The culminating volume in the four-book series that guides students into the creation of sophisticated short fiction and mature poetry. Building on the skills taught in the first three levels, The Creative Writer, Level Four: Becoming a Writer guides young writers from idea to polished short story or poem in a single volume. Becoming a Writer also walks students through the transition from study to practice, broadening the series' focus by discussing the writing life -- how to find and submit to literary journals, how to develop discipline, and how to persevere in the face of rejection. Reviews and strengthens the writer's grasp on the five essentials of fiction: plot, character, dialogue, point of view, and setting. Guides the writer into the effective, sophisticated use of the essentials of poetry: sound, rhythm, word choice, and structure. All exercises build toward the production of mature, finished creative piece Can be used as a complement to Writing With Skill or on its own.