Today, I’m continuing the series,
Writing a Middle Grade Novel.
Begin the story with action and conflict to grab and
keep the readers’ interests. When the action slows and the protagonist seems to
be getting the upper hand on the situation, throw his/her world into a
tailspin. If the character does not have to struggle, if success comes too
easily, the reader will not make an emotional investment in the character’s
journey. To build interest, raise the stakes by adding more conflict. Example: He
has 24 hours to accomplish a seemingly impossible task, and if he fails
something even more drastic will happen.
Readers want a story that connects in some way to
their own lives—the betrayal of a best friend or fear of completing some task.
Present a character that is flawed but has other qualities—courage, compassion,
etc.—that inspire the readers. The character should feel and think in ways that
parallel the audience.
Give the character the opportunity to fail a few
times. Through failure s/he learns how to cope and succeed. The ending doesn’t
have to have a “happy ever after” scene but it should leave the reading feeling
that there is hope.
Call for Submissions for Adult Writers:
Hogglepot accepts fantasy and science fiction of all
sub-genres, including (but not limited to) alternate history, dystopian, fairy
tale, historical, gothic, light fantasy, magical realism, paranormal, science
fantasy, space opera, steampunk, superhero, supernatural, sword and sorcery,
time travel, urban fantasy, and weird western.
Submission Guidelines at
http://hogglepot.com/submissions.php
Thanks for continuing this series. I have been reading some and saving all for when I have more time.
ReplyDeleteGreat. In the next week or two, I'm posting the lastest on trends.
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