BOOK REVIEW: “Writing Feature Stories”

~ Alexandria D.

Image result for writing feature stories matthew ricketson

  • Title: Writing Feature Stories (Amazon) (Goodreads)
  • Authors: Matthew Ricketson, Caroline Graham
  • Publication: Allen & Unwin, 2nd edition (Jan. 1, 2018)
  • Pages: 384
  • Genre: General Non-Fiction, Writing
  • Format: Paperback
  • Source: Library
  • Rating: 4/5 stars

Congratulations, you landed your first assignment as a journalist!

Oh crap, an interview?! You’re not ready for that!

Have a 2,000-word feature article as well? Where did that assignment come from?!

This situation sounds familiar? If you’ve ever suffered through such chaotic writing and deadline situations, pick up your very own copy of Writing Feature Stories by Matthew Ricketson and Caroline Graham.  You don’t have to be on the journalist’s path to read this book. This is valuable for all writers.

If you’re interested in composing great interview, column, and feature articles, this is for you.

I read this book because I wanted to write more longform articles including listicles. Listicles are all the rage these days especially with sites like Buzzfeed and Listverse.

WRITING LESSONS

In Writing Feature Stories, you’ll learn:

REVIEWS

The more you write reviews, the better. It may seem daunting at first. You’re only revealing your experiences with a product or an event to your readers.

EDITING

Editing can be your worst enemy or your best friend. You’d want it to be the latter. Sometimes with editing, you’ll have to add more relevant information to your article. This is a task impatient writers will have to get used to.

You’d want your readers to receive much value from your article as much as possible. Take your time, and edit with much information you see fit.

KEEPING AN IDEAS FILE

An ideas file, whether it be on your computer or a basic notebook, is an excellent way to stay out of writer’s block. I write 10-20 ideas a day in the mornings.

Find potential article ideas through Google News, Pinterest, your favorite sites related to your interests, and more. The amount of ideas is infinite!

CONCLUSION

Writing Feature Stories is a helpful book for writers. I appreciate the example feature stories, and infographics added. Overall, this book has a worthy spot in any writer’s bookshelf.

Have you read this book before? Comment below your favorite writing book!

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(Book pic: Amazon)

(GIF sources: GIPHY)

 

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