STORYTELLING BLOG

Let's tell some tall tales.

STORYTELLERS UNITE

Get monthly inspo, story prompts, frameworks, and more.

Discover when your manuscript is truly ready for literary agent queries with expert insights on revision strategies, professional submission materials, and avoiding common mistakes that lead to rejection.

4 min read

Are You Ready? When To Query Literary Agents

Writing Team: Apr 14, 2025 4:40:11 PM

Every writer experiences that pivotal moment—manuscript complete, hope surging—when the urge to hit "send" on agent queries becomes nearly irresistible. We understand that magnetic pull toward potential publication. The vision of your novel on...

Storytelling Book Writing money

Discover the average daily word counts of famous authors from Hemingway's 500 to Crichton's 10,000, and learn how to establish your own sustainable writing practice that prioritizes quality over quantity.

4 min read

Average Daily Word Count for Writers: Quality vs. Quantity

Writing Team: Apr 14, 2025 4:33:42 PM

When we sit down to write, the blank page beckons with infinite possibility—and sometimes, infinite anxiety. We've all experienced that moment of...

Writing Literature genre

Discover what makes a powerful story setting, with expert tips and literary examples to help you create immersive worlds that enhance your narrative and captivate readers.

4 min read

What is the Setting of a Story? Tips and Examples

Writing Team: Apr 14, 2025 4:20:06 PM

A well-crafted setting isn't merely a stage where characters perform—it's the air they breathe, the ground they walk on, the very reality that shapes...

Storytelling Fiction Narrative

Learn the six key traits shared by bestselling memoirs—from strong writing and cultural relevance to emotional vulnerability and universal themes.

3 min read

Literary Memoirs and What Makes Them Bestsellers

Writing Team: Apr 10, 2025 11:41:21 AM

If you’re considering writing a memoir or wondering what separates a good life story from a bestselling one, this guide breaks down the key elements...

Writing Literature Nonfiction

Learn how to match names to genre, tone, personality, and worldbuilding—with practical advice and inspiring examples from fiction.

3 min read

6 Tips for Naming a Character

Writing Team: Apr 10, 2025 11:37:29 AM

Are you ready to create unforgettable character names?

Fiction Character Novels

Wondering how dark is too dark in fiction? Explore where to draw the line in suspense, crime, and psychological thrillers, with insights on taboo topics, complex characters, and reader expectations.

3 min read

Writing Dark Fiction - Where's the Line?

Writing Team: Apr 10, 2025 11:32:21 AM

One of the great pleasures of fiction is its power to transport us into the shadowy corners of human nature—safely. We peer into minds we wouldn’t...

Storytelling Fiction genre

Explore tips for writing satisfying story conclusions and discover famous last lines from classic, literary, and romantic fiction.

3 min read

How to End a Book: Writing Memorable Final Lines and Moments

Writing Team: Apr 10, 2025 11:27:28 AM

Story endings can be thrilling, rewarding, and, for many writers, intimidating. A strong ending must provide resolution, deliver emotional impact,...

Storytelling Writing Fiction

Learn how unfamiliar locations, natural elements, revealing environments, thematic landscapes, and subverted expectations can put pressure on your protagonists and elevate your storytelling.

4 min read

How the Setting Can Put Pressure on Your Hero

Writing Team: Mar 31, 2025 2:13:18 PM

Setting is far more than just a backdrop for your story. When used strategically, it becomes a powerful tool to increase tension, reveal character,...

Storytelling Fiction Character Plot

Explore five essential elements—voice, perspective, world-building, romance, and responsibility—to create YA stories that genuinely resonate with today's teen readers.

6 min read

For vs. About: The Essential Guide to Writing Authentic YA Fiction

Writing Team: Mar 31, 2025 2:08:51 PM

As an adult, writing for teenagers can feel somewhat daunting. The vernacular seems to evolve constantly and rapidly, and before you know it, a...

Writing genre Novels

3 min read

Conquering the Writer's Nemesis: How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome

Writing Team: Mar 24, 2025 11:47:37 AM

Self-doubt stalks nearly every writer, regardless of experience or success level. Even those with thriving careers and multiple published works often...

Writing Life Professional development

Discover the three essential elements that make crime fiction irresistible: compelling character motivations, carefully crafted twists, and atmospheric settings.

2 min read

Three Key Elements of Crime Fiction That Will Keep Readers Hooked

Writing Team: Mar 24, 2025 11:44:34 AM

Crime fiction offers writers an exciting playground where they can explore human nature, create suspense, and keep readers turning pages well past...

Fiction genre Publishing

Discover what literary agents at The Blair Partnership are actively seeking in their submission inboxes.

2 min read

What Top Literary Agents Are Looking For

Writing Team: Mar 24, 2025 11:41:08 AM

Finding the right literary agent is a crucial step in your publishing journey. The agent you choose should not only represent your genre but actively...

Fiction Publishing Writing money

Discover what makes a Bildungsroman—the literary coming-of-age genre behind classics like 'Jane Eyre' and contemporary hits like 'Barbie.'

2 min read

What is a Bildungsroman? Understanding the Coming-of-Age Literary Genre

Writing Team: Mar 24, 2025 11:37:00 AM

The term "Bildungsroman" might sound intimidating, but chances are you've read and loved several novels in this genre without realizing it. From...

Storytelling Fiction

Learn how to evoke emotion, enhance mood, and engage readers through sensory details, word choice, and subtle foreshadowing.

3 min read

Mastering Atmosphere in Fiction

Writing Team: Mar 17, 2025 2:31:14 PM

For seasoned writers, creating atmosphere is more than just setting a scene—it’s about immersing readers so deeply in a story that they feel its...

Storytelling Writing Fiction

Learn practical techniques for crafting compelling 'what if' premises, developing characters that elevate your concept, avoiding common pitfalls, and pitching your high-concept story to agents and publishers with confidence.

7 min read

High-Concept Fiction

Writing Team: Mar 17, 2025 2:26:59 PM

Modern publishing, high-concept fiction continues to dominate bestseller lists, attract film options, and command impressive advances. As both...

Writing Fiction

Explore the art of radio drama scripts from classic broadcasts to modern podcasts. Learn essential storytelling techniques, discover influential programs with script examples, and apply these lessons to your own audio narratives.

8 min read

Radio Drama Scripts: Using Audio as a Catalyst for Storytelling

Writing Team: Mar 10, 2025 4:38:42 PM

Radio drama emerged in the early 20th century as a revolutionary storytelling medium that engaged audiences through sound alone. What began as live...

Podcast Scriptwriting Narrative Audio

Explore the legal, ethical, and artistic implications of AI-generated books, including copyright issues, best practices, and when to use AI while preserving artistic integrity.

2 min read

Can You Publish a Book Written by AI?

Writing Team: Mar 10, 2025 4:29:17 PM

With advancements in artificial intelligence, writing tools like GPT-4 and other generative models can now create entire books, from fiction to...

AI Writing Publishing

Discover powerful examples from literature, practical techniques for creating unexpected twists, and expert tips for crafting memorable moments that will captivate your readers.

5 min read

What is Situational Irony?

Writing Team: Mar 2, 2025 1:28:04 PM

Situational irony is one of the most powerful tools in a writer's arsenal. You've likely encountered it in Alanis Morissette's lyrics or in countless...

Storytelling Writing

Explore the evolving definition of women's fiction, its role in publishing, and whether it serves as a true genre or a marketing tool.

3 min read

Rethinking Women’s Fiction

Writing Team: Mar 2, 2025 1:23:21 PM

The term women’s fiction is frequently used within publishing circles, but its definition remains elusive. While readers and booksellers increasingly...

Storytelling Writing Fiction Character

Learn how to improve character motivations, pacing, dialogue, and more to create a compelling manuscript that captivates readers and agents alike.

3 min read

The Editors’ Take: Common Writing Mistakes to Avoid in Fiction

Writing Team: Feb 9, 2025 2:15:05 PM

If you're an aspiring novelist, you've likely heard the classic writing advice: "show, don't tell," "limit adverbs," and "watch your backstory."...

Storytelling Editing

Learn how to craft authentic character behaviors, from facial expressions to magical tells, with examples from popular romantasy fiction.

5 min read

Mastering Character Development: Mannerisms and Quirks

Writing Team: Feb 9, 2025 2:11:58 PM

When crafting memorable characters, the devil is in the details. A character's small habits, unconscious gestures, and distinctive traits can...

Storytelling Writing Character

3 min read

Everything You Need to Know About Publishing Your First Ebook

Writing Team: Feb 3, 2025 3:47:38 PM

Ebooks have revolutionized the publishing industry, offering authors an accessible way to share their stories or expertise with readers worldwide....

Storytelling Writing Digital

Short stories are defined as much by their brevity as by their ability to evoke emotion, provoke thought, or entertain in a compact space. Learn why length matters.

3 min read

How Long Are Short Stories Usually?

Writing Team: Jan 19, 2025 2:20:08 PM

When crafting a short story, one of the first questions writers often ask is: How long should it be? The answer depends on your goals, audience, and...

Storytelling Publishing Novels Short stories

The best audiobook recorder depends on your experience, budget, and production goals. Learn the best options here.

3 min read

Audiobook Recorder: Review of Popular Tools for Narrators and Authors

Writing Team: Jan 19, 2025 2:15:19 PM

Audiobooks have exploded in popularity, with demand growing for high-quality, professionally narrated recordings. For authors and narrators looking...

Creative Storytelling Book Writing Publishing

A pen name can offer freedom, privacy, and creative flexibility, but it also comes with challenges like maintaining separate identities and ensuring effective branding.

3 min read

When is a Pen Name a Good Idea?

Writing Team: Jan 19, 2025 2:10:42 PM

The question of whether to use a pen name has been debated by writers for centuries. Pen names, or pseudonyms, have been used for a variety of...

Writing Branding Personalization

Used wisely, Sudowrite can amplify your creative voice and streamline your workflow, leaving you more time to focus on what truly matters—telling great stories.

3 min read

Sudowrite: A Review for Professional Writers

Writing Team: Jan 19, 2025 2:04:32 PM

Sudowrite is a nifty tool, especially for professional writers seeking to enhance their productivity, creativity, and overall writing experience....

Storytelling AI Writing Tools

Consider POD as one tool in your publishing toolkit, rather than an all-or-nothing solution.

2 min read

Print on Demand Books: A Professional Writer's Guide to Pros and Cons

Writing Team: Dec 17, 2024 3:28:47 PM

print on demand (POD) technology has revolutionized how writers can bring their work to market. This comprehensive analysis explores the advantages...

Writing Career Publishing

Getting your book reviewed requires patience, strategy, and persistence. Learn more here.

3 min read

How to Get Your Book Reviewed

Writing Team: Dec 17, 2024 3:22:44 PM

For professional writers, getting your book reviewed is one of the most effective ways to increase visibility, credibility, and ultimately sales. A...

Press Book Career Writing money

As news consumption evolves, this research delineates the approaches that have a place in modern journalism.

2 min read

Storytelling vs. Newsgathering: How Modern Journalists Navigate Their Craft

Writing Team: Dec 9, 2024 11:51:57 AM

In a bustling Belgian newsroom, a veteran reporter sits at his desk, ignoring the day's breaking news. While his colleagues frantically chase the...

Storytelling Research Journalism

Whether you have 40 minutes or an afternoon, consider reaching out to a loved one and starting the conversation before it’s too late.

2 min read

StoryCorps Connect Brings Families Together

Writing Team: Dec 9, 2024 11:46:26 AM

StoryCorps, the acclaimed nonprofit that has been gathering personal stories since 2003, is now online, offering families the chance to connect and...

Storytelling Communication

These prompts offer foundations for building compelling love stories.

3 min read

Romance Writing Prompts to Inspire Your Fiction

Writing Team: Dec 3, 2024 11:44:11 AM

Every great love story starts with a spark of inspiration. Whether you're crafting your first romance novel or your fiftieth, fresh ideas can help...

Storytelling Fiction Romance

A complex character will always be more compelling than a complex plot.

1 min read

Too Much Plot?

Writing Team: Dec 3, 2024 11:39:42 AM

Is your story drowning in plot twists? Does your novel feel weighed down by excessive subplots? Here's how to diagnose the problem and restore your...

Storytelling Writing Fiction

Pacing is about creating a journey that feels natural and engaging for your readers.

3 min read

Pacing in Your Story: Practical Tips and Techniques

Writing Team: Nov 25, 2024 10:16:54 AM

Pacing is a critical element of storytelling, whether you're crafting a novel, short story, screenplay, or even creative nonfiction. The way your...

Storytelling Writing Fiction

Rising action is the heartbeat of your story, driving readers toward an unforgettable climax.

4 min read

What Is Rising Action?

Writing Team: Nov 25, 2024 9:58:54 AM

You’ve likely encountered the term “rising action” and wondered how to use it to craft compelling stories. While it may sound complex, rising action...

Storytelling Writing Fiction

Success as a neurodivergent writer isn't about forcing yourself to write like everyone else.

3 min read

Writing Strategies for Neurodivergent Authors

Writing Team: Nov 18, 2024 9:30:00 AM

The blank page can feel particularly daunting when your brain works differently from what most writing advice assumes. For neurodivergent writers,...

Audience Writing Career

Rhetorical devices are powerful tools that, when used skillfully, can elevate your writing from good to exceptional.

2 min read

Rhetorical Devices: A Writer's Guide to Crafting Powerful Prose

Writing Team: Nov 18, 2024 8:30:00 AM

Rhetorical devices are the tools that transform good writing into great writing. Like a master painter's brushstrokes or a composer's musical...

Storytelling Writing Author

A plot diagram is your story’s foundation, helping you transform your ideas into a cohesive, compelling narrative.

4 min read

How to Create a Plot Diagram

Writing Team: Nov 11, 2024 4:02:03 PM

Plotting a story can be a challenge for any writer. It’s easy to get lost without a roadmap, and that’s where a plot diagram comes in handy. By...

Creative Storytelling Plot

Effective foreshadowing is like a promise made to your reader—a contract that builds trust and creates anticipation.

2 min read

Master Foreshadowing

Writing Team: Nov 11, 2024 3:58:20 PM

The power of foreshadowing lies not in what is said, but in what is promised. Like a master magician who shows you the card before it disappears,...

Storytelling Fiction Author

When masterfully executed, a holographic narrative becomes like a literary kaleidoscope.

3 min read

Holographic Narrative Design

Writing Team: Nov 6, 2024 10:36:12 AM

Just as a hologram contains the complete image within each fragment, holographic narrative design creates stories where every scene, dialogue, and...

Storytelling Writing Narrative

'Stories,' the old writer said, watching her young protégé struggle with dialogue, 'are bridges between hearts.'

6 min read

The Building Blocks: NLP Patterns in Dialogue

Writing Team: Nov 6, 2024 10:31:38 AM

Ever wonder why some fictional conversations stay with you long after you've closed the book, while others fade faster than your morning coffee buzz?...

Storytelling Natural language processing

Becoming a professional storyteller requires a blend of creativity, persistence, and adaptability.

5 min read

How to Become a Professional Storyteller

Writing Team: Nov 6, 2024 10:24:15 AM

Storytelling is one of humanity's oldest art forms, captivating audiences across cultures and generations. Whether you're interested in live...

Storytelling Career

Entering storytelling contests is an excellent way to hone your craft, receive feedback, and gain recognition.

5 min read

20 Storytelling Contests to Enter in 2025

Writing Team: Nov 6, 2024 10:19:29 AM

Participating in storytelling contests offers writers a platform to showcase their talents, gain recognition, and potentially earn rewards. Here are...

Writing Contests

4 min read

Chronesthesia in Storytelling

Writing Team: Oct 21, 2024 8:54:37 PM

In storytelling, chronesthesia—the mental ability to perceive and travel through time—is a powerful tool to manipulate a reader's sense of the past...

Storytelling Character Plot

4 min read

Biomimetic Plot Structures

Writing Team: Oct 21, 2024 8:51:16 PM

Writers often look to nature for inspiration—whether for metaphors, settings, or character development. But what if we could take inspiration from...

Storytelling Writing Character Plot

Psycholinguistics provides writers with a deeper understanding of how humans process and produce language.

4 min read

Psycholinguistics in Dialogue: Crafting Authentic Speech Patterns

Writing Team: Oct 21, 2024 8:47:17 PM

Crafting authentic dialogue in writing is an art that requires more than just a good ear for how people speak. Psycholinguistics, the study of the...

Storytelling Writing Fiction Character

4 min read

Transmedia Storytelling

Writing Team: Oct 21, 2024 8:39:37 PM

Transmedia storytelling—a narrative technique that spreads a story across multiple platforms—has become an innovative way to engage audiences in more...

Creative Storytelling Media

4 min read

Ethnographic Approaches to Character Development

Writing Team: Oct 21, 2024 9:00:00 AM

Method actors are renowned for their commitment to fully embodying their characters, often living as them for extended periods. As writers, we can...

Writing Character Author

Biomimicry offers a fresh lens through which to view and construct narratives.

3 min read

Biomimicry in Storytelling

Writing Team: Oct 21, 2024 8:30:00 AM

Writers and narrative designers are constantly seeking fresh approaches to engage their audiences. One innovative method gaining traction is the...

Storytelling Writing

Neurocinematics offers exciting possibilities for enhancing digital storytelling.

3 min read

Neurocinematics in Digital Storytelling

Writing Team: Oct 15, 2024 3:51:05 PM

Storytellers are increasingly turning to neuroscience to enhance their narrative techniques. Neurocinematics, the study of how film and other...

Storytelling Writing Author

Implementing story circles and techniques from indigenous oral traditions can profoundly enrich modern storytelling.

3 min read

Implementing Story Circles: Advanced Techniques from Indigenous Oral Traditions

Writing Team: Oct 15, 2024 3:47:39 PM

For professional writers seeking to enrich their storytelling techniques, the ancient practice of story circles from indigenous oral traditions...

Storytelling Culture

From selection to shelf, each book in a library represents a decision made with the community's best interests in mind.

2 min read

How Do Libraries Buy Books?

Writing Team: Oct 8, 2024 7:19:02 PM

Libraries are the cornerstone of information access in communities worldwide, providing a vast array of books and resources to the public. But have...

Business Book Author

Narrative nonfiction is a unique genre that transforms factual information into a compelling story.

2 min read

What Is Narrative Nonfiction?

Writing Team: Oct 8, 2024 7:13:40 PM

Narrative nonfiction is a genre of writing that uses the techniques of fiction—such as character development, storytelling, and scene-setting—while...

Storytelling Writing Character

These five authors demonstrate how tone can be a powerful tool in a writer's arsenal.

2 min read

Types of Tone: Exploring Distinct Writing Styles

Writing Team: Sep 30, 2024 9:15:00 AM

Tone in writing is the attitude or emotional character that the author conveys through their words. It's a crucial element that can dramatically...

Storytelling Writing Fiction

Cliffhangers are a potent tool in a writer's arsenal, capable of keeping audiences invested across episodes, sequels, or chapters.

1 min read

Cliffhangers: Hooking Your Audience with Suspense

Writing Team: Sep 30, 2024 6:30:00 AM

Cliffhangers are powerful narrative devices that leave audiences on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating what comes next. Whether you're...

Storytelling Writing Fiction

Naivety is a powerful tool in storytelling, allowing characters to serve as entry points for the audience or to illustrate the harsh lessons that accompany experience and growth.

5 min read

Define Naïve

Writing Team: Sep 23, 2024 7:30:00 AM

Naivety is often perceived as a lack of experience or worldly wisdom, characterized by a certain innocence, credulity, or childlike simplicity. In...

Storytelling Writing Fiction

Through visual cues, body language, pacing of dialogue, and powerful soundtracks, filmmakers and writers tap into this emotion to create moments that leave a lasting impact on viewers.

4 min read

Define Exhilaration Through Epic Films

Writing Team: Sep 23, 2024 5:00:00 AM

The wind howled against the towering cliffs, whipping through the vast, open valley below. At the edge stood Mia, her heart pounding as she gazed...

Storytelling Scriptwriting

Scrivener offers many more features than covered in this guide, but these basics will get you started on writing your book.

2 min read

Easy Guide to Using Scrivener for Your Self-Written Book

Writing Team: Sep 20, 2024 12:58:29 PM

Scrivener is a powerful tool for writers, offering a wide range of features to help you organize, write, and prepare your book for publication. This...

Book Writing Tools

Your book cover is a crucial marketing tool and an important part of your book's identity.

3 min read

Book Cover Artists: Styles, Finding, and Collaborating

Writing Team: Sep 20, 2024 12:55:09 PM

A book's cover is often the first point of contact between a potential reader and your work. It's not just about aesthetics; it's about conveying the...

Book Writing Art

Remember that every published author started somewhere, and many wrote their first novels while balancing other responsibilities.

3 min read

How to Draft a Novel

Writing Team: Sep 20, 2024 12:51:14 PM

Writing a novel while juggling a full-time job can seem daunting, but with the right strategies and dedication, it's entirely achievable. This guide...

Storytelling Writing Fiction

George Carlin’s legacy as a wordsmith and social critic shows how deeply effective writing can be when it challenges the status quo.

5 min read

The Carlin Method: A Detailed Approach for Writers

Writing Team: Sep 16, 2024 2:24:24 PM

When it comes to comedy, social commentary, and wordplay, few names stand as tall as George Carlin. His sharp wit, observational humor, and deep...

Storytelling Copywriting Writing Comedy Scriptwriting

Selective perception is a powerful tool in storytelling, allowing authors to control the flow of information, create tension, and develop characters in intricate ways.

4 min read

Selective Perception as a Storytelling Tool

Writing Team: Sep 16, 2024 10:30:00 AM

In storytelling, the concept of selective perception can play a pivotal role in shaping how readers interpret characters, plot points, and the...

Storytelling Writing Fiction

2 min read

Imagine Learning

Writing Team: Sep 16, 2024 6:00:00 AM

This article explores the art of visualization and its impact on learning and storytelling and provides practical methods for leveraging this...

Storytelling Art

These examples from historical literature demonstrate the multifaceted nature of fear.

2 min read

Definition of Fear: Insights from Historical Literature

Writing Team: Sep 10, 2024 11:23:07 AM

Fear, a primal emotion deeply ingrained in the human psyche, has been a central theme in literature throughout history. This article explores the...

Writing Literature Emotion Character

By practicing with these subtle errors, you can significantly improve your proofreading abilities.

2 min read

Sample Texts to Proofread

Writing Team: Sep 10, 2024 11:20:25 AM

Proofreading is an essential skill for writers, editors, and anyone who works with text. It involves meticulously reviewing content for errors in...

Storytelling Editing Reading

Goofus and Gallant are more than just cartoon characters—they’re timeless teaching tools that help children understand the importance of good behavior.

4 min read

Goofus and Gallant: A Look at These Timeless Archetypes

Writing Team: Sep 6, 2024 2:13:05 PM

Goofus and Gallant is a beloved and enduring feature of Highlights for Children, a children’s magazine that has been around since 1946. The feature,...

Writing Comedy Character

Getting a book published is a lengthy process that requires dedication, patience, and a lot of hard work.

4 min read

How to Get a Book Published

Writing Team: Sep 6, 2024 2:09:34 PM

Publishing a book is a dream for many writers, but the journey from manuscript to printed work can seem daunting. Whether you’re aiming for...

Storytelling Book Writing

By weaving a talisman into your story, you create a powerful symbol that can enrich your narrative and provide deeper connections for your readers.

2 min read

Find Your Talisman

Writing Team: Aug 26, 2024 5:45:00 AM

Each book has a central idea or theme that carries the story. This idea may be something abstract like love, faith, freedom, truth, or adventure. As...

Creative Writing Scriptwriting

Discover the power of silence in writing. Learn how to balance dialogue, ideas, and description for maximum impact.

3 min read

Silence as a Creative Tool

Writing Team: Aug 26, 2024 5:45:00 AM

It's not just what we choose to say, but what we choose not to say, that holds immense power. To illustrate this, watch the Mormon Tabernacle Choir...

Storytelling Communication Character Technique

Using thematic or ironic names can enrich your story by providing additional layers of meaning and creating a more immersive experience for the reader.

3 min read

The Magic of Names

Writing Team: Aug 19, 2024 8:15:00 AM

Names are more than mere labels; they carry depth, history, and symbolism. As a writer, choosing the perfect name for your characters can be a...

Storytelling Character

Learn to balance description and exposition in writing, with examples from classic and modern literature.

3 min read

Description vs. Exposition

Writing Team: Aug 19, 2024 5:30:00 AM

Dialogue is easy to spot because it has those nifty little quotation marks, but not all text that isn’t dialogue can be lumped together. The...

Storytelling Writing Work

Choose wisely. Be consistent. And don’t tear the fabric of the space-time continuum.

2 min read

Make Sense of Verb Tense

Writing Team: Aug 12, 2024 5:30:00 AM

Verb tense affects the narrative distance. This article is on verb tense and how that affects the viewpoint choices we make.

Writing Fiction Scriptwriting

Discover how the Major Dramatic Question can transform your novel into a gripping, unforgettable story.

3 min read

The Major Dramatic Question: The Backbone of Your Novel

Writing Team: Aug 12, 2024 4:45:00 AM

As a novelist, crafting a compelling story that keeps readers engaged from start to finish is your ultimate goal. One of the most powerful tools at...

Storytelling Writing Fiction

magine watching a thrilling movie that ends abruptly at the climax, leaving you hanging without any closure. Frustrating, right?

2 min read

The Importance of the Denouement

Writing Team: Aug 6, 2024 6:54:17 PM

Imagine watching a thrilling movie that ends abruptly at the climax, leaving you hanging without any closure. Frustrating, right? This scenario made...

Storytelling Technical Writing

Explore the literary references in Taylor Swift's songs, from Romeo & Juliet to The Great Gatsby.

4 min read

Taylor Swift's Book References

Writing Team: Aug 6, 2024 6:48:41 PM

As a lyricist, Taylor Swift has enthralled audiences worldwide. But did you know she’s also woven a subtle tapestry of literary references throughout...

Storytelling Literature

Polysyndeton might seem like a simple repetition of conjunctions, but in the hands of a skilled writer, it becomes a powerful tool for conveying emotion, controlling pace, and emphasizing ideas.

3 min read

Polysyndeton: The Literary Device That Packs a Punch

Writing Team: Aug 5, 2024 5:33:51 PM

Imagine you're reading a novel, and suddenly, you come across a sentence that seems to go on forever, each phrase connected by "and" after "and"...

Storytelling Content Strategy Writing

Hemingway's writing style only appears simple. It's the result of careful craft and constant revision.

5 min read

How to Write Like Hemingway

Writing Team: Aug 5, 2024 5:30:17 PM

rnest Hemingway's writing is famously concise, powerful, and "true." Let's break down how he achieves this iconic style and explore how you can...

Storytelling Writing Art

Explore Bangsian fantasy: afterlife adventures with famous characters, humor, and philosophical musings.

2 min read

What is Bangsian Fantasy?

Writing Team: Jul 29, 2024 5:55:55 PM

Bangsian fantasy is a unique sub-genre of fantasy literature named after John Kendrick Bangs, an American author who popularized this style in the...

Storytelling genre

Master goal-driven scenes: Advanced techniques for crafting nuanced, compelling narratives in fiction.

2 min read

Scene Mastery: Crafting Effective Goal-Driven Scenes

Writing Team: Jul 29, 2024 5:50:56 PM

As seasoned writers, we understand that the art of crafting compelling scenes is at the heart of engaging storytelling. Goal-driven scenes, in...

Storytelling Writing Character

Craft compelling story conflict: Learn strategies to create tension and engage readers in your fiction.

1 min read

Writing Conflict as a Story Engine

Writing Team: Jul 29, 2024 5:47:19 PM

Conflict is the engine that drives a story forward, captivating readers and keeping them engaged until the final page. But creating effective...

Storytelling Character

Explore the Queen Bee trope in literature: From Lady Macbeth to Emma, classic examples and modern twists.

1 min read

The Queen Bee in Literature

Writing Team: Jul 26, 2024 10:03:53 AM

The concept of archetypes, popularized by Carl Jung in 1959, has long influenced character creation in literature. Among these archetypes, the "Queen...

Storytelling Writing Character

Unveil your characters' hidden depths: 7 secrets they might conceal, creating authenticity and intrigue.

4 min read

What is Your Character Hiding?

Writing Team: Jul 26, 2024 10:00:19 AM

Being able to write realistic, consistent, multi-dimensional characters is vital to gaining reader interest. Doing so first requires we know a lot...

Storytelling Writing

Learn to craft compelling sales stories that engage prospects and drive action through effective storytelling.

2 min read

How to Create a Compelling Story That Sells

Writing Team: Jul 22, 2024 5:33:01 PM

Storytelling is a powerful sales tool. Stories engage readers without feeling like a sales pitch. When done well, they lead prospects to convince...

Storytelling Sales Writing

Learn 3 powerful storytelling models to captivate your audience and boost engagement in content creation.

1 min read

3 Simple Models for Building an Audience with Storytelling

Writing Team: Jul 22, 2024 5:28:27 PM

Stories surround us 24/7, influencing every aspect of modern life. In our attention-driven economy, they're more crucial than ever for reaching an...

Storytelling Content Strategy

Learn how to write a character's embarrassment with physical cues, emotions, behaviors, and growth tips.

2 min read

Writing a Character's Embarrassment

Writing Team: Jul 15, 2024 5:32:48 PM

Portraying a character's embarrassment authentically can add depth and relatability to your storytelling. Here's a guide to help you effectively...

Writing Emotion

1 min read

The Emotion of Disappointment

Writing Team: Jul 15, 2024 5:26:16 PM

Capturing the emotion of disappointment in a character requires understanding its complex nature and varied expressions. Here’s how you can...

Creative Storytelling Emotion

Sidestep common missteps in conveying character emotion to craft an opening that grips readers from the start.

3 min read

3 Emotion Problems to Avoid in Your Story Opening

Writing Team: Jul 10, 2024 12:07:51 PM

As writers, we know that the opening pages of a story are crucial - they're often the only chance we have to captivate readers and make them...

Storytelling Emotion

Explore how intense emotions can destabilize a character, leading to impulsive choices and loss of control.

1 min read

EMOTION AMPLIFIERS DESTABILIZE A CHARACTER

Writing Team: Jul 10, 2024 11:54:42 AM

When internal strain becomes too much, rational thought and behavioral control can go out the window. While giving in to big feelings may provide...

Storytelling Writing

Explore metaphors vs. similes: Powerful literary tools with examples from classic literature. Elevate your writing.

7 min read

Metaphor vs. Simile: Mastering the Art of Figurative Language

Joy Youell: Jul 6, 2024 10:31:47 AM

Among the most powerful tools in a writer's arsenal are metaphors and similes. While these two literary devices share similarities, understanding...

Storytelling Writing

2 min read

Mastering Subplots in Your Novel: Tips and Techniques

Writing Team: Jul 3, 2024 12:13:04 PM

If you’re writing a novel, you likely have a solid grasp of your main narrative arc. However, incorporating subplots can be crucial to make your...

Storytelling Writing Fiction

Explore collaborative writing with AI, featuring insights from bestselling author Rachelle Ayala.

2 min read

Commentary on Collaborative Writing with AI Featuring Rachelle Ayala

Writing Team: Jul 3, 2024 12:08:27 PM

In the fascinating world of AI and its integration into creative fields, Joanna Penn recently hosted an insightful interview with Rachelle Ayala, a...

Storytelling Writing

Master storytelling with 5 key elements, illustrated through J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series.

7 min read

5 Elements of Storytelling

Joy Youell: Jun 28, 2024 10:49:03 AM

Have you ever found yourself questioning your storytelling skills? We've all experienced that nagging doubt, that sinking feeling in our stomach when...

Storytelling Writing

5 min read

The Petal Structure: A Guide for Storytelling Writers

Joy Youell: Jun 28, 2024 10:39:52 AM

The petal structure, or the daisy structure or radial narrative, is a sophisticated storytelling technique that offers writers a unique way to weave...

Storytelling Writing

2 min read

Storytelling in Academic Writing: Structure, Tools, and Techniques

Joy Youell: Jun 19, 2024 9:53:20 AM

Writing academically can often feel like a dry and arduous task, especially when striving to engage readers with complex ideas and research findings....

Storytelling Writing

2 min read

Top 10 Writing Strategies for Fiction Writers

Writing Team: Jun 19, 2024 9:46:26 AM

Writing fiction can be particularly challenging, as it involves not just putting words on paper but crafting a story that captivates readers from...

Storytelling Writing Scriptwriting

An architect sitting at a table, designing a building in an impressionist oil painting style.

5 min read

The Architecture of Narrative: Story Planning

Writing Team: Jun 7, 2024 4:35:16 PM

In the vast landscape of the writing world, there are many paths to the summit of a completed novel. Some writers prefer the winding, serendipitous...

Storytelling Writing Fiction

A man visibly sad, holding his head in his hand in an impressionist oil painting style.

5 min read

How to Write Impactful Character Deaths in Fiction

Writing Team: Jun 7, 2024 4:33:17 PM

In the realm of storytelling, death is a constant companion. It stalks the battlefields and hospital wards, lurks in the shadows of dark alleys and...

Storytelling Fiction Character

A person looking into a dark room in an impressionist oil painting style.

5 min read

The Descent into Darkness: Crafting Negative Character Arcs

Writing Team: May 24, 2024 2:48:36 PM

The Challenge and the RewardIn storytelling, the protagonist's journey often takes center stage. Readers watch, transfixed, as characters navigate...

Storytelling Writing Fiction Character

One person calling out to another person in the distance in an impressionist oil painting style.

4 min read

Echoes of the Past: Crafting Character Through Backstory

Writing Team: May 24, 2024 2:44:59 PM

In the tapestry of a character's life, the threads of the past often weave the richest patterns. These threads, these echoes of a life lived before...

Storytelling Fiction Character

Two people arguing in an impressionist oil painting style.

3 min read

Character Flaws That Fuel Conflict

Writing Team: May 10, 2024 10:18:09 PM

In our zeal to create characters that captivate and inspire, we often fall prey to the temptation of the flawless, the allure of the immaculate. We...

Storytelling Fiction Character