Book cover of Story Genius: How to Use Brain Science to Go Beyond Outlining and Write a Riveting Novel (Before You Waste Three Years Writing 327 Pages That Go Nowhere)

Book description

Following on the heels of Lisa Cron's breakout first book, Wired for Story, this writing guide reveals how to use cognitive storytelling strategies to build a scene-by-scene blueprint for a riveting story.

It’s every novelist’s greatest fear: pouring their blood, sweat, and tears into writing hundreds of pages only to…

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Why read it?

2 authors picked Story Genius as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

For years everyone thought the only two options for writing were to pants or plot, i.e., wing it or outline. Turns out there is another method and Lisa Cron lays that out in her book. 

I found this to be a truly valuable resource based on science and creative process. Cron’s book takes you from idea to actual writing using an innovative and original take on the conventional writing process.

I’m a writing mentor and coach, and this book has helped so many of my novelists understand and implement dramatic story structure. If you are trying to write fiction, screenplays, or memoir, and you haven’t read this, prepare to have your mind blown open. I have one word for you: misbelief. Go read the book and you’ll soon understand why it’s a game-changer. Note: Lisa doesn’t mention memoir but when I interviewed her on my podcast, she assured me the concepts work beautifully and have been successfully applied. 

From Jennifer's list on when you’re creatively stuck.

If you love Story Genius...

Ad

Book cover of The Curious Reader's Field Guide to Nonfiction

The Curious Reader's Field Guide to Nonfiction by Anne Janzer,

So many books, so little time! If you're a nonfiction fan, this field guide may help you make better choices about what to read.

Just like a field guide helps you identify plants or birds, this book helps you navigate the rich world of nonfiction. You’ll uncover how your favorite…

Want books like Story Genius?

Our community of 12,000+ authors has personally recommended 100 books like Story Genius.

Browse books like Story Genius

Book cover of Buddha's Brain: The Practical Neuroscience of Happiness, Love, and Wisdom
Book cover of The Writer's Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers
Book cover of Make Your Art No Matter What: Moving Beyond Creative Hurdles

Share your top 3 reads of 2025!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,276

readers submitted
so far, will you?