Writing and language · Memoir
On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft
Stephen King tells the story of how he became a writer, then sets out his views on the craft, from vocabulary and adverbs to plotting and revision. A final section covers the accident that nearly killed him in 1999.
Facts last checked 2026-10-17
- First published
- 1999
- Pace
- Fast
- Length
- Short
- Pages
- 288
- Format
- Standalone
Read this if you write, or want an unpretentious look at how a prolific novelist works.
Skip this if you want a formal writing course or you dislike King's blunt opinions.
The feel
Content warnings
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Quick answers about On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft
- What is On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft about?
- Stephen King tells the story of how he became a writer, then sets out his views on the craft, from vocabulary and adverbs to plotting and revision. A final section covers the accident that nearly killed him in 1999.
- Who should read On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft?
- Read it if you write, or want an unpretentious look at how a prolific novelist works. Skip it if you want a formal writing course or you dislike King's blunt opinions.
- How long and how fast is On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft?
- It is a fast-paced, short read of about 288 pages, first published in 1999.
- Does On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft have content warnings?
- Content we flag: Addiction.
- Can I borrow On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft for free?
- Often, yes. Check Libby (OverDrive) to see whether your library lends On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft; the borrow button above searches it for you.
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| Store | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Borrow free | ||
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| Print, new | ||
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| Ebook | ||
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