Every writer loves a good villain. The real kind, the one who makes readers grit their teeth, whisper “oh no,” and flip pages faster. But here’s the uncomfortable truth we don’t talk about enough: your Antagonist probably deserves a redemption arc… sort of. Not a full halo-and-harp redemption. Not a sudden personality transplant. But a…
We’ve all heard it: “Show, don’t tell.” But what does that actually mean when you’re staring down a blank page or slogging through a scene that feels… flat? If you’ve ever felt like your writing is more summary than story, or if you’re worried your characters are just talking heads in a white void, you’re…
You know that saying, “writing is a solitary act”? Yeah… that’s only half true. Sure, we all have those moments alone at the keyboard, staring down the blinking cursor with coffee in hand. But some of the best writing I’ve ever done? It didn’t happen in isolation—it happened in conversation. Whether you’re a seasoned author…
Hey fellow writers and curious souls! After nearly 30 years as a secondary school teacher—guiding students through essays, stories, and the occasional existential meltdown—I’ve finally traded in my classroom keys for full-time writing life. But don’t worry, the procrastination and writer’s block didn’t retire with me. Over the years, I’ve discovered some surprisingly effective productivity…
Let’s face it—dialogue can make or break a story. You’ve probably read a book or watched a movie where the conversation felt so real, you forgot you were reading. That’s the magic of well-written dialogue. But how do writers pull that off? Are they born with a gift for gab, or is it a skill…
Hey there, fellow wordsmiths! Whether you’re a seasoned author searching for a fresh narrative direction or an aspiring writer still figuring out exactly where your storytelling heart belongs, choosing the right genre can feel a bit like finding the perfect pair of shoes—it has to fit just right and feel comfortable from the start. As…
Hey there, fellow authors and aspiring storytellers! It’s your friendly neighborhood author and secondary teacher here, ready to dive into the exciting world of story pacing. Today, we’re unpacking a crucial element that can make or break your narrative – the art of balancing action and reflection. Whether you’re penning a high-octane thriller or a…
Hey there, fellow authors and aspiring wordsmiths! It’s your friendly neighborhood author and secondary teacher of writing and computer science here. Today, I’m diving into the exhilarating world of plot twists and tension. You know, those heart-racing, eyebrow-raising moments that keep your readers glued to the pages, eagerly flipping to find out what happens next….
Hey there, fellow educators and word enthusiasts! Today, I’m excited to dive into the psychological principles that turn pages and ignite minds. Think empathy, curiosity, and suspense – the secret ingredients to a captivating tale. Whether you’re penning your next novel or inspiring young writers in the classroom, understanding these principles can transform the way…
Hey there, fellow authors and aspiring storytellers! I’m excited to dive into something that’s both a passion and a profession for me—storytelling. As a secondary teacher who juggles the worlds of writing and computer science, I’ve found that the most compelling stories are those that weave in a bit of psychology. Why? Because understanding how…
