Author: Jordan Smith
I’ve been studying the world of
fiction publishing and marketing for long enough to have heard plenty about the
importance of a good logline—or elevator pitch, or whatever you want to call
it. But recognizing your need for one and actually writing one are two very different ballgames.
Until Jordan Smith contacted me and
asked if I’d be willing to review his book for him, I’d never seen or even
heard of a book dedicated solely to the construction of a good logline. But
that’s exactly what Finding the Core of
Your Story is: a step-by-step, how-to guide to writing a logline sure to
catch the interest of potential publishers, agents, and readers.
Even if you’re new to the writing
and publishing thing and you’re not even sure what a logline is, that’s okay.
The author starts out with a straightforward explanation of the concept and purpose.
From there he builds on with basic logline templates, then expands even further
with concept ideas for using tools like irony, intersecting plot threads,
conflict, and even a chapter dedicated to giving characters individual
loglines. Even if you’re like me and your story has 14+ plot threads tangled
together, don’t worry. Read the chapter “Untangling the Threads of Your Story.”
Frustrated with trying to convey the uniqueness of your characters and/or story
world in just one concise sentence? Read the chapters “Tickle Me with Your
Adjective Feather” and “In a World Where…”
Even if you’re not to the point of
needing to pitch your book to editors/agents/publishers yet, a logline is still
a great tool to have on hand. Just this week I wrote a logline for the project
I’m tackling in NaNoWriMo this year. Doing so has helped me figure out the
characters and their motivations, as well as give me a core idea to focus on.
I could go on, but I’m sure you’re
starting to get the idea.
The thing that really made this book
super helpful and the logline writing process make so much sense were the
examples the author used. Rather than just telling you to “find what makes the
situation the most ironic and capture that in your logline,” he actually shows you how by writing loglines from
real movies and books. For someone like me, who learns best by example, it was
a huge help.
And if you’re writing one of those exceptional stories—you know, the ones that
defy all the models and break all the rules—he’s got you covered there, too,
not only with formats for handling those unique situations, but with great
guidelines for highlighting just exactly what it is that makes your story so
unique.
The author has a fun, conversational
voice and a humorous approach—complete with generous doses of hilarious
writers-only humor—that made this a delightful read.
Those of you who’ve been hanging
around here at the Lair for awhile will have read enough of my reviews to know
that I don’t just rave over any old book. But this is one of those special
times when I am totally comfortable raving. : P
I whole-heartedly endorse this
resource. Every writer—whether experienced or aspiring—should own a copy. Mine
has become one of the two most-used books in my writing resource library, no
joke.
Click Here to order Finding the Core of Your Story from Amazon!
I received a copy of this book free
of charge in exchange for my review, but was under no obligation to review it
favorably. My opinions are my own.
I've heard SO much about this book! I'm seriously considering buying it.
ReplyDeleteYou should. Seriously, it is SUPER helpful.
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