10 Must Read Books for Screenwriters (5 on Screenwriting and 5 to Inspire You):

For the first time in a long while we are all on a bit of a “break” from our daily lives. Social isolation is definitely no vacation, but just like a vacation we are all being asked to slow down. What better time to pick up a good book?

Whether you want to brush up on your screenwriting skills with some practical advice, or get a healthy dose of motivation and inspiration, here are a few books that might be just what you need right now.

I’ll preface by saying none of these books are the ‘bible’ on screenwriting (because that doesn’t exist). They’re a collection of experience, knowledge and creative inspiration that’s worth considering. Take what stands out to you and add it to your “toolbox”. Disregard the rest.

In no particular order, here are 5 books on screenwriting, and 5 books that have inspired a lot of creatives I know during uncertain times:

5 Books on Screenwriting:

1. The Coffee Break Screenwriter by Pilar Alessandra

Pilar is the host of the popular ‘On the Page’ podcast and she’s one of the best screenwriting instructors. Her book is a good-humored but no BS approach to writing. It’s especially helpful for anyone who finds it difficult to fit in writing time (which in my experience, is most of us). One of the main things she talks about is writing in ten minute chunks, and gives great exercises and tips to make the most of those ten minutes.

2. Save the Cat Strikes Back! by Blake Snyder

Much like the well known original, Save the Cat (which if you haven’t read, is a terrific resource), this book can help you find the unique greatness of your story. It’s especially good for understanding loglines (his advice on ‘how to come up with a rocking logline’ is definitely worth considering). That being said, because of the popularity of the Save the Cat books a lot of writers think they need to follow them word for word - you don’t. There are some really fantastic take-aways in here, but always remember there is no ‘rule book’ for writing.

3. Your Screenplay Sucks! by William M. Akers 

The subtitle of this book, “100 Ways to Make it Great’ says it all. This is perfect for newbie writers who are looking to get a handle on the basics of the craft. One of my favorite take aways is the chapter on editing sentences (especially if you’re one of the million writers who falls victim to overwritingitus).

4. The Hidden Tools of Comedy by Steve Kaplan

Considered a bit of a ‘guru of comedy,’ Steve has taught at UCLA, NYU, and Yale and has also consulted for many well-respected studios (Disney and HBO just to name drop a few). This book explains different comedy techniques in simple (and enjoyable) terms, and shows how to use each one to help create a successful comedy script. Definitely a must read for any comedy writer.

5. Screenplay: The Foundations of Screenwriting by Syd Field

An oldie but a goodie, this book was once referred to as the “bible” of the film industry (not to mention The Hollywood Reporter once called Syd Field “the most sought-after screenwriting teacher in the world”). This one is a straight up classic every writer should at least take a look through.

5 Books to Inspire You:

1. Bird by Bird by Annie Lamot

Lamott’s book is all about the mental challenges of being a writer. It provides some great tips, tools, and insights (plus she’s hilarious). ‘Bird by Bird’ basically means to break life (and writing) into pieces - when you approach each piece one at a time, everything feels instantly more manageable. These days when everything seems a little overwhelming, the “bird by bird” advice in this book might be a great anchor for your writing and your sanity. 

2. The Artists Way by Julia Cameron

If you’re struggling with quarantine-writers-block, this one is definitely worth a read. It’s written like a 12-week course to help you get back in touch with your “inner creative”. Fair warning though: it requires active participation (meaning if you’re not up for doing the exercises, you’re not going to get a lot out of it). One of the most popular exercises is “morning pages”: daily journaling where you write three whole pages as soon as you wake up without stopping. I know writers who get a lot out of morning pages, and still do them long after they’ve finished the book.

3. The War of Art by Steven Pressfield

For anyone feeling a lack of discipline or motivation, The War of Art is a quick, practical guide to get over your fears and get on with writing. One of the biggest take aways is the section about the “enemy” that every artist comes up against: that negative inner voice that stops you from doing your work.

4. The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown

Forbes named this book one of the “Five Books That Will Actually Change Your Outlook on Life”, if that’s not a great sales pitch, I don’t know what is. This is a funny, honest, motivational read about “wholehearted living”. A great book for anyone who needs the reminder that you are worthy of personal growth, success, and a lot of love.

5. Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert

Gilbert is the author behind the bestselling book Eat, Pray, Love. But don’t be put off if the Julia Roberts movie wasn’t your thing, this is an incredibly inspiring book about “creative living beyond fear” (which is a sentiment I think we all could use right now). 

What books do you turn to for inspiration? Let me know @CaroleKirsch!