Writing Vs. Storytelling

Okay, so I wish I could convey to you the difference between writing and storytelling. Heck, I wish I knew so I could be a great storyteller.



I do think storytelling is higher than writing. It's something I recognize in some of the books I've read. I'll do my best to say what I think.



Writing means the words are there, in the right order, spelling out the story. There are books that are written well. I read a lot of them.



But storytelling is a masterful skill, one that not only utilizes writing, but that makes the reader feel something. Something powerful. Like they're there in the story. Or that they're in the hands of someone who knows A) where they're going B) how to get there and C) which words to use to take the reader with them.



A storyteller uses words to do more than convey meaning. They use them to make the reader feel something. These are my favorite kinds of books. I read them and pause, close my eyes, and relish in the power of the writing.



Dude, I got it! Storytelling is powerful, meaningful writing.



And I can see it almost as soon as I see it. Usually within 10 pages.



Here are some of my favorite storytelling novels:



1. The Adoration of Jenna Fox by Mary E. Pearson

2. Matched by Ally Condie

3. Magic Under Glass by Jaclyn Dolamore

4. Ash by Melinda Lo

5. Firelight by Sophie Jordan



These novels feel powerful. They are told by storytellers, not writers. I also think they're "quieter" novels. Their power is in the quiet, beautiful writing.



What do you think? What's the difference between storytelling and writing? What are some of your powerful novels?