Today, Storyworld First is six years old!
I titled the book as I did because the storyworld is almost always the first thing I think about when writing a new story. Some people are character first novelists. Some are plot first novelists. I’m a storyworld first novelist.
Another thing to note about the way I look at storyworlds is that I tend to treat them like a character in the book. The world should have attributes that help to define it and let it be seen, felt, smelled, and heard on the page.
The point of writing this book was to serve as an idea guide. It was meant to get writers thinking about their world more broadly. I hoped that it would inspire and help with the worldbuilding process. For the past few years now I have been wanting to 1) update this book, and 2) create an audio book version. Neither has happened yet, but I am hopeful that I will get to it eventually. If you’ve read Storyworld First, what do you think is missing that could be added or expanded on in a second edition? Share in the comments.
Also, I’m giving away a copy over on my Instagram page today. If you’re interested, click here to learn more.
Here’s a description of the book:
The question I hear most from beginning writers about building a fantasy storyworld is: “Where do I start?”
Oz, Wonderland, Narnia, the 100 Acre Wood, Neverland, Hogwarts, the United Federation of Planets, Westeros, Middle Earth, Alagaesia, Terabithia, Gotham City, Jurassic Park, Fablehaven, and a galaxy far, far away.
These fictional places have become real in the minds and hearts or readers. These storyworlds that someone invented-someone who was once like you, learning to tell stories, learning to write, and dreaming about publishing a novel.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or are looking to add depth to a finished story, Storyworld First will get you thinking.
Includes tips for worldbuilding:
Astronomy * Magic * Government
Map making * History * Religion
Technology * Languages * Culture
And how it all works together.
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