Backstory helps readers connect to our characters and provides context for their actions, but how can we make it compelling and avoid boring information dumps?
Pin It
Read More
Is a scene’s sequel—the reaction to a scene’s events—part of the scene? Or are they ever independent (and if so, how do we make them stronger)?
Pin It
Read More
Near the end of a story the protagonist often takes “a leap of faith.” How can we make our protagonist’s leap feel earned and strengthen our story’s theme?
Pin It
Read More
Out in the world, conflict is usually considered a bad thing, but our stories need it. How much conflict does our story need and how can we add more?
Pin It
Read More
We might have heard that the purpose of the plot is to reveal character. What does that mean and how can understanding it help our storytelling?
Pin It
Read More
Our characters don’t want to change, so they often start with passive internal goals. How we can make those passive goals work for us and our story?
Pin It
Read More
How detailed is too detailed when it comes to planning our story? What can we can learn about leaving our options open as we draft our story?
Pin It
Read More
I never watched Game of Thrones but this past season is an excellent example of how pacing can affect character arcs and readers’ relationships to our characters.
Pin It
Read More
When pitching our story, we might struggle with figuring out which elements to focus on. How do we decide what to emphasize in our pitch?
Pin It
Read More
Without spoilers for Avengers: Endgame, let’s explore how the power of the Marvel movies isn’t about the plot or spectacle—but with the characters.
Pin It
Read More