentieth Anniversary Edition with Contributions from Joe Hill and Owen King

ONE OF TIME MAGAZINE’S TOP 100 NONFICTION BOOKS OF ALL TIME

Immensely helpful and illuminating to any aspiring writer, this special edition of Stephen King’s critically lauded, million-copy bestseller shares the experiences, habits, and convictions that have shaped him and his work.

“Long live the King” hailed Entertainment Weekly upon publication of Stephen King’s On Writing. Part memoir, part master class by one of the bestselling authors of all time, this superb volume is a revealing and practical view of the writer’s craft, comprising the basic tools of the trade every writer must have. King’s advice is grounded in his vivid memories from childhood through his emergence as a writer, from his struggling early career to his widely reported, near-fatal accident in 1999—and how the inextricable link between writing and living spurred his recovery. Brilliantly structured, friendly and inspiring, On Writing will empower and entertain everyone who reads it—fans, writers, and anyone who loves a great story well told.

The twentieth-anniversary audio edition includes Owen King reading his essay, “Recording Audiobooks for My Dad, Stephen King,” and a recorded conversation with Joe Hill and Stephen King.

©2000 ©2000 Stephen King, All Rights Reserved; (P)2000 Simon & Schuster, Inc.

Critic reviews

"These rare glimpses into King's personal life - as related in his earnest tone and real (thank God) Maine accent - are fascinating.... If you write - or want to - get this book." (AudioFile)

"Spunky, vivid prose are the prime ingredients of what must be considered not at all the usual writer's guide." (Booklist)

"On Writing contains some of the most harrowing pages he has ever written." (Salon.com)

Featured Article: 35+ Quotes About Books That Truly Speak to Bibliophiles


Novels, memoirs, short stories, essay compilations, and more continue to shape who we are and how we view the world, no matter what format—physical book, ebook, or audiobook—we use to absorb and enjoy them. Books are pathways into different worlds and different lives, and one can never be truly bored with a good book. Celebrate your literary love with these quotes about books that will inspire you to dive into your next story.

What listeners say about On Writing

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  • Overall
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Engaging and entertaining read.

This is the first book by Stephen King I have ever read. I enjoyed listening to him so much that I just might have to start reading his novels. This is a candid personal history and describes his career path as a writer and, I think, King makes a genuine (and humorous) attempt to impart guidance to others who would like to try their hand at the writing craft.

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Exceptional

Truth be told, I have never read a Stephen King Novel, don't know if I'll ever get the chance. Upon writing this review I am only half way through, and it is by far the best audio book I have listened to. His wit, prose, and straight forward thoughts are amazing. After reading and listening to a few other books on writing, I can understand why he is considered to be one of the greats. I wish I could give it 10 stars only half as much as I hope to write a tenth as well as him. Thank you, Stephen.

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SK you are the master!

I am writing a movie called. when finished I would love to send it to you! your book helped me so much. thank you for writing it.

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For anyone who wants to write, is a writer, or just loves Stephen

If you’re a writer thinking about wanting to ride this book is great. Everything he says may not quite apply to you and your style but it’s good information a half. If you’re a fan of Stephen King then this is also a great addition to your library you’ll enjoy his personal stories. The shares his insight behind how he comes up with the brilliant stories that he has written. Also it’s just a whole lot of fun. He is a one of a kind Author!

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dudes funny

very enjoyable to hear little quips about kings childhood. I read Carrie when I was a teenager and didn't realize it was his first hit. Carrie was the reason I became a fan of kings words.

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Writing Advice and Stories

If anybody has the right to give writerly advice based solely on success, Stephen King is one of them. With so many novels and short stories under his belt, King offers the collected wisdom, both learned and discovered.

The opening half is a look back on major events that helped to shape King as a writer, and you can see how even the little things, things seemingly unimportant or silly, can influence somebody and really leave a mark on them. From silly stories to ones that make you laugh or even cringe, the first half of this book is a treasure trove of personal experience.

The second part of this book offers answers to commonly asked questions. The advice is solid, though I don’t agree with all of it. However, not everybody writes or thinks in the same way, so naturally nobody will agree with every bit of another person’s philosophy.

This book is a fun read as well as an informative one. I suggest it to anybody who has questions about writing. Well worth the time it takes to get through it.

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Absolutely LOVED!!

"I was built with a love of the night and the unquiet coffin, that's all. If you disapprove I can only shrug my shoulders, it's what I have."

This audiobook was an absolute delight! It was read by King and had the best Q&A at the end with his son Joe Hill. Love the info on Kings early life and how he fell in love with writing and how he gained success at it. This one is a great read, highly recommend!


"Books are a uniquely portable magic."

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A must read, over and over and over!

I love reading and listening to this book. I'll put it on almost every night and no matter whatI always pick up on something else that I missed out it shakes something else loose. Though, sometimes I wonder, Is Stephen King someone sneaking in and adding little tid bits here or there. I wouldn't put it past him. I love when the most gifted writers on the planet share what works for them and they don't sugarcoat anything. This is Stephen King's version of Masterclass. A must read for writers readers alike.

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Endearing and practical in one concise package

What made the experience of listening to On Writing the most enjoyable?

I love that King read this book. It felt like I was at a stop on one of his book tours and he was giving a performance before a signing. The personal stories were the best part. I love hearing the little snippets from his childhood directly from the man himself.

What about Stephen King’s performance did you like?

I think he did well. His performance was engaging and (mostly) natural. His style of writing lends to a conversational reading voice.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

I've listened to this book multiple times since purchasing it.

Any additional comments?

The practical writing tips were interesting. I think even without the biographical content I would enjoy this book. King's background in teaching helps him communicate his tips and tricks in an understandable and relatable way. He's straight forward and relatable. Fantastic.

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Inspiring and Educational for any level of writter

If you are a writer, aspire to be a writer, might possibly write something in your life you must read/listen to this book. I have read approximately fifty books on writing, learning more from this one book than all others combined. My next book will be credited to Stephen King for the insight and wisdom to do what writers need to do to be a writer. Thank you Stephen King, your insight is both educational and ageless. The insight into your life and journey as a world-renowned writer was most entertaining.

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