Wonderbook

Starred review from February 15, 2014

There are plenty of books on the market about fiction writing and each has its own take on what will help you get from blank page to completed novel. But VanderMeer (Finch; The Steampunk Bible) has done something new here. His guide hits all the topics a how-to book should cover--description, point of view, dialog, characterization, etc.--and can be used by writers of any kind of fiction as an instruction manual for constructing narrative. Where it differs is that VanderMeer aims to engage the imagination that is core to the work of sf and fantasy writers. Further distinguishing this title from other writing guides is its lavish presentation. The volume is simply gorgeous. Stuffed with full-page artwork and sneaky little decorative flourishes, it is a book that will feed the imagination even as it imparts practicalities. VanderMeer, who is himself a three-time World Fantasy Award winner and Nebula nominee, also pulls in essays from luminaries in the speculative fiction field such as Ursula K. Le Guin, Charles Yu, Lev Grossman, and Neil Gaiman, which greatly enhance the work. Special credit is also due to Jeremy Zerfoss, who was the main artist for this project. VERDICT Because it is so layered and filled with text, tips, and links to online extras, this book can be read again and again by both those who want to learn the craft of writing and those interested in the process of others.

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