In this podcast, the host answers listener questions about scene length, becoming an editor or book coach, avoiding info-dumping in storytelling, understanding head-hopping, and adjusting the ideal reader profile for unplanned story developments.
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Quick takeaways
Scene length between 1000-2000 words strikes a balance for pacing in different genres.
Certification programs like Story Grid Editor Certification Training and Author Accelerator Book Coach Certification Program offer valuable training for aspiring editors and book coaches.
Deep dives
Pacing and Scene Length in Writing
Maintaining the pace of a story involves considering scene length to engage and retain readers. Scenes between 1000 and 2000 words, particularly around 1500 words, strike a balance between substance and capturing attention. Shorter scenes create a faster pace, commonly seen in mysteries and thrillers, while longer scenes, typical in science fiction and fantasy genres, aid in immersive world-building.
Becoming an Editor or Book Coach
To become an editor or book coach, certification programs like the Story Grid Editor Certification Training and Author Accelerator Book Coach Certification Program provide valuable training. The former offers in-person instruction on fiction editing, while the latter, an online program, teaches coaching from project management to feedback provision. Practice with real clients enhances skills, making these programs ideal for aspiring editors and book coaches.
Effectively Incorporating Backstory in Writing
Integrating character backstory or world-building details without info-dumping is crucial in storytelling. Sprinkling backstory throughout scenes relevant to the story present, like Harry Potter's past intertwined with current experiences, adds depth. Connecting backstory to the present character's emotions or observations enhances reader engagement. Avoid excessive exposition to prevent disengaging readers, focusing on relevant backstory to enrich storytelling.
In today's extra special bonus episode, I'm going to answer some questions from you guys! Here's a quick overview of what we talk about in this episode:
[01:30] Joe Larkin asks, "Do you have a general rule of thumb for how long a scene should be?" [02:45] Margo Geary asks, "Your job sounds really awesome! How do you become an editor or book coach?" [04:45] Julia Pentrose asks, "I get why info-dumping isn't a good idea, but how do you get your character's backstory or worldbuilding details in your story without info-dumping? Isn't that stuff important to show the reader?" [08:15] Karen Stroud asks, "I've heard that head-hopping is bad, but can you explain what head-hopping is and why exactly is it bad?" [12:00] James K. asks, "I read your blog post on creating an Ideal Reader Profile for your story and I have a question. What happens if you end up with an unplanned subplot or if your story takes a dif turn than what you were planning and you realize now that your ideal reader doesn't align with the direction your story has taken?"
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