Focused Backstory: The Key to Writing Deep Character Journeys
Learn how to write characters readers will love. Has an industry professional told you not to dump
character history at the beginning of your story? If so, you aren't alone. But what's the solution to this
common advice? Most writers take the time to design interesting characters with troubled pasts.
They long for readers to care about the characters' lives. However, the sad truth is on page one,
readers don't care—yet. That's why industry gurus tell writers to stop overusing character history,
also called backstory, at the beginning of stories.
Have you ever wondered... How to use backstory correctly? What are the ways other writers
successfully incorporate backstory into their work? Do tools exist to help writers better plan stories
so the backstory isn't such a problem?
In Focused Backstory: The Key to Writing Deep Character Journeys, you'll find answers to these
questions and more. You'll learn how to avoid the dreaded info-dump and instead harness curiosity
so readers keep turning pages. This resource breaks down focused backstory into simple pieces to
use flexibly in any story no matter what genre or length. Worksheets, tables, questionnaires, and templates will help you plan an engaging story with deep characters. Examples from popular stories will help you understand this method. You'll learn how to...
•design a character around a troubled past.
•create additional characters around the main character.
•weave interesting sub-plots within a character's journey toward healing.
•design proper obstacles that interfere with a character's goals.
•guide readers' emotions so they have a satisfying reading experience.
No matter what kind of writer you are, if you take the time to analyze the use of backstory, it will enhance your style. Focused Backstory: The Key to Writing Deep Character Journeys is the missing gadget in your writing tool kit.
