Wonderbook: The Illustrated Guide to Creating Imaginative Fiction by Jeff VanderMeer

RATING: 5 STARS

Wonderbook by writer Jeff VanderMeer is an illustrated guide to creating speculative fiction. Aimed towards right-sided brain thinkers, the craft of writing is explained and illustrated using whimsical, colorful drawings. VanderMeer doesn’t suggest a single writing style, but describes the pros and cons of various strategies. The book doesn’t have to be read chronologically. VanderMeer’s freestyle approach to writing and creativity encourages the reader to flip through the book and read the book out of order. There are writing tips from VanderMeer and other spec fiction authors, such as Ursula LeGuin, Lev Grossman, Neil Gaiman, George R.R. Martin and more. Although Wonderbook is geared towards beginner spec fiction writers, experienced writers from all genres will be inspired by this  book.