As the title says, this book discusses 38 mistakes that fiction writers make and how to avoide them. Each chapter title is structered as "Don't do this," for example "Don't Mangle Characters' Speech." Topics include everything from procrastination to the basics of writing to what writers do when they're done.
Impressions: While the author has some good advice, there's some things in this one that I had some strong negative reactions to. For example, he doesn't believe in crit groups or workshops (which he calls clubs). His suggestion is to find a professional, published author to take a look at your work. Between lack of time and fear of being sued, it's next to impossible to find authors willing to do this anymore. As for his devaluing workshops, I personally have found them to be growth experiences, both for me as a person and for my writing. I see absolutely nothing wrong with getting a reader's take on your writing.
That's not to say the book doesn't have some good suggestions, but he comes off abrassive and has an absolutist tone that I personally find annoying. It's funny what some writers will consider absolute rules when so many good books get into print that break those rules. Granted, I believe there are guidelines to writing, and I think a writer should know them, but to treat them as the only way to write is wrong to me.
I also disagree with taking a negative approach. I understand it goes hand in had with the title, but I would much rather be told what I should be doing in a positive way. For example, instead of Don't Describe Sunsets, how about "Trim Your Description." Both chapters could explain using necessary details rather than loads of description, but one presents the topic in a more positive manner.
