The new writer wants to lean everything and anything they can about writing to break in and see their name at the bottom of their very first column, article, short story, novel, ect. But when does learning become too much to handle?

Overwhelmed by the Media

There are thousands of good books out there on everything from writing the story, to picking characters names, to the mating habits of most old world societies, to publishing books, to marketing and even what to do in-between writing assignments. All of it can be daunting to the new writer. Reading page after page on how to set the perfect scene or how to write the perfect column can make the imperfect writer spaz enough to go cold turkey on writing.

Books on writing were not meant to give you writer's block, so what is happening? Did you ever hear the expression, 'Too much of a good thing can be bad for you?' In the case of writing references all the information thrown at a new writer all at once is like giving a car too much gas, it causes the car and writer to stall out.

To prevent stalling, the new writer has to first relax. Don't expect to get everything in a book the first time through, also most of these books come complete with exercises. Don't do the exercises until you've read the entire book. Don't read the book all at once. Give yourself time to process each chapter, even if it's only a day, it will keep you from freaking out and thinking you'll never learn enough to be a good writer. Chances are if you're buying reference books, you already have the drive to become a good writer, or you're bored… either way, remember the people behind reference books were also fresh, panicked writers too and they are trying to help you. Just don't expect to come right out of the gate with all the skills detailed in How to Write a Damn Good Novel. Writing is a work in progress.

Picking your Pony

Before buying a writer's reference book, ask yourself:

Is the writer an expert in your genre? - If not, know that their information may not be right for you. A book on how to write the perfect autobiography is not going to be as helpful to a science fiction writer.

What is the main objective behind this book? - If it's to teach style and that's what you're weak on, then this may be the reference book for you.

When was this book published? - A book on grammar from the 1800's is not going to help the modern writer in 2004.

With a little for thought, the beginning writer can choose books that will inspire hours of creative writing and not a panicked run back to their day job.

- Karen Kalbacher

• Don't expect to get everything from a book the first time through.
• Don't do the exercises until you've read the entire book.
• Don't read the book all at once.
• Pick the right book for your genre

References for Everyone:

• Writer's Digest
• Reader's Digest
• Dictionary.com
• Fictionfactor.com