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Write Great Fiction - Plot & Structure »

Book cover image of Write Great Fiction - Plot & Structure by James Scott Bell

Authors: James Scott Bell
ISBN-13: 9781582972947, ISBN-10: 158297294X
Format: Paperback
Publisher: F+W Media, Inc.
Date Published: October 2004
Edition: (Non-applicable)

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Author Biography: James Scott Bell

Book Synopsis

How does plot influence story structure? What's the difference between plotting for commercial and literary fiction? How do you revise a plot or structure that's gone off course? With Write Great Fiction: Plot & Structure, you'll discover the answers to these questions and more. Award-winning author James Scott Bell offers clear, concise information that will help you create a believable and memorable plot Filled with plot examples from popular novels, comprehensive checklists, and practical hands-on guidance, Write Great Fiction: Plot & Structure gives you the skills you need to approach plot and structure like an experienced pro.

Library Journal

Bell, a lawyer-turned-writer (Deadlock), believes that plot is the single most compelling force in a novel and covers everything you've ever wanted to know about crafting a great one. He aims to dissuade readers of the "Big Lie" that writing can't be taught and embarks on a mission of upbeat instruction, using diagrams, exercises, and examples from popular fiction to explain numerous storytelling techniques that will grip readers by the seats of their pants. Plot, of course, is synonymous with popular fiction, a saleable genre, so this title will definitely find an audience. Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.

Table of Contents

Introduction : putting the big lie to sleep1
Ch. 1What's a plot, anyway?6
Ch. 2Structure : what holds your plot together22
Ch. 3How to explode with plot ideas35
Ch. 4Beginning strong56
Ch. 5Middles79
Ch. 6Endings99
Ch. 7Scenes113
Ch. 8Complex plots130
Ch. 9The character arc in plot141
Ch. 10Plotting systems152
Ch. 11Revising your plot172
Ch. 12Plot patterns180
Ch. 13Common plot problems and cures194
Ch. 14Tips and tools for plot and structure206
App. AChecklist : critical points223
App. BCreating your own back cover copy229

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