Let us start with a simple truth: If you want to be a great writer, you have to be an avid reader. Period. End of discussion.

I have spent 35 years in the publishing industry. I have seen countless manuscripts come across my desk, and I can tell in an instant whether a writer is well-read or if they have simply decided to jump in with no foundation. The difference is night and day.

Aspiring first-time authors often ask me: What is the secret to writing a successful book? Well, there are plenty of strategies—structure, style, voice, audience targeting—but none of those matter if you are not consuming books like oxygen. Reading is the foundation upon which all great writing is built.

So, if you have ever had doubts about the importance of reading in your journey as a writer, let me set the record straight. Reading is not just about entertainment or education—it is about absorbing the very DNA of storytelling, structure, and craft.

Why Reading is the Bedrock of Writing

Every great writer started as a reader first. Stephen King, one of the most prolific authors of our time, once said, “If you don’t have the time to read, you don’t have the time (or the tools) to write.” That quote should be engraved on the desk of every aspiring author.

Reading does several things for you as a writer:

  1. Expands Your Vocabulary – The more you read, the more words you have in your arsenal. You will naturally develop a sense for how words work together and how to use them effectively.
  2. Teaches You Structure – Whether it is fiction or nonfiction, books have a rhythm and flow. Reading helps you internalize that structure, so when it comes time to write, it feels more natural.
  3. Enhances Your Creativity – Exposure to different styles and genres sparks innovative ideas. You start seeing how authors solve problems on the page, which in turn helps you refine your own approach.
  4. Refines Your Grammar and Style – You do not need to memorize every grammar rule if you read enough. Your brain starts recognizing patterns and instinctively understands what “sounds right.”
  5. Shows You What Works (and What Does not) – Not every book you read will be great, and that is a good thing. Seeing mistakes on the page will help you avoid them in your own work.

The Right Way to Read as an Aspiring Author

Now, it is not just about reading—it is about reading with purpose. When I talk to new authors, many say, “Yeah, I read a lot.” But when I ask them what they are reading and how they engage with the material, I usually get a blank stare.

If you want to be a better writer, you need to read strategically. Here is how:

1. Read Across Multiple Genres

Do not box yourself into one genre. Even if you are writing sci-fi, reading only science fiction will limit your creativity. Branch out. Read thrillers, historical fiction, biographies, poetry—each has something unique to teach you.

2. Analyze the Craft

When you read, do not just consume—dissect. Ask yourself:

  • How does the author build tension?
  • How do they introduce characters?
  • What makes their dialogue work?
  • How do they pace the story?
  • What about their style is effective (or ineffective)?

3. Take Notes

Keep a reading journal. Jot down interesting phrases, narrative techniques, or anything that inspires you. Over time, this becomes an invaluable resource.

4. Read Like an Editor

I have spent decades editing manuscripts, and one thing I have learned is that reading like an editor changes everything. Ask yourself:

  • What would I cut from this book?
  • What could be stronger?
  • How would I make this sentence punchier?

5. Reread the Greats

The first time you read a book, you are immersed in the story. The second time, you notice how it is constructed. The third time, you start to see the mechanics behind the magic. Pick a few of your favorite books and reread them with a critical eye.

Books Every Aspiring Author Should Read

If you are serious about writing, there are a few essential books you should add to your reading list. These are not just great stories; they are masterclasses in the craft of writing.

Fiction

  • To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee – A lesson in character development and moral storytelling.
  • 1984 by George Orwell – Mastery of world-building and social commentary.
  • The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald – A perfect study in concise, lyrical prose.

Nonfiction

  • On Writing by Stephen King – Part memoir, part writing guide, and absolutely essential.
  • Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott – A heartfelt and humorous take on the writing life.
  • The Elements of Style by Strunk and White – If you do not own this, buy it today. Your writing will thank you.

Industry Insight

  • The Business of Being a Writer by Jane Friedman – If you are planning to publish, you need to understand the business side of writing.
  • The War of Art by Steven Pressfield – If you struggle with self-doubt and procrastination, this book will change your mindset.

Making Reading a Daily Habit

Many aspiring writers claim they do not have time to read. I get it—life is busy. But if you want to be a writer, you must be available for reading. Even 30 minutes a day can transform your writing over time. Here is how to build a reading habit:

  1. Set a Reading Goal – Whether it is a book a month or 10 pages a day, set a realistic goal and stick to it.
  2. Carry a Book Everywhere – Waiting in line? Stuck in traffic? Those are perfect moments to sneak in some reading.
  3. Use Audiobooks – If you do not have time to sit down with a book, listen to one while commuting or exercising.
  4. Replace Screen Time with Reading – Cut down on TV and social media and spend that time reading instead.
  5. Join a Book Club – Discussing books with others deepens your understanding of them.

Final Thoughts: Read to Lead

Writing is not just about putting words on a page; it is about knowing how to put words on a page. And that knowledge comes from reading—voraciously, critically, and consistently.

So, if you are an aspiring author, my advice is simple: Read books. Read widely. Read deeply. Read like your writing career depends on it—because it does.

The more you read, the better you write. It is that simple.

Now, grab a book and get started.

#BookPublishing, #SelfPublishing, #FirstTimeAuthors, #WritingCommunity, #AuthorTips, #IndieAuthors, #WritingAdvice, #PublishingTips, #BookMarketing, #AuthorLife, #WritingJourney, #WriteYourStory, #BookPromotion, #PublishingJourney, #NewAuthors, #BookWriting, #WriteABook, #PublishingAdvice, #AuthorGoals, #BookLaunch