Practical Short Story Writing

by John Paxton Sheriff

If you are a short story writer hoping to get published, this is the book for you. The author presents a huge amount of useful information in an easily accessible format for writers needing a bit of guidance in the world of publishing.

Genres: Writing

Paperback

Published January 1, 1995

Reviews

[Kerrie Salsac · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love writing, but I just jump in head first and don't really worry where I surface.
I have been playing this writing game for a while now, and I would love to see my work in print. Not just on my blog, but in a magazine, or an anthology maybe.
This book is rather old, so there are certain parts that are outdated. But, the practical tools and tips are timeless.
Everyone can be told that they need a muse, inspiration, blah blah but sometimes it is nice to have a road map, even if it is an incredible simple one that ignores all of the scenery.

I highly recommend this book. It is a short read, and it really inspired me.

[Tiffany Howard]

This was OK. It has good points on putting together plot and characters, but it is probably best for beginners. I also disagreed with his point that writers' groups members are amateurs and so are not qualified to judge writing, but maybe I have been luckier than the author in that respect.

[A.J. · Rating 3 out of 5]

A helpful introductory guide to writing short stories. A little dated now in some respects, particularly in relation to technology: typewriter ribbons being a deductible expense for writers, for example. But the fundamentals of telling a good short story haven't changed and this is a great resource for new writers.

[Tarun Chakraborty · Rating 4 out of 5]

a b c book for the beginner aiming at reaching great heights. Illustrative story of Mr Penn can convert a novice into a short story writer. John Paxton Sheriff is the GURU of aspiring story writers.