[Final copy to be sent over by the OU] An essential guide for writers of fiction, poetry, life writing and scripts, this book offers a practical understanding of the core writing genres and how dramatic techniques can be used to powerful effect in each. Expanded and updated throughout, this second edition features new chapters on biography and autobiography, world building in the speculative genres and discussions on podcasting and audio dramas. Designed to encourage writers to cultivate a sophisticated and distinctive voice and style, it combines writing, research and editing activities with rich and varied examples from contemporary and classic texts to help develop the skills and techniques a writer needs. The hands-on approach examines scriptwriting for different media and how this might cross over into other forms of writing: How does a story become a film? How is film influenced by fiction? The book also explores the fruitful relationship between life writing and other genres. For writers' workshops, writing groups and courses, and for writers working alone, it offers: - Innovative approaches to writing fiction - Detailed introductions to stage, radio and film writing - Inspiring explorations of how poetic language and form operate - Practical guidance on layour and adaptions techniques for different media - Exciting activities which develop a writer's own voice - Advice on exploring outlets and preparing work for publishers and producers Written by 9 published authors who all teach on the Open University's prestigious creative writing programme with experience at the UK's top universities for the subject, A Creative Writing Handbook , 2nd edition is a valuable and stimulating resource for all writers.