Story Works Round Table | Conversations About Craft

In this week's episode of the Story Works Round Table, we are bringing you a discussion from our monthly live Q&A Ask Alida. In this episode, we talk about crafting a compelling character arc, and why it's important to your story, including common problems with character arcs, and weaving them into your story. In the second half, we discuss the importance of agency, how to tell if your protagonist is too passive, and what a lac...

In this episode of the Story Works Round Table, Sherry Roberts joins us to talk about the craft of telling stories using magical realism. Learn how magical realism interacts with story elements, how to introduce it to your reader, and the deeper thematic consequences of using magical realism in your fiction. Join us to learn how magical realism differs from magic systems, how it can support your story, and how it opens up possibili...

In this episode of the Story Works Round Table, we are joined by Helen Hynson Vettori, a former Department of Homeland Security senior medical intelligence analyst and paramedic, who brings her unique experiences to the world of fiction. Helen discusses her Black Swan trilogy, which explores the themes of catastrophe and human resilience through the lens of a pandemic, an earthquake, and a terrorist attack set in the future. Discov...

In this week's episode of the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn are joined by Stephen Ford to talk about exploring hard human issues through fiction. Stephen's use of speculative fiction and satire opens the discussion about what it means to be human, or how we encounter the issues of the day. We talk about crafting characters that are real people, representing a variety of viewpoints, how to get those viewpoints on the pa...

In this week's episode of the Story Works Round Table, we delve into the intricate relationship between setting and character development in our two-part episode. Join Alida, Kathryn, and our special guest, novelist Leigh Shalloway, as they explore how the environment shapes character arcs in storytelling. We'll discuss Leigh's Hilltown series and how she brings the setting to life, influencing her characters' journeys. If you're p...

In this week's episode of the Story Works Round Table, Alida Winternheimer and Kathryn Arnold welcome back Jan Heidrich-Rice, a talented author known for her mysteries and an engaging travel-humor memoir. Join us as Jan shares insights into her latest work, which reflects on 45 years of marriage and adventures across 50 states. With a blend of humor and heartfelt storytelling, Jan discusses the challenges and joys of capturing life...

In this week's episode of the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn are joined by Cevin Soling to talk about using satire to reveal truths. We talk about using absurdity, violence, cultural references, humor, and cutting satire to reveal truths about the world we live in. Join us as we discuss Cevin's work as a vehicle for social commentary and how it prompts people to reconsider their view of the world.

Novel Journey Informati...

In this week's episode of the Story Works Round Table, we are bringing you a discussion from our monthly live Q&A Ask Alida. In this episode, we talk about creating key settings, how to create touchstones for your readers as well as addressing common setting problems.

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FINALLY! After nearly two weeks of dealing with technical difficulties, we are so excited that you finally get to hear our interview with Jennia.

In this week's episode of the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn are joined by author and editor Jennia D'Lima. We discuss the nuanced craft of writing children's literature. It's much more complicated than just writing a poem and adding some pictures! We talk about theme, the wor...

In this week's episode of Story Works Round Table, Alida Winternheimer and Kathryn Arnold welcome acclaimed author, broadcaster, and musician Antonio Michael Downing. They delve into his novel, Black Cherokee, which tells the poignant coming-of-age story of a mixed-race girl navigating her identity amidst the complexities of her heritage. Antonio shares the inspiration behind the book, the extensive research he undertook, and the i...

In this week's episode of the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn are joined by Kerry Kriseman to discuss Kerry's memoir, Accidental First Lady, which provides an unfiltered look at life as a political spouse. Kerry shares her journey from writing news stories in college to crafting her memoir, highlighting the challenges of overcoming imposter syndrome and the fear of telling the truth. Tune in for insights on memoir writin...

In this week's episode of the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn explore the transformative power of journaling with Marcy Sproull. Join us as Marcy shares her journey into journaling, its therapeutic benefits, and how it can enhance creativity for writers. Discover practical journaling techniques, including the art of dialogue with your thoughts and characters, and learn how to use journaling as a tool for self-discov...

In this episode of the Story Works Round Table, we present a double episode featuring lively discussions from our monthly Ask Alida Q&A session. Join us as we explore the intricacies of crafting scenes and delve into the art of writing sequels and series. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting your journey, these conversations are packed with valuable insights to elevate your storytelling ...

In this week's episode of the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn are joined by Trish MacEnulty, an accomplished author known for her award-winning historical novels and mysteries. Together, we explore the essential role of voice in fiction, discussing how a strong narrative voice can captivate readers and set a story apart in a crowded literary landscape. Trish shares her insights on defining voice, the importance of indivi...

In this week's episode of the Story Works Round Table, Wendy Wessel, a talented voiceover artist based in Minneapolis, joined Alida Winternheimer at the Round Table. With a rich background in education and a passion for storytelling, Wendy shares her journey into the world of audiobooks. We explore the essential qualities of a great vocal performance, the emotional depth needed for effective narration, and the technical skills requ...

In this episode of the Story Works Round Table, we explore the profound significance of storytelling in human experience, discover why writing matters in a world increasingly influenced by technology, and how empathy plays a crucial role in storytelling. We delve into crafting emotions, avoiding melodrama, and the delicate balance between character interiority and external expression. We also touch on backstory, and knowing when to...

In this episode of Story Works Round Table, Alida Winternheimer and Kathryn Arnold engage in a lively discussion with debut novelist Arlon Jay Staggs, who brings an insightful conversation about Southern Fiction. With humor and affection, Arlon shares insights about the quirks of the Deep South, the significance of dialogue in Southern storytelling, and the cultural contradictions that shape the genre. Tune in as we explore Arlon's...

In this episode of Story Works Round Table, Alida Winternheimer and Kathryn Arnold are thrilled to welcome author Mark J. Wilson, whose journey from biochemistry to writing novels is as fascinating as his debut book, Full of Beans. Join us as we explore how Mark blends genres, from science fiction to mystery, and hear about his unique time-traveling detective, Phil Beans. Discover the creative process behind character development, ...

In this week's episode of the Story Works Round Table, Alida answers questions all about subplots. This is a recording of our monthly Ask Alida live Q&A over on Substack! Make sure you join us next time to get your questions answered and enjoy a fun chat about writing craft! In this episode, we talk about subplots, what they are, why they are important, and how to best utilize them in your writing!

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