The Elements of Fiction Writing
Here's a collection of books meant to help fiction writers learn the craft of writing. I have a particular fondness for several of these books, most notably, the late Jack Bickham's Scene and Structure and Nancy Kress' Beginnings, Middles & Ends.
Books in The Elements of Fiction Writing series
- Beginnings, Middles & Ends by Nancy Kress
- Characters & Viewpoint by Orson Scott Card
- Conflict, Action & Suspense by William Noble
- Description by Monica Wood
- Dialogue by Lewis Turco
- Manuscript Submission by Scott Edelstein
- Plot by Ansen Dibell
- Scene and Structure by Jack M. Bickham
One of my favorite books on the subject of the structure of a novel. - Setting by Jack M. Bickham
- Voice & Style by Johnny Payne
World-building Tip
Take seasons into account when you create your landscapes. Draw a map and think logically about how the landmarks and geological features will impact the weather patterns of your world. Then use those patterns to add interest and realism to your story, or a twist to your plot.
Character Tip
Have you run into a character pileup? Kill off a few of the underutilized characters and focus on some of the more interesting people of your universe. Or, for a real challenge, kill off an important person and then turn some of those underutilized characters into leads.
Genre Tip
Fantasy readers look for well-developed landscapes, multi-dimensional characters, and a world where they can believe magic happens. Avoid the overdone elves, fairies, and gnomes. Create something unique for your readers!