Short story writing : a practical treatise on the art of the short story

A clear‑sighted handbook for anyone who feels the pull of the short story, this treatise gathers the hard‑won lessons of celebrated writers and the frequent missteps of hopeful amateurs. Drawing on thousands of examined stories, the author spells out the conventions that have proved reliable, while acknowledging that true mastery sometimes bends the rules.

The guide walks the reader through every stage of the craft—choosing a title, shaping a plot, building believable characters, and mastering narration—then moves on to the opening, the core of the tale, and the climax and conclusion. Practical examples illustrate both effective and flawed techniques, and a final section offers advice on navigating the publishing market. The tone is earnest and encouraging, reminding aspiring authors that diligent labor, not merely talent, paves the road from novice to respected storyteller.