The Complete Idiot's Guide to Writing a Novel

I was looking for additional information about the marketing and publicity efforts that need to accompany a book's publication, and found it in this book. It's a funny, quick read, and provides some great information to the fledgling writer. Not only does it tell you about the publishing business, you can do a quick self assessment and see if you're ready to become a writer. There are some great suggestions for developing your own writing process as well. If you are thinking about writing, this is the book you need to read first!

For those who want to write a book or even just a story, this book is great. I don't know if I'd consider it for "complete idiots", though. It goes pretty indepth. But it's still a good one to start with.

As a professional copy editor, now in the process of writing my first novel, I was amazed at how useful this book turned out to be. Although the genre I am writing for is far different than Monteleone's, his advice is still applicable. I'm glad that my ego didn't prevent me from buying a book on this subject that begins with "The Complete Idiot's." Some of the instruction he provides on subjects like pacing, description, and plot has been invaluable. I found out that I knew less than I thought I knew about writing a novel. I'm tempted to dedicate my first book to Moneteleone!

I probably picked up six or seven books on writing a novel one day in the bookstore. This book happened to be on top, and after reading the first few pages, I happily set it aside and began picking through the others...

Half an hour later, this was the only book in my "To Buy" stack.

Maybe the author spoiled me by injecting a sense of humor into what so many others seem to regard as drudgery. Writing is fun! I don't want to learn about it from a textbook. Tom even makes the chapter about grammar enjoyable - a Herculean feat!

There are also several questions answered in this book that I would have never thought to ask, and Tom offers valuable insight from someone who's been through the process of writing a novel several times. I would venture that most people interested in this book have never published a novel, and there is a great deal of information provided about what happens after "The End."

As for the negative reviews already posted, you simply must notice the common thread that they all didn't appreciate the author's sense of humor. I get the feeling these are the same kinds of people who think it's inappropriate to laugh out loud. I just couldn't disagree more with the negative reviews.

An excellent book, to not only help you get started, but also to use as a resource throughout the entire process of writing your novel.

Not only was "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Writing a Novel" full of technically informative advice, it was a really fun read! Tom Monteleone is a gifted wordsmith with a sly sense of humor. My only reservation was thinking I had to admit to being an idiot before making the purchase. (Solved easily by having a family member make the purchase for you.)
This book has helped me immensely. Enjoy!