The Best Books I Read in 2012

I recently saw that the “Fifty Shades” trilogy ranked Nos. 1, 2 and 3 on Amazon’s best-seller list for 2012. While this isn’t a surprise, it still bugs me. I read the first book and wasn’t impressed. I thought the plot was boring and the writing was dim.

It’s great that “Fifty Shades” got people interested in reading who ordinarily wouldn’t have picked up a book in their spare time. I just wish the book they picked up was something better. So, in case you’re looking for something new to read that isn’t so “shady,” here are my favorites of the books I read in 2012.

“The Fault in Our Stars” by John Green

A sad, sad story that is beautifully written. Smart and touching, it tells the story of a teenage girl living with cancer. Don’t let the “young adult” label fool you – This book is has serious depth.

“Dark Places” by Gillian Flynn

I read “Gone Girl” this summer and could not put it down. Afterward, I read Gillian Flynn’s previous two novels, “Dark Places” and “Sharp Objects.” While I liked them all, I give “Dark Places” the edge for its intricately woven storyline and shocker of an ending.

“Rules of Civility” by Amor Towles
This book makes you feel like you’ve entered a black and white movie with its snappy narrative and rich details. It follows a young woman and a cast of supporting characters as they make their way through 1930s Manhattan. 

What were your favorites this year? 

Holiday Gift Ideas for Writers and Editors

With the holiday shopping season upon us, I thought it might be fun to do my own little gift guide featuring the best holiday gift ideas for writers and editors. Make sure you read to the end – I’m giving away three of these awesome products!

1. Set of three Rifle Journals from Paper Source

These journals are the perfect size – Big enough to take meaningful notes, but small enough to carry in your purse or laptop bag. Plus, the covers are really pretty!

2. Starbucks Gift Card

While some might view the Starbucks card as an impersonal gift, I disagree. Starbucks is a favorite place for many freelance writers to work. Even if the writer on your holiday list doesn’t claim her local Starbucks as a second office, it’s likely that most of her work is fueled by caffeine. In my opinion, coffee cards are practical and usually appreciated.

3. Kate Spade Composition Notebook iPhone Case

This clever iPhone case invokes the classic black and white marble design of old-school composition books. I love it!

4. Amazon Gift Card

Amazon is another practical gift card stop. Your favorite writer can use the gift card to restock the pile of books on her nightstand or to fill up her Kindle. The best part is Amazon sells its gift cards online in cute little boxes decked out with bows or in festive holiday cards – And the fun packaging is free of charge! Another bonus is Amazon offers complementary two-day shipping on gift card orders for any last-minute shoppers.

5. Pajamagram Crossword PJs

I love giving (and getting) gifts that will make the recipient warm and cozy for the holidays. These crossword pajamas are ideal for the wordsmith on your list.

6. Barnes & Noble Leatherbound Classics

The covers of these special-edition classics are gorgeous. A small collection would look great on bookshelf of mantle of any literary fan.

7. The Typescreen

I don’t have an iPad, but I want one just so I can get this adorable attachment that turns the tablet into a vintage-style typewriter.

8. Typewriter Key Jewelry

A number of Etsy artists make beautiful jewelry using keys from vintage typewriters – a perfect gift for any writer or editor, and an opportunity to support a creative business.

Now here’s your chance to get your hands on three of these great items! I am giving away a set of Rifle Journals, a $20 Starbucks card and a Barnes & Noble leatherbound copy of To Kill a Mockingbird. There are a few ways to enter:    

1. Leave a comment on this post telling me your favorite gift idea for writers and editors.
2. Pin this post on Pinterest. Leave me a comment that contains a link to your Pinterest account.
3. Like Firework Writing on Facebook. Leave me a comment on this post telling me that you did.
4. Share Firework Writing’s Facebook post about this giveaway on your Facebook page. Leave me a comment letting me know you did.
5. Tweet about this giveaway and provide a link in your tweet. Leave me a comment with your Twitter handle so I can follow you!

So, you can enter this giveaway up to five times. Make sure you leave a separate comment on this post for each entry.

The giveaway will run until Friday, November 30 at 11:59 p.m. PST. I will use a random number generator to pick the winner. The opinions in this post are my own – I am not endorsed by any organization related to the above products.

Good luck!!

Firework Writing provides freelance marketing writing and freelance editing services to businesses in need.

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Added December 1, 2012

Congratulations to Jessie, the giveaway winner! I'll be contacting you for your info to ship your prizes. 

The Best Reference Books for Writers and Editors

Colleagues frequently ask me if there are any books I’d recommend they check out to improve their writing and editing skills. I usually suggest sticking to the basics to build a solid foundation. Following are the five best reference books for writers and editors, in my opinion.

The Associated Press Stylebook and Briefing on Media Law

When I landed my first serious copyediting job, I read this cover to cover several times. Sure, it’s not exactly bedtime reading, but really familiarizing myself with the content has been invaluable.

Some people prefer The Chicago Manual of Style, but in my 12 years of tech PR and marketing writing experience, I’ve only encountered one client who asked that my work comply with that guide. So, I suggest that folks looking to build basic editing skills focus on AP Style instead.

If you aren’t a fan of hard-copy reference books, you can opt to purchase the AP Stylebook in app form, or via an online database subscription.

The Associated Press Guide to Punctuation

Though the AP Stylebook contains a section on punctuation, this standalone book goes into much greater detail. It also provides a plethora or real-world examples, which are helpful when you are stumped about how to correctly apply a rule.

The Associated Press Guide to News Writing

As a freelance marketing writer, a lot of stuff I write and edit is targeted for pickup by the media. This book gives a great picture of the distinctive pressures and requirements faced by journalists. As such, it helps me understand how I can tailor my work to be more appealing to the press. I think this book is particularly important for anyone in a PR/media relations function to read.

Grammar Girl’s Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing

This book is written in a really light, readable style. It tackles some of the most frequently encountered grammar missteps in a memorable way. Grammar Girl also offers a weekly podcast that I highly recommend. It’s great to listen to while commuting to work or eating lunch at your desk!

Eats, Shoots & Leaves: The Zero Tolerance Approach to Punctuation

In a world where texting is becoming a primary mode of communication for many, this book makes an argument for the preservation of punctuation. It gives hilarious examples of how meanings are changes by the incorrect use of commas and apostrophes. While this isn’t a reference book, per se, it offers a unique combination of humor and grammar rules that you’ll want to revisit!

What are your favorite reference books for writers and editors? Let me know in a comment!