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A Guide to Creative Writing
Does the idea of creative writing excite you, but you've no idea how to begin?
Do you want to write a story, a local interest book, or even complete a book of poetry? Maybe you would love to create a legacy piece to hand down to future generations, or capture the essence of your relative’s lives but don't know where to start or what to include?
Between suggestions, tips, anecdotes, and exercises, you will glean a mountain of information that will set you on your way no matter if you are new to creative writing or have a book or three under your belt.
With a friendly, accessible tone, A Guide to Creative Writing gives you the tools you need to write for the love of it or to take it further.
Do you want to write a story, a local interest book, or even complete a book of poetry? Maybe you would love to create a legacy piece to hand down to future generations, or capture the essence of your relative’s lives but don't know where to start or what to include?
Between suggestions, tips, anecdotes, and exercises, you will glean a mountain of information that will set you on your way no matter if you are new to creative writing or have a book or three under your belt.
With a friendly, accessible tone, A Guide to Creative Writing gives you the tools you need to write for the love of it or to take it further.
- GenresWritingNonfiction
216 pages, Paperback
Published August 13, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
July 7, 2024
If you’re looking for advice on how to write any type of fiction or nonfiction, this little book will have some great tips for you. I appreciated the summaries at the end of each chapter, and Banham also includes some helpful exercises to get the creative juices flowing. The author is British, and thus many of the recommendations are as well, but the book is for anyone. This was just published, so check it out!
Thank you to NetGalley and White Owl for the eARC. All opinions are mine.
Thank you to NetGalley and White Owl for the eARC. All opinions are mine.
June 19, 2024
Pen and Sword provided an early galley for review.
As a lifetime amateur writer, I am always looking for helpful books on the subject of writing. My personal collection has several in this category. I also moderate a monthly writing group at our library branch, so I am always eager to find books on the subject to suggest to my friends there.
Banham covers a wide range of topics over ten chapters - from the inspiration to plans for publication. She hits upon various different format as well - fiction, nonfiction and even poetry. There is a little bit of something for everyone in this one.
The longest chapter by far is the one dedicated to fiction (though it does also include sections on inspiration and process - two key aspects of creative writing). As someone whose creative writing mostly falls into the fiction bucket, I certainly appreciated this part of the book. The chapter on troubleshooting also had several useful pointers and tips.
Banham's gentle approach and voice are welcoming and very encouraging. She opens herself to the reader through her own experiences with the hope that they can enlighten those just starting on their writing journeys and to reignite the fires in those who have stepped away from the craft for awhile. She also makes it a point to present potential writers with options; she reiterates often that what might work for one writer might not for another. This is an important point that I don't see often enough in these kinds of books.
As a lifetime amateur writer, I am always looking for helpful books on the subject of writing. My personal collection has several in this category. I also moderate a monthly writing group at our library branch, so I am always eager to find books on the subject to suggest to my friends there.
Banham covers a wide range of topics over ten chapters - from the inspiration to plans for publication. She hits upon various different format as well - fiction, nonfiction and even poetry. There is a little bit of something for everyone in this one.
The longest chapter by far is the one dedicated to fiction (though it does also include sections on inspiration and process - two key aspects of creative writing). As someone whose creative writing mostly falls into the fiction bucket, I certainly appreciated this part of the book. The chapter on troubleshooting also had several useful pointers and tips.
Banham's gentle approach and voice are welcoming and very encouraging. She opens herself to the reader through her own experiences with the hope that they can enlighten those just starting on their writing journeys and to reignite the fires in those who have stepped away from the craft for awhile. She also makes it a point to present potential writers with options; she reiterates often that what might work for one writer might not for another. This is an important point that I don't see often enough in these kinds of books.
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July 7, 2024Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
A Guide to Creative Writing is a concise, useful, and well written guide for writers and other creatives compiled and written by SJ Banham. Released in the UK 13th June 2024 (rest of the world 30th Aug) by Pen & Sword on their White Owl imprint, it's 216 pages and is/will be available in paperback and ebook formats.
This is written by a prolific published writer, about her experiences in the field, to help other writers and creatives. She has an encouraging and egalitarian voice, and her recollections of starting out as a writer and being discouraged by the very people who should have been inclusive and encouraging were poignant, and could be especially important to neophyte writers who don't have the benefit of hindsight to know they can and should persevere.
The information is arranged logically and accessibly: the benefits of handwriting (and how to get thoughts onto "paper"), projects & maintaining a habit of actually writing, exercises (for all ages), fiction (a huge and information dense chapter), nonfiction, poetry, legacy/recollection history, and a tie-together troubleshooting chapter.
Each chapter contains numerous prompts, exercises, explanations, and guides for doing the included assignments. They're not onerous and they're open ended. In fact the author has a gentle and encouraging touch with her guidance.
Four and a half stars. It would be difficult to work through the chapters systematically and -not- see a significant improvement in the reader's ability to get coherent thoughts onto paper. It's not a "how to make a zillion dollars in publishing overnight" and doesn't claim to provide quick and easy ways to avoid putting in the work of actually -writing-.
This would be a good choice for public or school library acquisition, writing workshops, classroom instruction, readers' own self-study, or possibly gifting purposes.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
A Guide to Creative Writing is a concise, useful, and well written guide for writers and other creatives compiled and written by SJ Banham. Released in the UK 13th June 2024 (rest of the world 30th Aug) by Pen & Sword on their White Owl imprint, it's 216 pages and is/will be available in paperback and ebook formats.
This is written by a prolific published writer, about her experiences in the field, to help other writers and creatives. She has an encouraging and egalitarian voice, and her recollections of starting out as a writer and being discouraged by the very people who should have been inclusive and encouraging were poignant, and could be especially important to neophyte writers who don't have the benefit of hindsight to know they can and should persevere.
The information is arranged logically and accessibly: the benefits of handwriting (and how to get thoughts onto "paper"), projects & maintaining a habit of actually writing, exercises (for all ages), fiction (a huge and information dense chapter), nonfiction, poetry, legacy/recollection history, and a tie-together troubleshooting chapter.
Each chapter contains numerous prompts, exercises, explanations, and guides for doing the included assignments. They're not onerous and they're open ended. In fact the author has a gentle and encouraging touch with her guidance.
Four and a half stars. It would be difficult to work through the chapters systematically and -not- see a significant improvement in the reader's ability to get coherent thoughts onto paper. It's not a "how to make a zillion dollars in publishing overnight" and doesn't claim to provide quick and easy ways to avoid putting in the work of actually -writing-.
This would be a good choice for public or school library acquisition, writing workshops, classroom instruction, readers' own self-study, or possibly gifting purposes.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
July 22, 2024
Disclaimer: I was given a copy of this book by the publisher ahead of launch in exchange for an honest review. I also know the author through local writing groups.
'A Guide To Creative Writing' is perhaps an overly simplified title; personally I'd have called this 'A Comprehensive Beginner's Guide To Creative Writing.' 'Beginner's' because this is perhaps best suited to someone towards the start of their writing career, or even considering one. 'Comprehensive' because the author somehow manages to cram advice and guidance on every conceivable type of creative writing (and even some I hadn't considered as creative) – as well as the many options when it comes to getting your work published – into one book.
If that sounds daunting, fear not – one of the strongest qualities of this book is the author's reassuring tone. This reads like a friend walking you through all the options if you want to dedicate yourself to writing, without delving so deeply into the craft that you feel like you should be taking notes. Whatever type of writing you've considered trying your hand at – fiction, non-fiction, poetry, etc – there's a section in here that serves as a great introduction.
Throughout it all, there are also tips, prompts and writing exercises to get you started or to inspire ideas, and some of them are even designed with kids in mind. I found myself bookmarking pages in the digital copy I read so that I can return and try some of these myself, whether as part of my own author career or with my children.
My favourite thing about this book was not just the reassurance but the encouragement. Writing is a daunting task, especially if you plan to write a book, but the author here makes it feel much more attainable – you feel like she's cheering you on during certain sections, and it's highly likely that as soon as you've put down this book, you'll immediately reach for a pen or keyboard.
If you're established or up-and-coming author, there's little here beyond a refresher on the fundamentals (although that's always handy). However, I'd happily recommend this to anyone who has considered trying writing as either a hobby or career, but isn't sure where or how to get started.
'A Guide To Creative Writing' is perhaps an overly simplified title; personally I'd have called this 'A Comprehensive Beginner's Guide To Creative Writing.' 'Beginner's' because this is perhaps best suited to someone towards the start of their writing career, or even considering one. 'Comprehensive' because the author somehow manages to cram advice and guidance on every conceivable type of creative writing (and even some I hadn't considered as creative) – as well as the many options when it comes to getting your work published – into one book.
If that sounds daunting, fear not – one of the strongest qualities of this book is the author's reassuring tone. This reads like a friend walking you through all the options if you want to dedicate yourself to writing, without delving so deeply into the craft that you feel like you should be taking notes. Whatever type of writing you've considered trying your hand at – fiction, non-fiction, poetry, etc – there's a section in here that serves as a great introduction.
Throughout it all, there are also tips, prompts and writing exercises to get you started or to inspire ideas, and some of them are even designed with kids in mind. I found myself bookmarking pages in the digital copy I read so that I can return and try some of these myself, whether as part of my own author career or with my children.
My favourite thing about this book was not just the reassurance but the encouragement. Writing is a daunting task, especially if you plan to write a book, but the author here makes it feel much more attainable – you feel like she's cheering you on during certain sections, and it's highly likely that as soon as you've put down this book, you'll immediately reach for a pen or keyboard.
If you're established or up-and-coming author, there's little here beyond a refresher on the fundamentals (although that's always handy). However, I'd happily recommend this to anyone who has considered trying writing as either a hobby or career, but isn't sure where or how to get started.
July 29, 2024
The best book I've read on creative writing since Stephen King's 'On Writing.'
You want to write? Do you know what you want to write? Fiction, non-fiction, short stories, local interest? Do you know where to start? How to start? Are you a little afraid of taking this decision?
Then pick up a copy of A Guide To Creative Writing by SJ Banham. In an easy to read conversational tone this experienced author helps you overcome the fear, get organised and shows you the best way to approach a creative project.
In a personal, nurturing style you’ll be eased through a perfectly structured program which shows you how to start, where to get ideas, opens a plethora of perspectives with helpful tips and answers the questions we all have.
The perfect start for anyone who wants to write and a helpful refresher for those who have already taken the plunge.
Thank you to Charlotte at Pen and Sword Books Ltd for giving me the chance to review A Guide to Creative Writing by SJ Banham.
You want to write? Do you know what you want to write? Fiction, non-fiction, short stories, local interest? Do you know where to start? How to start? Are you a little afraid of taking this decision?
Then pick up a copy of A Guide To Creative Writing by SJ Banham. In an easy to read conversational tone this experienced author helps you overcome the fear, get organised and shows you the best way to approach a creative project.
In a personal, nurturing style you’ll be eased through a perfectly structured program which shows you how to start, where to get ideas, opens a plethora of perspectives with helpful tips and answers the questions we all have.
The perfect start for anyone who wants to write and a helpful refresher for those who have already taken the plunge.
Thank you to Charlotte at Pen and Sword Books Ltd for giving me the chance to review A Guide to Creative Writing by SJ Banham.
August 2, 2024
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.
In “A Guide to Creative Writing,” SJ Banham provides a friendly, accessible tone that equips both beginners and seasoned writers with the tools they need. Between practical suggestions, insightful tips, engaging anecdotes, and thought-provoking exercises, readers glean a mountain of information.
Whether you’re new to creative writing or already have a few books under your belt, this guide offers inspiration, guidance, and encouragement. Banham’s passion for the craft shines through, making this book a valuable companion for anyone who wants to write for the love of it or take their writing journey further.
If you’ve ever wondered how to unleash your creativity, this book is a must-read.
In “A Guide to Creative Writing,” SJ Banham provides a friendly, accessible tone that equips both beginners and seasoned writers with the tools they need. Between practical suggestions, insightful tips, engaging anecdotes, and thought-provoking exercises, readers glean a mountain of information.
Whether you’re new to creative writing or already have a few books under your belt, this guide offers inspiration, guidance, and encouragement. Banham’s passion for the craft shines through, making this book a valuable companion for anyone who wants to write for the love of it or take their writing journey further.
If you’ve ever wondered how to unleash your creativity, this book is a must-read.
August 24, 2024
A great reference book for new and aspiring writers especially.
This book covers a little of everything. There are sections on Non-Fiction, Fiction, Poetry, Legacy, etc. There are answers to common issues when writing. It covers different ways to publish. The book covers different style of writing. How to use tense. It covers why having someone else edit / proofread for you is so important. Prompt. Fan-fic.
It’s all here. Well written. Very useful book to have on your shelves, especially for on days that you are struggling to write and need motivation.
I received a free copy for review. I only request books that I think I’ll like, because life is too short to waste on books you’d hate. Honest reviews only. If something disappoints me, you’ll know it.
This book covers a little of everything. There are sections on Non-Fiction, Fiction, Poetry, Legacy, etc. There are answers to common issues when writing. It covers different ways to publish. The book covers different style of writing. How to use tense. It covers why having someone else edit / proofread for you is so important. Prompt. Fan-fic.
It’s all here. Well written. Very useful book to have on your shelves, especially for on days that you are struggling to write and need motivation.
I received a free copy for review. I only request books that I think I’ll like, because life is too short to waste on books you’d hate. Honest reviews only. If something disappoints me, you’ll know it.
July 7, 2024
This is a good book for inspiring new authors who are looking for some ideas how to finish that first story or book. There is some good advice in the book, and might help many writers who are stuck with something. The book is divided into several different parts, so it is easy to read and get to the section you need right now, without having to go through the whole book. I would most definitely recommend this to ‘new’ creative writers.
October 11, 2024
I haven't put any of the ideas and methods detailed in this book into practice yet, but found it a useful read.
The book covers many different aspects of creative writing, together with exercises to help the fledgling writer.
I think it will prove very useful when I eventually overcome my fear of spoiling a lovely white page with my efforts!
My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an ARC. All opinions my own.
The book covers many different aspects of creative writing, together with exercises to help the fledgling writer.
I think it will prove very useful when I eventually overcome my fear of spoiling a lovely white page with my efforts!
My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an ARC. All opinions my own.
June 14, 2024
Packed with tons of information. This book is a great resource for people new to creative writing, as it hits on a lot of pertinent topics.
I enjoyed the Take Away Tips at the end of each chapter. And I was a particular fan of problem/solution chapter toward the end of the book.
A valuable resource for those ready to dip their toes into the world of creative writing.
I enjoyed the Take Away Tips at the end of each chapter. And I was a particular fan of problem/solution chapter toward the end of the book.
A valuable resource for those ready to dip their toes into the world of creative writing.
August 30, 2024
Thank you, NetGalley & Pen & Sword | White Owl for access to this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I needed a couple of days to sort out my feelings on this book. To think about its purpose and whether it has been achieved.
The short answer: yes, I believe it did provide a small introduction to some of the many facets of creative writing.
Was the whole book useful? No, entire sections and chapters felt like a waste of time; their advice was beyond logical or, considering its intended audience, quite pointless. I'm looking at the journaling, diary, and letter-writing sections specifically.
Did it make me think about the stories I intend to write, thus indirectly helping me develop them a bit a bit further? Yes. It wasn't for my intended story, but another did progress a fair amount.
Was the guide easy to read and process? Definitely. However, it did take me longer than anticipated due to its pointless sections, as mentioned above.
Overall, I found only 30 pages of the book useful, at most, but I did appreciate and bookmark some of the tips from those parts.
I needed a couple of days to sort out my feelings on this book. To think about its purpose and whether it has been achieved.
The short answer: yes, I believe it did provide a small introduction to some of the many facets of creative writing.
Was the whole book useful? No, entire sections and chapters felt like a waste of time; their advice was beyond logical or, considering its intended audience, quite pointless. I'm looking at the journaling, diary, and letter-writing sections specifically.
Did it make me think about the stories I intend to write, thus indirectly helping me develop them a bit a bit further? Yes. It wasn't for my intended story, but another did progress a fair amount.
Was the guide easy to read and process? Definitely. However, it did take me longer than anticipated due to its pointless sections, as mentioned above.
Overall, I found only 30 pages of the book useful, at most, but I did appreciate and bookmark some of the tips from those parts.
November 11, 2025
I liked this guide because it was practical and had a lot of good examples. Creative writing is definitely something that can improve with practice and I'm always looking for advice.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews