I’ve been a freelance writer since 1999, but that didn’t come without a lot of reading, learning and making mistakes. While embarking upon this journey, I’ve found several books landing on my shelf and used quite often to keep my skills strong and polished. These are just a sampling of my favorites, in no particular order:

• Outwitting Writer’s Block and Other Problems of the Pen, by Jenna Glatzer. (2003) Every writer faces this “curse” one time or another. With this guide, though, you’re sure to break free and get back into the swing of things again.
• From Book Idea to Bestseller: What You Absolutely, Positively MUST Know to Make Your Book a Success, by Michael Snell, Kim Baker and Sunny Baker. (1997) This book set the pace for writing book proposals, as far as I’m concerned. Yes, other resources are available, but this one is the best I’ve used.
• The Renegade Writer: A Totally Unconventional Guide to Freelance Writing Success, by Linda Formichelli and Diana Burrell. (2003) I’m absolutely in love with this book because it “forces” writers to break out of their comfort zone, take charge of their careers and think outside the box when taking action.
• The Shy Writer, by C. Hope Clark. (2004) Fundsforwriters.com’s C. Hope Clark has created a guide for writers who are too afraid to use both their “voice” and their “pen” in order to achieve their career goals. How do I conduct an interview? How do I market my work? This book will teach you.
• Handbook of Magazine Article Writing: All New Second Edition, edited by Michelle Ruberg, introduction by Ben Yagoda. (2005) I loved the first edition of this book so much that I couldn’t help buying the second. This handbook covers everything from query ideas to selling rights. It’s a must have.
• Grammatically Correct: The Writer’s Essential Guide to punctuation, spelling, style, usage and grammar, by Anne Stilman. (1997) All writers must stay polished in this area and using this guide will keep this path steady. Stilman offers practical instruction and exercizes teaching freelancers how to continue writing well. (good for both novice and comprehensive learning)
• Make a Real Living as a Freelance Writer, by Jenna Glatzer. (2004) I’ve been recommending this book to every single writer new to the business I come across. This book offers the kind of no-nonsense advice (and assignments) I wish I had received when I was first getting my feet wet.

My bookcase contains many, many more very useful resources. Next up will be guides for those interested in becoming their own literary agent. I’ve also got a sampling of books for novel writers. The best advice I can give beyond listing these books is to use them (or others that are suggested to you) because a good writer reads more than they write.