James N. Frey

I buy a lot of "how to write" books and never read them. It's a way to appear professional about my writing without actually having to DO any.
So the other day I pulled this one out of my shelf because I am having trouble with a character in my novel who just will NOT behave interestingly, and Mr. Frey gave me the answer right away, set my grey cells to pumping and got me back in the seat. Best writing book I've read in a long time - unlike Sol Stein's books, it isn't all about the author. show more James Frey puts it on the line in clear, elegant, fast reading and fast thinking prose. Now I'm a total fan. If you haven't read it, get it and READ it. show less

What makes a good novel? That depends on who you ask. 'Good' is a subjective term. It is largely a matter of taste. I found myself disagreeing with the author in several places on what constitutes a 'good' novel. For me, a 'good' novel includes an exploration of a philosophical idea or some significant point about humanity in general, concepts the writer of this book seems to dismiss as unnecessary, or at best secondary to conflict and emotion. A better title for this book might be 'How to show more Write Popular Formulaic Drama.' But even if that is not the type of book you like to read (or write), this short 'How To' manual provides helpful advise about how to shape a vague idea into a story. show less

Based on the excerpts, I don't think I'd like Frey's fiction very much. But that's okay, because his writing books are still amazing. He packs a lot of good information into a small space, doesn't get repetitive, and has that hardass "this is hard but do it anyway" attitude that I find hugely motivating. I thought his plotting outline in this book was a little formulaic, but that's the only real complaint I have.

This is a good book. It informs you that all the rules you've been told in other writing books are rubbish. It does go on to explain why this is the case and makes its points well. It covers premise, creating dynamic complex characters (very good), hooks and suspense, and several other useful topics which you should learn once you've learnt the basic rules.

This book is for people who have read all the other books and are ready for the next step in their fiction writing search for show more enlightenment. In one place he says ask yourself what it is you are trying to do. What do you want people to think about your work? What are you saying with your work? I'm damned if I know, I have to admit. It's a bloody good question though, and one that does need thinking about.

(originally reviewed by PJW in 2003)

Updated comment for 2012: I think I know the answer to that question now. Let's see. show less