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

Great advice, but a little arrogant at times.

I took away a lot of great advice from this book (though you might not be able to tell from the reviews I write)

It seemed as if Stein spent a lot of time telling us how famous and successful he was and what a great influence he had been on a number of other famous and successful people. if you listen to this in a week like I did, you don't need to hear 20 times how he mentored an oscar winning director. Just get to the point.

Essential for Writers

I listened to this for free via the Audible Plus Catalog. Stein on Writing first published in 2000, but the information is still relevant. Every chapter has useful tips. Many chapters are for both fiction and nonfiction writers. I especially liked the chapters on characterization, plotting, suspense, tension, dialogue, and pacing. There’s even designated chapters on how to show instead of tell, similes and metaphors, and revising. There are lots of great examples in each chapter, mostly from classics. It was interesting when he discussed book titles, especially when he said that the most memorable titles are mixed metaphors, for example, The Heart is a Lonely Hunter. Once you listen to this audiobook, you’ll want to buy the book to add to your home library for future reference.

Thank you Sol Stein!

Incredible resource, I will be listening to this again and again for years to come. Thank you Sol Stein!

Stein on Writing (Unabridged).

I found this book to be a never ending release of uncommon tips and information, making my first venture into writing a very easy transition. I highly recommend the book to any aspiring writers.

Concise, Possibly Complete

Sol gets right to the point. There is nothing superfluous in here. All the lessons are gold.

A must for anyone serious about his craft

As a beginner who's always loved the written word I'm stoked and ready to get busy smithing my own prose, would recommend to any enthusiast.

Raw writing advice. Listened twice already.

A lifetime of teaching and writing bleeds out of each chapter. Stein makes you see the world like a writer, bursting with evocation.

Worth every second.

As I listen and apply I find that I am continually refreshed in not only my thirst for writing but my ability as a craftsman.

Look no further. This book will change your writing life.

Great content, dry listen

Great content if you are ready to write your first novel. After a while though it becomes bla bla bla.. as the reader just drones on and on.
I replayed sections more than once, as I lost concentration because the reader is so dry.

Excellent resource

I found this book to be exactly what I needed to point out writing pitfalls. It also served to remind me of what I already knew.
Stein cleared up things I've heard seasoned writers often say, but not necessarily explain; such as "be precise."
This book brings you from blank page to publishing. I read many books on writing, and I'd have to say this book is one of the best resources I've found. Half way through listening to this book, I also bought the softcover book to use as a reference.