Tagged: writing
Save the Cat! Writes a Novel
Save the Cat! Writes a Novel: The Last Book on Novel Writing You’ll Ever Need by Jessica Brody, 4/5
Inspired by Blake Snyder’s “Save the Cat!” formula for screenwriting, author Jessica Brody breaks down the 15 basic plot points necessary for each of the 10 genres into which all stories can be categorized. Numerous examples and detailed breakdowns of famous novels are provided, making this a convincing, if somewhat tedious read.
Do I think it is necessary to follow a formula while writing a novel? Of course not. Does it steal the magic a bit to identify the unexpectedly unvaried elements that so many stories have in common? Yes, it does. But I can imagine that this handbook could be a lifesaver for a new or struggling author, or anyone looking to troubleshoot plot/pacing issues.
Why I read it: it was on a list of recommended resources for writers on my Instagram feed.
Before and After the Book Deal
Before and After the Book Deal: A Writer’s Guide to Finishing, Publishing, Promoting, and Surviving Your First Book by Courtney Maum, 3/5
Despite Maum’s humorous approach, I found this insider perspective on the book publishing process to be quite off-putting. Seeing the business side of books is truly like visiting the proverbial sausage factory and I am not a happier reader for coming to the realization that “author” hovers near the very bottom of any list of viable career choices, below even those perennial classics–“actor” and “musician.” This state of things is not Maum’s fault, but it is not Donald Trump’s fault either, which is a fact she seems to struggle with at several points in this exceedingly woke book.
Why I read it: it was on a list of recommended resources for writers on my Instagram feed.
OmniRambles 