These are the resources we packed in our suitcase when we set out on our Writing Journey – and they’ve proven their weight in gold.

Please note: some of these links are affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, Brielle and I will earn a small commission if you do make a purchase. But that’s not why we recommend them. We’ve listed them because these are the resources we’ve found most useful and hope you can get something out of them too.

Books

The Elements of Style by William Strunk Jr. and E.B. White. Illustrated by Maira Kalman
If you haven’t read it then you’ve heard about it. I personally love the whimsicality Kalman’s illustrations bring to the guide which was first published in 1919 is the perfect writer’s go to guide – with a few contemporary alterations of course.

On Writing A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King
Part memoir, part master class, part genius, this straight talking guide teaches necessary lessons to writers everywhere.

The Artist’s Way: A Spiritual Path To Higher Creativity by Julia Cameron
While I know some writer’s get put off when they see the word creativity and spirituality in the same sentence, this book offers a practical guide to improving your writing. Morning pages will change your life.

Kindle Paperwhite 3G, 6″ High Resolution Display with Next-Gen Built-in Light, Free 3G + Wi-Fi
Nothing beats that old book smell but the kindle is a library you can carry with you. I received mine as a gift and it immediately made me realise there’s room in this world for both e-books and real books. I love the inbuilt light, the fact you can take notes and highlight as you read. Plus it saves space in my little, already book cramped home.

Audible – Get Two Free Audiobooks

I’m actually obsessed with audio books these days because it means I can consume literature no matter where I am or what I’m doing. The thing I love about audible is you can listen to a sample before purchasing an audiobook to make sure you like the narrator. Plus they now offer subscriptions, which work out to be a lot more economical – as well as having regular sales and free trials. Click this link or the one above and get two free audiobooks when you sign up to Audible

Blogging and Websites

WordPress
The largest self hosted blogging tool in the world, WordPress has evolved to be used as a full content management system with more widgets and plugins than you could dream of. Best of all for non-tech nerds like me, it’s easy to use.

Bluehost
These days, when you’re getting started on your writing journey – especially if you’re thinking of starting a blog – you’ll want to create your own website. These guys make hosting that website a breeze. Bluehost is easy to use, they provide amazing customer service and – bonus – you can use the same hosting account for multiple domains.

Leadpages
Enables you to create landing pages for your website or social media platforms without coding or web design skills.

PicMonkey
A free online photo editing service it’s easy to use and cloud based so you can upload photos, not only from your computer but your social networking platforms.

Canva
Is an online graphic design service which is free, fun and easy to use. A must if you’re starting a blog or launching a website.

Podcasting

Podcaster’s Paradise (affiliate link)
Podcaster’s Paradise is an awesome way to get inspired and learn how to create, grow and monetise your podcast. Founder, John Lee Dumas shares all his knowledge; from delivering interesting and accessible content, to detailing what equipment you’ll need (and how to use it), to tips on editing and marketing. Plus, by joining the paradise community, you’ll have access to a whole group of podcasters who share their tips, tools and tactics, supporting each other on the paradise forum.

Video

Wistia
Wistia is a video hosting site. It’s different from YouTube (also an amazing resource) in that it’s more focused on analytics, boosting SEO and building and engaging with people who visit your site. They have a great learning centre with heaps of videos – on how to make videos. Also Brielle has a crush on their recruitment officer, Lenny the labradoodle.