Sol Stein has published nine novels, three plays for live theater, and two previous nonfiction books, the latter of which is STEIN ON WRITING. HOW TO GROW A NOVEL is a continuation of Stein's no nonsense approach to tips for writers who desire to be published novelists.

The first chapters deal with the writer's responsibilities to produce a manuscript that will whet the appetite of the most difficult-to-persuade editor. The opening words remind writers that a good book must have a magical quality that turns words into a memorable experience for the reader.

Stein next explains the necessary ingredients for memorable scenes and unforgettable characters in a novel. Scenes that do not move action in a story are those that should be removed. The reader needs a reward, like the child hunting Easter eggs with the desire to fill his basket with delectable candy eggs. Stein believes that conflict in order to achieve the character's goals is the essence of a good novel.

The author has an uncanny ability to dissect a piece of fiction into its most elemental parts. He teaches rules of good writing needed for acceptance by an editor but he tempers the rules with encouraging remarks for writers who may feel them an insurmountable burden.

HOW TO GROW A NOVEL is an encyclopedia of good information for the writer who desires publication of quality work, with the promise of more than one sold novel. Creating emotions, sad or happy, good or bad, is a writer's ultimate goal. Stein's chapters on technique stress development of conflict between characters, opening the story with an emotional hook, or lead, and exceptional plotting. Snappy dialogue, fresh use of simile and metaphor, and writing the immediate scene are additional techniques Stein explains.

Three chapters are devoted to the publisher's responsibilities to the writer. Stein, both an editor and writer, has the expertise to substantiate his advice. A brief history of the modern publishing profession illustrates the trends that agents and editors use as barometers for future successful books.

Finally, in an appendix, Stein gives practical hints, dos and don'ts, and necessary rituals of submission. In all, HOW TO GROW A NOVEL is a succinct, well-written bible for novel writers. Stein's book is a blueprint for the writer who wishes to place many selections on a bookseller's shelves.