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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: 45+ Quotes About Writing from Famous Writers


No matter how passionate you are about it, writing can be difficult. Whenever you’re struggling with writer’s block, rejection, competition, insecurity, or any of the countless obstacles that wordsmiths encounter daily, it can help to get encouragement from those who have successfully overcome the very same challenges. If you're looking for inspiration to start your next project, these quotes about writing from writers themselves are sure to be welcome reading!

What listeners say about On Writing

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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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terrific tips

An interesting visit to the behind -the -scene action. Great fluidity of narration as well as thought.

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Excellent

Tone and speed were on point. information and story telling weaved together handsomely. great tips and and insight through the entire writing process from conception to publishing.

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Fantastic!!

Great read!! Funny, informative, and well thought out!! Anyone who has any interest in writing, will surely take away some great info!!

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Direct applicable advice entertainingly presented.

see title. Thanks for writing it.

Direct applicable advice entertainingly presented.

Word count minimums, how funny for a book on writing.

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A must read for every writer

This little gem is a book every writer should read, and re-read. Besides getting to know King a little better, it offers concise but dense lessons on the craft of writing. The audio was good, but the pitch changed at one point in the book. That said, it didn't detract anything from the enjoyment of listening to it (at least for me it didn't) or the value of the advice given. I highly recommend this book.

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Brilliant

I learned a lot. It was a treat to have a peek inside his mind!

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Beautiful

No matter how many times I listen to it, this will always be the most wonderful book I’ve ever read in my life.

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Adding more tools

Stephen has some excellent ideas in this book, some of which I already use. I will try the others on for size.
George

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