Person
Every book Andrew Stanton recommended on podcasts
Andrew Stanton appeared on How I Write to share his creative processes, insights into storytelling, and screenwriting principles. Throughout the interview, Stanton emphasized the foundational books that shaped his understanding of narrative structure and character development. He frequently praised The Art of Dramatic Writing by Lajos Egri, noting that it profoundly inspired his perspective on story premises, character changes, and dramatic tension. Stanton also recommended How Not to Write a Screenplay by Denny Martin Flinn, praising its clear and practical instruction regarding script formatting and narrative pacing to keep readers engaged. In addition to his primary recommendations, Stanton discussed Mario Puzo's novel The Godfather to illustrate a concept he learned from an acting coach about character spines and enduring psychological motivations. Through these references, Stanton revealed himself to be a dedicated student of dramaturgy who values precise narrative mechanics, deep character motivations, and clear structural foundations in scriptwriting and storytelling across various mediums.
Books recommended by Andrew Stanton
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How Not to Write a Screenplay
How Not to Write a Screenplay by Denny Martin Flinn is a practical guide offering instruction on the fundamentals of screenwriting and script formatting.
Recommended“Which sounds like the kind of book that that you would avoid in a bookstore. But it is so smart and clear about the basics of formatting and a screenplay and how not just in formatting, but how to make somebody want to turn the page and keep reading.”
Where to get it
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The Art of Dramatic Writing
Lajos Egri's classic work provides foundational guidance on the core principles of character-driven storytelling and dramatic conflict.
Discussed“I was very inspired by reading a book about playwriting in the '40s called The Art of Dramatic Writing by Lajos Egri. I've read every book that there is about screenwriting and about stories, and that one spoke to me, and he has a a belief about”
Where to get it
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The Godfather
The Godfather by Mario Puzo is a classic crime novel detailing the rise and dynamics of the Corleone mafia family.
Discussed“Judith Weston, who is a acting coach, taught me this term. And she gave a good example that like Michael Corleone in The Godfather, his spine is to please his father, and that never goes away even after his father dies all the way through the second Godfather movie.”
Where to get it
Appearances
| Episode | Podcast | Date | Books |
|---|---|---|---|
| 'Toy Story 5' Director Reveals His Writing Secrets (Andrew Stanton Interview) | How I Write | 2026-06-24 | 5 |