One of my CPs, Cat, has been helping me pinpoint internal conflicts with my manuscripts. Well, actually, I asked her to help with Fractured Paradise, but everything she's been sending me I've been applying to Broken Promises with EXCELLENT results! She'd been telling me about the book The Complete Writer's Guide to Heroes & Heroines by Tami Cowden & others. I was getting so much from what Cat was sharing, I went to the bookstore this morning and picked up my own copy!
Now, I know a lot of writers will swear by Deb Dixon's GMC book. I read that one and I respect that so many people love it, but it did nothing for me. But Cowden's book has already helped me see what's been missing in my own work. As I'm crafting the first chapter of Broken Promises, I'm able to delve deep into the characters and make the story so much richer. I'm running with what I have for BP' s first chapter and then by the end of the week I expect to put Cowden's book to good use with FP!
Writers, what are your thoughts, opinions on Dixon's GMC and Cowden's Guide?
9 comments:
I own them both and have read them each a couple of times, but if I use them when I write, it's only subconsciously.
Honestly, I think those and other craft books benefit beginning writers the most. It's been a while since I've read a book that told me any craft "rule" I didn't already know. At this point, it's practice, practice, practice until a story rubs an editor right!
LOL Didn't mean to imply that you're a beginning writer...I was referring to the GMC book!
Yeah, sure. Thanks, Avery. :)
In all seriousness, though, this tidbit of HUGELY important information is something a beginning writer struggles with. But, I've come far enough away from the "beginner stage" for it to click quicker for me and for it to be more practice already.
I like Deb Dixon's book. Making your characters deeper is key. Will have to check this one out:)
Teri
It's worth a peek, Teri.
I love reading craft books when I'm stuck in a rut. Often there's a little something that helps me look at some aspect of my WIP in a different light.
That's exactly what I do, too, when I'm in a rut, Cat. Reading (or re-reading) craft books lights a fire under me, I guess. I've been thinking of pulling out GMC again, and after reading this I think it will be sooner rather than later. (I need that fire right now!)
Cat & Susye, I'm really great about BUYING craft books. I just hardly ever get around to actually READING them.
Susye, I hope you find the fire soon! I'd send Caitlin out to find your muse, but she's been on vacation for so long I've missed her!
The GMC book worked for me in the sense that I know that my characters need a GMC, but I can't chart it all out. Feels like homework. I love the Cowden's book too. It is much more fun to read and really sparks ideas.
Post a Comment