Making Shapely Fiction - Softcover

Stern, Jerome

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0440212219 ISBN 13: 9780440212218

Publisher: Laurel, 1992

Synopsis

This book is different from other books on writing.  You can start writing serious fiction from the first page -- because, as Jerome Stern makes clear, learning to write spontaneously is the first step to writing well.  As you begin to grasp the principle of momentum, tension and immediacy, you'll find your fiction has shape and form. You'll discover how to "write what you know," and avoid the traps and pitfalls awaiting fledgeling authors.  A cross-referenced Alphabet for Writers includes incisive entries for such writerly concerns as Anti-Heroes, Dialogue, Sex, and Style.  Whether you're a beginning, a seasoned professional, or a teacher of the craft, you already know there are no rules in writing ficton . . .but Jerome Stern will inspire you to find your personal path.

About this title

About the Author:

Jerome Stern, a professor of English and popular culture, is the author of an acclaimed book on writing, Making Shapely Fiction. His incisive monologues are regularly heard on National Public Radio.

Review:

“Useful on the most practical level.... [Stern] plunges his readers into the middle of things.”
- New York Times

“Offers a raft of examples that explain the techniques used by novelists from Flaubert to Updike―an eminently helpful and engaging writer's guide.”
- Booklist

“A complete original. The warm, witty, wise voice draws you in, and you leave the book wanting to write―and knowing how.”
- Jesse Lee Kercheval, director, Wisconsin Institute for Creative Writing, University of Wisconsin

“Jerome Stern has done us all a favor with this canny little book. If you are interested in writing, read it now. This is an expert writer and teacher sending his notes from the trenches. Never has caution been so exhilarating, advice so wry. I will use this book.”
- Ron Carlson, author of The Hotel Eden

“Clarifies the mumbo-jumbo. For serious students of fiction, Jerome Stern is the Alpha crow. Follow him and shave the miles off your flying time.”
- Bob Shacochis, author of Swimming in the Volcano

About this edition

• Publisher: Laurel
• Publication date: 1992
• ISBN 10: 0440212219
• ISBN 13: 9780440212218
• Binding: Mass Market Paperback
• Number of pages: 304