Posts Tagged ‘What is she/he afraid of?’
Coach Teresa, what does it mean when an agent says my story is episodic?
Authors of novels, memoirs, children’s novels–this advice is for you.
Episodic = This happens, then this happens, then that happens… An episodic story is not compelling because there’s no connection between character growth and action plotline.
The answer: Show the transformation of your protagonist(s) . . . not because “things happen to her/him” but because her/his choices/behavior lead her/him to the next step, to the next step, as she/he goes after what she/he wants.
Examine every scene. Ask yourself this question: What does your protagonist want in this scene? What is she/he afraid of? Who/What is the antagonist in this scene?
As Plot Whisperer Martha Alderson says: “When the dramatic action changes the character at depth over time, the story becomes thematically significant.”
Re-read your favorite book that has a similar premise as yours.
Cheering for writers!
Coach Teresa says: “Reach out, not stress out, when pursuing your dreams!”
Want to attract agents & publishers? Want to be your own publisher?
Email: writingcoachTeresa at gmail.com
Coach Teresa LeYung-Ryan
specializes in: novels / children’s novels / memoirs