"I thought that words and books and pens were more powerful than guns." Malala Yousafzai
A Writing Tool
Story Genius by Lisa Cron is my favorite book on the craft of writing. Building on the insights from her book Wired for Story, she helps writers create stories that resonate with readers by encouraging them to understand their character's worldview and using this to link cause and effect throughout the novel. "At its most basic, a story is about how someone grapples with a problem they can't avoid, and how they change in the process. Understanding that truth will make the difference between spending years writing a highly polished but ultimately dull rendition of "things that happen" and a riveting novel that readers won't be able to put down," Lisa Cron.
Craft Tip
Know who your character was before your novel began. What formed their views on the world? What incidents shaped their desires? Write those scenes, so you will understand the "why" behind what they do in your novel.
There's a Story Here: Yellowstone National Park, USA, 2020
What story does this photo inspire you to write?

Next Step Book Coach - If you're ready to start your novel, are stuck in the middle, or have finished and need to know what to do next - we can help.
Comments