A Guide To Creative Writing by S. J. Banham
Author SJ Banham’s most recent work, A Guide to Creative Writing, enthusiastically eases the way for new and aspiring writers to make the transition from hobbyist to published author. Packed full of helpful hints, tools, and useful tips of the trade, the 216 pages provide an accessible and informative guide on how to navigate the literary realm across a range of mediums and different projects. Banham’s longstanding writing history and university education are highlighted through the inclusion of a range of creative writing exercises and offer an intelligent and practical way to share and practice different writing forms and techniques, aided by a friendly narrative and informative range of anecdotal stories designed to help and encourage budding authors.
The book explores all aspects of the writing process - from a writer’s routines and creative environment to practical development of ideas to actionable and informative tools and processes - conversationally guiding readers through the process of learning and crafting. The gentle yet relatable narrative expertly weaves a comprehensive directory of jargon and technical terms with clear and easy-to-understand explanations designed to build knowledge, confidence, and ability. Each section is well marked and explained, subtly yet swiftly building a cultivated and applicable skillset across a range of formats and writing styles as the book progresses, with short summations of important knowledge at the end of each chapter.
“Banham’s pasasion for writing and genuine understanding that no two projects (or writers) are alike pairs well with the narrative’s comfortable yet considered tone.”
SJ Banham’s A Guide to Creative Writing provides an informative, accessible, and encouraging foundation for creatives in a manner that provides at least a little something of value to everyone no matter their writing goals. Banham’s passion for writing and genuine understanding that no two projects (or writers) are alike pairs well with the narrative’s comfortable yet considered tone.
Banham easily navigates the field of ‘creative writing textbook’ to genuinely offer something fresh. A valuable resource for new writers, A Guide to Creative Writing is also a handy reference for already established authors or professional wordsmiths alike. Exploring a range of genres, writing maladies, and creative outlets (including social media), Banham’s book inspires imagination whilst simultaneously offering a non-judgemental safety net for those looking to develop their craft or knowledge base. Bursting with helpful guidance, this creative writing guide effortlessly introduces aspiring authors to the professional world of words and offers an exploratory guide to the processes from motivation to editing and publication. This is a marvelous and full-bodied introductory guide, thoroughly recommended for all writers.
SJ Banham has been writing for almost four decades, penning a dozen fiction, non-fiction, and several ghost written books. She runs her own business (www.loveofbooks.co.uk) nurturing new writers and helping to develop the skills of those more experienced. A member of the Society of Authors, Alliance of Independent Authors and RNA Romance Novelists’ Association, she was awarded a BA (Hons) in English Literature and Creative Writing in 2020. Her interests include photography, crafting, reading, painting, walking, and listening to classical music. She lives in Essex.
