The holidays are here, and for many of you, days off from work and school are just around the corner. It’s good to put down your pens and close your laptops for a few days to refresh and renew. We’ve picked a few books about writing and the writing life that are sure to inform and inspire you.

Whether you want to get specific tips on constructing great sentences and paragraphs, or delve deeper into the life of a writer, these books are the perfect blend of work and play.

1. The Elements of Style, William Strunk, Jr. and E.B. White

William Strunk’s name may not be a household one, but if you’ve read Charlotte’s Web or Stuart Little, you’ll definitely be acquainted with E.B. White. Strunk wrote this small volume and his student, White, enlarged it, and subsequently The Elements of Style has influenced many writers and is required reading for many writing classes today.

Short and pithy, this book inspires those who read it to write in a similar manner. We recommend it if you’re looking for a quick fix to improve your writing, and even though style, grammar, and usage are the main focus, it’s not at all boring.

2. On Writing, Stephen King

Need another household name to improve your writing? Turn to no other than Stephen King. Even if you’re not a fan of the horror genre, it’s a worthwhile choice. King’s memoir outlines the mistakes that novelists should avoid, and his stories about being an author will help any burgeoning writer overcome the insecurities that seem to be ubiquitous.

Even if you’re not planning on writing for a living, On Writing is an inspiring look at the craft, and includes some practical tools that are necessary for writing well—what to read, assignments to get you going, the details of paragraph building. As a bonus, Stephen King’s real-life stories make for entertaining, enjoyable holiday reading.

3. Stein on Writing: A Master Editor of Some of the Most Successful Writers of our Century Shares his Craft Techniques and Strategies, Sol Stein

Sol Stein is one of the most important American figures in writing, editing, and publishing. In this book he divulges insider stories about famous writers and their struggles to put their thoughts onto the written page. No matter where you are in your career, you’ll benefit from Stein’s solutions for writers.

He talks about what’s really “interesting” and how to improve the work you already have. Stein even includes examples from students’ drafts, and goes through the process of cutting away excess wordiness. Examining every expression and detail is the key, but under Stein’s command, it doesn’t have to be a nightmarish, boring task. And in the case of nonfiction, Stein’s insight into using fiction tactics to inject life into the driest subject matter will be hugely helpful to those of you out there in academia.

4. On Writing Well: An Informal Guide to Writing Nonfiction, William Zinsser

This volume is a must for anyone writing their dissertation or thesis. In fact, we’d argue that anyone who writes daily emails would benefit from this book because the fundamentals are Zinsser’s priority.

Since its publication in 1976, it’s sold nearly 1.5 million copies, On Writing Well has influenced writers in many fields, particularly those writing about technology, science, and medicine. Zinsser draws on his experience as a writer on a huge range of subjects, as well as his experiences as a writing teacher. Less a manual than a treasure trove of great examples, it’s particularly useful for those writers who want to get to the heart of their subject and write in a clear, crisp style.

5. Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life, Anne Lamott

This book is an emotional look at the writing life, making it a great choice for cozy holiday reading. Lamott’s recollections over her long career will make you laugh and cry with recognition at your own struggles in putting something down on paper.

Not only is it a great reflection on the writer’s struggle, but it’s also a glimpse into the life of a unique woman, who touches on being a single parent as well as overcoming addiction. If you’re struggling with writer’s block or any of the demons that commonly affect writers, aspiring or otherwise, Lamott can help. Her advice to form a writing support group can seriously help those of you who are struggling to finish longer assignments or theses.

We here at Stickler wish all of you a wonderful holiday season. Best wishes for a productive and pleasurable 2017, and we look forward to working with you!