Whanganui author Joan Rosier-Jones's guide book republished

An updated version Joan Rosier Jones' popular writing guide has been published by local publisher Tangerine. Photo/File

Whanganui author Joan Rosier-Jones' book So You Want to Write is still in demand 18 years after its first release.

The inspirational and informative book was first published by Tandem Press.

When it sold its list to Penguin Random there were further reprints, and this new edition is a much needed update.

The main thrust of the update is electronic usage.

'When I first wrote it, the Internet was only just making it into the mainstream," says Rosier-Jones.

"I treated it with trepidation and awe.

"Nowadays I use it every day in a number of invaluable ways, such as communication, research and e-books."

The book is based on the author's Creative Writing classes, which have taken place throughout New Zealand and in Australia.

Other changes have brought the book into the 21st century.

Rosier-Jones, began her working life as a teacher and has six novels, four non-fiction books and a play to her name.

Combining the two loves of her life, writing and teaching, she has been teaching creative fiction and non-fiction for 30 years, at tertiary institutions, running writers' retreats, workshops and seminars, as well as offering assessment and mentoring services.

Many of her students have achieved success, and, she says, they all enhance her life immeasurably both as a writer and a human being.

The book is published by Whanganui based independent publishing house Tangerine and is available from selected bookstores for the recommended retail price of $30.