When I moved from Seattle to Denver last winter, there was no denying my love for reading or my collection of books. The proof: more than 50 book boxes. No joke!

My walls are lined with bookshelves, but there are a few writing-related books that stay within easy reach and frequently find themselves on my desk. Here are four such books. *The links below go to the authors’ websites.

Old Friend From Far Away: The Practice of Writing Memoir by Natalie Goldberg. Like a writing class collected into 310 pages, this great book also contains thoughtful exercises to help you recall memories. Anyone with an interest in writing memoir or essays based on personal experiences can gain great insight and guidance from Goldberg.

The AP Stylebook (also known as “The Journalist’s Bible”). Ask any aspiring editor the first book I recommend and they will tell you it’s this. It’s been my go-to style manual for many years. Even though you can get an annual subscription and look up everything online, I still keep a hardcopy within arm’s reach at all times. Familiar with this book? You’ll also get a kick out of following @APStylebook on twitter.

My So-Called Freelance Life: How to Survive and Thrive As a Creative Professional for Hire by Michelle Goodman. Since my honey did most of the driving between Seattle and Denver, I re-read this amazing resource and mapped out my plan for launching a.k.a writer. From tips on reaching out to potential clients to planning for quarterly estimated taxes, Goodman offers frank how-tos for aspiring as well as seasoned freelance writers. I still refer to this book for a refresher – or a second opinion.

Only As Good As Your Word by Susan Shapiro. More memoir than how-to, Shapiro shares her writing journey and quest to be a freelance writer with wit and wisdom. Since I don’t live close enough to New York to take one of her classes, at least I can pick up pointers as Shapiro shares personal experience as well as writing lessons from her favorite literary gurus.

Your turn. What are your favorite go-to books related to writing?
Share what makes them so special – and useful – to you.