There is an almost unlimited array of online and offline resources for writers of any kind. Here are some pieces from my own experience and interest to get you started. Plying the search engines or cruising the shelves of your local bookstore will give you many more options.
What's on My Own Bookshelf
Here is a list of some of my favorite books about writing, some of them classics and some of them obscure.
Writing Alone and with Others by Pat Schneider
Here is the essence of the AWA method. This book also touches on work with special needs populations such as the poor and imprisoned. Useful and inspiring stuff. A Writer's Book of Days by Judy Reeves
Judy was my very first writing facilitator, and this book is a piece of her greatness on paper. Chock full of writing exercises, tips, and anecdotes from many great names, my copy is getting a little scruffy from so much use. Elements of Style by Strunk and White
This slim book has many versions -- publishers know a gold mine when they see one -- but its essence remains. It is still one of the best writing references around. On Writing Well by William Zinser
This is another writing classic. Strunk, White, and Zinser have seats on every writer's bookshelf. The Writer's Book Of Wisdom: 101 Rules For Mastering Your Craft
by Steven Taylor Goldsberry
A favorite of my fellow writing workshop leader Ron Seybold. The first sentence reads, "There are no absolute "rules" for good writing, only guidelines that have proven successful." Each of the 101 rules is 1-3 pages, covering areas like Approach, Language, and Craft. Examples: Rule 12-think of writing sessions as entertainment; Rule 51-Sentences are written like jokes -- the punchline is at the end; Rule 60-Never save your best for last. Writing with Style by John Trimble
Some writers consider this book full of tips more useful than Strunk & White. I think they both have their uses. The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron
Cameron's success with this first book has spawned an array of related publications under her byline. There is much value to be had by following even just a few of the ideas and tips that she provides, even if you don't do the entire 12-week program. On Writing by Stephen King
I'm not a big one for writer's autobiographies, but I really enjoyed this window onto King and his craft. He touches the heart of why a writer writes, and it has been a great inspiration to me. Writing Down the Bones by Natalie Goldberg
More great stuff on writing practice and the writer's mindset. Sin and Syntax
This was a birthday present from my husband, and I must say he has good taste. An entertaining and informative read. Eats, Shoots and Leaves
It is a British book about British English, but a delight for anyone who has always-on radar for bad grammar and punctuation. Writing Personal Essays
Personal essays are my genre of preference. combining true stories with good story telling. This book is a great primer for the various types of essays and the craft of creative non-fiction. The Well-Fed Writer by Peter Bowerman
Peter Bowerman is one of my favorite "business of writing" gurus. His books are all about making a living as a commercial writer. Here are more writing books on Amazon.com. Magazines
Magazines exist for every kind of writer. Here are a few of my favorites. The Writer
A good magazine that covers a satisfying range of writing topics. Poets & Writers
The nation's largest nonprofit literary organization serving poets, fiction writers, and creative nonfiction writers. Writer's Digest
It's a bit slick with lots of overt and covert plugs sprinkled throughout, but there are good tidbits in here among the advertisements. Other AWA workshops If you know someone in the Austin area who wants to write, tell them about my pal Ron Seybold. For other AWA affiliates who offer workshops and retreats in other parts of the U.S. and around the world, check the AWA site.
Houston Writers Organizations Texas Writers Organizations Here is a list of Texas writing organizations. | 
