Review: On Writing by Stephen King

On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King

Release Date: 1 Sept. 2001

Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton

Genres: Non-Fiction, Memoir, Autobiography

"Long live the King" hailed "Entertainment Weekly" upon the 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.Find out what books and films influenced the young writer, his first idea for a story and the true life tale that inspired Carrie.

 

I am a huge Stephen King fan and have been since the age of 18 when I first read Misery.  I was blown away by his writing style and how his mind worked to produce such a story. When this book was recommended to me by a friend I couldn't wait to read it. The first part of the book talks in-depth about King's early childhood and teenage years. It explores the experiences that influenced him and also is brutally honest with regards to the fact that he lived in real poverty with his mother and brother. He doesn't hold back and I admired him for it. Stephen King's rise to literary fame was by no means an easy one and his struggle for recognition was a difficult one. The man sweated blood and tears with his writing. He is also honest too about the darker side of his life with regards addictions and throughout the book the reader finds out some surprising things about him.

 

The second half of the book offers excellent advice with regards to how to write and is a valuable resource to wannabe writers or even those well established writers. So much of what he says makes so much sense you'd wonder why no-one else thought of saying it before! Because I was so addicted to this book, I also bought the audio version so I could listen to it on my way home from work every day. Well what a pleasant surprise I got when I discovered it was the great man himself narrating! As well as falling in love with all things Stephen King, I am now in love with his voice! A truly amazing man whose dedication and love towards his wife is heart-warming, showing a vulnerable side to this writing legend. Highly recommended.