Thing Feigned or Imagined: A Self-Directed Course in the Craft of Fiction

by Fred Stenson

"Somebody commissioned to design the perfect writing mentor would probably come back with Fred Stenson. Stenson is wise, funny, and blessedly enthusiastic about the craft of writing. This is a book real writers are going to use, again and again."--Curtis Gillespie, Playing Through and The Progress of an Object in Motion"In Thing Feigned or Imagined, Stenson takes his readers into the workshop of the writer, examining both basic and seldom-considered aspects of the craft of fiction. The result is illuminating: a book that writers of all levels of expertise will cherish."--Merna Summers

Genres: Writing, Nonfiction

234 pages, Paperback

First published October 16, 2002

Reviews

[Bonnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read many books on writing, but Fred Stenson takes an entirely different approach that I fully appreciate. (He's also Canadian!)

While the focus is on writing the short story, it is helpful for the novelist, as well.

For the absolute beginner, or, for someone looking for story ideas, there are exercises that one can do to work towards creating a story. His selected choice of short stories to use as examples are excellent. If you aren't a reader, skip through and read the four stories, including, of course, one by the author himself.

[Bradley Somer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm a firm believer that, if you are a writer, you can always learn something from a book on how to write. Consistently I find this to be true. For someone starting out, learning the ropes and the ins and outs of short story writing this is a good book. If you are working on a novel, you'll find less here that will help you. While a lot of the basic tenants are the same between both, you can't transfer one to the other. So, short story writers just starting out....this is a fine book to pick up. Stenson is a fine, calm and clear voice to consider. The short stories included are a fine lot to learn from, each illustrating different points on the craft which are discussed by Stenson. The structure of the book is really good, basically you read a story and Stenson discusses the finer points afterward. Pick it up if you are wanting to get into short story writing. As a side note, one of the more creative and funny shorts I have ever read is included. Diane Schoemperlen's "Stranger than Fiction" is an absolute riot.

[Jaclyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Honest and useful information. Easy to read.

[Dal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Starts off almost overly basic but later on saved itself with some great editing advice. I'd recommend to anyone interested in improving their creative writing abilities!

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

EXCELLENT writing book. I highly recommend it!