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The Art & Craft of Writing Christian Fiction: The Complete Guide to Finding Your Story, Honing Your Skills, & Glorifying God in Your Novel
Let's face Christian fiction is fun. Even if you're writing a serious-minded study of man's inhumanity to man, there is something exhilarating about story; about creating people and worlds and events; about telling a tale that keeps readers enraptured and maybe - just maybe - leaves them fortified in their walk with Jesus.But for all of the fun, it's also hard work. There is skill involved in writing excellent Christian fiction. There is craftsmanship to be learned. And there are the long hours pounding away on a manuscript that, by the time you're done with it, has you convinced it's the worst piece of garbage ever penned by man.That's not even talking about trying to get your book published. It's a wonder anyone would choose such a way to spend otherwise useful time.So maybe you put your novel away for awhile. You've tried to do more sensible things with your spare moments. You've attempted to be engaged with workaday matters, laundry, and bills.But one day, a new story idea will pop into your head or you won't be able to stop hearing the voice of a character demanding to be written about. On that day, you'll be right back where you were, counting the cost of writing Christian fiction â€" and loving it like nothing else.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 20, 2009
33 people are currently reading
221 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
September 11, 2016
This was an amazing read, for me as a Christian author. It refreshed some things I knew and taught me some things I didn't know. To start off with, Mr. Gerke focused on the spiritual backbone of writing. I found this section very refreshing. Who are you writing for? What is your motive? Who do you hope to reach?
From there, he covered many aspects from the approach to the craft of writing. One point that helped me was: how to think of yourself as a writer (you're more of a filmmaker than a campfire storyteller). As I was reading the book, I kept thinking of different writer friends (in different points of their writing knowledge) that I know would benefit from the book.
There were, of course, many examples given to portray what Mr. Gerke was teaching. One in particular did not appeal to me (he was explaining how to portray a vile character without using language, and I found the example defiling). Because of this, the conservative teen might want to beware.
Some quotes:
"...Good fiction represents how God works with mankind."
"Don't mention something about a character that you don't come back to later."
From there, he covered many aspects from the approach to the craft of writing. One point that helped me was: how to think of yourself as a writer (you're more of a filmmaker than a campfire storyteller). As I was reading the book, I kept thinking of different writer friends (in different points of their writing knowledge) that I know would benefit from the book.
There were, of course, many examples given to portray what Mr. Gerke was teaching. One in particular did not appeal to me (he was explaining how to portray a vile character without using language, and I found the example defiling). Because of this, the conservative teen might want to beware.
Some quotes:
"...Good fiction represents how God works with mankind."
"Don't mention something about a character that you don't come back to later."
dnf
December 8, 2017I'll admit I forgot about this book for the month of November and realized it was time to return it to the library. :P
December 2, 2016
I picked up this book expecting it was about the thematic aspects of writing and how to handle Christian themes and characters in explicitly Christian works. As it turns out, this isn't the subject of the book at all--the book is really just a book about how to write good fiction, and while there's a bit of a Christian flair to it, it's much more about writing good fiction than about writing good Christian fiction. I was a bit disappointed there wasn't more about the specific challenges of writing explicitly Christian fiction. But in my experience, Christian authors struggle more with good storytelling than with using themes well, so I guess it fits.
Either way, once I understood what the book was, I enjoyed it and benefited from it quite a bit. Gerke had a lot of good advice, and while this is more of a beginner's book, it's a fairly good beginner's book at that. While I already knew a lot of what Gerke was talking about, I still learned from him at places. Gerke also includes one of the best discussions and solutions to how to handle profanity in Christian fiction that I've seen.
All-in-all, this is a solid introductory book on how to write good fiction for a prospective Christian writer.
Rating: 4 Stars (Very Good).
Either way, once I understood what the book was, I enjoyed it and benefited from it quite a bit. Gerke had a lot of good advice, and while this is more of a beginner's book, it's a fairly good beginner's book at that. While I already knew a lot of what Gerke was talking about, I still learned from him at places. Gerke also includes one of the best discussions and solutions to how to handle profanity in Christian fiction that I've seen.
All-in-all, this is a solid introductory book on how to write good fiction for a prospective Christian writer.
Rating: 4 Stars (Very Good).
January 28, 2014
I wish I'd read this book ten years ago. (I wish it had been written ten years ago.) In one, relatively compact and readable volume Gerke outlines many of the really important things a writer needs to know.
This book is a compilation of blog-like essays on various aspects of writing arranged by topic. It gets the job done. It is especially valuable as it addresses some of the unique issues related to writing Christian fiction. His treatment of dealing with obscenity is close to profound.
A very good read.
This book is a compilation of blog-like essays on various aspects of writing arranged by topic. It gets the job done. It is especially valuable as it addresses some of the unique issues related to writing Christian fiction. His treatment of dealing with obscenity is close to profound.
A very good read.
January 28, 2013
This was a great book on writing craft. The workbook I completed along with it maximized the experience, for me. I learned a lot about plotting, which may be the weakest point in my skill set.
Although it says "Writing Christian Fiction" on the cover, it isn’t specifically geared to teach "writing for the Christian market.” Jeff Gerke wrote this book “for Christians who are writing fiction.” I liked that, because I plan on writing for a non-Christian market. That's my plan for now anyway :) This covers some of the moral dilemmas for Christian writers (for example: If we are portraying a profane character, should we write profanity into our work?) and lots of great craft issues.
Although it says "Writing Christian Fiction" on the cover, it isn’t specifically geared to teach "writing for the Christian market.” Jeff Gerke wrote this book “for Christians who are writing fiction.” I liked that, because I plan on writing for a non-Christian market. That's my plan for now anyway :) This covers some of the moral dilemmas for Christian writers (for example: If we are portraying a profane character, should we write profanity into our work?) and lots of great craft issues.
November 16, 2015
Jeff Gerke calls it right in his tips for writing fiction. He helps those of us seeking to write clean yet amazing stories to overcome stereotypes and really invest more in our characters, plots, and twists to make the reader really engage with the whole experience. He'll give you the litmus test for your novel so you don't step in the quicksand of easy answers and platitudes. Excellent book about writing. On my recommended shelf! And an amazing author and inspiring person as well! Thanks, Jeff!
January 11, 2015
I wish I would've read this book prior to writing a first draft. "I guess it's back to the drawing board to fix my gobbledygook," I sighed- I mean said.
Excellent book for learning the basics of the writing process. Jeff had thought provoking words of wisdom for aspiring Christian novelists.
Excellent book for learning the basics of the writing process. Jeff had thought provoking words of wisdom for aspiring Christian novelists.
August 17, 2018
Content: The content I'm this book is pretty much confined to the two chapters on profane characters. They mention some major curse words, have some minor curse words such as c**p and h**k, and have some sexual content. Sexual content details:
Rating: 4.5 stars/I liked all but about one thing about it.
Rating Reason: This is a practical, useful book that covers many topics in under 300 pages. It has an index at the back to help guide readers to the sections most pertinent to them, and all the basic knowledge needed to write and publish a book is included. The author's tone is a bit conceited, however.
Rating: 4.5 stars/I liked all but about one thing about it.
Rating Reason: This is a practical, useful book that covers many topics in under 300 pages. It has an index at the back to help guide readers to the sections most pertinent to them, and all the basic knowledge needed to write and publish a book is included. The author's tone is a bit conceited, however.
May 31, 2017
“Fiction writing, the coolest job in the world.” A phrase Jeff uses at the end of his book. I agree.
I read this book in small segments, attempting to get as much from it as possible. I did. The skills learned will stay with me a long time.
While rewriting my own novel, I was able to apply these skills. I saw mistakes in my writing and corrected those errors. Very rewarding.
Some of the skills I knew and had to brush up on them. It’s surprising how one can forget a past lesson.
I plan to read Jeff Gerke’s books to obtain more skills.
I read this book in small segments, attempting to get as much from it as possible. I did. The skills learned will stay with me a long time.
While rewriting my own novel, I was able to apply these skills. I saw mistakes in my writing and corrected those errors. Very rewarding.
Some of the skills I knew and had to brush up on them. It’s surprising how one can forget a past lesson.
I plan to read Jeff Gerke’s books to obtain more skills.
December 26, 2018
A helpful book overall, but extremely redundant to the point where the author seems desperate to up the word count. He offers multiple perspectives on the writing process, but heavily emphasizes his own opinions in an almost demanding demeanor.
November 1, 2025
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➕ I only read the section in this book specific to Christian writing, as the rest has been covered in other writing craft books for me, + wasn't my purpose in reading this book.
➕ I only read the section in this book specific to Christian writing, as the rest has been covered in other writing craft books for me, + wasn't my purpose in reading this book.
August 4, 2017
I read the 2014 version and found it VERY helpful. And not just about Christian fiction, about fiction in general. I thought this book was better than his 50 First Pages.
June 13, 2019
I had quite a good laugh reading this. So after Christian Rock, here's Christian Fiction.
July 22, 2019
This was a re-read to refresh read of an excellent book on writing.
March 15, 2020
If you plan to write Christian fiction. Than this book is a great place to start.
June 22, 2025
Jeff Gerke not only had some helpful tips on writing Christian fiction, but he also reminded me that I am writing for the audience of God. Everything I write is for Him.
May 6, 2011
In the interest of full disclosure, I’m an author that knows and has worked with Jeff Gerke. He was the editor for two of my novels, in fact. I respect his knowledge and opinions. They are very logical and, if followed, will not only make you a better writer, but make your stories better as well.
In The Art & Craft of Writing Christian Fiction you will find the essence of what Jeff teaches as an editor, publisher and writing instructor. It is like having him in the room with you as you write.
For a craft book, The Art & Craft is an amazingly fast read. It is full of useful insight and wisdom to help with your writing quest. There are over fifty topics covered, from dialog to plotting to character creation. Many common writer mistakes are highlighted as well, along with the fixes.
I especially like all the pop culture and movie references Mr. Gerke weaves into the book. While making the book entertaining, those examples really help illustrate his points.
Finally, this book is encouraging, another quality of Mr. Gerke’s that managed to make it onto the page. As he says within, he really does love Christian fiction and the people that write it. And who wouldn’t want to work with a person like that?
Get yourself a copy of this book and improve your writing today. Highly recommended!
In The Art & Craft of Writing Christian Fiction you will find the essence of what Jeff teaches as an editor, publisher and writing instructor. It is like having him in the room with you as you write.
For a craft book, The Art & Craft is an amazingly fast read. It is full of useful insight and wisdom to help with your writing quest. There are over fifty topics covered, from dialog to plotting to character creation. Many common writer mistakes are highlighted as well, along with the fixes.
I especially like all the pop culture and movie references Mr. Gerke weaves into the book. While making the book entertaining, those examples really help illustrate his points.
Finally, this book is encouraging, another quality of Mr. Gerke’s that managed to make it onto the page. As he says within, he really does love Christian fiction and the people that write it. And who wouldn’t want to work with a person like that?
Get yourself a copy of this book and improve your writing today. Highly recommended!
February 15, 2017
Great reference help if you want to write in that genre.
February 26, 2022
I've read dozens of books about the art of writing books. Most sound the same, offer the same tips, and provide minimal nuance. Jeff Gerke's stab at describing the art and craft of authorship is not terribly unique. However (and this is a BIG however), he boldly tackles the task from a Christian perspective. I especially appreciated his segment on the use of foul language, the dangers of "using God to solve all the characters' problems," and the cliché of "everyone got saved and only then were able to live happily after." Don't get me wrong...I am a Christian and there is truth to these sentiments. The trouble is...they do not work in fiction. Real life? Yes. Definitely. Fiction? No. And Jeff is the first one who was able to explain why.
His writing, explanations, and examples are all solid and to-the-point. Highly recommend for any author's how-to shelf.
His writing, explanations, and examples are all solid and to-the-point. Highly recommend for any author's how-to shelf.
August 7, 2012
Chock full of advice, This book kept me turning pages like it was a well crafted fiction novel (which is what it was teaching about so that's good). The advice and lessons were wonderfully put forth with examples from movies, books, or something the author just made up to get his point across with excellent reasoning. My copy is now covered in highlights with items I will use in my books. There only one or two things I might disagree with but, other than that, this book was just what I needed to understand what I should do while writing and crafting my novels. A keeper for sure.
August 12, 2015
An excellent book for writers. I learned so much from this book that I feel like my writing will instantly improve after reading it. Also the authors voice is so full of excitement for his craft and is so encouraging that it will instantly inspire you to go sit down and write something.
The only downside that I could find in this book is that Jeff Gerke keeps talking about a book called The Art and Craft of Editing and Selling Christian Fiction. As far as I can tell no such book exists.
The only downside that I could find in this book is that Jeff Gerke keeps talking about a book called The Art and Craft of Editing and Selling Christian Fiction. As far as I can tell no such book exists.
June 4, 2016
I picked this book up for my Kindle simply because of the price. Once I read it I knew I needed the paperback version for my writing reference library. Let me say this, don't let the word "Christian" in the title throw you off. Yes, there is materials in there for Christian writers but the bulk of it is for writers in general. Mr. Gerke has a sense of humor and editorial experience so the materials in this book are relevant and easy to read. Since I have both the paperback and Kindle version I advise authors to buy both. A valuable reference book.
June 15, 2010
Jeff Gerke's fast paced manual of tips for the Christian author offered me many great reminders of the concepts I need to watch for in my own writing. The information is broken down into digestible chunks, with each chapter getting to the core of the issue it discusses in a clear way. (And how could I help but love that many of the examples Jeff uses are from movies I know and adore?) A definite good read.
February 12, 2012
It's been a while since I posted a review. Frankly, life just got in the way and I have been in survival mode on many levels. That being said, I am a great admirer of Jeff Gerke's craft books. If you want to write Christian fiction, this is an excellent addition to your bookshelf. My personal takeaways were to spend more time developing characters and to avoid the pitfall of telling rather than showing.
Good stuff!
Good stuff!
November 14, 2013
Although Jeff can be quite pigheaded at times ("Don't let any paragraph go longer than 8 lines", "When it comes to dialogue, stick with 'said'."),it is very helpful to be led to think through the classical issues like the relative value of telling, showing, describing; or narration through the eyes of the POV character, etc. A good starter for new authors, with here and there a markedly Christian perspective.
April 8, 2015
A wonderful breakdown on how to properly compose that Christian novel
I came to purchasing this book because I was interested in writing Christian fiction, but left with so much more. This book deals with the specific topic of Christian fiction, but goes way beyond that and teaches masterful approaches at writing fiction in general. A must read, you will not be disappointed!
I came to purchasing this book because I was interested in writing Christian fiction, but left with so much more. This book deals with the specific topic of Christian fiction, but goes way beyond that and teaches masterful approaches at writing fiction in general. A must read, you will not be disappointed!
September 29, 2015
Exactly What I have been needing to read.
As a new writer of Christian Fiction and a financially challenged retiree my skills have to be developed through self-study. This book is a God-send. I love the straight forward honest style and the way Jeff Gerke gives clear examples. I've read books telling me what I need to do, this one tree's me how to do it. Great job JG.
As a new writer of Christian Fiction and a financially challenged retiree my skills have to be developed through self-study. This book is a God-send. I love the straight forward honest style and the way Jeff Gerke gives clear examples. I've read books telling me what I need to do, this one tree's me how to do it. Great job JG.
February 2, 2017
Even if you aren't Christian, this is a good book on the basics of writing a novel. Jeff does a great job of discussing plot and character, plus he gives great examples of point of view pitfalls and other traps that catch new authors unawares.
October 25, 2010
An amazing resource. Practical advice from an editor, writer, publisher, and a first and foremost a Christian. A funny easy read that really changed my writing!
If we could only get this book into more wannabe authors. We need good Christian fiction!
If we could only get this book into more wannabe authors. We need good Christian fiction!
March 29, 2012
Provides some good ways to tackle the questions that Christians writers might have. For example, what level of violence and language is okay? Is it okay to have an antihero? While he doesn't provide strict, definite answers (a good thing) he does give out tips on approaching the questions.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews