So You Want to Write a Novel

by Lou W. Stanek

You know there is a novel locked inside of you—chock-full of conflict, humor, irony, enthralling events and fascinating characters. What you don't know is how to set it free. Practical Advice, Hands-On Help Respected author and professional writing instructor Lou Willett Stanek's New York workshops have enabled scores of aspiring novelists to realize their dreams of completing credible and compelling manuscripts. Here, in a positive, "user-friendly" format, she offers not only encouragement and motivation, but Clear, Step-By-Step Instructions To Accomplish Your Goal—from original conception through final draft. Learn How Not Just Philosophy Or A Simple Motivational Tool, This Is The Book That Tells You How To Succeed

Genres: Writing, Nonfiction

208 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1994

Reviews

[J.L. Slipak · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a valuable resource tool that I keep on my shelf. It discusses using a notebook to keep key information all contained in one spot that you, the writer, can refer to often and build as you go along. I found this particular useful and have several notebooks that I've put together over the years that I call my writing "bibles" which are kept handy at all times. This book also discusses the 'act' of writing and how keeping a schedule is very important, why choosing an ideal spot to write is necessary, while providing a lot of helpful tips to keep the momentum of writing going.

There is a brief section that discusses beta readers and why having support while writing is so important to the overall writing process. It also goes on about getting over hurdles such as writer's block, interference and distractions.

Character development and other topics pertaining to character are also discussed with interesting perspectives and topics such as fleshing out your character, getting to know your character completely, and finding your character's story.

Plot and its development is discussed at great lengths that lead to the writing of your novel. At the back of the book are extra exercises to help hone your craft.

This is a fantastic writing resource and I recommend it to any writer/author out there who wants to add it to their resource shelf.

[Matt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well it's a rather eclectic collection of topics. It mostly gives writing prompts (good ones), consistently asks you to put your character into different situations, and always is asknig you "What if..." type of questions.

Chapter list:
Thinking like a writer
The Notebook
The Schedule
Where to work, What to wear, etc
Finding a sul mate
Getting over the hurdles
Your Character
Finding your Characters story
Structuring your story
Plot
Biting the bullet- writing your novel
Extra exercises

I breezed through this and undoubtedly didn't get as muc hfom it as I could have. I should probably go back to it (if I ever can find the time) and get more out of it by doing the exercises in depth.

This is not a book to power through, looking for tips and tricks... but rather a seven course meal that you must be willing to take your time and savor.

[Jessica · Rating 3 out of 5]

Focused heavily on character-building & descriptive writing. The section on plot was about 10 pages long. Read this for the prompts – Stanek offers a ton of “what if” exercises.

Probably the most interesting are her anecdotes about other writers: “Nora Ephron’s mother, the writer Phoebe Ephron, always told her: no matter what happens, it’s a copy. Legend has it that on her deathbed, she told her daughter to take notes.” “Rumour has it that when Erica Jong ends a romance, she begins a novel.”

It is a bit dated, though. It includes this gem: “And don’t forget the fax, another high-tech toy” There’s also the prescient line, “I haven’t thrown away my notebook, but when they invent a laptop to fit in my back pocket, I might.”

[Kristin · Rating 3 out of 5]

A little too casual and long winded, but a lot of good inspiration an advice for the starting process. A bit redundant and rushed at the end-one page on how to get published after 180 on writing.

[Amanda Surowitz · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's as good a place to start as any when reading about writing, but it's not my favorite. Some of the prompts and questions are good if you're looking for inspiration, but the content is directed toward writing realistic fiction. I consider it more food for thought than a guide to writing.

[Megan · Rating 3 out of 5]

August 2000
August 2001