Not all writing books are created equal.

In fact, I'd put them in 3 categories (The 3 E's):

• Encouraging
• Explaining
• Editing

Here's how writing books differ:

Before you can even start writing a book, you need encouragement to get over your fear and self-doubt as a writer. These books get your confidence up & inspire you to write.

Encouraging writing books:

-The War of Art by @SPressfield
-On Writing by @StephenKing

Once you start writing, you need to understand how a book flows. These books explain the writing process (how to outline your book, make & support your POV, connect chapters, etc).

Explaining writing books:

-Write Your Book On The Side by @HassanO
-Scribe by @TuckerMax

Lastly, editing books helps you master the craft of words and sentences. These books get down to the nitty-gritty of how to write sentences people want to read.

Editing writing books:

-On Writing Well by William Zinsser
-The Elements of Style by Strunk & White

Takeaway:

• Encouragement books inspire you to become a writer (mostly motivational).

• Explaining books show the proven formula for writing a book (mix of motivational & technical).

• Editing books show you how to pick your words & craft sentences (mostly technical).