“Every story has one main question that it raises in the beginning and answers by the end.” - Savannah Gilbo

In this latest podcast episode, we'll explore a fundamental element of storytelling: the Major Dramatic Question (MDQ). From the outset of your story, readers should be gripped by this central question. Here’s a preview of what’s included:

[01:31] Savannah talks about why the major dramatic question (MDQ) of a story is a helpful question for writers and how you can find the MDQ of your story.

[04:27] What's going to help you write a story that's full of narrative drive (the thing that keeps readers turning the pages)?

[08:12] Once you know your story's Major Dramatic Question (MDQ), what do you do with it? 

[09:44] How your story’s MDQ can help during the publishing process and can pique a potential reader's interest. 

Links mentioned in this episode:Episode #2: How to Choose the Best Genre for Your StoryThe Fourth Wing by Rebecca YarrosNotes to Novel CourseUgly Love by Colleen HooverYellow Face by R. F. Kuang
 
 
 Want to write a novel but not sure where to start? Click here to grab a FREE copy of my Story Starter Kit workbook that'll help you get clarity on your characters, setting, theme, plot, and so much more! Support the Show. If you enjoyed this episode of the Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast, please rate, review, and follow this show! 

Follow me on Instagram @savannah.gilbo

#118: How To Find The Major Dramatic Question Of Your Story

How do I write a book? How do I create compelling characters that readers will love? How do I build a believable world for my story? What does it even mean to write a story that works? Do you have any writing tips? These are just some of the big questions that developmental editor and book coach, Savannah Gilbo, digs into on the Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast. Each week, Savannah shares actionable tools, tips, and strategies that will help you write, edit, and publish your book. So, whether you're brand new to writing, or a seasoned author looking to improve your craft, this podcast is for you!

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“We need to advance the plot and we need to develop the character. When you can marry the two, you have a strong scene.” - Abigail K. Perry

We’re taking a deep dive into Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins to see how and why it works. Join me and Abigail K. Perry as we break down this first chapter of the third book of The Hunger Games trilogy to see how it hooks our interest and pulls us into the story! Here's a preview of what's included:  

[04:03] Chapter summary: This opening chapter sets up themes of resistance, manipulation, and personal agency against a backdrop of political turmoil and survival

[07:41] Macro analysis, using Paula Munier’s 7 Key Questions: Suzanne Collins masterfully sets up the expectations by addressing the tone, themes, and stakes of "Mockingjay", ensuring readers are engaged and eager to uncover what lies ahead

[26:17] Microanalysis, using Story Grid’s 5 Commandments: In the opening scene, Katniss Everdeen deals with the pressure to become the Mockingjay. Her internal conflict regarding her future role intensifies, setting the stage for subsequent events in the story.

[53:13] Final thoughts: The opening scene balances macro and microelements, ensuring readers are engaged and invested from the start. Evaluating your opening chapter through this comprehensive lens is invaluable for effectively delivering the big picture and the intricate details to your audience.  Links mentioned in this episode:Check out the LitMatch Podcast with Abigail Perry here! You can also get in touch with Abigail through her website or on Instagram @abigailkperry.Episode #132 - First Chapter Analysis: The Hunger Games by Suzanne CollinsEpisode #136 - First Chapter Analysis: Catching Fire by Suzanne CollinsRead this episode's blog post here! Want to write a novel but not sure where to start? Click here to grab a FREE copy of my Story Starter Kit workbook that'll help you get clarity on your characters, setting, theme, plot, and so much more! Support the Show. If you enjoyed this episode of the Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast, please rate, review, and follow this show! 

Follow me on Instagram @savannah.gilbo

#140. First Chapter Analysis: Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

Telling a story through multiple viewpoints can be a great way to create a more expansive (and objective) look at your characters, world, plot, and/or theme. But with each additional viewpoint character you add to your story, the more room there is for mistakes. In this episode, I'm sharing the 5 most common multi POV mistakes writers make and how to avoid them in your draft.

Here’s a preview of what’s included:

[2:10] Mistake #1: Including too many POV characters without an intentional reason for including each one.

[6:10] Mistake #2: Not developing each POV character as if they were the protagonist of their own story—they lack their own goal, motivation, and conflict.

[9:01] Mistake #3: Not tying the characters' storylines together via a common plot problem, a central relationship, or binding their fates together.

[11:47] Mistake #4: Head hopping between different POV characters without making the switch clear to the reader.

[14:56] Mistake #5: Rehashing the same scene from different POVs without offering the reader new and potent  information.

Links Mentioned In This Episode:Ep. #7 - 5 Questions to Help You Write Better CharactersWant to write a novel but not sure where to start? Click here to grab a FREE copy of my Story Starter Kit workbook that'll help you get clarity on your characters, setting, theme, plot, and so much more! Support the Show. If you enjoyed this episode of the Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast, please rate, review, and follow this show! 

Follow me on Instagram @savannah.gilbo

#139: 5 Multi POV Mistakes (And How To Avoid Them)

“Writing is a creative project. It's not an earthquake, but the thoughts and the worries can feel similar. If I can have a positive association or feel prepared for an earthquake, surely I can do that for writing.” - Rhonda Douglas

Ever found yourself staring at the blank page, trying to write but unable to find the right words? You’re not alone! Tune in to hear Rhonda Douglas share strategies for managing creative anxiety and writer’s block.  Here’s a preview of what’s included

[01:29] What is creative anxiety and how does it commonly show up?

[12:13] The difference between preventive vs. curative measures for dealing with creative anxiety and some examples of each that you can implement in your routine

[32:21] Dividing the writing process into smaller segments, such as outlining part one of your book or focusing on just one paragraph, can help you overcome creative anxiety

[38:24] I adored Rhonda's insight in this episode about proactively addressing creative anxiety before it even kicks in during your writing sessions. It's such a brilliant notion! Plus, the beauty lies in how personalized this approach can be for each writer. Whether it's a quick meditation session, setting up a cozy ambiance with a flickering candle, or simply brewing a comforting cup of tea while rounding up your favorite snacks, the options are endless!

Links mentioned in this episode:Rhonda's websiteInstagramPodcast: The Resilient Writers Radio ShowRead this episode's blog post here!  Want to write a novel but not sure where to start? Click here to grab a FREE copy of my Story Starter Kit workbook that'll help you get clarity on your characters, setting, theme, plot, and so much more! Support the Show. If you enjoyed this episode of the Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast, please rate, review, and follow this show! 

Follow me on Instagram @savannah.gilbo

#138: How To Manage Your Creative Anxiety With Rhonda Douglas

“Focus your pre-writing and drafting and revising efforts on the present moment of your story.” - Daniel David Wallace

I asked five of my peers to share one of their favorite writing tips, and boy, did they deliver! Tune in to hear 5 editors and coaches talk about their favorite tip and why it’s so helpful. Here’s a preview of what’s included:

[01:40] Tip #1: Fully embrace scene structure in your storytelling process because the narrative will flow seamlessly from beginning to end.

[06:12] Tip #2: Keep your focus on the forward momentum of your story by avoiding excessive backstory or exposition that might slow down the pacing.

[11:05] Tip #3: Dedicate equal attention to crafting your protagonist's internal journey as you do to advancing the external plot of your story.

[14:48] Tip #4: Make the most of your story's midpoint to steer clear of the often chaotic middle of the second act. 

[21:52] Tip #5: If you hit a creative roadblock, assess which perspective you're currently in and try shifting to another viewpoint.

[27:26] It's so easy to overlook the three distinct perspectives—be it that of the author, character, or reader—which only adds unnecessary complexity. I find immense joy in discovering what resonates with others and moves the needle for them, particularly within the writing community. After all, different techniques suit different individuals, and exploring various perspectives from writers, coaches, and editors is invaluable.

Connect with Guests: Emily Golden Website
Story Magic Podcast
Instagram

Daniel David Wallace Website
Instagram

Nicole Meier Website
Steps to Story Podcast
Instagram

Abigail K. Perry Website
LitMatch Podcast
Instagram

Links Mentioned In This Episode:Episode #40: How to Write a Well-Structured SceneEpisode #99: 5 Mindset Tips to Help You Unlock Your Writing PotentialRead this episode's blog post here!Want to write a novel but not sure where to start? Click here to grab a FREE copy of my Story Starter Kit workbook that'll help you get clarity on your characters, setting, theme, plot, and so much more! Support the Show. If you enjoyed this episode of the Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast, please rate, review, and follow this show! 

Follow me on Instagram @savannah.gilbo

#137: 5 Tips For Writing Better Fiction (Even If You're Just Starting Out)

“Usually stakes start personal and they become public. That's a way of raising stakes, regardless of the genre.” - Savannah Gilbo

We’re diving deep into Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins to see how and why it works. Join me and Abigail K. Perry as we break down this first chapter to see how it hooks our interest and pulls us into the story! Here's a preview of what's included:  

[05:22] Chapter summary: This chapter focuses on Katniss, who is navigating life after winning the Hunger Games. There is a suggestion of impending conflict or tension on a larger scale and overall, the story explores themes of survival, resistance against oppressive systems, and the complexities of relationships under duress.

[13:31] Macro analysis, using Paula Munier’s 7 Key Questions: Suzanne Collins expertly lays the groundwork for an engaging and suspenseful story. Readers are likely to feel curiosity, concern, and wonder throughout the chapter. They are curious about the unfolding events, for Katniss's well-being and relationships, and intrigued by the dystopian world. 

[35:16] Micro analysis, using Story Grid’s 5 Commandments: Overall, this scene marks a turning point in the protagonist’s journey, throwing her into a more dangerous and complex conflict with President Snow. It sets the stage for the central conflicts of the narrative, particularly Katniss's struggle to navigate her public image and maintain her autonomy in a society ruled by fear and control.

[50:21] Final thoughts: This first chapter emphasizes the character development of Katniss and the intricate layers of stakes and decisions that drive the narrative forward. Ultimately, the discussion highlights the complexity of storytelling and the various paths that can lead to a compelling climax.

Links mentioned in this episode:Check out the LitMatch Podcast with Abigail Perry here! You can also get in touch with Abigail through her website or on Instagram @abigailkperry.The Writer's Guide to Beginnings by Paula MunierStory Grid by Shawn CoyneRead this episode's blog post here!Want to write a novel but not sure where to start? Click here to grab a FREE copy of my Story Starter Kit workbook that'll help you get clarity on your characters, setting, theme, plot, and so much more! Support the Show. If you enjoyed this episode of the Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast, please rate, review, and follow this show! 

Follow me on Instagram @savannah.gilbo

#118: How To Find The Major Dramatic Question Of Your Story

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