Where The Writer's Handbook scores is in its detailed concentration on WRITING. Whether you're established or aspiring, journalist or poet, copywriter or playwright, speech-writer or novelist, if wordsmithing is your thing there's useful current information here to help you get some--or more--work published.

Most UK publishers, large and small, are listed with full contact details, for example. So are a large number of UK newspapers, magazines, film, TV and video companies. But use these with caution. Any yearbook is out of date even before it goes to press because editors and other factors change continually. Use the postal address, phone number or e-mail given in the handbook to check the name of the person you want to approach before you start. It could well be a different man or woman today from last week and by tomorrow the situation could have changed again. That's why it pays to replace your copy of The Writer's Handbook annually with the new edition.

Then there are the addresses of literary societies, UK agents, professional associations, among other invaluable points of contact. And, as always, these lists are interspersed with some interesting advice-filled essays. This year there's a good one by Peter Finch about setting up your own Web site and a succinct and witty gem entitled "Freelancing-- A survivors' Kit" by Donald Trelford, former editor of The Observer. "Here are three guiding principles for freelance wannabes: know your market, find your niche and never give up," he declares.--Susan Elkin

Synopsis
New articles for this 14th revised edition include screenwriting, journalism, the challenge of the second novel, children's poetry, writing comedy, PLR and the need for a national academy for literature. In addition to over 5000 entries there is information on tax, freelance rates, fellowships and grants.