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Now Write! Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror
Ideas may be the most difficult part of writing. Whether due to a lack of them, or an intimidating surplus, it is all too common for our internal writing engines to seize up and sputter before they have even churned out a single sentence. Many burgeoning creative writers find this especially true when trying to dream up stories set in the realms of science fiction, fantasy, or horror – that’s where this book comes in!
Featuring dozens of accomplished authors from across the “speculative fiction” spectrum, this collection of advice, inspiration, and writing exercises is an excellent resource. A significant range of topics are covered: generating ideas; story plotting; worldbuilding; memorable heroes, villains, and monsters; and so much more. Several authors contribute to each section, each providing a few pages of insight and practical advice from their unique perspective. Some provide very concrete exercises, like “eavesdropping on conversations” to turn overheard snippets into a short story, or very intentionally reading an art book for inspiration. Others are geared around imagination and stream-of-consciousness brainstorming, such as asking readers to “Wake up. Do not think. Grab a pencil. Do not think. Write for 12 minutes without stopping.”
While not all advice or exercises will resonate, it may be the perfect antidote for students trapped in an endless cycle of seemingly random, uninspiring “creative prompts” from their English textbooks. As a writer, I personally find the content much more approachable than most writing advice I’ve seen. So, regardless of where in the writing process the reader may find themselves, consider this book an excellent resource to oil those writing gears! ~ Stephen
Featuring speculative fiction-writing exercises from Harlan Ellison (R), Piers Anthony, Ramsey Campbell, Jack Ketchum, screenwriters of The Twilight Zone and Star Trek: The Next Generation, and many more.
The fifth volume in the acclaimed Now Write! writing-guide series offers a full toolbox of advice and exercises for speculative fiction writers hoping to craft an engaging alternate reality, flesh out an enthralling fantasy quest, or dream up a bloodcurdling plot twist, including:
- Harlan Ellison(R), on crafting the perfect story title
- Jack Ketchum,on how economy of language helps create a truly frightening tale
- Piers Anthony,on making fantastical characters feel genuine and relatable
Among the other writers incluided are: Steven Barnes, Peter Briggs, David Brin, Sara B. Cooper, Brian James Freeman, Joe R. Lansdale, Bruce McAllister, Vonda N. McIntyre, William F. Nolan, Michael Reaves, Melissa Scott, Michael Dillon Scott, Vanessa Vaughnand others.
This collection of storytelling secrets from top genre writers--including winners of Nebula, Hugo, Edgar, and Bram Stoker awards--is essential for any writer looking to take a leap beyond the ordinary.
Written for aspiring authors, this series guides students through writing exercises to guide their brainstorming, researching, organizing, and writing of their magnum opus. Focusing on different genres, each book features insights and exercises from acclaimed authors or teachers in that genre. Books are divided into sections, which cover various themes related to the genre. Sections range from understanding the genre, developing characters, story setting, plot development, point of view, and more. Within each section, there are numerous “chapters” that introduce that chapter’s author, and then launch into helpful information and tips, concluding with practice exercises. This unique methodology inspires authors to pursue their passions! While no objectionable information was noted, themes may include material suited for a mature audience.
Product Format: | Paperback |
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Brand: | Tarcher |
Grades: | 7-AD |
ISBN: | 9780399165559 |
Length in Inches: | 8.1875 |
Width in Inches: | 5.5 |
Height in Inches: | 1 |
Weight in Pounds: | 0.6 |