Jo V. (jovan) reviewed on 8/4/2009 + 301 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 2

I've read a lot of books on writing fiction, and I'll be the first to say when a book offers nothing that can't be found dozens of other places. I suppose technically that could be said of this book and yet . . .

More than anything this author thoughtful insights into what makes a story come to life. He also goes the extra mile. For example, in the section on how to energize a lethargic middle, 6 specific potential "cures" are suggested which include analyzing the stakes, adding another level of complication, or character, or subplot. Each suggestion is examined for what they can do for a sagging middle.

I'd rate this book for advance intermediate writers but also for advanced writers who might benefit from expanding their repertoire.

This book is a keeper. It's going right beside Stein on Writing on the bookshelf.

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