- Start as close to the end of the story as possible. There is no need to preface the story with loads of fluff if it's not relevant to the tale that you want to tell. Jump right into the action.
- Don't give away too much too early on. Tease the information a bit and let the story develop naturally at its own pace.
- Characters should have flaws and weaknesses. Even superheroes have vulnerabilities and are wrong every now and then. It makes them relatable and creates obstacles to achieve what they want in the story.
- Your main character must fail. They must make mistakes and struggle and face conflicts that have consequences. Challenges can be mental, physical, emotional, anything that counts as a setback that they need to work to overcome. Can you imagine if Harry Potter achieved everything that he attempted to in book one?
- Don't over explain things. Some gaps readers can fill in for themselves so there's no need to say things like, "she stood up and walked over to the door, then opened it and went outside". You can achieve the same point by saying, "she stood and went outside".
- Be true to your characters-even if that means making tough decisions. If the writer in you believes that the story should go a certain way, write it that way, no matter what the reader in you says. The stories that stay with you are the ones that challenge you and make you feel everything at once. I'm still not over The Fault in Our Stars.
- Your character should learn something or have a change in their view from the one that they had in the beginning. It sounds obvious but make sure that there is a point to writing your story. Take the reader on a journey and let them learn the lessons as your character does.
- It's okay not to tie up all the loose ends. I used to want to tie everything in a neat little bow but that's not always the best way to end a story. Sure, if it fits, go ahead and let your characters live happily ever after. But it is okay to leave some things to the reader's imagination-or use them as a lead in for a sequel.
- Paint the picture you see in your mind with your words. Remember that what you write is all that the reader has to see the picture that you see in your imagination. Make sure that you include all the things that you want them to see, feel, touch, smell and hear.
- Read young adult fiction books. Always keep reading. Reading refines your voice as a writer and helps to expand your imagination. Embrace your craft!
South Coast Sun by Claire Merchant
Forever Ruby