The Elements of Storytelling: How to Write Compelling Fiction

by Peter Rubie

"I recommend this book to all aspiring novelists." --Kent Carroll, Publisher and Executive Editor Carroll & Graf

"I would not hesitate to recommend The Elements of Storytelling to aspiring writers, or to better published ones who need to be reminded of the essentials of the craft.

(That's all of us, by the way!)" --Robert Goddard

Author of In Pale Battalions and Full Circle

"Should be on every writer's bookshelf right between The Elements of Style and the thesaurus." --Tom Colgan, Senior Editor Avon Books

"A wonderful book that every aspiring professional writer should own." --Matthew Bialer, literary agent William Morris Agency

Telling a story is one of the most basic--and difficult--challenges a fiction writer must face. Acclaimed author, editor, and literary agent Peter Rubie knows that challenge firsthand. By sharing his creative and critical expertise, he gives you the helpful advice you need to master the art of storytelling, including how to:
* Create compelling characters and strong plotlines
* Pace a story and develop a coherent structure and style
* Refine your technique with thought-provoking exercises that hone your storytelling skills
* Anticipate the realities of getting your work published--how to make it happen while maintaining confidence and motivation

Genres: Writing

173 pages, Paperback

First published January 12, 1996

Reviews

[Deborah · Rating 2 out of 5]

While Peter Rubie's book provides some practical advice; I find it somewhat difficult to believe in as Rubie seems to believe that people are born writer and that writing can not be taught to a peorson not born and bred to write.

Dispite that fact that Rubie provides as reasonable advice I would never have bought this book.

[Kit · Rating 2 out of 5]

The Elements of Storytelling was a quick read and did have some useful information. I found it to be bogged down by pretension and contradictions. The author frequently said there were no rules and you only learn the rules to break them. In the same breath he would declare that no writer can survive and be a professional without extensive outlining. He also was rather derogatory towards several authors (Agatha Christie and Amy Tan) which I found to be an extremely off putting choice. All of that said, I did enjoy the exercises and ideas he provides and do intend on trying my hand at them. I do not think I would recommend this book though.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is very helpful for all aspiring writers out there. It gives you advice on how to write better fiction. It also gives you a look at the publishing industry. The book provides information on what editors really want from your manuscript, so if you plan on publishing your book, you have to get this NOW.

I will surely have this book beside me while I write, alongside with my electronic dictionary/thesaurus. :)