A Long Game

How to Write Fiction

By: Elizabeth McCracken

Write A Review

Hardcover | 1 January 2026

At a Glance

Format
Hardcover

Dimensions(cm)
20.4 x 13.7 x 2.1

Hardcover

RRP $34.99

$27.75

21%OFF

or 4 interest-free payments of $6.94 with

In Stock and Ships in 1-2 business days

A witty, charming guide to writing and creativity for both reader and writer

Warm, wise and full of practical tips, this book is the ideal companion to every writing life

'Elizabeth McCracken is one of America's finest writers' Garth Greenwell

Write every day
Show, don't tell
Write what you know
Kill Your Darlings

These are some of the most popular nuggets of advice given to writers, universally agreed to be true. They are all pieces of writing advice that Elizabeth McCracken expertly and persuasively shoots down in A Long Game.

McCracken has been writing for most of her life. For over thirty-five years, she has also taught creative writing to generations of students, including at Iowa, guiding many writers towards their own answers to the question of how to write fiction. In A Long Game, she shares insights gleaned along the way, deconstructing received wisdom whilst playfully tackling the mysteries that are inherent to writing and creativity.

This book will lead any writer, at any stage of their career, back to the page. As much a book about the life of a working artist as it is a guide to thinking about fiction, A Long Game is a revelatory and indispensable resource, and the ideal companion to every writing life.

'Elizabeth McCracken was my teacher, and it's a joy to know that now more people will have access to her brilliance through A Long Game... A guidebook for any fiction writer, and a problem-solving and cheering companion that makes writing a less lonely business' Yiyun Li

Shipping

	Standard Shipping	Express Shipping
Metro postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95
Regional postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95
Rural postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95

Orders over $89.00 qualify for free shipping.

How to return your order

At Booktopia, we offer hassle-free returns in accordance with our returns policy. If you wish to return an item, please get in touch with Booktopia Customer Care.

Additional postage charges may be applicable.