Book Review:The Writer's ABC Checklist by Lorraine Mace & Maureen Vincent-Northam

The Writer's ABC Checklist by Lorraine Mace & Maureen Vincent-Northam
Specifications
198 x 129 mm
Paperback
256 pages
$A 19.99
ISBN 978 1 907016196
Available November 2010

An easy-to-use comprehensive guide for writers on preparing and presenting their work to agents, publishers and print media.

"There is advice on every possible question you might ask." Richard Bell – Writing Magazine

"It is a great writers' bible which all writers, no matter how well published, should keep at their elbow." Sue Kendrick – Writelink

Regardless of the writer’s level or ability, there is something extremely daunting about putting together a submission. It doesn’t matter if it is for an article for a magazine, or short story for a competition, a humorous anecdote, a play or TV script, a novel or non-fiction book, The Writer’s ABC Checklist will provide answers to questions you didn’t even know you should ask. With its A-Z format, references can be found quickly and effortlessly. Unfamiliar terms are explained and bullet points at the end of most sections provide a quick reminder of the main items covered. This unique book is packed with writing tips and is something no aspiring writer can afford to be without.

About the Authors: Lorraine Mace & Maureen Vincent-Northam

Lorraine Mace is a columnist with Writing Magazine, a writing judge, a tutor for the Writers Bureau and winner of an international poetry award.

Maureen Vincent-Northam gained first place in a national children's book competition. An online tutor in genealogical writing, she is also a writing-competition judge.

Review

The Writer’s ABC Checklist is written in the style of a dictionary, with alphabetical listings of the multitude of topics a writer will come across during their career. It is designed as a reference tool and not something that you would sit down and read from cover to cover.

The authors give many handy examples of the topics outlined, such as Cover Letters, Manuscript presentation and Title Pages. The extensive range of topics are also invaluable to the new writer, with such information as, Agents, eBooks, Editors and Layout.

The Appendices contain very handy lists of addresses, awards and prizes, recommended reading and web sites.

I have highlighted many sections already and plan on keeping this next to the word processor on my desk for regular use.