Finding Books and Magazines for Writers
Whether you're first starting out or have years of experience, you need up-to-date information. Tips from the pros, ideas for busting writer's block, and new market news are only a few of the reasons to pick up the latest books and magazines. When I review books and software I pick through the pile to find the gems that will take you farther along the road to being published. But I can't review everything that comes out (though I'd like to), and I'd never have time to sift through the hundreds of back titles. Plus, my interests aren't likely to overlap yours on all points.
So where do you find the books and magazines you want? Aside from browsing the local bookstore (one of my favorite activities, which I plan to indulge in later today), you can check with online stores. A few are devoted entirely to books on writing. The best I've found is Master Freelancers Web Store, which has an intriguing suite of online shops.
The site is divided into topic areas:
- Master Freelancer's Bookstore: books for copywriters, technical writers, DM writers
- The Newsstand: trade publications for writers
- Inkwell of Ideas: books for writers of articles, poetry, novels, and scripts
- Creative Agency Book Store: graphic designers and creative pros at ad agencies
- Creative Pros Software Store: software to boost productivity and profit
- Writer's Software Store: writing and story development software
- Market Sleuths: PR, direct marketing
Magazines are a little harder to find online, and I don't always time my newsstand visits to pick up the latest issues. I like to sample different publications, and can't afford to subscribe to them all. Browsing online, I can find the best magazines, newsletters and tip sheets for writers. Some of my favorites:
If you aren't familiar with ByLine Magazine, you should find a copy. The goal of this magazines is to help beginners get their first publishing credits. Not only do they publish plenty of how-to articles and market information, each issue also gives beginners an opportunity to earn a byline. I subscribed for a couple of years and looked forward to each issue.
Their site is pretty sparse, just information on subscriptions and contests, writer's guidelines and a brief sample. One of their best features is the monthly contests, "designed to motivate writers by providing deadlines, competition and cash prizes." These are open to anyone, even non-subscribers. September contests still open are:
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