THE CANADIAN WRITER'S GUIDE. 9th ed. Markham (Ont.), Fitzhenry & Whiteside, c1985. 222pp, paper, $9.95, ISBN 0-88902-901-6. CIP Post-Secondary Reviewed by Phyllis James Volume 14 Number 1 1986 January Packed into 222 pages is everything a new or experienced writer requires to begin a career or to continue to improve his craft. For some it would be tempting to start reading from the middle of the book to find markets for their manuscripts, but information at the beginning can act as a driving force to help one to submit more worthwhile and saleable manuscripts. Here are comprehensive short articles on such subjects as the writing of "how-to" non-fiction, reviewing, and writing all types of romances, as well as instructions on research, finding markets, and selling. Perhaps the least helpful is the piece on "A Canadian Literary Magazine" that is somewhat lengthy and irrelevant. A writer who might aim to specialize in creating romances would be encouraged to know these novels generate up to "fifty per cent of all mass-market paperback fiction sales." Specific, practical advice for those interested in the romance genre is given in a simple style. The same up-to-date and realistic help is presented for writing all types of prose or poetry. Having read what the experts in the field offer, one is ready to study the current markets for books and magazines of all varieties. Following the extensive list there are pages of encouraging awards as well as a short profile on each contributor. To facilitate quick reference there is an explicit table of contents and a detailed index of markets. The paper in the book is of good quality with clear print. Its bright red cover makes for quick identification on the book-shelf. Recommended for all Canadian writers. Phyllis James, Qualicum Beach, B.C.