Part memoir, part how-to guide for writers.
On Writing is a short, wonderful read. The first half or so is very much about his journey to becoming a full-time author. He’s open, honest, hitting on his highs and lows (drug usage, particularly). I teared up as he described Carrie’s hardcover print and then the auction for the softcover publication and the impact it would have on his family.
The second half, the “how to” is succinct, with examples. He uses this beautiful analogy of a carpenters toolkit and the layers of tools an author needs to craft a story. He leans on The Elements of Style in several places, calling out ideas he particularly loves in that book and expanding on them.
It’s worth the few hours of your time.