Creating Characters: How to Build Story People - Softcover

Swain, Dwight V.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0898796628 ISBN 13: 9780898796629

Publisher: Writers Digest Books, 1994

Synopsis

The basics and fine points of successful fictional characters: traits, relationships, motivations, emotions, humor, strong dialog, and -- above all -- the ability to care. A first-class lesson in empathy and believability for all writers.

About this title

About the Author

Dwight V. Swain spent a lifetime writing newspaper and magazine articles, pulp fiction, and screenplays. For more than twenty years he taught in the Professional Writing Program at the University of Oklahoma. His popular books, Techniques of the Selling Writer and Creating Characters: How to Build Story People are published by the University of Oklahoma Press.

From School Library Journal

YA-- Young people seriously interested in creative writing will find this manual for developing fictional characters a rich source of detailed information. Students can browse through the 17 chapters, each titled and annotated, without reading the book from cover to cover. Swain talks to his readers in a conversational tone, suggesting techniques, giving examples to illuminate his points, and offering activities for sharpening character development skills. This is a book for those already committed to writing fiction and who want to think about the craft of writing.

Joyce H. Jones, Mount Vernon High School, Alexandria, VA

Copyright 1991 Cahners Business Information, Inc.

Edition details

• Publisher: Writers Digest Books
• Publication date: 1994
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0898796628
• ISBN 13: 9780898796629
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 195