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On Writing

A Memoir of the Craft

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On Writing

Written by: Stephen King
Narrated by: Stephen King, Joe Hill, Owen King
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CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF WRITING with fresh testimonials from fellow writers about why they love Stephen King and On Writing—and a few new words on the joy of writing from King himself.

*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 Stephen King, All Rights Reserved; (P)2000 Simon & Schuster, Inc.
Art & Literature Authors Writing, Research & Publishing Guides Memoir Nonfiction Biography Creative Writing
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What the critics say

"Twenty years after this audiobook came out, it remains as fresh as it was in 2000—a combination of memoir, observations on literature and authorship, craft tips for writers, and an emotional concluding segment on the 1999 near-fatal accident that put King's career on hold. King presents his work in a conversational storytelling voice with excellent timing. This new edition sports two bonuses, both of interest to audiobook listeners. There's a New Yorker essay written and read by Stephen's son Owen, explaining how his father paid him to record books on cassette tapes back when most audiobooks were abridged. Also included is an hour-long conversation on writing between Stephen King and his son Joe Hill, which features father and son reading from each other's works."

Featured Article: 10 Audiohacks that Will Teach You How to Write

The art of writing is both exciting and intimidating. While you may have a story to tell, knowing how to focus and begin telling that story is hard. Similarly, honing your writing and taking it from a first draft to an engaging narrative, and perhaps even best seller, is a different struggle again. Here we’ve compiled a list of ten audiobooks on writing well. Whether it's your first book, you're writing a memoir, a kids book, fiction or nonfiction, these titles will help you strengthen your skills and set yourself up for success.

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I loved every minute of this book, and I have come away truly inspired to try my hand at writing my own book - something I've had on my heart for many years.
I am a painter - not an author - however, there are so many ways that Stephen's experience, wisdom, and advice are relevant to my painting practice. I will definitely share this book with the artists I mentor.
Thank you, Stephen, for your authenticity - your raw & real words speak to the core of the artist in me, and reading your book has made me want to sit on a bench and speak with you for hours!
I'm happily married, and my husband loves your horror books and movies. I won't watch or read any of those, but you have redeemed yourself in my eyes with this classic 'how to' on writing.
If I ever do write a book, it will have a similar flavor to your book "On Writing". Perhaps I'll call it "On Being an Artist".
Thank goodness Tabbi helped you get back on the horse and finish this book in the back hallway. It is a gift.
I will also be getting myself a print copy that I can make a mess of with my highlighter and post-it notes!

With gratitude and warm regards to you, Tabbi, and your family.
Jenn Williamson
British Columbia, Canada

I do hope Stephen King reads this one and smiles!

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not only was this a helpful read when it comes to writing, but it also help me get to know my favourite author of all time. I would so love to meet Stephen and Tabitha King. It's truly an honour to be allowed a peek into the life of one of the most prolific authors of my lifetime.

Loved this!

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Bloody Inspirational
Narrator read perfectly
Lots of laughs included
Worth the time and listen 🎧

Incredible

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I loved this. Stephen King does a perfect job narrating his book, and the book itself was inspiring, motivating, useful, and kind. I look forward to reading it again soon.

Inspiring & Thoughtful

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short, spicy and straight to the gist. A twist of no B.S. theory and hardcore life experiences. And as usual the way King writes his story, you always somehow relate to the characters happiness and struggles. This story is about a writer.

From novice to master, a must read.

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