How to Craft a Great Story: How to master plot, structure and form in your creative writing

by Chris Sykes

How to Craft a Great Story takes you step by step through the process of creating a compelling and coherent plot and structure. It covers such basics as the traditional story arcs, and such advanced information as finding balance and marrying structure and form.

Each chapter contains a diagnostic test, case studies, practical exercises, and Aide Memoire boxes. Each chapter concludes with a reminder of the key points of the chapter (Focus Points) and a round-up of what to expect in the next (Next Step) will whet your appetite for what's coming and how it relates to what you've just read.

Covering some of the most commonly raised questions in creative writing courses, it is perfect for anyone who needs the next step on from the basic 'how to write a novel'.

256 pages, Paperback

Published May 14, 2019

Reviews

[Megan Lupton]

A clear and simple exploration into the foundations of storytelling. 📚

This workbook includes descriptions, examples, and activities. I particularly liked the "focus point" and "key idea" sections, which did a good job of condensing the information provided. The author also includes case studies and diagrams which unpack the ideas.

In my opinion, the book is a foundational discussion of writing craft (not a bad thing!). Just don't expect in-depth theory or technical advice. It's useful for new and experienced writers alike, who want a simple refresh on how to craft their story.

[Riversue]

This is a pretty standard review of the various story structures.

[A R]

More homework than a college class. More verbose than a 10 page minimum essay.

[Simona]

I enjoyed this book, but didn't find it as useful as some other books on writing I had read just before it, so I didn't get as much out if it as someone else might.