Today You Write the Book: The Keys to Start Your Novel

by Ben Parris

“I doubted that aspects of writing could be explained in any different or better terms than I’d seen before but this book delivers.” -Tanya LeBrock
“I should have gotten this book on Valentine’s Day because it was love at first sight.” -Holly’s Reviews

TODAY YOU WRITE THE The Keys to Start Your Novel, 2nd Edition, is the quick-read, no-nonsense guide to survey all aspects of novel writing. Not only does this bold text cover story elements; it also provides invaluable advice about the enormous benefits and occasional pitfalls of contact with the writing community. Get unique information about The Word Count Paradox, The Idea Factory, The Hammer Method, and more.
It takes about one hour to read this book straight through. It takes six hours to absorb the information and work through the exercises properly. It is NOT a book that helps you write a terrible mini-novel in a week or a weekend or a minute. It may, however, take years off the process of learning to write a terrific novel that you could be proud of.

Ben Parris is the author of WADE OF AQUITAINE, one of the very first Kindle Best Sellers upon its debut, rising to top honors (rankings of 1, 2, and 3) in four categories for a total of more than 20 weeks in its first year. A former Scholastic columnist, published in several short story anthologies, Parris completed this first novel at the age of 36. He has a total of thirty years' experience as a professional writer.

151 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 12, 2014

About the author

Ben Parris' latest novel, AMYNTA OF ANATOLIA (Wade of Aquitaine #3), is about the titanic final battles spanning the millennia between astral travelers and one of their fellows who wants to assassinate them as inferiors. He has already destroyed half the multiverse to do it. Until November 29, 2020 readers can find this extra-large volume among the Goodreads Giveaways and enter for a chance to win one of three first edition signed print copies.

Ben Parris was one of the first 50 authors to have his novel on Amazon Kindle. Within its first year, WADE OF AQUITAINE, literature's first synesthete hero, became one of the original Kindle bestsellers, ranking in the Top Three for War, and Action/ Adventure for a total of 22 weeks. KREINDIA OF AMORIUM (2017) was the followup.

Reviews

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

A refreshing 4.5 stars how-to book!

This book was an insightful yet light read on how to write a novel. Ben Parris’ educational yet playful writing keeps the reader entertained throughout “Today You Write the Book: The Keys to Start Your Novel.” Written in second-person point of view, Parris’ writing is witty and playful at times when addressing the reader. His amusing references to movies and clichés, such as the “violet-eyed girl” in novels, distinguishes this how-to book from the dense lectures and articles that often overwhelm novice writers. There is a perfect balance between discussion of the classics, such as the tragedy of Hamlet, and more recent books and films like The Da Vinci Code and I Am Legend. Although Parris manages to entertain the reader with humorous remarks and modern references, his insight, analysis and concise language give this book a high rating.

Literary terms and ideas are clearly defined throughout the text. Metaphors are put to great use and expanded when necessary. In describing one of the three kinds of writers, Parris evokes stark imagery when he compares a destroyer’s draft to a marble that must be chipped away and molded. This insightful way of defining terms and describing ideas is echoed throughout the book. “Today You Write the Book: The Keys to Start Your Novel” makes no assumptions about the readers knowledge and discusses topics varying from the basics of writing to more advances methods. While the majority of the book uses simple, direct language, Parris uses detailed examples where needed, such as the section, “7 Brilliant Ways to Start.”

Furthermore, many writing methods taught in college and grade school are supported, but the book manages to challenge some of the ideas engrained in students’ minds. For instance, Parris defines active and passive voice while pointing out the exceptions to the rule that active voice is the correct form. The book ultimately shows that there are no set rules on how to write a novel. The quizzes and exercises included throughout the book give the reader creative freedom to apply Parris’ recommendations and experiment with personal preferences. These helpful exercises vary from simple, fun activities to more challenging ones. One short quiz lightens the mood and entertains where readers may begin to feel overwhelmed or lose focus.

“Today You Write the Book: The Keys to Start Your Novel” is insightful and motivating on many levels. One remarkable claim in the book is that authors were originals before they were best sellers. From the stance of a young writer, the challenging road to writing and publishing a novel is daunting. Parris encourages writers through his conversational tone and flexible advice. “Today You Write the Book: The Keys to Start Your Novel” does not simply address writing rules and methods, but also makes recommendations on adjusting daily habits to inspire creativity and imagination. The book goes beyond writing tools and delves into how healthy living can have a major impact on writing.

My expectations for “Today You Write the Book: The Keys to Start Your Novel” were far surpassed, but Part II of the book held less appeal compared to Part I. Although the end of the book offers many words of encouragement to writers, the meat of the text was encompassed in Part I. The entertaining references, jovial tone and thoughtful exercises, in addition to Parris’ aversion to the “pedantic, professorial mood,” give this how-to book a high 4.5 rating and a permanent spot on my favorites shelf.

[Lexi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ben Parris’s Today You Write the Book provides amateur writers with unique advice on how to approach the monumental task of finishing a novel. Without bogging down his prose with literary jargon, Parris writes concisely and dynamically about how to begin writing, how to finish, and all the steps in between. He also includes instructions on how to approach agents, something that many unpublished writers are eager to learn more about. When reading this book, it doesn’t feel like you’re wading through an academic instruction manual; rather, it feels like you had the opportunity to sit down and listen to a fantastic lecture. Coupled with its short length, the writing style makes this book a quick read.

Parris addresses many unique aspects of writing that perhaps more traditional books of the same nature would not. For one, he discusses the issue of audience, challenging the notion that you should write for yourself. Instead, he suggests that you should write with a specific person or group of people in mind. That way, your work is more likely to find an audience. I also liked his suggestion to begin writing a novel not at the beginning, but at its “key scene”—the scene that will come to define the work. The entire novel can then be built around this scene.

I especially appreciated the explanation of the “Hammer Method.” I am the kind of writer who is daunted when I sit down to write because I worry about disappointing myself. Reading about this methodology reminds me that most people have to write something bad before they can write something good. Great writing is rewriting. I look forward to using this method when I take on my next writing project.

This book is not flawless, however. There are moments during which the writing shifts and takes on a slightly condescending tone. These moments are rare and brief, but striking. Additionally, Parris reveres the “genius” writer, elevating them to a level above the rest of us. He implies that such “geniuses” do not go through the normal frustrations of writing that most writers do. I disagree with this on principle, for if someone has unbridled talent in any field that does not exclude them from struggling in it.

Despite these slight bumps, I genuinely feel like I learned something from this book. The exercises, though I did not complete them as I was reading, looked helpful and I probably will return to them to improve my skills. After finishing the book, I felt motivated to sit down and begin writing the key scene for a novel I have been thinking about for a long time. And that is exactly how I hoped to feel after reading a book with writing advice. On this fundamental level—and in many other ways—Ben Parris succeeded with his creation of Today You Write The Book.

[Maggie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A unique, thoughtful guide for writers of all stages.

Ben Parris’ Today You Write the Book provides readers with a strongly reasoned and uniquely structured approach to novel writing. By suggesting that writers begin by fleshing out a “key scene,” Parris challenges the more traditional method of rough plot or character sketching, and urges the reader to embrace outlines early in the process—a method that will undoubtedly prove to be a time saver for many. The importance of planning is stressed throughout the book, but Parris also specifies the value of flexibility in writing longer works.

In addition to this distinctive approach, Parris’ writing is clear, vibrant, and accessible for all writers. In shying away from industry-heavy jargon, Parris allows his points to breathe and includes everyone, from beginners to professionals, in the conversation. It is also worth noting the fun and creative examples Mr. Parris takes care to craft, which both enliven the material, and demonstrate his own credibility as a writer. I was particularly struck by the book’s honesty. Parris is not afraid to tell his audience that they may not be fit for writing novels, and he is not interested in taking the pain out of the process. Instead, his primary goal is to help dedicated writers streamline their processes and to challenge the status quo in places where it might be improved upon.

Another exceptional strength of this book is its value for seasoned writers, as well as beginners. Those who already have some success or experience in the industry will not only find helpful the sections relating to plot and character, but also those that cover the difficulties of sequel writing, and the freshly revived discussions on classroom taboos, such as passive voice.

While there were some moments that threw me off track, (such as the elevation of “genius” writers and their ensuing immunity from common difficulties), I found that, overall, Today You Write the Book is an honest and easy-to-read guide through what is universally considered to be a complex process. I’ll certainly be using the ideas presented here to help improve my own writing, and I intend to recommend it to my writer friends for years to come.

[Sheryl Harry · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beginner’s guide to writing novels by Ben Parris, who is also the author of Wade of Aquitaine, Mars Armor Forged, Creds: The IRS Adventure and numerous short stories. The book is conveniently organized into two main parts: (1) how to write a story and (2) what to do once the story is written. Part one pertains to the different elements of a story, such as the key scene, characters, and plot, to name a few. Each element has its own chapter (which makes it easier when you need to go back and re-read something) and provides detailed advice on what to do at each step of the writing process. It even includes creative recommendations on how to combat writer’s block. Part two gives encouraging guidance on the next steps to take once your narration is complete, like joining a writing community, for example, to obtain un-biased feedback. However, before you can get into the nitty gritty of parts one and two, it is cautioned that you identify what type of writer you are (a builder, a destroyer or a genius), and what type of audience you are aiming for (the masses, yourself or a specific person). This guide is extremely insightful, if you have trouble getting published, this book is definitely for you. The introduction states that “it’s still far more difficult to be a novelist than any other kind of writer, and this is why the successful writing of novels maintains its mystique.” Parris clearly aimed to remove that mystique, and he succeeded. The combination of his experience and his humorous style of writing, make this book an informative and entertaining read for the novel writing novice. In contrast to scholarly writings, Parris’ narration is creative and fresh, sounding more like an older brother giving sincere advice from his own experiences. I love the creative instructions given for combating writer’s block, which include bouncing a ball or creating a collage. This book is thorough, but creative. Direct, but sincere. I personally found all of the suggestions to be extremely valuable. I give it five stars.
*****

[Tiffany Foster · Rating 5 out of 5]

After finishing Ben Parris’s Today You Write the Book, you will immediately feel inspired to put pen to paper. Tackling a full-length novel can seem incredibly daunting, but Parris acknowledges this and addresses many of the concerns novice writers confront with strong strategies and a tiny dash of humor. Over the course of this text, Parris illuminates the ins and outs of completing your first novel. Parris approaches his instruction in a practical step-by-step manner that is easy to follow and mimic. The chapters are concise, and the text features make it easy to refer to later. This is the kind of writing guide that becomes a beloved reference material.

Perhaps Parris’s strongest feature is his focus on dispelling major writing misconceptions. For example, Parris unveils “writing for the masses” as a sham and encourages writers to find their own audience – whether that be a muse or even yourself. He states, “Who are the masses, anyway? Everyone. And since there is no such thing as a book that everyone wants to read, you will be on an unfocused fool’s errand that attracts practically no one.” Throughout the text, Parris further identifies writing fallacies that permeate the writing industry and provides solutions to avoid them.

Today You Write the Book is not only useful for writers; teachers should find Parris’s style concurrent with great pedagogy despite the fact he occasionally blames them for sustaining writing misconceptions. He keeps every topic grounded in real world application. Each lesson is followed by compelling and relevant examples that further illuminate the idea. You are even able to practice the skills he has taught you with engaging writing exercises. Today You Write the Book is a valuable resource that begs to be incorporated into your writing or teaching.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

After finishing Ben Parris’s primer, Today You Write the Book: The Keys to Start Your Novel, I was immediately inspired to pick up a pen, grab a piece of paper, and start writing. Parris opens his book with an introduction that almost every aspiring writer can relate to. He sketches the difficulty of transforming mere ideas into an actual novel with one simple sentence; “Still others have terrific stories that look like origami in their heads, and cannot be folded into shape with actual paper.”
In order to help readers learn how to fold those ideas and stories into the right shape, Parris’s book is an instruction manual that covers everything you need to know about the writing process and more. He begins his book by discussing the three types of writers that you could be and ends it by talking about how an author needs to live in the pages of the book they want to write.
In between his first and last chapter, Parris covers everything from plot, to dialogue, to characters, and even to the whole outlining process that so many writers dread. One of his most helpful sections discusses the misconceptions of what makes a writer a “good” writer, and encourages each and every writer to find a balance of techniques that works best for them. Parris goes on to use writing exercises and examples from well-known novels in order to try and make the writing process seem a little less daunting. Parris takes the beaten down topic of learning to write and transforms it into a surprisingly witty and immensely helpful guide that every writer should read.
Towards the end of his book, Parris states that, “before you write well, you are obliged to write poorly” and this is a fact that more aspiring writers today need to learn. You can’t expect to write a masterpiece on your first try, but Ben Parris’s book will certainly help you get there.

[Kirsten Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Today You Write the Book is written with a clear audience in mind – the burgeoning but inexperienced novelist. Ben Parris’ take on the well-worn “writer’s guide” separates itself from the pack by speaking directly to this demographic in his approachable and comprehensive book.

The book truly shines when it delves into the practical novel writing basics because it takes the time to expand on common misconceptions or shallowly understood ideas. Parris doesn’t lazily throw arbitrary rules or guidelines at you. Instead the reader is given realistic advice about how the novel writing process works best and allows the creative freedom that is necessary in order to write a novel.

The practice exercises offered in the book are approachable and can be used repeatedly, whenever the need to brush up certain skills arises. They are explained thoroughly so it feels like you have a teacher in the room explaining the assignment. This is a huge plus in my opinion because too often practice exercises are vague and aren’t accompanied by any examples or great detail.

Today You Write the Book succeeds in delivering a complete guide to writing a novel that both entertains and informs. The best part of the book is the voice; the references are culturally up to date and the book never speaks down to the reader. If you are looking for a writing guide that will give you practical advice while keeping you engaged then Today You Write the Book is the book you are looking for.

[Adam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Today You Write the Book by Ben Parris is a bit of a mixed bag. There are some genuinely great pieces of writing advice hidden throughout the book (in particular the suggestion that a writer should begin writing with an important scene from the novel rather than the beginning itself stood out as quite helpful), but the book itself feels far too short. Each chapter is relatively short, so it makes for a rather quick read, but this comes at the expense of the depth of the advice that is given. A surprising omission from the book examples of the advice in practice from other published works. For example, one chapter focuses quite heavily on a passage from Steig Larsson’s The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo. In this section, the passage in question is never reproduced, so the reader is forced to accept Parris’s word on the passage’s effectiveness without the benefit of being able to draw their own conclusion from the work itself. In addition, value is placed on some of the different points of view without examining or explaining how Parris came to these conclusions which can lead to more confusion.
That being said, Today You Write the Book does work well as a starting point for new writers. It may be brief, but those with a real desire to improve their writing will continue to seek out more and more advice after reading this book. If possible, I would rate it at 3.5, on the higher end of average.

[Miranda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ben Parris allows beginning novelists an insider’s view into the creative writing world with this easy to read guide. He takes you step by step from beginnings to endings, expositions to characterizations, point of view to sequels, and so much more. I felt like I was given a personal hand to take me into this world of writing. The commentary on the publishing industry is insightful and first-hand. The tone felt conversational and honest—he tells it like it is without being too harsh and I could tell the guide was sparked out of a love for creating. He makes it clear that not everyone is cut out to be a novelist, but if you believe you have that potential, then this guide will help you to get there. This book is definitely the inspiration that so many of us need. The terms were easy to understand and the suggestions felt comfortably applicable to one’s writing. The writing exercises scattered throughout the book felt like beneficial assessments of one’s skills as a writer, especially when it comes to creating characters that are realistic people. Today You Write the Book is a remarkably thorough guide and the self-referencing aspects came in handy, thanks to the index. I feel urged to get started on an outline right away!

[Audra · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Disclaimer: I have been provided with a free copy of this book for the purpose of reviewing it.
In Today You Write the Book: The Keys to Start Your Novel, Ben Parris provides exactly what his title promises. He clearly and insightfully explains the process of writing a novel, ensuring that the valuable skills he presents can be understood and implemented by writers of all levels. Parris covers a wide range of topics, including writing style, plot, characters, and even grammar—everything an aspiring novelist might wonder about or struggle with. Moreover, Today You Write the Book is not only thorough; at less than 150 pages, it’s also concise. The author’s voice remains engaging throughout the work, which includes helpful examples from an impressive range of fiction (from Fight Club to Pretty Little Liars) to deepen understanding and maintain interest. Parris also provides several exercises that encourage writers to practice all of the tips and skills he describes. Overall, I highly recommend this book to any writer who dreams of composing a novel.

[Lia · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Today You Write the Book" was written in a conversational tone which is very helpful to those who are tired of books that read as a mundane textbook. The short chapters help with keeping the conversational tone as well as getting straight to core of what the reader needs to know. With the use of current events, Parris makes the book not only easier to read, but easier to understand as well. Parris begins with explaining the importance of finding out what type of writer you are as well as what type of audience you are writing too. From then on, throughout the book, he provides well-organized, clear, and helpful suggestions to potential authors. With his clear writing style, Parris provides digestible definitions for literary concepts that usually have students confused. His use of examples instead of just only providing definitions set this book apart from any other guidebook on writing a novel.

[Nicole Holcomb · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ben Parris provides a fresh approach to writing fiction in Today You Write the Book for beginning writers. I found his categorization of types of writers, exercises, and elaborations on story elements an overall good starting point. Unlike any instructional book on writing I’ve read, this one contains information on writing sequels. I do think that more writing samples from some of the authors and stories mentioned could have been included (The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Stephen King, etc.) as this would have helped the reader see each lesson in context. I also disagree with the seemingly discredited second person point of view in a novel. Yes, while very hard to execute well, there have been some notable authors that have succeeded with the second person: Chuck Palahnuick’s Fight Club and Carlos Fuentes’s Aura. However, the book does strive to teach the novice writer how to complete their first novel; a discouragement from second person POV might be appropriate.

[Jessie · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Today You Write the Book: The Keys to Start Your Novel” by Ben Parris is an informative book that helps new authors write a successful novel. The book reads and is organized like an instruction manual. However, instead of learning how to work your DVR or assemble IKEA furniture, the reader learns the essential elements of a novel. The voice of the book is clear, giving helpful suggestions to new novelists.

The book covers topics such as: story development, outlining, plot, characters, and grammar. Recommended for anyone who been itching to write the story that has been in the back of their brain for years. The book also serves as a refresher for anyone jumping back into writing.