The Art of Storytelling: 2 Point Checklist for Beginner Writers
So, you want to write a book but have no idea where to begin? Then this 2-point checklist was designed for you. Every successful book must have these 2 fundamentals. The Writing Style and Narrative Tools are what writers used to build the foundation for their book from conception of the idea to formatting. While many authors do not believe in setting up their story’s writing style prior to beginning, it helps ensure the book has the right flow.
I never created an outline prior to writing, I generally write as the story plays out in my head and I create the outline after, if the book is a part of a series or have plans of being adapted into a script. However, some writers struggle with writer’s block, creating a title or keeping the flow chapter by chapter so by creating and establishing an initial outline and audience, it helps eliminate a block.
Below is an outline of the 2-point checklist with a breakdown of what’s in each component. What is most helpful for me when writing is knowing who my audience is, what they like and dislike and knowing what emotion or idea I am trying to accomplish with the book; this applies to all genres.
1. Writing Style (Creative writing, Self- Expression, Educational)
a. Finding the voice of the story to determine what images and emotions the narrator is trying to portray.
i. 1st person, 2nd person, 3rd person
b. Audience
i. Age Group
ii. Race/Ethnicity
iii. Sex
iv. Why they need to read your story?
c. Character Analysis (Who Am I- Appearance, Background, Relationships, Behaviors, Environment)
i. Protagonist/Antagonist
ii. Supporting Characters
d. Outline/Storyboard
i. Chapters
ii. Contents
iii. Preface
iv. Dedication
v. Introduction
vi. Prologue
vii. Bio
viii. Synopsis
e. Plot, Setting, Climax, Resolution/Conclusion
2. Narrative Tools
a. Book Format
i. Audio
ii. Paperback
iii. Hardcover
iv. eBook
b. Genre
i. Fiction
1. i.e. science fiction, suspense, thriller, fantasy, short story, mystery
ii. Non- fiction
1. i.e. memoir, self- help, autobiography, manuals, textbooks
iii. Drama
iv. Romance
v. Horror
vi. Comedy
vii. Satire
c. Book Classifications
i. Novel
1. Over 40,000 words
ii. Novella
1. 17,500 to 40,00 words
iii. Novelette
1. 7,500 to 17,500 words
iv. Short Story
1. Under 7,500 words
Hopefully, you have found this checklist resourceful with your writing journey.