Product Description

Discusses how to write fiction, exploring point of view, dialogue, endings, and revision.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #365798 in Books
• Published on: 1992-04-20
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 144 pages

Features

• ISBN13: 9780395577806
• Condition: NEW
• Notes: Brand New from Publisher. No Remainder Mark.
• Click here to view our Condition Guide and Shipping Prices

From Publishers Weekly
Bauer offers a pragmatic, organized approach to story writing in this 118-page manual geared for older children and young adults. Concrete, step-by-step tips are effectively illustrated with examples taken from the author's own works-- Face to Face , A Dream of Queens and Castles , Rain of Fire . Eight of the 14 chapters deal with preparatory rituals--finding a special time and place to write, inventing a conflict, understanding what makes a main character tick, figuring out a plot, choosing a point of view--and later chapters address more technical issues of pacing, rhythm and balance. Although the importance of discipline is stressed (learning to write a story is often compared to learning to play a sport or a musical instrument), the exercises and thought processes introduced as groundwork come across as stimulating rather than tedious and may serve to hone analytical skills as well as inspire even the most reluctant writers to try their hand. Ages 10-up.
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From School Library Journal
Grade 5-9-- Newbery Honor medalist Bauer provides mentoring and practical and technical advice in this handy how-to book. By systematically exploring the components of fiction--plot, character, point of view, dialogue, beginnings and endings, and story tension, she shows how a story works and how to create one. Each chapter builds upon the previous one, reiterating essential points and putting them in understandable context. The clear and logical tone and evident respect for her audience speak to Bauer's sensitivity and empathy with those grappling with the creative process. As a result, this honest guide will be as useful to teachers as to young writers. For an audience midway between Carol Lea Benjamin's Writing for Kids (Crowell, 1985) and Stephen Policoff and Jeffrey Skinner's excellent Real Toads in Imaginary Gardens (Chicago Review Pr., 1991), this is a splendid choice for school, public, and home libraries. --Susan H. Patron, Los Angeles Public Library
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Kirkus Reviews
An award-winning novelist (On My Honor, 1987 Newbery Honor) and experienced writing teacher cogently discusses her craft. As John Gardner did in The Art of Fiction (1984), Bauer insists on technique and deliberation over inspiration and natural endowment, reminding readers that no musical virtuoso ever captivated without a command of the notes. After spelling out the need to regulate the writing habit, she settles into the nitty- gritty of gathering and expanding ideas; building on characters, plot, and themes; and, yes, mastering grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Her last comment is telling: ``Knowing your craft can help you tell a story. But only by taking risks can you make art.'' After many pages of provocative information and straightforward counsel, that sentence may be the one to launch youngsters to the challenge. The book speaks directly to young writers, but many adults (teachers, librarians, reviewers, editors, would-be writers) will also find this sensible dissection of the storytelling process invaluable. (Nonfiction. 11+) -- Copyright ©1992, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.

Customer Reviews

Amateurs need this advice
Marion Dane Bauer's advice about fiction writing is orgainized in a way that's entertaining and easy to follow. Some of the points were a little painful at first, since I'd been doing just the wrong thing, but now that I've "seen the light" I like my own writing better.

The book is directed at young writers, with examples from children's books, but it's helpful for anyone, writing any kind of fiction.

Every writer needs this book
Marion Dane Bauer's book has been a tremendous help in my understanding good writing, and improving my own writing. Even after publishing three picture books and a novel for middle grade writers, I still like to reread her specific techniques and instructions on writing craft skills. If you are interested in any aspect of writing, you would certainly benefit from the information presented in this easy-to-use guide for authors.

Good until the Dissapointing Ending
Very good and informative, until the last chapter (getting published). It is so discouraging to think all the way when you are reading it "I can write, and maybe get a book published!" and then get put down. My personal view is that that chapter should be left out. But the other chapters are very good for a child grades 4-7.