Writing the West with Dusty Richards and Friends

WRITING THE WEST
with Dusty Richards and Friends
High Hill Press
188 pages
Trade Paperback, $15.95
ISBN: 978-1-60653-021-4

Full disclosure: I’ve known Dusty Richards for about 15 years, after meeting him and his wife Pat at an Ozark Creative Writers Conference in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. I got to know Dusty while serving as a board member of the Ozarks Writers League and have attended his workshops in Arkansas, Oklahoma, and at Saturday Writers in Missouri

More disclosure: Louella Turner, of High Hill Press, is a writing friend. Although Lou gave me a review copy of WRITING THE WEST, I’ve not been compensated to give a favorable review of the book.

Dusty has published nearly 100 novels and a dozen short stories. In 2007 he won two Spur awards from Western Writers of America. In 2010 he received the annual Heritage Award from the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum.

No matter how many of Dusty’s workshops I attend, I always learn something new. Tucked away in a desk drawer in my office are several books of notes from his talks. That’s why I’m pleased he’s come out with a how-to book to use as a quick reference.

In WRITING THE WEST, Dusty uses plain language to share his thoughts on writing. He gives examples of the right and not-so-right way of doing things, and, like any good teacher, he gives assignments and exercises to show writers how to become better at their craft.

Topics in his book include: the importance of story, word count, dialogue, creating a strong sense of place, editing, scene and sequel, critique groups, first drafts, marketing, and creating memorable characters.

One suggestion that stands out is how to divide your book into quarters. Another tip points out words editors hate. On details and research: Who knew about the history of tumbleweed in America?

WRITING THE WEST also features essays by other acclaimed Western writers, all friends of Dusty’s.

Three-time RITA award winner and member of the RWA Hall of Fame, Texan Jodi Thomas’s essay “Romancing the West” offers tips to get writers started. She also stresses the importance of reaching the heart of your characters to connect with your readers.

Pulitzer-prize nominated author Jory Sherman’s essay on “Writing the Mountain Man Novel” immerses the reader in time and place. Sherman discusses research, conflict, setting, and taking your readers along on your character’s journey.

Wyoming writer and teacher and Spur finalist, John D. Nesbitt’s essay focuses on “Writing the Traditional Western.” His informative essay defines: setting, time period, word count, form, conflict, and structure.

Spur award winning author John Duncklee writes from his New Mexico home about mistakes to avoid when writing the West. In Duncklee’s essay he discusses the importance of research on geography, weaponry, history, customs, and other telling details.

Don’t forget the young’uns! YA Western writer Mike Kearby discusses the importance of understanding your audience through characterization, dialogue, and other age-appropriate topics.

The artwork of Western artist Michael Andrews adds to the enjoyment of the book.

Although I’m not a Western writer, I’m always eager to learn about writing for the best in their fields. In WRITING THE WEST with Dusty Richards and Friends, I’ve discovered a mother-lode of writing advice.

Copyright Donna Volkenannt