How to write a good story? These books may guide
What’s the story
Devdutt Pattanaik, the mythologist and author, has always been known for his unique take on Indian mythology and storytelling.
He has also recommended certain books that can help you understand the art of storytelling better.
These books give you insights into the techniques and elements that make a story engaging.
Here are five books that can help you master the art of storytelling, as per him.
‘The Hero with a Thousand Faces’
Joseph Campbell’s The Hero with a Thousand Faces explores the concept of the hero’s journey, a narrative pattern that appears in stories across cultures.
The book delves into the stages of this journey, giving writers a framework to develop their characters and plots.
By understanding these universal themes, storytellers can create relatable and compelling narratives that resonate with audiences.
‘The Art of Storytelling’
This book by John D. Walsh focuses on the techniques of storytelling.
It emphasizes the importance of structure, character development, and pacing in crafting engaging stories.
The book also provides practical tips for writers to refine their skills and connect with their audience effectively.
It is a great resource for anyone looking to enhance their storytelling abilities.
‘Story: Substance, Structure, Style and the Principles of Screenwriting’
Robert McKee’s Story is a must-read for screenwriters and storytellers alike.
The book dives deep into the principles of story construction, including conflict, character arcs, and dialogue writing.
McKee’s insights are based on his experience as a screenwriting instructor, making this book an invaluable guide for anyone wanting to write scripts or narratives for visual media.
‘The Writer’s Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers’
Christopher Vogler’s The Writer’s Journey builds on Joseph Campbell’s hero’s journey concept but specifically for writers.
It offers practical advice on how to use mythic structures in modern storytelling without losing creativity or originality.
The book includes examples from popular films and literature to illustrate its points effectively.
‘On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft’
Stephen King’s On Writing combines memoir with practical advice on writing fiction.
While sharing his own experiences as an author, King offers insights into what makes good stories work—characterization, setting development, plot construction, etc.
This book serves as both inspiration and guidance for aspiring writers looking to hone their craft through real-life examples from one of today’s most successful authors.
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