How to Revise Your Own Stories

by Anne Hamilton

Many writers by no means lacking in writing ability and supplied with vivid imaginations and plenty of ideas have failed to sell their stories. Faced with the problem of revision they are unable to set up standards for comparison and measurement so that their story can be tested and improved.
With a series of pointed questions and answers, Anne Hamilton supplies a working method for the self-analysis of a short story, and provides a formula for its effective revision - especially with a view toward increasing its salability. It is unnecessary to pay high fees for outside criticism of doubtful value. An intelligent application of the principles contained in this book will tell the author what is wrong with a story, and indicate how to remedy its faults. Both in its form of presentation and content, this is truly a unique and extremely helpful book.

Hardcover

First published January 1, 1946

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Reviews

[Karen GoatKeeper · Rating 5 out of 5]

This small book is a series of questions to consider as an author revises a piece of writing. Although the questions were designed for a magazine article, the majority work very well for any fiction piece of any length. Many of the questions should be considered even as the first rough draft is written.
Each question is followed by an explanatory paragraph. All are easy. They may seem to obvious to mention, yet should be mentioned as these are the ones overlooked. The questions relate to the core of the piece: characters, plot, setting and integrating these into an effective whole.
This book is a must read for anyone serious about writing in any genre.