How I Write Susan Orlean: Award-Winning Writer Explains Her Entire Process | How I Write
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Oct 29, 2025 
Susan Orlean, an award-winning nonfiction author, shares her intentional approach to writing that blends storytelling with in-depth research. She discusses her unique method of using index cards to structure her narratives and emphasizes the importance of strong leads to hook readers. Orlean highlights the significance of selecting compelling topics and maintaining a balance between writer passion and reader interest. She also reflects on the joy of editing and the discipline needed for long-term writing projects, comparing writing to marathon training.
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Build Structure With Index Cards
- Transfer research into 5x8 index cards and physically move them to discover structure.
- Reacquainting with cards refreshes memory and reveals thematic groupings for the story.
Themes Create Mini-Narratives
- Organize material thematically to let individual threads carry their own mini-narratives.
- Then build connective tissue between themes to form a coherent book story.
Hook Readers With A 'Wait, What?'
- Start with a strong lead that makes readers say "wait, what?" to hook attention.
- Use a vivid human detail to spark curiosity even about obscure subjects.
