As the title suggests, this book comprises 50 “techniques” of storytelling. I’m not sure all of the items listed could be called a “technique”. A dangling modifier, for example, is not something you would reach for in your author toolkit. Also, the term “storytelling” suggests fiction, but many if not all of the entries here may be found in nonfiction writing as well.

Each entry is a page or two long, and explained well, with examples. Links are included too in some chapters, and all of these have proven to be useful and interesting.

It’s not entirely comprehensive — “back story” is omitted, for instance, even though it is referred to in another “technique”. However, there is a good mix here of terms that are familiar, less familiar and completely new — well, to me at any rate.

At £1.99, this handy little reference book won’t break the bank, but may well save you from committing avoidable blunders.