54 pages 1 hour read

Francine Prose

Reading Like a Writer: A Guide for People Who Love Books and for Those Who Want to Write Them

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2006

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In Reading Like a Writer by Francine Prose, the author provides practical advice for readers and writers by emphasizing the importance of close reading of great literary works. Using examples from her favorite authors, Prose illustrates how attention to word choice, sentence structure, narrative voice, and other elements can enhance writing skills and creativity, all conveyed in a humorous and accessible style.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Reading Like a Writer by Francine Prose is praised for its insightful tips on improving writing through careful reading, making it valuable for both new and experienced writers. However, some readers find it dense and overly prescriptive. Overall, it's a useful guide for those willing to engage deeply with its content.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Reading Like a Writer?

A reader who would enjoy Reading Like a Writer by Francine Prose is likely a passionate writer or avid reader keen on honing their craft through the study of classic literature. Comparable to Anne Lamott's Bird by Bird and Stephen King's On Writing, it appeals to those who appreciate deep dives into narrative techniques and literary analysis.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Themes

Values/Ideas: Literature

Values/Ideas: Art

Identity: Language

Genre

Literary Criticism

Topics

Arts / Culture