The Online Copywriter’s Handbook : Everything You Need to Know to Write Electronic Copy That Sells
The Online Copywriter’s Handbook : Everything You Need to Know to Write Electronic Copy That Sells
The Web has developed its own set of rules and attitudes for writing hard-hitting marketing copy. Robert Bly’s The Online Copywriter’s Handbook is the first practical and authoritative guide to what exactly those rules are and how they differ from writing for print audiences. From novices just taking their first copywriting steps to veterans looking to add impact and results to their online efforts, it covers everything from general fundamentals of writing effective copy to specific Web copywriting tips and traps.
User Ratings and Reviews
1 Stars Title misleading, content copied from his other handbook
the title is misleading, the content is poor, many examples but no explainings on how to create a similar good copy
content is mostly copied from his other handbook
dissapointment
4 Stars Bly has great experience and helpful hints
Learning to write content for an effective website is crucial for any business or organization. Not only does Bly recommend good writing practices, he also describes the best way to design and market your website. This book is a credible source and a helpful resource for anyone pursuing web content development.
I especially thought that the tips in the first half of the book regarding web writing fundamentals and practices were very helpful. And, although the data may have been out of date, the principles still apply. Bly also provided several good websites throughout the book that would help any beginning web designer in their quest for the perfect website.
3 Stars Too many copywriting rules, not enough tech.
This book was very similar to Bly’s previous books which went through the basic tenets of copywriting. He does a great job of transferring the “writing to sell” principles to web pages in this book, but I wish he would have touched more on the technical aspects. Many writers are looking to learn how to approach writing for Flash or any new web language of the day… and we need something that brings us into that territory. With this book, it was close but no cigar.
2 Stars Not up to Bob Bly’s normal standards
I like Bob Bly’s easy-to-read style. And he usually offers great tips and sage advice. In fact, every now and again, I’ll pull out my copy of “The Copywriter’s Handbook” for reference or ideas. It’s a must read for any writer just starting out. But I struggled through this book until I eventually had to stop reading about three-quarters of the way through. It seemed to lack his normal flow. And he relied heavily on other “experts” for advice (which now are probably quite dated). I got the impression that Bly was trying to capitalize on a hot market without fully knowing the subject matter. It wasn’t terrible–you will find some good tidbits in it–but it’s far from his best work.
2 Stars Stale and dated, actually boring
His “handbook” on copywriting is pretty good, so had high hopes for this, as I specialize in web copy and digital white papers.
Sadly it failed to deliver in just about every way. It’s actually a boring book, which from a copywriter is inexcusable.
Filed under: Making Money on the Internet Book Reviews