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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  • Offline
    V. helpful information for my second children's book. I am still learning, slowly but steadily getting there. Thank you.
  • My ideas usually come from my dreams. And I always cannot determine the title of my story even after I finished the whole story. I find it so hard to give my stories titles that I just name them according to the main characters until I had to create one.
  • Former Member
    Former Member
    I agree. Don't feel like you must have the title first. That's just Mr. Stine's approach. Write. Your title will likely be easier to define when the story is done, or even as it is evolving.
  • Former Member
    Former Member
    it's interesting to see how many people are using this same method. I guess it makes sense when you realize that the title could be a severely summarized concept and starting with it is no different than starting with a very clear picture of your story's concept. Thanks for sharing!
  • Former Member
    Former Member
    Hi Brad - so glad you related to R.L. Stine's method. I like that your art inspires the story you write. We all draw our inspiration for different sources and it's great that you know where yours comes from. Good luck to you!