The Writer's Handbook: Guide to Crime Writing - Softcover

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1405000996 ISBN 13: 9781405000994

Publisher: Macmillan Pub Ltd, 2003

Synopsis

Drawing on the expertise of top crime writers, including Ian Rankin and Val McDermid, this book looks at how to write a successful crime novel-from the critical points in the development of the book, including story setting, creating characters, building suspense, use of sex and violence, the importance of research and the basic rules of story construction, to how to get published. It carries advice from leading publishers, agents and booksellers in the field, looks at legendary figures in crime fiction, and has an extensive, comprehensive listings and information section.

About this title

About the Author

Barry Turner has edited The Writer's Handbook for over 16 years. He is also a journalist and has previously worked in publishing as an editor and marketing director. He lives in north London.

From Library Journal

Turner, who serializes books for the Times of London and edits the magazine Country, is serving as editor of this reference for the 16th time. As in previous editions, the more than 6000 entries cover most aspects of the writing life, with sections on magazines, newspapers, screenwriting, book publishing, television, radio, film, video, theater, and poetry. "Websites at a Glance" and "Literary Societies" are particularly helpful chapters for the beginning writer, and coverage of the practicalities of a writing career-agents, copyrights, writers' contests, festivals, grants, and taxation-includes a useful checklist. Other chapters range from travel to literary criticism, and Turner has wisely brought together experts in the fields of law and taxes to contribute the chapters on business issues. While the book deals with markets in both the United States and the United Kingdom, the latter is given more emphasis, and therein lies the problem with purchasing this book: most novice writers need a more Americanized approach to literary markets. Recommended only as need arises.
Pam Kingsbury, Florence, AL
Copyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Edition details

• Publisher: Macmillan Pub Ltd
• Publication date: 2003
• ISBN 10: 1405000996
• ISBN 13: 9781405000994
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 152
• Editor: Turner Barry