This Year You Will Write Your Novel by Walter Mosley

Poets know that poems are songs, but few of us realize that novels are too.


This Year You Write Your Novel by Walter Mosley bears a tittle that is pretty self-explanatory. At the time of publication, the author had written twenty-seven books and decided it was about time he put out a guide to writing a novel in one year. So that is exactly what he did.

This book is very much like How to Write Science Fiction & Fantasy (which is to be expected, seeing as they have somewhat similar premises), only it was about general fiction and was actually shorter than Card's book.

Still, I found This Year You Write Your Novel to be largely informational and quite helpful. Mosley gives clear advice on things like creating character development as well as setting up routines that will help the writer develop his craft as best he can. His narrative is quick and to the point. He doesn't beat around the bush, but rather fleshes out exactly what it is every novel needs and every author ought to pay attention to.

I am very happy to have read this book and will definitely be trying out many of his tactics for keeping focused and determined in the near future. I would recommend it to anyone who is even thinking of writing a novel, whether their dream is to be a published author or it's just an idea. Some NaNoWriMo writers may want to skim this for a few good tips when November rolls around as well. *wink*

Rating: ♥ ♥ ♥


In order to be a writer, you have to set up a daily routine. Put aside an amount of time (not less than an hour and a half) to sit with your computer or notebook.