A couple of weeks ago when I published my Essential Books for bloggers I asked a number of other bloggers for their recommendations on what they considered to be excellent resources in the different aspects of blogging.
Since then a number of others have suggested books including one of my favorite bloggers, Brian Clark from Copyblogger.
Brian sent me an email recommending the following four books (aff links at Amazon) and has been kind enough to add some reasons for why he likes them. They all relate to copywriting. Here are his recommendations (thanks Brian) which I’ve added to my original list of books for bloggers. I’ve also just ordered each of them and can’t wait to get my next Amazon package – $80 well spent I’d say.
Advertising Secrets of the Written Word by Joe Sugarman
A book that does a great job of explaining the goals and methods of copywriting in an engaging way. Really good for newbies
Tested Advertising Methods — John Caples
An old book that’s been updated. Timeless advice and examples for headline and all other elements of good copy
Ogilvy on Advertising – David Ogilvy
I nice blend of information mixed in with the life of an advertising icon
The Story Factor — Annette Simmons
A storytelling book rather than pure copy, but it’s really the same thing. This book will blow people away with the possibilities for storytelling in business and marketing.
I can’t believe there’s a list of copywriting books that doesn’t include Robert Bly’s “Copywriter’s Handbook” or Peter Bowerman’s “Well-Fed Writer” series. Those are two of the best (and best-selling) books on the subject.
I agree Sophie, I am reading Robert Bly’s Copywriter’s Handbook also and I like the guys ethics, so much copywriting on the web is sleazy and has more than a whif of dishonesty.
For a more web centric copy book try Web Copy that Sells by Maria Veloso, she goes into the psychology a bit more which I find very interesting.
I will check out Peter Bowerman Sophie, as I want to buy and read everything on the subject.
Hi Sophie. I own Bly’s book (along with plenty of others that didn’t make this list). Since The Copywriter’s Handbook is primarily aimed at working copywriter’s (half the book talks about running a copywriting business) I didn’t feel it was the best choice for Darren’s audience. Same with Bowerman’s book.
I haven’t read any on the list — but will. After a couple+ insane months of writing, I’m reading again and averaging about 1 1/2 biz books a week. I’ll eventually review and post the best!
Thanks for the list Brian, and reminding me to take action on it Darren.
Hmmm, which book first . . .
Darren,
I’m glad to see you back up.
which book does anyone suggest for a copywriter who is just starting out?
Hi Sophie. I own Bly’s book (along with plenty of others that didn’t make this list). Since The Copywriter’s Handbook is primarily aimed at working copywriter’s (half the book talks about running a copywriting business) I didn’t feel it was the best choice for Darren’s audience. Same with Bowerman’s book.
Is anyone able to offer an opinion. I have been asked to share my health story on a web-site but have noticed that the owner appears to have copy-writed other people’s stories? Does that mean he now owns their stories and to what extent?