No one writes alone—not really. These resources offer book writers a flashlight, a compass, and a bit of encouragement to keep on keeping on.
Resources for book writers
On this page, you’ll find three types of resources. First, are two books I’ve co-authored, one on the process of writing a book (Jamie Helps Mel Write a Novel) and one on narrative craft (Plotting Your Novel with the Plot Clock). Next, there are links to five articles about book writing. Finally, you’ll discover a list of additional resources—breadcrumbs that might just lead you down a path you didn’t know you were looking for.
Jamie’s books for writers
Writing a book can be messy—false starts, characters vying for attention, outlines that refuse to stay put! My co-authors and I wrote the following books in the hopes that they’ll help you wrangle the chaos—and stack pages that stick.
Jamie Helps Mel Write a Novel is part writing guide, part conversation, part creative permission slip. In it, Jamie and Melissa—coach and writer, friend and client—explore the novel-writer’s process and invite you along for the ride. Join them as they share seven honest conversations about how a novel actually gets made.
These real, close-up-and-personal discussions helped Mel (finally) embark on her novel with confidence. Originally a podcast, their conversations—with additional, on-topic writing exercises and carefully chosen resources—are now available in book form on Amazon Kindle.
Plotting Your Novel with The Plot Clock explains why (and how!) your main character dictates the action of your story. If the language of plot has seemed foreign to you, the straightforward approach that co-authors Jamie Morris (me!), Joyce Sweeney, and Tia Levings share could be the story-telling translator of your dreams.
Helpful articles for book writers
I wrote these five short articles to help you get started—or unstuck!—on your book-writing journey. Each one offers straightforward concepts and clear, actionable steps designed to move you toward your writing goals.
How to Write a Book Want to learn how to write a book? You can start today! Just apply these five bite-sized actions to your book project and watch it take shape before your eyes….
How to Write Nonfiction If you’re thinking about writing nonfiction (whether your subject is self-help, inspirational, political, or how-to), this article offers a few key points that will help you along the way….
How to Write a Memoir Writing a memoir can be a deeply rewarding journey—but also a tricky one. This article offers guidance for shaping your story in a way that honors both your truth and your readers….
How to Write a Novel We may have read hundreds of novels, but the artful way authors construct their plots may elude us. No wonder! Plotting a novel actually requires two different story-telling approaches….
Plotting Your Novel: Five Fabulous Tips! These fabulous tips come from: improvisational theater, European fairy tales, a four-pronged schematic, and the Institute for Literature. Because novelists need all the help we can get!….
Resources for book writers from around the web
To create this list, I went spinning out into the wide world of writers and brought back these links to tools, communities, and opportunities. Follow some links and discover some new avenues for your writing and yourself.
Making the writing happen
One Stop for Writers: This is a fantastic resource with tools to help plan, research, and write stories. It includes a “story map” feature that helps writers develop their characters, plot, and setting in a structured way. A great tool for writers who love to stay organized.
The Novel Factory: With a tag line of “Write Smarter, Not Harder,” this site offers a range of resources aimed at helping novelists become more skilled, proficient and efficient. Their “Ultimate World-Building Questionnaire looks particularly fun!
Reedsy’s Free Resources: Reedsy offers a wealth of free tools, including templates for character development, worldbuilding, and editing checklists. They also provide free educational content on topics like mastering story structure and choosing the right point of view.
Scribophile: This well-known writing community allows writers to exchange critiques and feedback on their work. It’s ideal for those seeking to improve their writing through peer feedback
Contests and grants
Almond Press: This site curates and updates a list of writing contests, which is a great way for writers to test their skills, get recognition, and even win some cash prizes. Woohoo!
Poets & Writers – Writing Contests, Grants & Awards
A comprehensive, regularly updated database featuring vetted opportunities across genres—including poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and translation. Each listing includes deadlines, entry fees, and submission guidelines, making it a trusted go-to for writers seeking recognition and support.
The Write Life’s Grants for Writers: Writers can find financial support through various grants, including ones like the Leeway Foundation Art and Change Grant, which provides up to $2,500 to support social change through writing.
Writer-to-writer support
The Insecure Writer’s Support Group: This community offers writers a place to discuss challenges like writer’s block or self-doubt, providing encouragement and strategies for overcoming these obstacles
Shut Up & Write!: This nonprofit offers free in-person and online writing groups for writers worldwide. Their goal is to help writers build consistency, overcome procrastination, and make progress on their projects. Their sessions connect you with a global network of writers who show up and write.
Small Presses
Poets & Writers Small Presses Database
For writers exploring publication avenues beyond the mainstream. This searchable database offers insights into submission guidelines, editorial preferences, and contact information for numerous small presses, helping you find the perfect fit for your work.