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How to Write a Damn Good Novel
by James n. Frey
A reading log.
Part 1
April 22, 2024
Interesting characters are essential for a damn good novel. These characters are in every dimension more extreme than real people. In fact, they are another species, homo fantasia. Their feelings are deeper, they are more desperate, more intentional, more intelligent, more powerful than real people. In novels, there are generally two kinds of characters. Main characters, who are described in detail, and side characters, who only need a rough description and a focus on their main attributes.
Introduction/Chapter 1, page 19
April 23, 2024
Before you start writing, think about your characters. Give them a biography. What are they like? Where do they come from? What is their motivation? What skills do they have? The characters you use will depend on the story you want to write. Choose them wisely.
Chapter 1, page 23
April 24, 2024
A character bio should be very detailed. 10 to 50 pages are common. To test if you have a good idea of your character, you can interview him or her. You should have an answer for every question you ask.
Chapter 1, page 32
April 25, 2024
When you create a character, make sure he or she is not a stereotype. A stereotype is a person who is already fully known with no surprises. Your character can break a stereotype if he or she has some unexpected attributes or skills. But these skills and attributes must fit into the character's biography, or your reader will not like him or her. In your story, your characters must use all of their abilities. And, of course, they can change and grow.
Chapter 1, page 41
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