Stories as Transformational Literature
Often we think of stories as mere entertainment, but by telling a story we can actually transform a reader: Identity phase A story does not
David Farland
David Farland: Story Doctor Writing Tips
Recent Writing Tips
David Farland’s Kick in the Pants—Writing the Perfect Story, Part 3
I’ve been talking about some of the attributes that I would look for in a perfect story, whether it be a novel, movie, or short
David Farland
Writing a Perfect Story, Part 15
As one looks at perfect stories, there is nothing that is “required” for the ending. The tale doesn’t have to leave the protagonist in a
David Farland
Writing a Perfect Story, Part 12
The perfect story escalates smoothly from scene to scene, creating a sense of rising action. I’ve spoken before about ways that stories can escalate. There
Ben Wolverton
Writing a Perfect Story, Part 11
A perfect story guides the reader’s attention—his senses, thoughts, emotions, and imagination. Last night I was reading a story by a new author. The author
Ben Wolverton
David Farland’s Kick in the Pants—Writing the Perfect Story, Part 8
In writing a novel, one must consider, “What makes a perfect character?” Very often I’ve heard writing instructors mention that we should create “strong” characters.
David Farland
David Farland’s Kick in the Pants—Writing the Perfect Story, Part 5
Over the past four days I’ve been enumerating some of the basic virtues that a perfect story—whether it be a movie, novel, or other piece
David Farland
David Farland’s Kick in the Pants—Writing the Perfect Story, Part 4
For the past couple of days I’ve been discussing some of the positive attributes that you will find in a “perfect” story. There are a
David Farland
Understanding the Heart of Negative Character Arcs
Negative characters arcs are about more than a character being “bad.” Learn what’s at the heart of negative arcs, and answer some questions to help
September C. Fawkes
How Books Are Chosen for Publication
Discover the intricate process of how books are chosen for publication, exploring the roles of agents, editors, and marketing departments. Learn what it takes for a new author to break through in the competitive publishing industry.
Ben Wolverton
David Farland’s Writing Tips – Twelve Exercises for Developing Characters
There are a lot of exercises that can help you create characters. Most of them simply force you to focus
on your character and stretch your imagination in some way by answering questions about the
characters. These questions might touch upon the outer looks of the character, the character’s history,
the character family and contacts, or the character’s inner hopes and fears. But creating characters for
fantasy and science fiction worlds offers extra challenges. Here are a few exercises that I’ve found
helpful:
David Farland
What Happens When Characters Lose Control of Their Emotions?
When characters become volatile, it doesn’t matter if they have a good reason or not, only the mistakes and missteps that often follow.
Special Guest
How to Write a Novel: A 16-Step Guide
How to write a novel, from beginning to end in 16 steps. Brainstorm, develop a great character, create an antagonist, and more.
September C. Fawkes
Steadfast Stories: Characters without Change Arcs
In a positive steadfast arc, the character holds true to who he was in the beginning. Often when we think of characters arcs, we think
September C. Fawkes
Writing a Christmas Cozy Mystery
For at least five or six years, I’ve been wanting to write a Christmas cozy mystery. I thought it would be fun to explore my recurring characters’ Christmas traditions and how the town celebrated.
David Farland