I've read a lot of creative writing books and this is the best so far. David Michael Kaplan is an excellent teacher. He explains things well with humour and clarity. Every point is illustrated with examples and comments from both himself and other writers. I especially liked the way he uses his own stories as examples so he can show us the subsequent drafts as the story grows towards completion. This method perfectly illustrates the points he makes and I have never seen it used so well before. If you have ideas for short stories but never seem to get round to writing them, or when you try - you end up disappointed with the results, this is the perfect book for you. As a bonus it also helps you find ideas for stories because in David Michael Kaplan's book the 'revising' starts even before the first draft. In short if you want to write fiction and you only buy one how-to book make it this one.

This book offers indepth suggestions on revision of fiction writing, including some forms of revision I would never have thought of personally. The over-all goal is seamless fiction writing and Kaplan has some concrete suggestions on how to achieve this. One of the most helpful books I have ever read on the subject.

If you've ever thought to yourself, "How did we ever come here to be doing what we are? How have our lives led to this? How could any of us forseen this moment? How could we ever have known it would be important?" you'll find comfort in this inspiring and thought provoking story. Kaplan's writing style is as enjoyable as big name authors JD Salinger, and William Faulkler. Though out of print, this book is worth the effort to attain a copy of your own.