Why Write a Novel?

Why write a novel? is a non-fiction book by Jack Woodford that describes reasons for writing a novel and various techniques used by authors to accomplish their ends. Published in hardcover in 1943 by Murray & Gee, Publishers. The original hardcover is 326 pages. Mr. Gee originally visited Woodford in Hollywood and hired him to write a book on any subject he desired. Woodford dictated the entire book to his studio secretary. When delivered to Gee, the publisher obtained recommendation quotes for the cover from such distinguished authors as Upton Sinclair, Frank Scully, and Rupert Hughes.

This book was later published by Jack Woodford himself through Woodford Press under the title How to Write and Sell a Novel.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Types of Novels
• Genius and Worse
• Why Write a Novel?
• Just for the Hell of It
• Technique and Other Toys
• The Fashion Novel
• How to Begin
• Best Smellers
• Seeing is Believing
• Fly Specks
• Perfectionism
• To Market
• Vanity, Vanity, All is Vanity
• Skin and Bones Prose
• Theme Song
• The Geography of Parnassus
• So You Think You're Tough!
• Origin of the Novel
• Miscarriages and Still Births
• So Long, Chums