Plot Perfect: How to Build Unforgettable Stories Scene by Scene

by Paula Munier

Overview

Build an Exceptional Plot, One Scene at a Time!

Think of your favorite story--the one that kept you turning pages late into the night, the one with a plot so compelling, so multilayered, so perfect that you couldn't put it down. How can you make your own plots--in your novels, short stories, memoirs, or screenplays--just as irresistible?

Plot Perfect provides the answer. This one-of-a-kind plotting primer reveals the secrets of creating a story structure that works--no matter what your genre. It gives you the strategies you need to build a scene-by-scene blueprint that will help elevate your fiction and earn the attention of agents and editors.

Inside, literary agent, editor, and author Paula Munier shows you how to:

   • Devise powerful plots and subplots and weave them together seamlessly
   • Organize your scenes for the greatest impact
   • Develop captivating protagonists, worthy antagonists, and engaging secondary characters
   • Use dialogue, setting, tone, and voice to enhance your plot
   • Layer, refine, and polish your storyline
   • Define your story in terms of its theme
Filled with writing exercises, plotting templates, and expert advice, Plot Perfect helps you dive into the intricacies of plot--and write a compelling story that readers won't be able to resist.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781599638188
Publisher:	Penguin Publishing Group
Publication date:	10/17/2014
Sold by:	Penguin Group
Format:	eBook
Pages:	282
File size:	2 MB

About the Author

Paula Munier is the Senior Literary Agent and Content Strategist at Talcott Notch Literary Services. A well-published journalist, author, copywriter, and ghostwriter, Paula has penned countless new stories, articles, essays, collateral, and blogs, as well as authoring/co-authoring more than a dozen books.

Table of Contents

Introduction 1

Part I What is Plot?

Chapter 1 The Power of Theme 4

Chapter 2 Subplots and Variations on Themes 17

Chapter 3 Action Is Character: Heroes, Villains, and Supporting Characters 31

Chapter 4 Scene: The Basic Unit of Plot 51

Part II The Theme-Based Three-Act Structure

Chapter 5 Your Plot in Three Acts 66

Chapter 6 Case Study: The Maltese Falcon 96

Chapter 7 Plus and Minus Scenes 127

Chapter 8 Act-by-Act Tips and Tricks 142

Part III Putting It All Together

Chapter 9 The Tapestry of Story 175

Chapter 10 Pacing: The Secret to Creating a Page-Turner 206

Chapter 11 Plot vs. Organizing Principle 223

Chapter 12 Your Plot Perfect Checklist 246

Editorial Reviews

"Paula Munier's Plot Perfect system is incredibly useful for experienced novelists and beginners alike. I was recently introduced to the system at a workshop, and I'm already using it to great effect! Plot Perfect is an invaluable tool for any writer." —Steve Ulfelder, Edgar-nominated author of Shotgun Lullaby

"Nothing can be more challenging for a writer than plot. The best storylines are the ones that resonate with readers even as they keep turning the pages. This theme-based plotting system—accessible, organized and unique—is an essential guide for creating a compelling storyline that wows readers and critics alike—whether you're plotting your first novel or your tenth!" —Hank Phillippi Ryan, Mary Higgins Clark, Agatha, Anthony, and Macavity winning author

"Having heard Paula Munier present her Plot Perfect plotting system, I've witnessed firsthand the enthusiastic response of published and unpublished writers. I think it's just the kind of system writers are looking for. As an editor, published author, and now agent, Paula has a unique perspective to share, and she knows how to convey even complicated ideas in ways that are easy even for novices to grasp." —Hallie Ephron

From the Publisher