Jack Bickham, Scene and Structure: This one gives a formulaic but valuable look at how scenes work and how an action novel should be structured. We can use it to help us outline or as a guide to revision.

Jon Franklin, Writing for Story: If you’re not willing to outline, don’t read this one. Franklin makes outlining make sense, and gives an extraordinarily useful formula. All you need to remember, to keep the advice in perspective, is that formulas exist to help, not to restrict or legislate.

Steve Kowit, In the Palm of Your Hand. A fine poet and teacher shares his attitudes, techniques and exercises.

Ken Kuhlken, Writing and the Spirit: A writer of vast experience and plenty of insight reflects upon what he’s learned about living and working as a writer.

Noah Leukman, The First Five Pages: As the title indicates, this one stresses the importance of making a good first impression and shows how to do just that.

Strunk and White, Elements of Style: The little bible we all should read again and again.

Michael Tierno, Aristotle’s Poetics for Screenwriters: A great book about the basic elements of dramatic structure, applies to anyone writing a story, not just screenwriters.

Carolyn Wheat, How to Write Killer Fiction: An astute and in-depth guide to the basics and subtleties of mystery and suspense novels.

William Zinsser, On Writing Well: A must read for all kinds of writers. Zinsser advocates and teaches clarity.