Delicious Story Development/Call for Submissions

The first paragraph should introduce the main character and show the character in action. Soon, very soon, introduce the problem. The main character needs to face difficulty early in the first chapter. In picture books, introduce the problem within the first three pages.

The second course is the middle. This is where the story can sag and become boring. Enhance the flavor with surprising, unexpected problems for the main character. When we increase the tension, we reel in the reader. Throw more obstacles/challenges at the character so s/he will struggle even more. Their lives should become more complicated. As one problem is resolved, replace it with an even greater one. Emotions should reach their peak as the character faces what seem insurmountable odds, a true crisis. Always keep in mind what would happen if the protagonist fails.

The third course is dessert, the story ending that is sweet and delicious. If the protagonist hasn’t resolved all issues to a satisfactory conclusion, at least, there should be hope. Two ideas to keep in mind when writing endings: what does the reader expect and what works best for your story. The key to a successful conclusion is the hero getting what s/he wants most, not necessarily getting everything.

Ideas are aromas. They tease us with a whiff of what could develop in a story. They are merely seeds that need to be planted, cultivated, and harvested to produce a delicious story.

Call for Submissions for Adult Writers:

Dream Quest One Poetry and Writing Contest! This poetry contest and writing contest is open to everyone and international.  We are excited about showcasing the creative writing and poetic talent, skill and ability of all poets and writers.  We hope that you have inspiration to display the beauty and art of writing short stories and poems for the entire world to see your "gift of a dream."

Writing Contest entries may be written on a maximum of (5) pages, either neatly handwritten or typed, single or double line spacing, on any subject or theme.

• Poetry Contest entries may be written on any subject or theme. All poems must be 30 lines or fewer and either neatly handwritten or typed, single or double line spacing.

The Mission of Dream Quest One Poetry & Writing Contest is to inspire, motivate and encourage anyone having the desire or love of poetry and writing, to continue doing so without fear of failure or success! Remember, in whatever you do, "it's okay to dream," for dreams do come true...

Deadline: July 31, 2015

Submission Guidelines at http://www.dreamquestone.com/