Morrell, an editor, has led numerous writing workshops. Her experience and expertise are apparent in this volume, which clearly addresses the elements that make good fiction, including ways to develop the different parts of a story and its characters, how to write and edit dialogue, and generally how to succeed as a writer. Her lists of the things that drive an editor crazy--with lots of specific examples that will make anyone cringe--will hit home with every reader and are an especially useful aspect of what is, overall, a very helpful guide. Annotation 2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
