Make Every Word Count: A Guide to Writing That Works--For Fiction and Nonfiction [Paperback]

Gary Provost (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0898790409 | ISBN-13: 978-0898790405 | Publication Date: October 1980 | Edition: 1st

Every word, every sentence, every paragraph in your writing must do the job it's meant to do-and Make Every Word Count shows you how to reach that goal. You'll learn: * how to speak to the reader in his own language * how to control reader reaction * how to avoid weak words, waste words * what rules to follow and how rules can be misused * how to appeal to the reader's senses * why to put people in your stories and how to bring them to life * how to create your own style * how to be aware of the hidden work of words Exercises ("games") are included at the end of each chapter to spark your imagination and tighten your grasp on the ideas presented. These rules, tips and ideas are universal and apply to fiction, non-fiction, business, technical-indeed to any kind of writing. Gary Provost covers this vital ground in a forceful, yet lively, way, taking potshots at pretensions in writing at every step.

Product Details

• Paperback: 208 pages
• Publisher: Writers Digest Books; 1st edition (October 1980)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0898790409
• ISBN-13: 978-0898790405
• Product Dimensions: 7.9 x 5.2 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 8.8 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,372,844 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Because of his entertaining style, the late Gary Provost was one of the nations leading and most beloved writing instructors. A sought-after speaker, consultant, and celebrity biographer, Provost the writers writer authored thousands of articles and columns, and dozens of books covering most every genre. His highly acclaimed Writers Retreat Workshop, and video and audio courses remain available through writersretreatworkshop.com.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5 stars The best book ever for writers!, November 25, 2011

By 

Suzanne - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Make Every Word Count: A Guide to Writing That Works--For Fiction and Nonfiction (Paperback)

I read this book years ago when I was just starting to write, and then loaned it out to a friend. Years later, when I began to write again, I realized that I had lost touch with the best book I'd ever read on writing and was able to find a used copy for this now-out-of-print classic. And now, upon rereading my copy, I am again overwhelmed by this man's genius. His advise is spot-on, and his way of explaining why is ALSO spot-on.
If you're a writer, buy everything this man ever wrote (only a few books)and keep them close to you when you sit down at the computer. You won't regret it.

5.0 out of 5 stars Great Advice for Writers, December 17, 2008

By 

Gordon Padwick (Gig Harbor, WA USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Make Every Word Count (Hardcover)

This book is full of great advice for everyone who writes for publication.
I thoroughly recommend it.
If you teach a writing class, include all of what it suggests in your presentation.
GordonP

1 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Recommended for all hopeful writers, January 18, 2007

By 

Sheridan Hill (North Carolina) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Make Every Word Count: A Guide to Writing That Works--For Fiction and Nonfiction (Paperback)

I have been writing professionally for 35 years and I still recommend this book as a must-read to beginners and those who want to write a book.