Writing the Breakout Novel Workbook by Donald Maass

My bookshelf is straining under the weight ofdrives home the point for me. So in my case the
umpteen books on writing. But I continually try toworkbook was the perfect starting point. I found
improve my craft so when I had the opportunityit to be beneficial on its own.
to join a group that planned to work throughThe book is divided into three sections.
"Writing the Breakout Novel Workbook" I jumpedPart 1: Character Development
at the chance.Part 2: Plot Development
Donald Maass, the author, is the president andPart 3: General Story Techniques
founder of the Donald Maass Literary Agency. HeEach section is further divided into chapters with
teaches writing workshops and he's written novelsdiscussions, excerpts from published works and
under pseudonyms. Besides the workbook he'spractical exercises. There's also an excellent
written "The Career Novelist" and "Writing thesection in the back on outlining your novel,
Breakout Novel."creating the pitch and brainstorming. Whether
The blurbs all say the workbook builds on theyour story is complete or in progress the
success of it predecessor, "Writing the Breakoutsuggestions in this book will help you add depth to
Novel." I was afraid I might be missing outyour characters, increase tension and so much
because I didn't start with the companion book.more. It will help you write a really great novel.
Not so. I was told that the workbook covers thePublisher: Writers Digest Books (June 14, 2004)
same topics and has the advantage of theISBN: 158297263X
exercises at the end of each chapter. I'm one ofPaperback: 240 Pages
those people who find it difficult to learn just byPrice: $19.
reading. Writing, outlining and doing exercises