Title Leading Story - video

National bestselling children’s author R.L. Stine shares inspiration on how to come up with story ideas. He typically thinks of a great book title first, and then creates a story from the title. This technique is the reverse of what most authors would do, but it shows us that there is more than one way to create new stories. It is also a great example of how to play on our strengths. He knows what works for him and he replicates it every time. Find what works for you in story development, then leverage it every time.
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  • R.L. Stine thank you. That's exactly what happens with me. I think of a title and then I attempt to add the opening, middle and ending. So, I would like to be added to your list so that I can get help with the opening. Dottie. email:dewinnin@aol.com
  • I think I need help. Ad me to your circle so that I can discuss my problem with you. uniquejean@gmail.com. Thanks
  • I think of titles then think of ideas for the title. It's a great inspiration R.L Stine.
  • I like this! R.L. Stine -- you're inspirational. The plots for my stories sort of arrive fairly complete, suddenly and spontaneously, though the one with which I'm in the "book process" at the moment did indeed come from a title. It was thought up by an old friend who wrote; I have shamelessly copped it as he has passed on from this mortal coil. In my defense, however -- the characters, plot, and setting are entirely my own. Thanks for your unusual and very creative idea.
  • That's exactly what I do as well . . . not all the time but most times. Hmm, I thought I was weird lol For example a book I'm working on is called, 'Organized Chaos: Misery Loves Company' . . . that just popped into my head and so I created characters around the title and then develop a theme throughout the story. What I also do is use characters from other books and have them be the lead character. For beginners, creating stories from book titles is a great way to move forward and into the deep end of writing fiction.