Getting it Write: An Insider's Guide to a Screenwriting Career

by Lee Zahavi Jessup

There are plenty of books about the craft of screenwriting, and a handful about pitching your screenplay. However, little can be found on how to go from writing to pitching in the professional space. There is no formula, no three-step plan. Getting It Write: An Insider’s Guide to a Screenwriting Career unlocks pragmatic guidance for constructing a screenwriting career, delivered by a sought-after industry authority who works with writers both novice and professional.

Genres: Writing, Nonfiction

178 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 1, 2014

Reviews

[Catherine Girard-Veilleux · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the bestest (!!!) books I ever read! Choked full with relevant info and tips. The best 15$ I spent in my whole life.

[Colby Rice · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is really fantastic and gives you lots of little tips you'd never know without cracking it open. I've also seen Lee speak at several events, and she is SUPER knowledgeable about everything you need to do to be prepared to rock in this industry. I feel as though I am on a better path as an TV writer, and I know where I need to grow as well. I highly HIGHLY recommend this book!

[Bill Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Of the bajillion screenwriting books, almost all of them deal with the fundamentals of creating the work itself. There are books on character, structure and the fundamentals of drama and the other elements that you have to master to be successful. They all have a bit of useful information, but there are diminishing returns. Once you've read three or four, you've read the heart of most of them.

Getting it Write is different. In this book, career coach Lee Jessup discusses the fundamentals of managing a career as a screenwriter. Some of the topics covered include career strategies, managing expectations, query letters, the basics of the screenwriting contest, the differences between managers and agents, and what to do when you get a YES and how to motor on through when you get a NO.

There is practical advice here for people who want to manage a writing career in any field and interesting insight for screenwriters.

Highly recommended.

[jellyfishwalnut · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a thorough introduction to the mechanics of a screenwriting career. These kinds of books are tough. As Jessup says, if there were a formula everyone would have done it already. However, the topics covered are wide-ranging and Jessup delves into them with insight and knowledge of the industry. I come away with feeling more informed about the industry, and it's probably as much as a book can teach.

[Eloy Rosales · Rating 2 out of 5]

I messed up. I got this because I thought it would be discussing topics on screen writing itself, but it's more career focused. I continued reading nonetheless and while some of the book is interesting, I think it could all be condensed into a blog post.

[Drew Ross · Rating 4 out of 5]

Getting It Write was an insightful look into the industry and a practical guide with many good tips for cultivating a screenwriting career.

[Shannon Kitchens · Rating 4 out of 5]

A pretty quick and easy read. What I enjoyed most about it is that it's a look at managing a career as opposed to honing your craft. For someone like me, who's already read a ton of craft books, it was a nice change of pace. Most of the info seems pretty common knowledge, but I feel like it was a nice balance of reality vs expectation. A good guideline to see if screenwriting is right for you.

[Tim Lorge · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some screwdrivers, hammers and wrenches

A must have for any writer's toolbox. This is a very well thought out and well written book. It is a quick read, filled with tips to help one build their writing career.

[Lora Covrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author is a true professional. The book is packed with information. It covers a lot of territory on the business of writing.