Published: May 10, 2011
Words: 90205 (approximate)
Language: English

Ebook short description

Screenwriting is a compressed and dynamic storytelling form and the techniques of screenwriting are easily adaptable to novel writing. This workbook guides new and pro writers alike through filmmaking tricks of structure, suspense, characterization, visual storytelling and more. Based on award-winning author and screenwriter Alexandra Sokoloff's internationally acclaimed workshops and blog.

Extended description

Are you finally committed to writing that novel but have no idea how to get started? Or are you a published author - but know you need some plotting help to move your books and career up to that next level?

Screenwriting is a compressed and dynamic storytelling form and the techniques of screenwriting are easily adaptable to novel writing. You can jump-start your plot and bring your characters and scenes vibrantly alive on the page - by watching your favorite movies and learning from the storytelling tricks of great filmmakers.

With this workbook, based on award-winning author/ screenwriter Alexandra Sokoloff’s internationally acclaimed Screenwriting Tricks For Authors blog and workshops, you'll learn how to use techniques of film writing such as:... (Read more) Are you finally committed to writing that novel but have no idea how to get started? Or are you a published author - but know you need some plotting help to move your books and career up to that next level?

Screenwriting is a compressed and dynamic storytelling form and the techniques of screenwriting are easily adaptable to novel writing. You can jump-start your plot and bring your characters and scenes vibrantly alive on the page - by watching your favorite movies and learning from the storytelling tricks of great filmmakers.

With this workbook, based on award-winning author/ screenwriter Alexandra Sokoloff’s internationally acclaimed Screenwriting Tricks For Authors blog and workshops, you'll learn how to use techniques of film writing such as:

- the High Concept Premise
- the Three-Act, Eight-Sequence Structure
- the Storyboard Grid
- the Index Card Method of Plotting

- as well as tricks of film pacing and suspense, character arc and drive, visual storytelling, and building image systems - to structure and color your novel for maximum emotional impact, unbearable suspense and riveting pacing, no matter what genre you're writing in.

You'll create your own personalized workbook of genre tricks based on your favorite books and movies and tailored to your own brand of storytelling, and a collage book to build visual image systems. And the emphasis on premise is invaluable for crafting that all-important query and pitch.

In this rapidly changing world of publishing, more and more agents and editors are looking for novels that have the pacing, emotional excitement, and big, unique, "high concept" premises of Hollywood movies (and the potential for that movie or TV sale!). And if you're indie publishing, it's even more important to craft and polish your book to stand out from the crowd.

Whether you're just starting to develop a book or script, or rewriting for maximum impact, this workbook will guide you through an easy, effective and fun process to help you make your book or script the best it can be.

Includes detailed film breakdowns and analysis as well as chapters and resources on how to get a literary agent, writing a query letter, professional networking, and screenwriting contests.

"Sokoloff's advice is spot-on, and her teaching style is direct and effective. A must-have book for authors and screenwriters."

- JA Konrath, A Newbie's Guide To Publishing
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Tags

writing, screenwriting, novel writing, writing career, writing books, writing a book, writing coach, writing better, writing exercises, writing a novel, writing advice, writing inspiration, writing step by step, writing your book, writing and writers, writing fiction guide, writing fiction tips, writing craft, publishing a book, story structure, three act structure, eight sequence structure

Available ebook reading formats

Single purchase gains access to all formats. How to download ebooks to e-reading devices and apps.

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PDF (good for reading on PC, or for home printing)	Buy	No sample available
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LRF (Use only for older model Sony Readers that don't support .epub)	Buy	Download sample
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Plain Text (download) (flexible, but lacks much formatting)	Buy	No sample available
Plain Text (view) (viewable as web page)	Buy	No sample available

Reviews

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Review by: Shirley Shelton on Feb. 21, 2012 :
Forget any of the myriad 'how to write a novel' publications swamping the marketplace. This is the one you need to read if you have any serious ambitions to write a novel that people might actually buy, enjoy and come back for more. This is the real deal!

Alexandra Sokoloff brings her considerable skills as both author and screen writer in producing a practical, common sense guide to the many diverse facets involved in writing your own book.

As others here have already said, it's packed with helpful tips, bullet points and a plethora of invaluable information for both novice and experienced writers alike.

Do yourself one big massive favour and chuck out all those 'how to' manuals cluttering your book shelf and replace them with Alexandra Sokoloff's invaluable guide. Do it now!
(reviewed within a month of purchase)

Review by: Jan Morrison on Feb. 19, 2012 :
If you are lost in revisions, or troubled by constructing a novel - this is the book for you! Sokoloff creates a straight-forward method for taking your inspiration and making something good of it. Get this book!
(reviewed within a month of purchase)

Review by: Sarah Hutchins on Feb. 09, 2012 : (no rating)
One of the best resources on understanding how story elements come together to form the whole picture. Light bulbs clicked on as soon as I began reading this ebook. I also purchased the companion ebook: "Writing Love."
(reviewed within a month of purchase)

Review by: write2day on Dec. 06, 2011 :
This is a great "find". I like having both novelist and screenwriting perspectives covered in the same ebook. Highly recommnended. Amazing value!
(reviewed the day of purchase)

Review by: Beatrice and Jerry Laster on Nov. 02, 2011 :
Incredible wealth of knowledge, shared with professionalism and a great sense of humor.
(reviewed within a month of purchase)

Review by: Rachel Amphlett on Sep. 25, 2011 : (no rating)
This book was recommended to me by another author, and it's now a firm favourite on my research shelf. The way the author analyses popular films and explains how to apply the same techniques to writing a novel are invaluable - just being able to visualise each section makes an enormous difference. Whether you're writing your first novel or have several works under your belt, this book is well worth the investment.
(reviewed within a month of purchase)

Review by: Romney Nesbitt on Aug. 05, 2011 :
I bought Alex's book to prepare for her class at the West Texas Writers Academy in June in Canyon, TX. Alex's approach to writing helped me "see" my story in well-defined scenes. As a visual artist and writer, I found her tips and teaching style very helpful and easy to understand. Alex is also a terrific teacher. Of all the writing workshops I've attended--Alex's screenwriting tips is the best--hands down.
Romney Nesbitt
(reviewed long after purchase)

Review by: Tiffany Podzemny on July 08, 2011 :
I bought the book to take Alex's class at a writer's academy. The information in here is invaluable and they idea of the sticky notes on the story board is great! If you need help with plot buy this book and read it. A practical nuts and bolts book for plot and what beats you need to hit. If you have the opportunity to take a class with the author do it. She is a hands on teacher.
(reviewed within a month of purchase)

Review by: Anna Serra i Vidal on June 22, 2011 :
Totally worth the $ it costs!
The analysis of Harry Potter alone is wonderful, and the rest of the book is great info for any writer, even pantsers will find useful tips.
(reviewed within a week of purchase)

Review by: Em Beck on June 20, 2011 :
Invaluable knowledge for writers of all types.
(reviewed within a month of purchase)

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