These six reference books offer all sorts of advice to writers – from getting out of a writing slump to public-speaking tips and making your work successful. If you’re an author looking for assistance in all aspects of your writing career, these are the six must-read books that we highly recommend you pick up now.

From Page to Stage: Inspiration, Tools, and Simple Public Speaking Tips for Writers by Betsy Graziani Fasbinder

Author Betsy Graziani Fasbinder shares the why, what and how of public speaking in From Page to Stage. She offers resources and exercises to help with the learning process of how to successfully speak to crowds. The author lays out tools for writers to use when they are at the podium, in an interview or in a casual conversation about their writing. From Page to Stage also includes tips on how to handle the tough questions from interviewers and audience members.

Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life by Anne Lamott

Anne Lamott’s book helps writers find their voice when working on their first draft all the way up to their last draft. Lamott shares personal stories, how to deal with writer’s block and how to get back on track when you fall victim. In her father’s words, Anne encourages her fellow writers to take the writing process “bird by bird.”

On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King

Stephen King gives a revealing and practical look at the writer’s craft in this memoir. He shares the tools that every trade writer should have and describes his childhood and how it influenced his writing career. He also details some of the life-changing moments he experienced, which led him to become the successful New York Times bestselling author he is today.

Confessions of a Public Speaker by Scott Berkun

Scott Berkun gives an insider look on how to effectively present ideas to a crowd in Confessions of a Public Speaker. He puts it all out there, including his highs and lows of public speaking, a journey he has been on for 15 years. This book includes Berkun’s speaking philosophy, practical advice, inside scoop and the funniest disaster stories.

Talk Like TED by Carmine Gallo

TED Talks have been widely successful in recent years. Public speaking coach Carmine Gallo breaks down hundreds of TED Talks and interviews popular TED Talk speakers to create a step-by-step method on how to give a strong presentation. After following these steps, presenters will be able to give an engaging, persuasive and memorable presentation.

Green-Light Your Book: How Writers Can Succeed in the New Era of Publishing by Brooke Warner

This book is written for aspiring writers, already-published authors and independent publishers. Warner’s goal is to help indie authors navigate the book publishing industry. She gives advice on how to work with book buyers, event coordinators, librarians and reviewers. Warner seeks to even the playing field by helping writers understand everything they need to know to make their book successful.