I think we all agree, stories need to be more than a character, goal, and a series of scenarios that keep the two apart. Reading isn't a mechanical action after all, it's something we do to escape and enjoy. So, to deliver a true experience, we want to write fiction with layers, pulling readers in … [Read more...] about How Symbolism Adds Depth to a Story
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Show-Don’t-Tell Help
Show-Don't-Tell is one of the most common pieces of advice...so common that many writers get sick of hearing about it: Yeah, yeah, show, don't tell. I got it, I got it. (But if it was easy to 'get' then editors, agents, and critique partners probably wouldn't red pen those three words so often, … [Read more...] about Show-Don’t-Tell Help
Other Story Elements
We know that when it comes to a writer giving out the coveted red rose, plot and character are first to receive one. But guess what? Alone, they won't get very far. A great story is a team effort, so let's look at other key storytelling elements needed for our book to earn a spot on the … [Read more...] about Other Story Elements
Characters
Characters are not part of the story...they are the story. Readers have a lot of choice when it comes to books, and they are looking to spend time with characters who remind them of themselves in a meaningful way. Even if a character is larger-than-life, they should act as a mirror, making … [Read more...] about Characters
Organize Your Research with Notes at One Stop for Writers
The last time Rodney Buxton was here, he shared some helpful information about how authors can export their One Stop for Writer's Export material directly to Scrivener. Many of you reached out to let us know that you weren't aware of that option, so we were super excited to get the word out. Rodney … [Read more...] about Organize Your Research with Notes at One Stop for Writers
Tools for the Visual-Spatial Writer (and the Rest of Us)
One of the most important things I learned as a teacher was that children learn differently, and the best approach for reaching them all included a variety of methods. I find the same to be true in writing. I may have certain techniques or tools that work well for me, but I can still benefit from … [Read more...] about Tools for the Visual-Spatial Writer (and the Rest of Us)
Theme: The Marrow of Your Story
If structure is the bones of story, theme is the marrow. Plainly defined, theme is what our stories mean, and it is revealed through other literary elements such as character, plot, dialogue, perspective, setting, mood, and tone. Stories may have several themes. Oftentimes readers—and writers … [Read more...] about Theme: The Marrow of Your Story
A Storyteller’s Swiss Army Knife? The Setting
Writing the Urban and Rural Setting Thesaurus books taught Becca and me something big: that the Setting really is the Swiss Army Knife of Storytelling. Whaaaat, you say? It's the truth. Check out all it can do: create conflict or tension foreshadow a coming event encourage an … [Read more...] about A Storyteller’s Swiss Army Knife? The Setting
Building A Story Garden: The Power Of Settings In Fiction
Guys, I have to say thanks for the terrific response to our Setting books. Becca and I are both so pleased you’re happy with the newest family members. Thank you for the reviews, the tweets, the recommendations to friends, and oh my, the #myfavoritethesaurus pictures! I am LOVING the pictures … [Read more...] about Building A Story Garden: The Power Of Settings In Fiction
ONE STOP FOR WRITERS®
Becca and I are pleased to bring you another resource from Writers Helping Writers® One Stop For Writers® is a web app packed with unique tools and resources to save you time as you plan, research, and write. A powerhouse of writing information, One Stop is the permanent home for our … [Read more...] about ONE STOP FOR WRITERS®
5 Important Ways to Use Symbolism in Your Story
So many elements go into a truly good book. When we turn that final page with a satisfying sigh, it's often hard to identify just what made it a success. But many times, symbolism is one of the things that ties the whole work together. Done sloppily, it's heavy-handed and forced, and turns the … [Read more...] about 5 Important Ways to Use Symbolism in Your Story
Feedback Please! How Are We Doing?
Hi everyone! Just a quickie post today, asking for a bit of feedback. It's been over six months since we transferred hosting sites and became Writers Helping Writers, so I wanted to do a check in: How are we doing? Our goal is to build a space that offers writers help, information and tools that … [Read more...] about Feedback Please! How Are We Doing?