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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: The Best Memoirs to Make You Laugh, Cry, and Think


The memoir, as an art form, is one of the most difficult and complex to pull off. That’s why these titles are so impressive: not only are they excellent works in their own right, but they’ve achieved cultural acclaim, resonating with listeners of different ages, genders, races, religions, and identities. Often narrated by the authors themselves, these audiobooks allow listeners to be immersed in each story and feel all of the raw and unfiltered emotion that comes with them.

What listeners say about On Writing

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On Writing

The first three chapters focus on his personal life. Starting in chapter 4 you begin the real heart of the book and it will change your way of writing forever.

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Good listen

I had to give King five stars for his performance even if only because it isn't his trade. Overall great read if you want to get serious about writing and still very interesting if you dont.

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A masterpiece

Wonderfully narrated by the master story teller himself. Thanks for sharing your successes and failures. This is one of those books that everyone familiar with the King's work should read. You'll find a new appreciation for his work.

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Remarkable read! Well done Mr. King and thank you.

I challenge you to ever find a more honest and we'll put together narration on the craft of writing. I first read "On Writing" when it was gifted to me by the Writers Guild of America in LA. Thank you Mr. King! If you are ever able to, you should come speak at the WGA during one of the 'Veterans Writing Retreat' monthly workshops. Thanks again!
-Zakariah Bass

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Entertaining knowledge

Great book on author. The author's story is entertaining but the writing advice requires multiple reads. Well worth the effort.

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Inspirador

En su manera de arrogancia personal don Stephen te motiva a perseguir tus sueños "escritoristicos". Además que te cuenta íntimos detalles de su vida.

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A True Insight - Wisdom of King Is Intriguing

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

Beside the context of this book I greatly enjoyed the fact that King himself narrates this insight on writing.

What was one of the most memorable moments of On Writing?

I won't give that away however I'll just say you should purchase this book to find-out,

Which scene was your favorite?

I won't give that away, again, however I'll just say you should purchase this book to find-out,

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

Absolutely, once you get started your stuck in awe as if listening to your Grand Parents telling you about the olden day's...

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Thanks!!

This book is exactly what I needed as an aspiring novelist. Just finished first draft and now I know more of what to look for on my second read.

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Learned More Here Than Anywhere !

Stephen King shows you what you NEED to write well where so many of the other books I've read teach WAY above my head. I LOVE how he shows the WRONG ways to write too because sometimes that is the best teacher. And the way Stephen includes his own struggles and experiences only makes it better ! Your going to LOVE this book ! Thank you Stephen King !!

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I love Stephen King! His nonfiction is the best.

I love his nonfiction between his blunt descriptions of process and how he came to be a writer is extremely conversational and engaging.

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