Aristotle for Novelists: A Review

As a writer I’ve read many books about writing, so when the opportunity arose to read something new, something written in a different way to other writing books, I couldn’t say no.

Aristotle for Novelists is short, 114 pages, so how much value could it really have. The answer is, a lot. There is so much information, split up into fourteen ‘Principles’, and presented in an accessible way crammed into Aristotle for Novelists.

And don’t let the ‘Aristotle’ part put you off. You really don’t need to know anything about him, or his work, to read the book. Douglas Vigliotti does a brilliant job of taking Aristotle’s (translated) words and turning them into relevant advice and information for anyone who is looking to write fiction. (Novelists and screenwriters.)

I did find it difficult to engage with the first few principles, but by the time I hit Principle 6 or 7 I found myself texting titbits of information to my writing bestie. (She’s off to buy a copy, by the way!) I have a whiteboard above the desk where I write my novels. This weekend I plan to fill it with quotes from the book that just make sense to me, to help motivate and inspire me while I tackle book six. 

There are definitely more technical books on the art of story writing available, that is true. However, if you’re looking for something that doesn’t hurt your brain, and instead of making you think, sparks thoughts and ideas, then this is the book for you.

Many thanks to Love Books Tours and Douglas Vigliotti for sending me a copy to review. You can purchase Aristotle for Novelists here.