John Swanson
asked
Beth Hautala:
How do you go about finding the endings for books you write? Do you have the ending in mind before you start writing, or more of a plot idea and find the ending along the way?
Beth Hautala
Finding the ending of a story is really about giving the characters what they need (which is different than giving them what they want). Throughout the character's plot line and arc, I am constantly asking myself, "What do they need? How will it arrive? What will they have to overcome? What will be most satisfying and believable? What will offer conclusion and peace, even if it doesn't all wrap up in a perfect happy bow?" As long as I keep being honest with myself as I write, the ending reveals itself.
More Answered Questions
Amy-Jo Conant
asked
Beth Hautala:
I'm glad you caught my review. I absolutely loved the novel. I already sent recommended it to 10 of my former students on their Goodreads lists. I am purchasing copies to include in our book club series for all of 5th grade. Your writing is just beautiful. Do you ever do virtual class visits via skype or other online tools? If so, I'd love to find out more.
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