If you’re looking to improve your letter-writing skills or simply want to delve into the art of correspondence, then look no further. In this curated list, we’ve compiled the 20 best books on writing letters that will inspire, instruct, and captivate you. Whether you’re a novice seeking guidance or a seasoned writer looking for fresh insights, these books are sure to offer valuable tips and timeless wisdom on the lost art of letter writing.
Dear Mr. Henshaw by Beverly Cleary is a heartwarming and insightful book about a young boy named Leigh Botts who writes letters to his favorite author, Mr. Henshaw. Through his letters, Leigh shares his thoughts, feelings, and experiences, and as the correspondence continues, he discovers the power of writing to express himself and connect with others. This poignant novel explores themes of friendship, family, and self-discovery as Leigh navigates the challenges of growing up. With its relatable characters and engaging storytelling, Dear Mr. Henshaw is a timeless book about writing letters that will resonate with readers of all ages. Beverly Cleary has crafted a touching and memorable story that highlights the importance of communication and the impact of writing letters on our lives.
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is a charming novel set in post-World War II England. The story unfolds through a series of letters exchanged between the protagonist, writer Juliet Ashton, and the quirky residents of Guernsey, a small island in the English Channel. As Juliet delves into the islanders’ experiences during the German occupation, she discovers the extraordinary power of literature and friendship to heal the wounds of war. The book captures the essence of community, resilience, and the joy of connecting through the written word. With its delightful characters and heartwarming plot, this novel is a must-read for anyone who appreciates a good book about writing letters.
84, Charing Cross Road by Helene Hanff is a charming collection of letters exchanged between the author and a London bookseller over a period of 20 years. The book captures the heartwarming and often humorous correspondence between Hanff and Frank Doel, as they bond over their love of literature and share glimpses of their respective lives on opposite sides of the Atlantic. Through this delightful exchange, readers are treated to a unique and intimate portrayal of a friendship that blossoms through the simple act of corresponding and sharing their passion for books. Hanff’s witty and engaging style makes this book about writing letters a joy to read, as she infuses each letter with her personality and love for literature, making it a must-read for anyone who appreciates the art of letter writing.
The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky is a coming-of-age novel that follows the story of Charlie, a shy and introspective teenager navigating high school. The book is written in the form of letters, allowing readers to dive deep into Charlie’s thoughts and emotions. Through these letters, readers are taken on a journey of self-discovery, friendship, love, and the struggles of growing up. The novel touches on themes of mental health, trauma, and the complexities of adolescence, making it a powerful and moving read. Chbosky’s writing style is raw and authentic, drawing readers in with its emotional depth and relatable characters. The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a poignant and beautifully written book about the universal experiences of youth, making it a must-read for anyone who enjoys a compelling story about the struggles and triumphs of coming of age.
The Color Purple by Alice Walker is a powerful and emotionally gripping novel that tells the story of Celie, a young African American woman who endures years of abuse and oppression. Set in the early 20th century, the novel unfolds through a series of letters written by Celie to God and later to her sister. Through her letters, Celie finds solace and strength, and her voice grows stronger as she navigates love, pain, and redemption. The novel is a poignant exploration of resilience, sisterhood, and the power of self-expression. It is a compelling and thought-provoking read that delves into the complexities of human relationships and the triumph of the human spirit.
The Screwtape Letters is a captivating book by C.S. Lewis that takes the form of a series of letters between two demons, Uncle Screwtape and his nephew Wormwood, as they discuss the best methods for tempting a human soul. Through these letters, Lewis offers insightful and thought-provoking commentary on human nature, morality, and the nature of evil. This book on writing letters is a clever and satirical exploration of the tactics used by the forces of darkness to lead people astray. With its unique format and powerful themes, The Screwtape Letters is a must-read for anyone interested in a thought-provoking and engaging book about writing letters.
The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd is a captivating novel about a young girl named Lily Owens who escapes her troubled home to uncover the truth about her mother’s past. Set in the 1960s South, this coming-of-age story is filled with themes of love, family, and the power of female strength. As Lily embarks on a journey of self-discovery, she finds solace in the company of three beekeeping sisters and learns about the art of beekeeping. The novel beautifully captures the complexities of human relationships and the resilience of the human spirit. With its evocative storytelling and richly developed characters, The Secret Life of Bees is a must-read for anyone looking for a moving and thought-provoking book about family, loss, and the importance of female bonds.
The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank is a poignant and powerful account of a young girl’s experiences during the Holocaust. Anne Frank, a Jewish teenager, wrote her thoughts and feelings in her diary while hiding from the Nazis in Amsterdam. Her diary captures the challenges, fears, and hopes she faced during this dark time in history. Through her writing, she also reflects on the universal themes of adolescence, family, and the human spirit. The diary has become a symbol of resilience and hope, and it continues to inspire readers around the world. This book is not just a book on writing letters, but a touching and intimate portrayal of a young girl’s life during a harrowing period of history.
The Letters of Vincent van Gogh is a compelling collection of the renowned artist’s correspondence, offering a captivating insight into his life and creative process. This book on writing letters provides a unique opportunity to delve into van Gogh’s thoughts, emotions, and artistic endeavors through his own words. Through this book about writing letters, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the man behind the masterpieces, as he shares his struggles, aspirations, and profound love for art. The collection is a testament to the power of writing letters as a means of self-expression and communication, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the art of correspondence and the inner workings of a brilliant mind.
Letters to a Young Poet by Rainer Maria Rilke is a classic book on writing letters that offers profound and timeless advice to aspiring writers. In this collection of ten letters, Rilke shares his wisdom and insights on the creative process, solitude, love, and the importance of embracing life’s uncertainties. Through his thoughtful and poetic prose, Rilke encourages the young poet to find their own voice, to embrace their innermost feelings, and to persist in the pursuit of their art. This book about writing letters is a heartfelt and intimate exchange between mentor and mentee, offering a glimpse into the mind of a master poet. Letters to a Young Poet is a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration and guidance in their writing journey.
The Juliet Club by Suzanne Harper is a heartwarming novel that takes readers on a journey to Italy where a group of women write letters as part of a modern-day Juliet Club. This captivating story explores the power of love, friendship, and the art of correspondence. The main character, Kate, finds herself in Verona, the city of Juliet’s famous balcony, and becomes involved in a club where women respond to letters seeking advice on love and relationships. As Kate delves deeper into the world of writing letters, she discovers the transformative impact of sharing one’s thoughts and feelings through this timeless form of communication. The Juliet Club is a charming and enchanting book about writing letters, filled with romance, humor, and the magic of connecting through the written word. It’s a must-read for anyone who appreciates the beauty of letter writing and the power of love.
The Love Letters of Abelard and Lily by Laura Creedle is a heartwarming young adult novel about two teens, Abelard and Lily, who struggle with their own unique challenges. Abelard has Asperger’s and finds solace in writing letters, while Lily has ADHD and often finds herself in trouble. When the two meet at their school’s detention, they begin to bond over their shared love for writing letters. As their friendship grows, they navigate the complexities of their personal lives and find comfort in the letters they exchange. This captivating novel beautifully captures the power of connection through the written word and explores the healing potential of communication. The Love Letters of Abelard and Lily is a touching story that will resonate with readers who appreciate a heartfelt book about writing letters.
The Divorce Papers by Susan Rieger is a captivating and insightful novel that takes the form of a series of letters, memos, emails, and legal documents. The story follows the tumultuous divorce proceedings of a high-profile couple, giving readers an intimate look into the complexities of marriage, family, and the legal system. Through the artful use of correspondence, Rieger masterfully weaves together the emotional and legal aspects of the divorce, offering a unique and engaging reading experience. This book on writing letters provides a thought-provoking exploration of the power of communication and the impact of words in relationships. The Divorce Papers is a compelling and poignant novel that will resonate with anyone who appreciates a well-crafted story about the intricacies of human relationships.
The Letter by Kathryn Hughes is a captivating novel that delves into the power of written correspondence. Set in two different time periods, the story revolves around two women whose lives are connected by a single letter. The book explores the impact of the written word and the emotional depth that can be conveyed through letters. As the characters navigate love, loss, and secrets, the narrative beautifully illustrates the significance of communication through the written word. With its poignant storytelling and intricate plot, The Letter is a compelling read that will resonate with anyone who appreciates the art of written communication. This novel is a perfect choice for those who enjoy stories about the enduring impact of correspondence and the art of writing letters.
The Secret Letters of the Monk Who Sold His Ferrari
by Robin Sharma
The Secret Letters of the Monk Who Sold His Ferrari is a captivating book about penning letters. Written by Robin Sharma, this book takes readers on a journey through the art of written correspondence. The protagonist, a former lawyer, embarks on a life-changing adventure, and through a series of letters, he shares his wisdom and experiences with a friend. The book reveals the power of writing letters as a means of self-reflection, growth, and connection. It inspires readers to harness the transformative potential of the written word and offers valuable insights into the craft of writing letters. With its rich storytelling and profound lessons, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration and guidance in the art of writing letters.
The Letter Writer by Dan Fesperman is a captivating novel that follows the story of Woodrow Cain, a former police officer turned private detective, who stumbles upon a mysterious network of letter writers in post-World War II Baltimore. As he delves deeper into the world of these enigmatic correspondents, he uncovers a web of secrets, espionage, and forbidden love. Fesperman’s masterful storytelling brings to life the art of epistolary communication, offering a unique glimpse into the power of the written word. This gripping tale of intrigue and deception is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the art of correspondence and the impact of letters on people’s lives. If you’re looking for a captivating book about writing letters that weaves together history, mystery, and romance, The Letter Writer is the perfect choice.
The Letter, the Witch, and the Ring by John Bellairs is a thrilling adventure filled with mystery and magic. The story follows young Lewis Barnavelt as he discovers a hidden letter that leads him on a quest to uncover the truth about his family’s past. With the help of his friend Rose Rita, Lewis delves into a world of witches, curses, and enchanted rings. As they unravel the secrets of the letter, they encounter dark forces and must use their wits to outsmart the sinister powers at play. This book is perfect for anyone who loves a good mystery and enjoys stories about magic and the supernatural. Join Lewis and Rose Rita on a spellbinding journey that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
The Letter for the King by Tonke Dragt is an enthralling tale of adventure, chivalry, and the power of a single letter. This captivating book follows the journey of a young knight, Tiuri, who is entrusted with the important task of delivering a secret letter to the King. As Tiuri embarks on his perilous quest, he encounters treacherous foes and unexpected allies, testing his bravery and honor. The story is filled with gripping suspense, intricate world-building, and timeless themes of friendship and sacrifice. Dragt’s masterful storytelling and vivid descriptions transport readers into a world of medieval knights and quests, making it a must-read for anyone who loves a thrilling adventure. This book is a testament to the enduring power of communication and the impact of a single book about writing letters.
The Letter of Marque is the twelfth installment in Patrick O’Brian’s captivating Aubrey-Maturin series. Set during the Napoleonic Wars, the novel follows the adventures of Captain Jack Aubrey and ship’s surgeon Stephen Maturin as they navigate the high seas in pursuit of glory and fortune. This time, the duo embarks on a daring mission to capture a French privateer, with Aubrey receiving a letter of marque to legitimize his actions. As they sail into treacherous waters, the crew faces perilous battles and unexpected alliances, all while grappling with personal and professional challenges. O’Brian’s richly detailed prose and authentic nautical setting make this historical fiction a must-read for fans of seafaring adventures. With its intricate plot and vivid characters, The Letter of Marque is a thrilling book about writing letters that will keep readers hooked from start to finish.
To the Letter: A Celebration of the Lost Art of Letter Writing
by Simon Garfield
To the Letter: A Celebration of the Lost Art of Letter Writing by Simon Garfield is a captivating book about the history and significance of correspondence. Garfield delves into the intimate and intricate world of letter writing, exploring its cultural, social, and personal impact. Through engaging anecdotes and historical examples, the author showcases the power of the written word and how it has shaped relationships and societies throughout time. From love letters to famous correspondences, this book about writing letters is a nostalgic and thought-provoking journey that celebrates the beauty and artistry of handwritten communication. Whether you’re a seasoned pen pal or a digital native, this writing letters book will inspire you to pick up a pen and keep the tradition alive.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking to improve your letter-writing skills or simply enjoy reading about the art of correspondence, these 20 best books about Writing Letters offer a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. From practical guides to historical collections, there’s something for every letter enthusiast to explore. Dive into these books and discover the timeless beauty of written communication.
Which Writing Letters book is best?
The best book on Writing Letters can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about Writing Letters?
For those looking to learn about Writing Letters, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books on the topic of Writing Letters are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.
What are the best Writing Letters books of all time?
Choosing the best Writing Letters books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include
