Are you looking for the best books on storytelling? Whether you’re a writer, marketer, or simply a fan of great narratives, the art of storytelling is a timeless and powerful skill. In this curated list, we’ve gathered the 20 best books about storytelling that will inspire and educate you on the craft. From classic to contemporary, these storytelling books offer invaluable insights, techniques, and examples to help you master the art of storytelling. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned storyteller, these books will take your storytelling skills to the next level and help you captivate your audience with compelling narratives.
Contents
- 1 20 Best Storytelling Books
- 2 The Art of Storytelling
- 3 The Storytelling Animal
- 4 The Hero with a Thousand Faces
- 5 The Anatomy of Story
- 6 Story: Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting
- 7 The Storyteller’s Secret
- 8 The Storytelling Animal: How Stories Make Us Human
- 9 The Art of Fiction: Notes on Craft for Young Writers
- 10 The Writer’s Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers
- 11 The Anatomy of Story: 22 Steps to Becoming a Master Storyteller
- 12 On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft
- 13 The Art of Dramatic Writing: Its Basis in the Creative Interpretation of Human Motives
- 14 Save the Cat! The Last Book on Screenwriting You’ll Ever Need
- 15 Stealing Fire from the Gods: The Complete Guide to Story for Writers and Filmmakers
- 16 Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life
- 17 The Art of Storytelling: Easy Steps to Presenting an Unforgettable Story
- 18 The Elements of Style
- 19 The Power of Myth
- 20 The Storytelling Edge
- 21 The Storytelling Book
- 22 Final Thoughts on Best Storytelling Books
- 23
20 Best Storytelling Books
The Art of Storytelling
by John Walsh
The Art of Storytelling by John Walsh is a compelling book on the art of storytelling. In this engaging and informative guide, Walsh delves into the intricacies of storytelling, providing readers with valuable insights and practical tips for crafting captivating narratives. Through a combination of personal anecdotes, literary examples, and practical exercises, Walsh explores the key elements of storytelling, including character development, plot structure, and the power of language. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or a novice storyteller, this book about storytelling will inspire and empower you to hone your storytelling skills and create compelling narratives that captivate and resonate with your audience. With its accessible and engaging writing style, The Art of Storytelling is a must-read for anyone looking to enhance their storytelling abilities and bring their stories to life.
The Storytelling Animal
by Jonathan Gottschall
The Storytelling Animal by Jonathan Gottschall is a captivating exploration of the human obsession with stories. This thought-provoking book delves into the evolutionary and psychological reasons behind our innate desire for narratives, and how storytelling has shaped human culture and society throughout history. Gottschall expertly weaves together scientific research, literary analysis, and personal anecdotes to shed light on the power of storytelling in our lives.
From ancient myths and fairy tales to modern-day novels and films, this book about storytelling illuminates how stories not only entertain us, but also help us make sense of the world, connect with others, and even shape our identities. Through engaging prose and compelling insights, The Storytelling Animal offers a fascinating look at the universal human experience of being drawn to stories. Whether you’re a literature enthusiast, a psychology buff, or simply curious about the nature of storytelling, this storytelling book is sure to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the narratives that enrich our lives.
The Hero with a Thousand Faces
by Joseph Campbell
The Hero with a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell is a captivating book about storytelling that delves deep into the world of mythology and the universal patterns found in stories across cultures. Campbell explores the concept of the hero’s journey, a fundamental narrative structure that can be found in myths, legends, and stories from around the world. Through an in-depth analysis of various stories and myths, Campbell uncovers the common threads that unite them, revealing the timeless and universal nature of the storytelling tradition.
With his insightful and comprehensive exploration, Campbell invites readers to embark on a thought-provoking journey through the rich tapestry of human storytelling. Through his examination of the hero’s journey, he offers a compelling framework for understanding the power of stories to inspire, enlighten, and transform. Whether you’re a storytelling enthusiast, myth aficionado, or simply curious about the universal appeal of stories, The Hero with a Thousand Faces is a must-read that will forever change the way you view the art of storytelling.
The Anatomy of Story
by John Truby
The Anatomy of Story by John Truby is a comprehensive and insightful book on storytelling that delves deep into the structure and mechanics of crafting compelling narratives. Truby, a renowned screenwriter and story consultant, offers a fresh and original approach to the art of storytelling, providing practical tools and techniques that can be applied to any form of storytelling, whether it’s a novel, screenplay, or play.
Through his unique 22-step storytelling method, Truby guides writers through the essential elements of a successful story, from creating well-rounded characters to building a powerful theme and designing a captivating plot. His approach goes beyond the typical three-act structure, offering a more nuanced and detailed framework that allows writers to develop complex, multi-layered narratives that resonate with audiences on a deeper level.
Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, The Anatomy of Story is an indispensable resource for anyone looking to elevate their storytelling skills and create impactful, memorable narratives.
Story: Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting
by Robert McKee
Story: Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting is a renowned book on storytelling by Robert McKee. It delves into the craft of creating compelling narratives, whether for the screen or the page. McKee’s expertise as a screenwriting instructor shines through as he breaks down the essential elements of storytelling, from character development to plot structure, and beyond.
Readers will find themselves immersed in McKee’s insightful analysis of what makes a great story, as he explores the book about storytelling with depth and clarity. The principles he presents are not only applicable to screenwriting but to all forms of storytelling, making this a valuable resource for writers of any kind.
McKee’s engaging writing style and practical advice make this storytelling book a must-read for anyone looking to hone their storytelling skills. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, Story: Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting offers invaluable guidance for crafting captivating and meaningful narratives.
The Storyteller’s Secret
by Carmine Gallo
The Storyteller’s Secret by Carmine Gallo is a captivating book about storytelling that delves into the power of effective communication. Gallo draws on the wisdom of some of the world’s most successful and influential storytellers, including Steve Jobs, Sheryl Sandberg, and Richard Branson, to uncover the secrets behind their ability to captivate and inspire audiences. Through a combination of real-life examples, practical tips, and actionable strategies, Gallo provides readers with the tools they need to become more compelling storytellers in their personal and professional lives.
Whether you’re a business leader looking to inspire your team, a marketer aiming to create more engaging content, or an individual seeking to improve your communication skills, The Storyteller’s Secret offers valuable insights and guidance. This book on storytelling is a must-read for anyone who wants to harness the power of storytelling to connect with others, drive change, and leave a lasting impression.
The Storytelling Animal: How Stories Make Us Human
by Jonathan Gottschall
The Storytelling Animal: How Stories Make Us Human by Jonathan Gottschall is a captivating exploration of the power of narrative in shaping the human experience. This thought-provoking book delves into the ways in which storytelling is deeply ingrained in our nature, influencing our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Gottschall presents a compelling argument for the significance of stories in our lives, drawing from a range of disciplines including psychology, neuroscience, and literature.
Throughout the book, Gottschall skillfully weaves together scientific research, cultural examples, and personal anecdotes to illustrate the pervasive impact of storytelling on human society. He delves into the evolutionary roots of our storytelling instinct and examines how narratives serve as a means of making sense of the world, transmitting knowledge, and forging social bonds.
Whether you are a fan of psychology, literature, or simply intrigued by the power of storytelling, this book offers a fascinating and illuminating exploration of the profound ways in which stories shape our humanity.
The Art of Fiction: Notes on Craft for Young Writers
by John Gardner
The Art of Fiction: Notes on Craft for Young Writers by John Gardner is a must-read for anyone interested in the art of storytelling. This influential book on storytelling provides invaluable advice for writers looking to hone their craft. With insightful and practical tips, Gardner offers guidance on everything from creating compelling characters to crafting effective dialogue. The book about storytelling explores the essential elements of fiction writing and provides a wealth of examples to illustrate its points. Gardner’s passion for the art of storytelling shines through in his engaging and accessible prose, making this storytelling book a pleasure to read. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, The Art of Fiction is a valuable resource that will inspire and inform your storytelling endeavors. With its timeless wisdom and practical advice, this book on storytelling is a must-have for anyone looking to master the art of fiction writing.
The Writer’s Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers
by Christopher Vogler
The Writer’s Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers by Christopher Vogler is a renowned book on storytelling that delves into the universal patterns found in myths, fairy tales, and folklore, and how they can be applied to the craft of writing. Vogler draws from the work of Joseph Campbell and his theory of the hero’s journey, and presents a detailed analysis of the archetypal characters, plot structures, and symbolic elements that form the foundation of compelling stories.
This storytelling book serves as a guide for writers to understand the fundamental principles of narrative and to effectively utilize these timeless elements to create emotionally resonant and impactful stories. Vogler’s insights and practical advice make this book a valuable resource for writers of all genres, whether they are working on screenplays, novels, or any other form of storytelling. The Writer’s Journey is an essential read for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the art of storytelling and to enhance their skills as a writer.
The Anatomy of Story: 22 Steps to Becoming a Master Storyteller
by John Truby
The Anatomy of Story is a comprehensive and insightful book about storytelling, written by John Truby. This storytelling book delves into the 22 steps that are crucial for creating a compelling and impactful story. Truby, a renowned story consultant and screenwriter, provides a wealth of knowledge and expertise, guiding readers through each step with clarity and depth. The book on storytelling covers essential elements such as character development, plot structure, and thematic significance, offering practical advice and exercises to help writers hone their storytelling skills. Truby’s approach emphasizes the importance of understanding the underlying principles of storytelling, enabling writers to craft narratives that resonate with audiences on a profound level. Whether you’re a novice writer or a seasoned storyteller, The Anatomy of Story is an invaluable resource that will empower you to master the art of storytelling and create unforgettable narratives.
On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft
by Stephen King
On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King is a captivating book about storytelling that delves into the renowned author’s personal journey as a writer. King combines his memoir with practical advice, making it a compelling and informative read for both aspiring and seasoned writers.
In this storytelling book, King shares candid anecdotes from his own life and career, offering valuable insights into the creative process and the challenges of being a writer. He also provides practical tips and techniques for honing the craft of writing, from developing characters to crafting gripping plots.
Readers will find themselves engrossed in King’s storytelling as he weaves together personal experiences and expert advice, making for an engaging and inspiring read. Whether you’re a fan of King’s work or simply seeking guidance in your own writing journey, On Writing is a must-read for anyone passionate about the art of storytelling.
The Art of Dramatic Writing: Its Basis in the Creative Interpretation of Human Motives
by Lajos Egri
The Art of Dramatic Writing: Its Basis in the Creative Interpretation of Human Motives by Lajos Egri is a classic book on storytelling that delves into the fundamental principles of creating compelling and meaningful narratives. Egri explores the essential elements of storytelling, focusing on the importance of understanding and interpreting human motives to develop authentic and engaging characters and plots. Through detailed analysis and practical examples, the book provides invaluable insights into the art of crafting compelling stories that resonate with audiences.
With its emphasis on the psychological and emotional aspects of storytelling, this book about storytelling offers valuable guidance for writers, playwrights, and anyone interested in the craft of storytelling. Egri’s exploration of human nature and motivation provides a solid foundation for creating rich and meaningful narratives that captivate and resonate with readers. Whether you’re a seasoned storyteller or a novice writer, The Art of Dramatic Writing offers timeless wisdom and practical advice for honing your storytelling skills and creating impactful narratives.
Save the Cat! The Last Book on Screenwriting You’ll Ever Need
by Blake Snyder
Save the Cat! The Last Book on Screenwriting You’ll Ever Need by Blake Snyder is a game-changing book on storytelling that provides practical and insightful guidance for writers looking to master the art of crafting compelling stories. With a no-nonsense approach, Snyder breaks down the essential elements of successful storytelling, offering invaluable tips and techniques that are applicable to both screenwriting and novel writing.
Through his “beat sheet” method, Snyder outlines the crucial beats that every story should hit, from the opening image to the final image, and everything in between. He emphasizes the importance of creating relatable characters, engaging plot twists, and memorable moments that resonate with audiences.
What sets this storytelling book apart is its straightforward and entertaining style, making it an engaging and accessible resource for writers of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, Save the Cat! offers a comprehensive framework for developing captivating stories that will keep readers and viewers hooked from beginning to end.
Stealing Fire from the Gods: The Complete Guide to Story for Writers and Filmmakers
by James Bonnet
Stealing Fire from the Gods: The Complete Guide to Story for Writers and Filmmakers by James Bonnet is a captivating book on storytelling that delves into the art of crafting compelling narratives. Bonnet draws upon his extensive experience as a writer and screenwriter to provide an insightful and comprehensive guide for aspiring storytellers. He explores the fundamental elements of storytelling, including character development, plot structure, and the importance of conflict.
Through engaging examples and practical advice, Bonnet offers valuable insights into the creative process, guiding readers on a journey to uncover the secrets of great storytelling. This book about storytelling not only offers a wealth of knowledge for writers and filmmakers but also serves as a source of inspiration and motivation for those seeking to master the craft of storytelling. Whether you’re a seasoned storyteller or a novice looking to hone your skills, Stealing Fire from the Gods is an essential resource for anyone passionate about the art of storytelling.
Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life
by Anne Lamott
Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life by Anne Lamott is a beloved book about storytelling that offers invaluable insights and guidance for writers. Lamott shares her wit and wisdom as she takes readers through the ups and downs of the writing process, offering practical advice and personal anecdotes along the way. The book’s title comes from a childhood memory of Lamott’s brother feeling overwhelmed by a school project about birds, and their father advising him to take it “bird by bird.”
Lamott’s candid and humorous approach makes this storytelling book a delightful read, as she encourages writers to embrace the messiness of their first drafts and to find their own unique voice. She also delves into the emotional challenges that writers often face, such as self-doubt and perfectionism, and offers gentle reassurance and encouragement.
Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out on your writing journey, Bird by Bird is a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration and practical tips for the craft of writing.
The Art of Storytelling: Easy Steps to Presenting an Unforgettable Story
by John Walsh
The Art of Storytelling: Easy Steps to Presenting an Unforgettable Story by John Walsh is a comprehensive guide to mastering the craft of storytelling. This captivating book on storytelling provides valuable insights and practical tips to help readers become engaging and memorable storytellers. The author, John Walsh, shares his expertise and experience, offering easy-to-follow steps that will enable anyone to captivate an audience with their storytelling skills. This storytelling book covers everything from choosing the right story to delivering it with confidence and flair. Whether you’re a novice or seasoned storyteller, this book about storytelling is an invaluable resource that will enhance your ability to connect with others through the power of a well-told story. With its clear and concise guidance, The Art of Storytelling is a must-have for anyone looking to elevate their storytelling prowess and leave a lasting impression on their listeners.
The Elements of Style
by William Strunk Jr. and E. B. White
The Elements of Style, written by William Strunk Jr. and later revised by E. B. White, is a timeless guide to writing and communication. This classic book on storytelling is an essential resource for anyone looking to improve their writing skills. It offers clear and concise advice on grammar, style, and composition, making it a must-have for writers of all levels. The book about storytelling is filled with practical tips and examples, making it easy to understand and apply to your own writing. Whether you’re a student, professional, or just someone who loves to tell stories, The Elements of Style is a valuable tool for crafting compelling and effective writing. With its straightforward approach and wealth of knowledge, this storytelling book is sure to become a trusted companion on your writing journey.
The Power of Myth
by Joseph Campbell and Bill Moyers
The Power of Myth is a captivating book about storytelling that delves into the universal appeal and significance of myths in human culture. In this insightful work, Joseph Campbell and Bill Moyers explore the power of ancient myths and their relevance to modern society. Through engaging conversations, the authors discuss the influence of myths on human psychology, spirituality, and collective consciousness. They delve into the recurring themes and symbols found in myths from different cultures, and how these stories continue to shape our understanding of the world.
With a blend of scholarly wisdom and accessible language, The Power of Myth offers a thought-provoking journey into the art of storytelling and its enduring impact on human experience. Campbell’s profound insights and Moyers’ probing questions make this storytelling book a compelling read for anyone interested in understanding the power of myths and their relevance in today’s world. This book is a treasure trove of wisdom for those seeking to explore the deeper layers of human storytelling and the enduring power of myth.
The Storytelling Edge
by Joe Lazauskas and Shane Snow
The Storytelling Edge by Joe Lazauskas and Shane Snow is a captivating book on the power of narrative in business and marketing. This storytelling book explores the age-old art of storytelling and its application in the modern world of digital marketing, advertising, and brand communication. Lazauskas and Snow delve into the science behind storytelling, demonstrating how it can captivate and engage audiences, build emotional connections, and drive action.
Through a blend of insightful research, real-world examples, and practical advice, this book about storytelling offers a fresh perspective on how businesses can harness the storytelling edge to differentiate themselves in a crowded marketplace. The authors provide a roadmap for crafting compelling narratives that resonate with consumers and leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re a marketer, entrepreneur, or business leader, The Storytelling Edge is a must-read for anyone looking to leverage the power of storytelling to stand out and succeed in today’s competitive landscape.
The Storytelling Book
by Anthony Tasgal
The Storytelling Book by Anthony Tasgal is a captivating and insightful exploration of the power of narrative in communication and marketing. Tasgal’s book on storytelling provides a fresh and engaging perspective on the art of storytelling, offering practical advice and real-life examples to help readers harness the power of storytelling in their personal and professional lives. With a blend of research, psychology, and creativity, Tasgal demonstrates how storytelling can be a powerful tool for connecting with others, fostering empathy, and delivering memorable and persuasive messages. This book about storytelling is a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their communication skills, whether in business, education, or everyday interactions. Tasgal’s storytelling book is a must-read for those seeking to understand the profound impact of storytelling and how it can be used to captivate and influence audiences.
Final Thoughts on Best Storytelling Books
Storytelling is a timeless art, and these 20 best books about storytelling provide invaluable insights and techniques for mastering the craft. Whether you’re a writer, speaker, or simply a lover of stories, these books offer a wealth of knowledge to help you become a more captivating storyteller. From classic to contemporary, these books cover everything from the fundamentals of storytelling to advanced techniques for creating compelling narratives. Dive into these books and unlock the secrets to crafting unforgettable tales that will captivate audiences for generations to come.
Which book about Storytelling is best?
The best book on Storytelling can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
- The Art of Storytelling by John Walsh,
- The Storytelling Animal by Jonathan Gottschall,
- The Hero with a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell.
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about Storytelling?
For those looking to learn about Storytelling, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
- The Art of Storytelling by John Walsh,
- The Storytelling Animal by Jonathan Gottschall,
- The Hero with a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell,
- The Anatomy of Story by John Truby,
- Story: Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting by Robert McKee,
- The Storyteller’s Secret by Carmine Gallo,
- The Storytelling Animal: How Stories Make Us Human by Jonathan Gottschall,
- The Art of Fiction: Notes on Craft for Young Writers by John Gardner,
- The Writer’s Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers by Christopher Vogler,
- The Anatomy of Story: 22 Steps to Becoming a Master Storyteller by John Truby
These books offer a range of perspectives on Storytelling, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.
What are the best books about Storytelling?
The best books about Storytelling are:
- The Art of Storytelling by John Walsh,
- The Storytelling Animal by Jonathan Gottschall,
- On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King,
- The Art of Dramatic Writing: Its Basis in the Creative Interpretation of Human Motives by Lajos Egri,
- The Art of Fiction: Notes on Craft for Young Writers by John Gardner,
- The Storyteller’s Secret by Carmine Gallo.
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books about Storytelling are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.
What are the best Storytelling books of all time?
Choosing the best Storytelling books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but five titles that are often celebrated include
- The Art of Storytelling by John Walsh,
- The Storytelling Animal by Jonathan Gottschall,
- Story: Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting by Robert McKee,
- The Art of Fiction: Notes on Craft for Young Writers by John Gardner,
- and On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King.
Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Storytelling and continues to be influential today.