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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Structuring Your Novel summary
Brief summary
Structuring Your Novel by K.M. Weiland is a practical guide that offers valuable insights and step-by-step techniques to help writers create well-structured and compelling stories. It provides essential tools for outlining and organizing a novel.
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Table of Contents
Structuring Your Novel
Summary of key ideas
Understanding Story Structure
In Structuring Your Novel by K.M. Weiland, we delve into the depths of story structure. The author begins by emphasizing the importance of structure as the backbone of a good novel, likening it to the foundation of a house. Without a solid structure, a story may collapse under its own weight. Weiland highlights the three-act structure as a popular and effective model, guiding readers through its components and their roles.
Weiland then introduces the concept of the inciting event, the moment that disrupts the protagonist's ordinary world and sets the story in motion. This is followed by the first plot point, which propels the protagonist into the second act, full of challenges and obstacles. She also discusses the midpoint, a turning point that shifts the story from reaction to action, and the second plot point, which launches the story towards its climax.
Character Arcs and Scene Structure
Beyond the overall story structure, Weiland emphasizes the importance of character arcs. She explains that characters must evolve throughout the story, facing internal conflicts and growing in response to external challenges. She encourages writers to map out their characters' emotional and psychological journeys, ensuring they align with the story's progression.
In addition to character arcs, Weiland discusses scene structure. She divides scenes into three parts: goal, conflict, and disaster. She explains the importance of each part and how they contribute to the overall story structure. Furthermore, she highlights the necessity of linking scenes together cohesively, ensuring they build upon each other and advance the plot.
Applying Structural Knowledge
With the foundational elements of structure, character arcs, and scene structure explained, Weiland moves on to practical applications. She provides several tools and techniques to help writers implement the discussed concepts into their own work. This includes outlining methods, character profile templates, and scene checklists.
She also addresses common structural issues and how to rectify them. For instance, she discusses sagging middles and provides strategies to maintain momentum in the second act. She also delves into the importance of pacing, advising on how to balance action, dialogue, and introspection to keep the reader engaged.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Structuring Your Novel by K.M. Weiland is a comprehensive guide that provides a thorough understanding of story structure and its components. It emphasizes the importance of a well-structured narrative and offers practical advice on how to achieve it. With its detailed breakdown of the three-act structure, character arcs, and scene construction, this book serves as an invaluable resource for writers looking to craft compelling and well-structured stories.
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What is Structuring Your Novel about?
Structuring Your Novel by K.M. Weiland is a comprehensive guide that delves into the intricacies of crafting a well-structured and compelling novel. Through practical tips and insightful analysis of popular works, Weiland offers valuable advice on plot development, character arcs, and scene construction. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned writer, this book will help you elevate your storytelling skills and create a captivating narrative.
Structuring Your Novel Review
Structuring Your Novel (2013) guides readers on crafting compelling story structures to captivate audiences. Reasons why this book is a gem:
- Employs a practical approach to outlining, helping writers organize their thoughts and create a solid framework for their stories.
- Offers insightful tips on developing well-rounded characters and constructing engaging plots, ensuring a gripping narrative from start to finish.
- Includes step-by-step guidance on balancing story elements, enhancing pacing, and building tension, guaranteeing an engaging read that never feels monotonous.
Who should read Structuring Your Novel?
Aspiring authors looking to improve their novel-writing skills
Experienced writers seeking to enhance their understanding of story structure
Individuals who want to create compelling and well-organized narratives
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Book summaries like Structuring Your Novel
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Structuring Your Novel FAQs
What is the main message of Structuring Your Novel?
The main message of Structuring Your Novel is crafting compelling story structures for engaging narratives.
How long does it take to read Structuring Your Novel?
Reading Structuring Your Novel takes a few hours, while the Blinkist summary can be read in a fraction of the time.
Is Structuring Your Novel a good book? Is it worth reading?
Structuring Your Novel is essential for writers seeking to enhance their storytelling skills efficiently.
Who is the author of Structuring Your Novel?
K.M. Weiland is the author of Structuring Your Novel.
What to read after Structuring Your Novel?
If you're wondering what to read next after Structuring Your Novel, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss
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- Predictably Irrational by Dan Ariely
- Switch by Chip Heath & Dan Heath
- The Da Vinci Curse by Leonardo Lospennato
- The Defining Decade by Meg Jay
- The Art Of Non-Conformity by Chris Guillebeau