The Writing Life
by Annie Dillard

A gorgeous book by one of the masters of nonfiction. -- Bob

On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft
by Steven King

He's got a foul mouth, but the rest of his words are well-chosen. -- Bob

Bird by Bird : Some Instructions on Writing and Life
by Anne Lamott

Another writer with an unnecessary affection for naughty language, Lamott is nonetheless a witty, entertaining, and helpful writer. -- Bob

The Writer's Desk
 
by Jill Krementz

Pure fun: photos and descriptions of famous writers' workspaces. -- Bob

Martin Eden
by Jack London

One Writer's Beginnings
by Eudora Welty

The Elements of Style
by William Strunk Jr. and E. B. White