Karissa Riffel asked Cornelia Funke:

Cornelia, I have enjoyed your books immensely! (The Inkheart series has especially captured my heart, and I've read the whole series twice!) I was wondering how you plan out your books. Do you make a rough outline, and then just write from there, letting the story come to you? Or do you plan out every detail and plot point? What do you do when you can't see where a story is going? Thanks! -Karissa :)

Cornelia Funke Dear Karissa,

I do just a rough outline of the first chapters, sometimes only 5 or 6 to then allow the story to lead the way. I do a lot of research though before I start and while I am writing to feed the story with location and whatever motive I want to weave in (sometimes several:) I don't want to know about the ending, I don't even want to know the bigger plot points in advance. I would get so bored if there were no surprises waiting! As for seeing where the story goes....I am not sure I do see that ever!:) best from London! Cornelia

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