Suzette Johnson
asked
Jennifer A. Nielsen:
The plot twist in the False Prince was really brilliant, and I wanted to ask, how do you foreshadow to a point where it's not obvious? I've been having trouble with that in my writing lately. Thank you!
Jennifer A. Nielsen
Thank you, Suzette! Foreshadowing a plot twist is very delicate. To find the balance, you need to get into the mind of your reader, anticipating what their reaction will be at each key moment. The way I did this in The False Prince is to create a table. Each column was labeled: What Sage knows, What Conner knows, What Mott knows, What Other Characters know, and - most importantly - what the reader knows. Then each scene got its own line. If I felt the reader would know something too early, I pulled it back.
For starters, pay attention to your own suspicions as you read a book or watch a movie with a surprise ending. If you're able to guess the ending early - why? What gave it away? Or if you're fooled, then what worked?
I know this is tricky, but keep at it - you'll find that balance!
For starters, pay attention to your own suspicions as you read a book or watch a movie with a surprise ending. If you're able to guess the ending early - why? What gave it away? Or if you're fooled, then what worked?
I know this is tricky, but keep at it - you'll find that balance!
More Answered Questions
Daliah Swift
asked
Jennifer A. Nielsen:
Hi! Just wanted to say that Words on Fire is my favorite book of all time and I've read quite and few. It deserves so much more hype than it gets and I can't wait to see what other historical fiction books you write in the future. I have them all! I was even wondering if you could take into consideration a historical fiction book about the American Revolution? I would immediately buy and read that.
Prats
asked
Jennifer A. Nielsen:
Can you, please, please make a short story following the aftermath of THE WARRIOR'S CURSE? I have read almost all your books, and this series is my absolute favorite. It's at the top of the best YA books (really, any books) I've ever read!! Thank you!! P.S. I can't wait for Black Ink!
Joy!
asked
Jennifer A. Nielsen:
?Hey, not really a question at all but I just wanted to say you're a brilliant author and I haven't ever read a book of yours I haven't loved. <3 I go through fazes where I like other books series more, but you have remained my favorite author ever since my mom let me check out The False Prince Audiobook from the library. (I couldn't find it in book form XD) You're books makes me really happy. :)
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