by Stephanie Morrill | Sep 29, 2021 | Characters, Editing, First Drafts
I have a tendency to create overly large casts of characters. I never intend to do this, but I frequently have to spend time in edits pruning away needless people from my first drafts. One technique that has really helped me is to think through each character’s...
by Stephanie Morrill | Aug 25, 2021 | Characters, Writing Exercise
A couple weeks ago, my daughter made a comment that if her friend was a color, she’d be bright yellow. I thought that was such a lovely compliment to her friend, and it sparked a fun conversation in the car as we talked about colors for each family member. I...
by Jill Williamson | Oct 21, 2020 | Characters, First Drafts, Learning from Other Authors, Story Structure
Jill here. I took a screenwriting workshop a few weeks back and learned something new and fascinating. At least I thought it was fascinating. Before we dive in, I want to remind you all that THIS Saturday, October 24 at 5:00 p,m. Pacific, Stephanie, Shannon, and I are...
by Jill Williamson | Sep 30, 2020 | Characters, First Drafts, Writing
Have you ever noticed how there are many side characters who are cooler than the hero? I don’t know why this is. Perhaps it’s because the hero is meant to portray the “everyday man,” and we’re all flawed. Let me give you some examples....
by Jill Williamson | Sep 18, 2020 | Brainstorming, Characters, First Drafts, Learning from Other Authors, Plot, Story Beginnings, Story Ideas, Story Structure
Brainstorming: Idea and Genre My stories always begin with a kernel of an idea. Something I’m intrigued by or curious about. When I’m in that early brainstorming phase, I tend to carry a notebook around with me everywhere. I try to come up with an original premise,...
by Shannon Dittemore | Sep 11, 2020 | Characters, First Drafts, Writing
Side characters are a staple in stories of every kind, but some side characters are asked to be a little more involved in the protagonist’s journey. In order to reach the end goal, sometimes a hero needs a crew. A team. A squad. A company. A troop. Tolkien’s...
