Express Yourself: Books on Writing

It's time to once again answer a question for the Express Yourself Weekly Meme.  Jackie @ Bouquet of Books and Dani @ Entertaining Interests hosts this meme and provide excellent questions for our consideration.

Are there any writing books you recommend to your fellow writers? If you're not a writer, what books do you recommend to your fellow readers?

Since I consider myself a writer, I'll give you a brief list of books that have helped me become a better writer.

How to Write Science Fiction and Fantasy by Orson Scott Card

This was actually part of my mom's book collection, but as a curious kid who wanted to be a writer more than anything, I ended up keeping this book in my room full time.  I read it several times and absorbed all of the advice it had to offer.

On Writing by Stephen King

This book is a wonderful mixture of biography and instruction.  It's an entertaining read and full of helpful information.

Zen in the Art of Writing by Ray Bradbury

This book of essays is full of inspiration and tips on how to dredge up the brilliant story ideas you already have floating around inside you.  Reading it makes me want to put pen to paper.

Early Del Rey by Lester Del Rey

This book is a compilation of short stories that Lester Del Rey had published early on in his career.  Each story is followed by insightful commentary about being a young writer and how one grows as a writer over time.