On Writing

by Stephen King
On Writing cover
Good Books rating 4.5
Biography and Memoir
Technical:
  • ID: 649
  • Added: 2025-09-18
  • Updated: 2025-09-18
  • ISBN: 9781982159375
  • Publisher: Scribner
  • Published: 2020-06-02
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £10.99 Hardback • £19.99

On Writing is a unique blend of memoir and master class from one of the most celebrated authors of our time. Stephen King shares his experiences, habits, and convictions that have shaped his writing career, from his childhood to his emergence as a bestselling author. The book provides practical advice and tools for the craft of writing, grounded in King's vivid memories and his near-fatal accident in 1999, which reinforced the link between writing and living. /n/nThis special edition celebrates 50 years of King's writing, featuring fresh testimonials from fellow writers and new words from King himself on the joy of writing. It is a revealing and inspiring guide that empowers and entertains everyone who reads it, whether they are fans, writers, or simply lovers of a great story well told.

Reviews
Well Read Tart · 2022-07-19
heartwarming 4.00

The book is described as engaging and humorous, revealing King's personal life and his passion for writing. It's seen as a great love story as well as a memoir.

The reviewer is pleasantly surprised by the book's engaging and humorous tone, which effectively portrays King as a devoted family man. They appreciate the personal insights into King's life and his love for writing, making the book more than just a memoir. The reviewer finds the blend of personal stories and writing advice to be both inspiring and entertaining, highlighting King's unique perspective on the craft of writing.

Quick quotes

    It's an engaging, humorous memoir that reveals King as a devoted husband and family man.

    I didn't expect a great love story, but that's what I found on these pages.

    It's a great blend of personal anecdotes and practical writing advice.

Devontre Varro Flaherty's Blog · 2021-02-15
insightful 4.50

This book is well-structured and concise, blending memoir and writing advice effectively. It's praised for its practicality and engaging narrative.

The reviewer appreciates the book's dual nature as both a memoir and a guide to writing. They highlight its brevity and the effective way it balances personal anecdotes with valuable advice. The reviewer finds King's insights into the writing process particularly compelling, making it a useful resource for aspiring writers. They also note that the book's engaging style makes it accessible and enjoyable, even for those who may not be interested in writing.

Quick quotes

    It's a well-put-together book.

    It's not long (my copy is 284 pages), especially considering it is half-memoir and half-writing lessons.

    But if you're interested in writing, this is a must-read.

Book Thoughts From Bed · 2019-07-23
excellent 5.00

The book is loved for its natural storytelling and inspiring biography portion. It's seen as a valuable resource for both aspiring writers and general readers.

The reviewer expresses a strong affection for the book, highlighting King's natural storytelling abilities and the inspiring biography portion. They find the book to be a valuable resource for anyone interested in writing, as well as an enjoyable read for those who appreciate King's personal journey. The reviewer particularly enjoys the practical advice and the way King's experiences are woven into the narrative, making it both informative and engaging.

Quick quotes

    LOVED IT!

    Obviously, Stephen King is a natural, easy-to-follow storyteller.

    I loved the biography portion of the book as well as the inspiration and practical advice.

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