Not knowing a lot about Ayn Rand, I saw this book on B&N's online store and bought it because I thought it would be helpful. While it was somewhat helpful, overall I found it to be a definite disappointment in content. Although it's presented as a writer's/reader's instruction, it contains so much about her philosophy of Objectivism, which is simply advocating a completely "me first and only" world. Her views promote a world of selfishness, without compassion, or concern for others. She very clearly states, "I am not my brother's keeper", and judging by her explanation of her philosophy, she means it. Most of her comments in this area are very self-centered and arrogant; several times comparing herself to some of the most gifted writers and flatly stating that she is a better writer, then proceeds to detail her perceived flaws in their writing. While it is good to be self-confident, she takes this to a new, very uncomfortable, level. Also, her instruction on writing fiction presents a very structured method, adhering closely to plot, theme (which is good), but seemingly not allowing for very much flexibility in the process (which is not). What I did find very interesting, and helpful, is her instruction on "concreting your abstractions"; how to integrate body & spirit in a scene. There were a few other instructions that were helpful as well. However, because of the inclusion of the principles of her Objectivism philosophy as a major part of this writing, I would not recommend the book to anyone. Her book...her right, but so disappointing.

You don't need a book which directs you how to become a good writer but what?
If you fail on the first attempt then you will repent not reading this book.
How a Fiction book to be?
One of the books teaches you Black and White, how to include certain elements for the success of your book.
Some take away like.
What is implicit in the story is important.
Instead of narrating a character better to be embedded in their behaviour.
Use words that have immense meaning.
The expression should be rational.
You should write from the Subconscious mind not Consciously...etc etc.
There is a lot more...
Just read once to understand how the authors present in every book you read..

This book is based on private lectures given by novelist and philosopher Ayn Rand, author of "Atlas Shrugged", "The Fountainhead", "Anthem", and "We the Living". It is an amazing guide to learning the principles of how to write fiction and dispels the arbitrary myths commonly taught about how the mind works when writing. A fascinating read recommended to both readers and writers seeking a better understanding of the books they read or how to become a professional author.

Ayn Rand has clearly come out as one of the most prolific, brilliant, forthcoming writer with strong sense of likes and dislikes in the field of philosophy. Her likes for capitalism, individualism, objectivity and extreme dislike for collectivism, state interference, marxism is visible in each of her novels whether it is fictional or otherwise. The art of fictions is a collection of her class room coaching which she gave about the title of the book. Insightful, deep driving with examples and do's and dont's of writing, the book is an experience in itself and definitely helps in knowing about the sense of novel writing. Her writing bring out her character as a very proud and egoist and demeaning to many of the great writers. In one part of the book she claims herself to be the best writer of the world which may not be far from true, but to make alternate forms and style of writing not up to the mark may not go down well with many. Notwithstanding the same, her books including this one is a pleasure to read with. She gives a lots of insightful about the style, theme, plot, wordings, usage of language, fantasy, flashback etc. She gives special importance to usage of abstract plot in the form of romantistic writing rather than naturalistic writing which is more about taking the reader along with the plot rather than telling the readers.
A must read for all who are both avid readers as well as those who aspire to be a writer

You know the expression "opinions are like assholes"? Yeah, that's definitely applicable here, and only partly because I know such crass and crude language would have caused her to turn up her nose. Her methods are not the be-all, end-all (and, for the sake of all literature, thank god for it) though, perhaps unsurprisingly, she certainly seems to think they are. But what I really can't stand is how she denigrates other authors whose works have stood the test of time while using excerpts from her own books as examples of spectacular writing. Sorry, Ayn, having read your magnum opus, I can say definitively that you're a hack. I'll look for better writing advice elsewhere.

The single most important book on writing I have ever read. It changed my writing and my life.

Ayn Rand is an excellent teacher.

This is a pretty good book for would-be writers. Whatever you think of Ayn Rand's philosophy, she was a successful screenwriter for many years and has a lot of straightforward advice as to how to develop plot and characters and how to develop your own writing style. She has some really good ideas on how to develop your thinking so that you can write better and more easily. Rand believes that successful writing is a result of productive thinking and that anyone can learn to write if they put the effort into developing their ideas.

Ayn Rand is vicious. I don't think you will get much from this book unless you already agree with her style and format; of which, I do. I disagreed that she is the best writer of her time; however, on the other subjects of writing I think she is nearly spot on. I would also change her points of swearing and comedy to: some of the greatest stories are just ridiculous fucking comedies. Otherwise though, good book.

she may be full of herself but she’s also kinda right

This collection of lectures underscores Ayn Rand's brilliance as a writer. It provides insight into her own works as well as those of other authors. The topics discussed are relevant to most types of writing, but particularly to fiction. This book is for anyone interested in Ayn Rand and her works, for anyone seeking writing advice, or for readers who want to become better critics of the books they read.

She is definitely something. There is no fat in this book, but flesh and meat. No excess, no nonsense. She doesn't fuck around with this book. Yes, she sounds like a nutcase most of the time (especially boasting her success as a novelist and giving her books as examples) but boy does she give what you want from a theory book. There are a lot of things you wouldn't agree with but that is the very reason why you should read it. Very distilled, very slender and very efficient book.