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I was really inspired to purchase this book when I realized I couldn't simply meander and write every single thing I thought relevant. What I needed was STRUCTURE and clear plot lines.
Plot and Structure opened me up to techniques I have found invaluable to my whole writing experience. Now I had a guide, almost a mentor, if you like, pointing out the way ahead, and how to avoid mistakes on the way!
I heartily recommend Plot and Structure for writers, especially if you have a story in mind but are struggling not only with a gripping beginning, but a sagging middle. MIDDLES have always been the most challenging parts to a writer. And definitely if you are a 'Pantser'. It will help in organizing yourself to have a plan and know where you're going. I actually picked out the relevant points I needed to follow and printed them on four large cards which I pinned up in my line of sight. It saved me from reading the manual every time I needed help.
You can follow her on Twitter: @RitaSGalieh
HI Rita
ReplyDeleteThanks for this. I have recently read James Scott Bell's Write Your Novel From the Middle and have also read a lot of K M Wieland's posts on structure, both of which I've found helpful. Much of their ideas flows from James Campbell's The Hero with A Thousand Faces and Christopher Volger's The Writer's Journey. I agree, it is very helpful to understand how plot structures work though I do think that the Hero's Journey is not the only approach to take, it is obviously a very popular one and done properly can make for a gripping, fast-paced read.
Yes, Jeanette, Write Your Novel from the Middle has a similar take on the structure but it's the focal point in the story in which the rest revolves. I also like to make it from both the hero and heroine's POVs.
DeleteGood review, Rita. This is one of Bell's I haven't read. But I keep meaning to grab a copy. I might just do that now.
ReplyDeleteIt's well worth the small price, Ian.
DeleteI've loved his 'Art of War for Writers'. I'm sure just from what I know of JSB that 'Plot and Structure' will be a good read too. Thanks for the recommendation, Rita.
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome, Paula. I'd like to have a peek at Art of War For Writers - sounds intriguing.
ReplyDeleteThanks Rita - I've looked at this before but not brought, great to hear it's a worthwhile read.
ReplyDeleteOne of the greats on my shelf, too, Rita. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteI've recently purchased this, and it's next on my list of writing books to read. I was lucky enough to get it autographed when James Scott Bell spoke at the recent Romance Writers of New Zealand conference.
ReplyDeleteRita, great review! I bought Plot and Structure many years ago, and it's a book I return to when I'm brainstorming and writing proposals. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
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