I found this to be a very valuable book; almost every page ended up with some highlighting. The book is a short easy read but packed with good information. Kress really breaks it down in terms of what makes a good beginning, how to keep the middle from sagging, and writing an ending that will satisfy readers. The advice is clear and easy to understand. The book also includes lots of information for short-story writers (who often get forgotten in other books). I didn't give it 5 stars because there are other books that I feel cover this topic and then some (Plot and Structure, for example). Elements of Fiction Writing is a great series. I recommend the series to all aspiring writers.