Kidlitchat Transcript – September 8 (part one)

8:02 pm gregpincus: 8:02 pm StephPellegrin: 8:03 pm thaliachaltas: 8:03 pm inkyelbows: 8:03 pm nomadshan: 8:03 pm joycelansky: 8:03 pm bonnieadamson: 8:03 pm EgmontUSA: 8:03 pm elizaosborn: 8:03 pm laurielyoung: 8:03 pm thaliachaltas: 8:03 pm swdillard: 8:03 pm marybrebner: 8:03 pm TheMeganRebekah: 8:03 pm rillajaggia: 8:04 pm BleeBonn: 8:04 pm bonnieadamson: 8:04 pm inkyelbows: 8:04 pm WriterRoss: 8:04 pm jennibly: 8:04 pm EgmontGal: 8:04 pm landlroecker: 8:04 pm rillajaggia: 8:04 pm nomadshan: 8:05 pm onbeyondwords: 8:05 pm etch_in_stone: 8:05 pm CynthiaCWillis: 8:05 pm StephPellegrin: 8:05 pm bonnieadamson: 8:05 pm EngridE1: 8:05 pm marybrebner: 8:05 pm joycelansky: 8:05 pm harperkarcz: 8:05 pm rillajaggia: 8:05 pm jennibly: 8:05 pm thaliachaltas: 8:05 pm elizaosborn: 8:05 pm landlroecker: 8:05 pm whimsicalwalney: 8:05 pm jeanie_w: 8:06 pm jimhill: 8:06 pm CREvers: 8:06 pm TheMeganRebekah: 8:06 pm bwileyjax: 8:06 pm cuppajolie: 8:06 pm bonnieadamson: 8:06 pm KindrilyKaren: 8:06 pm BleeBonn: 8:06 pm Casey_McCormick: 8:06 pm gregpincus: 8:06 pm MaryBDanielson: 8:06 pm dpeterfreund: 8:07 pm whimsicalwalney: 8:07 pm thaliachaltas: 8:07 pm swdillard: 8:07 pm bonnieadamson: 8:07 pm WriterRoss: 8:07 pm nomadshan: 8:07 pm llunalila: 8:07 pm whimsicalwalney: 8:07 pm gregpincus: 8:07 pm kathleenfoucart: 8:07 pm StephanieFeagan: 8:07 pm CREvers: 8:08 pm thaliachaltas: 8:08 pm laurielyoung: 8:08 pm KatGirl_Studio: 8:08 pm bwileyjax: 8:08 pm marybrebner: 8:08 pm jeanie_w: 8:08 pm littlefluffycat: 8:08 pm bonnieadamson: 8:08 pm joycelansky: 8:08 pm CynthiaCWillis: 8:08 pm jennibly: 8:08 pm Casey_McCormick: 8:08 pm SuePinto: 8:08 pm EgmontGal: 8:08 pm KatGirl_Studio: 8:08 pm debbieohi: 8:08 pm rillajaggia: 8:09 pm JSColley: 8:09 pm bonnieadamson: 8:09 pm jeanie_w: 8:09 pm PeriPam: 8:09 pm lindsayeland: 8:09 pm TheMeganRebekah: 8:09 pm lkblackburne: 8:09 pm SuePinto: 8:09 pm marybrebner: 8:09 pm nomadshan: 8:09 pm laurielyoung: 8:09 pm onbeyondwords: 8:09 pm CIsenhower: 8:09 pm tabithaolson: 8:09 pm bonnieadamson: 8:09 pm kimdkus: 8:09 pm BleeBonn: 8:09 pm aecbks: 8:10 pm bonnieadamson: 8:10 pm debbieohi: 8:10 pm peg366: 8:10 pm jimhill: 8:10 pm lkblackburne: 8:10 pm PattyJMurphy: 8:10 pm CynthiaCWillis: 8:10 pm llunalila: 8:10 pm jeanie_w: 8:10 pm JSColley: 8:10 pm CREvers: 8:10 pm elizaosborn: 8:10 pm gregpincus: 8:10 pm KatGirl_Studio: 8:10 pm thaliachaltas: 8:10 pm KatGirl_Studio: 8:10 pm nomadshan: 8:11 pm PeriPam: 8:11 pm swdillard: 8:11 pm debbieohi: 8:11 pm marybrebner: 8:11 pm PattyJMurphy: 8:11 pm ninaberry: 8:11 pm kimdkus: 8:11 pm peg366: 8:11 pm CynthiaCWillis: 8:11 pm debbieohi: 8:11 pm LHPlib: 8:11 pm joycelansky: 8:11 pm KateMessner: 8:11 pm jimhill: 8:11 pm PeriPam: 8:11 pm EgmontGal: 8:11 pm Shelltex: 8:12 pm thaliachaltas: 8:12 pm PattyJMurphy: 8:12 pm bonnieadamson: 8:12 pm debbieohi: 8:12 pm rillajaggia: 8:12 pm gregpincus: 8:12 pm johnlechner: 8:12 pm jeanie_w: 8:12 pm KindrilyKaren: 8:12 pm EgmontGal: 8:12 pm etch_in_stone: 8:12 pm landlroecker: 8:12 pm EKokie: 8:12 pm jeanie_w: 8:13 pm RebeccaMather: 8:13 pm jennibly: 8:13 pm rillajaggia: 8:13 pm tabithaolson: 8:13 pm EgmontGal: 8:13 pm RebeccaMather: 8:13 pm ninaberry: 8:13 pm swdillard: 8:13 pm CynthiaCWillis: 8:13 pm KateMessner: 8:13 pm lynnekelly: 8:13 pm EgmontGal: 8:13 pm thaliachaltas: 8:14 pm KatGirl_Studio: 8:14 pm debbieohi: 8:14 pm rillajaggia: 8:14 pm PattyJMurphy: 8:14 pm gregpincus: 8:14 pm bonnieadamson: 8:14 pm WriterRoss: 8:14 pm CIsenhower: 8:14 pm aecbks: 8:14 pm EgmontUSA: 8:14 pm EngridE1: 8:14 pm rillajaggia: 8:14 pm elizaosborn: 8:15 pm AudryT: 8:15 pm lkblackburne: 8:15 pm EngridE1: 8:15 pm CynthiaCWillis: 8:15 pm marybrebner: 8:15 pm debbieohi: 8:15 pm lindsayeland: 8:15 pm gregpincus: 8:15 pm ninaberry: 8:15 pm onbeyondwords: 8:15 pm CynthiaCWillis: 8:15 pm debbieohi: 8:15 pm johnlechner: 8:15 pm jennibly: 8:15 pm lkblackburne: 8:15 pm EgmontGal: 8:15 pm PattyJMurphy: 8:16 pm amylundebrek: 8:16 pm Idaho_Laurie: 8:16 pm KateMessner: 8:16 pm PeriPam: 8:16 pm ninaberry: 8:16 pm rillajaggia: 8:16 pm aecbks: 8:16 pm EngridE1: 8:16 pm jeanie_w: 8:16 pm KatGirl_Studio: 8:16 pm rillajaggia: 8:16 pm bonnieadamson: 8:16 pm EgmontGal: 8:16 pm thaliachaltas: 8:17 pm tabithaolson: 8:17 pm EKokie: 8:17 pm gregpincus: 8:17 pm EgmontUSA: 8:17 pm aecbks: 8:17 pm merylevans: 8:17 pm ktubb: 8:17 pm debbieohi: 8:17 pm PeriPam: 8:17 pm pvlundqvist: 8:17 pm Idaho_Laurie: 8:17 pm WriterRoss: 8:17 pm lioncaller: 8:17 pm EgmontGal: 8:18 pm thaliachaltas: 8:18 pm rillajaggia: 8:18 pm debbieohi: 8:18 pm KateMessner: 8:18 pm CynthiaCWillis: 8:18 pm joycelansky: 8:18 pm PattyJMurphy: 8:18 pm edithcohn: 8:18 pm jeanie_w: 8:18 pm ninaberry: 8:18 pm EgmontUSA: 8:18 pm whimsicalwalney: 8:18 pm gregpincus: 8:18 pm CynthiaCWillis: 8:18 pm johnlechner: 8:18 pm ktubb: 8:18 pm PattyJMurphy: 8:18 pm rillajaggia: 8:18 pm bonnieadamson: 8:19 pm EKokie: 8:19 pm debbieohi: 8:19 pm KateMessner: 8:19 pm jimhill: 8:19 pm tabithaolson: 8:19 pm amylundebrek: 8:19 pm marybrebner: 8:19 pm debbieohi: 8:19 pm JSColley: 8:19 pm lkblackburne: 8:19 pm Casey_McCormick: 8:19 pm rarararach: 8:19 pm rillajaggia: 8:19 pm EKokie: 8:20 pm gregpincus: 8:20 pm WriterRoss: 8:20 pm aecbks: 8:20 pm etch_in_stone: 8:20 pm CIsenhower: 8:20 pm ktubb: 8:20 pm lkblackburne: 8:20 pm bonnieadamson: 8:20 pm onbeyondwords: 8:20 pm PattyJMurphy: 8:20 pm BleeBonn: 8:20 pm EgmontGal: 8:20 pm planetalvina: 8:20 pm jennibly: 8:20 pm rillajaggia: 8:20 pm debbieohi: 8:20 pm joycelansky: 8:20 pm CREvers: 8:20 pm PeriPam: 8:20 pm thaliachaltas: 8:20 pm nomadshan: 8:20 pm AudryT: 8:20 pm debbieohi: 8:21 pm KatGirl_Studio: 8:21 pm edithcohn: 8:21 pm EgmontGal: 8:21 pm etch_in_stone: 8:21 pm Idaho_Laurie: 8:21 pm debbieohi: 8:21 pm PeriPam: 8:21 pm bonnieadamson: 8:21 pm KatGirl_Studio: 8:21 pm ktubb: 8:21 pm thaliachaltas: 8:21 pm AudryT: 8:21 pm WriterRoss: 8:22 pm DDHearn: 8:22 pm MaryBDanielson: 8:22 pm Idaho_Laurie: 8:22 pm rillajaggia: 8:22 pm bonnieadamson: 8:22 pm planetalvina: 8:22 pm elizaosborn: 8:22 pm PeriPam: 8:22 pm KateMessner: 8:22 pm gregpincus: 8:22 pm dpeterfreund: 8:22 pm AudryT: 8:22 pm PattyJMurphy: 8:22 pm Shelltex: 8:23 pm johnlechner: 8:23 pm EgmontGal: 8:23 pm joycelansky: 8:23 pm JSColley: 8:23 pm KatGirl_Studio: 8:23 pm rarararach: 8:23 pm elizaosborn: 8:23 pm lights_aurora: 8:23 pm ktubb: 8:23 pm Idaho_Laurie: 8:23 pm thaliachaltas: 8:23 pm EKokie: 8:23 pm jeanie_w: 8:24 pm rillajaggia: 8:24 pm onbeyondwords: 8:24 pm nomadshan: 8:24 pm DDHearn: 8:24 pm EgmontGal: 8:24 pm gregpincus: 8:24 pm rillajaggia: 8:24 pm thaliachaltas: 8:24 pm amylundebrek: 8:24 pm AudryT: 8:24 pm lights_aurora: 8:24 pm PeriPam: 8:24 pm tabithaolson: 8:24 pm EngridE1: 8:24 pm johnlechner: 8:24 pm rarararach: 8:24 pm DDHearn: 8:25 pm lindsayeland: 8:25 pm jennibly: 8:25 pm ktubb: 8:25 pm lynnekelly: 8:25 pm etch_in_stone: 8:25 pm jimhill: 8:25 pm jeanie_w: 8:25 pm MaryBDanielson: 8:25 pm lights_aurora: 8:25 pm gregpincus: 8:25 pm maggiedana: 8:25 pm EngridE1: 8:25 pm kathleenfoucart: 8:25 pm CynthiaCWillis: 8:25 pm rillajaggia: 8:26 pm Shelltex: 8:26 pm thaliachaltas: 8:26 pm lynnekelly: 8:26 pm KateMessner: 8:26 pm EngridE1: 8:26 pm LiaKeyes: 8:26 pm bonnieadamson: 8:26 pm EgmontGal: 8:26 pm blayze316: 8:26 pm thaliachaltas: 8:26 pm whimsicalwalney: 8:26 pm jimhill: 8:26 pm jeanie_w: 8:26 pm BleeBonn: 8:26 pm planetalvina: 8:26 pm PattyJMurphy: 8:26 pm tabithaolson: 8:26 pm elizaosborn: 8:26 pm lights_aurora: 8:26 pm etch_in_stone: 8:26 pm laurielyoung: 8:26 pm EngridE1: 8:27 pm thaliachaltas: 8:27 pm rarararach: 8:27 pm bonnieadamson: 8:27 pm onbeyondwords: 8:27 pm SuePinto: 8:27 pm joycelansky: 8:27 pm jennibly: 8:27 pm KatGirl_Studio: 8:27 pm rillajaggia: 8:27 pm peg366: 8:27 pm leewind: 8:27 pm thaliachaltas: 8:27 pm CREvers: 8:27 pm EKokie: 8:27 pm Casey_McCormick: 8:27 pm EllenHopkinsYA: 8:27 pm edithcohn: 8:27 pm CynthiaCWillis: 8:27 pm DDHearn: 8:27 pm KindrilyKaren: 8:28 pm StephanieFeagan: 8:28 pm elizaosborn: 8:28 pm llunalila: 8:28 pm jeanie_w: 8:28 pm lioncaller: 8:28 pm gregpincus: 8:28 pm jodotha: 8:28 pm alijwalker: 8:28 pm lynnekelly: 8:28 pm rarararach: 8:28 pm LiaKeyes: 8:28 pm rillajaggia: 8:28 pm bonnieadamson: 8:28 pm tabithaolson: 8:28 pm DDHearn: 8:28 pm EgmontGal: 8:28 pm jennibly: 8:28 pm kathleenfoucart: 8:29 pm etch_in_stone: 8:29 pm elizaosborn: 8:29 pm rarararach: 8:29 pm KatGirl_Studio: 8:29 pm leewind: 8:29 pm thaliachaltas: 8:29 pm SuePinto: 8:29 pm rillajaggia: 8:29 pm bonnieadamson: 8:29 pm jeanie_w: 8:29 pm gregpincus: 8:29 pm debbieohi: 8:29 pm kathleenfoucart: 8:29 pm DDHearn: 8:29 pm thaliachaltas: 8:29 pm dpeterfreund: 8:29 pm bonnieadamson: 8:29 pm EKokie: 8:30 pm merylevans: 8:30 pm jennibly: 8:30 pm jodotha: 8:30 pm rillajaggia: 8:30 pm RebeccaMather: 8:30 pm AudryT: 8:30 pm joycelansky: 8:30 pm ckmarciniak: 8:30 pm kimberlyjsmith: 8:30 pm EngridE1: 8:30 pm tabithaolson: 8:30 pm bonnieadamson: 8:30 pm johannaharness: 8:30 pm joycelansky: 8:30 pm debbieohi: 8:30 pm swdillard: 8:30 pm Idaho_Laurie: 8:30 pm kathleenfoucart: 8:30 pm elizaosborn: 8:31 pm Shelltex: 8:31 pm JenniferBWhite: 8:31 pm StephanieFeagan: 8:31 pm tabithaolson: 8:31 pm AudryT: 8:31 pm gregpincus: 8:31 pm EllenHopkinsYA: 8:31 pm KatGirl_Studio: 8:31 pm nomadshan: 8:31 pm bonnieadamson: 8:31 pm DDHearn: 8:31 pm debbieohi: 8:31 pm marybrebner: 8:31 pm LiaKeyes: 8:31 pm jodotha: 8:31 pm mgbuehrlen: 8:31 pm thaliachaltas: 8:31 pm bonnieadamson: 8:31 pm EgmontGal: 8:31 pm alijwalker: 8:31 pm llunalila: 8:32 pm rillajaggia: 8:32 pm kathleenfoucart: 8:32 pm MyraMcEntire: 8:32 pm johannaharness: 8:32 pm lynnekelly: 8:32 pm tabithaolson: 8:32 pm EKokie: 8:32 pm lights_aurora: 8:32 pm pvlundqvist: 8:32 pm uppington: 8:32 pm LJBoldyrev: 8:32 pm CIsenhower: 8:32 pm rillajaggia: 8:32 pm merylevans: 8:32 pm llunalila: 8:32 pm debbieohi: 8:32 pm etch_in_stone: 8:32 pm elizaosborn: 8:32 pm Casey_McCormick: 8:32 pm KindrilyKaren: 8:32 pm LiaKeyes: 8:32 pm DDHearn: 8:33 pm ktubb: 8:33 pm kathleenfoucart: 8:33 pm onbeyondwords: 8:33 pm jennibly: 8:33 pm gregpincus: 8:33 pm edithcohn: 8:33 pm bonnieadamson: 8:33 pm KatGirl_Studio: 8:33 pm EKokie: 8:33 pm swdillard: 8:33 pm EgmontGal: 8:33 pm EngridE1: 8:33 pm tabithaolson: 8:33 pm thaliachaltas: 8:33 pm rillajaggia: 8:33 pm gregpincus: 8:33 pm elizaosborn: 8:33 pm MyraMcEntire: 8:33 pm johannaharness: 8:33 pm bonnieadamson: 8:34 pm joycelansky: 8:34 pm EngridE1: 8:34 pm leewind: 8:34 pm LiaKeyes: 8:34 pm alijwalker: 8:34 pm littlefluffycat: 8:34 pm johnlechner: 8:34 pm rillajaggia: 8:34 pm PattyJMurphy: 8:34 pm elizaosborn: 8:34 pm KatGirl_Studio: 8:34 pm johannaharness: 8:34 pm thaliachaltas: 8:34 pm merylevans: 8:34 pm EllenHopkinsYA: 8:34 pm DDHearn: 8:34 pm lynnekelly: 8:35 pm edithcohn: 8:35 pm rillajaggia: 8:35 pm jeanie_w: 8:35 pm elizaosborn: 8:35 pm onbeyondwords: 8:35 pm mgbuehrlen: 8:35 pm RebeccaMather: 8:35 pm KarenDuvall: 8:35 pm nomadshan: 8:35 pm CIsenhower: 8:35 pm jodotha: 8:35 pm rillajaggia: 8:35 pm AudryT: 8:35 pm bonnieadamson: 8:36 pm maggiedana: 8:36 pm thaliachaltas: 8:36 pm EgmontGal: 8:36 pm leewind: 8:36 pm ktubb: 8:36 pm johannaharness: 8:36 pm jodotha: 8:36 pm bonnieadamson: 8:36 pm mgbuehrlen: 8:36 pm PattyJMurphy: 8:36 pm KatGirl_Studio: 8:36 pm rillajaggia: 8:36 pm DDHearn: 8:36 pm WriterRoss: 8:36 pm AudryT: 8:36 pm LiaKeyes: 8:36 pm jeanie_w: 8:36 pm alijwalker: 8:37 pm edithcohn: 8:37 pm lioncaller: 8:37 pm elizaosborn: 8:37 pm CynthiaCWillis: 8:37 pm debbieohi: 8:37 pm johannaharness: 8:37 pm rillajaggia: 8:37 pm bonnieadamson: 8:37 pm joycelansky: 8:37 pm kathleenfoucart: 8:37 pm gregpincus: 8:37 pm PeriPam: 8:37 pm thaliachaltas: 8:37 pm tabithaolson: 8:37 pm nomadshan: 8:37 pm swati505: 8:37 pm MyraMcEntire: 8:37 pm LiaKeyes: 8:37 pm heidi_heidi_ho: 8:37 pm amylundebrek: 8:37 pm maggiedana: 8:37 pm peg366: 8:37 pm jimhill: 8:38 pm joycelansky: 8:38 pm rillajaggia: 8:38 pm johannaharness: 8:38 pm CynthiaCWillis: 8:38 pm VeroPettingill: 8:38 pm KatGirl_Studio: 8:38 pm kathleenfoucart: 8:38 pm mgbuehrlen: 8:38 pm StephanieFeagan: 8:38 pm EngridE1: 8:38 pm gregpincus: 8:38 pm leewind: 8:38 pm thaliachaltas: 8:38 pm jennibly: 8:38 pm bonnieadamson: 8:38 pm EgmontGal: 8:38 pm jodotha: 8:38 pm PattyJMurphy: 8:38 pm StephanieFeagan: 8:38 pm ktubb: 8:38 pm alijwalker: 8:38 pm tabithaolson: 8:39 pm kathleenfoucart: 8:39 pm jodotha: 8:39 pm storyexperiment: 8:39 pm Casey_McCormick: 8:39 pm hatbooks: 8:39 pm EKokie: 8:39 pm johannaharness: 8:39 pm EllenHopkinsYA: 8:39 pm KindrilyKaren: 8:39 pm Shelltex: 8:39 pm thaliachaltas: 8:39 pm mgbuehrlen: 8:39 pm kathleenfoucart: 8:39 pm leewind: 8:39 pm rillajaggia: 8:40 pm uppington: 8:40 pm jeanie_w: 8:40 pm mgbuehrlen: 8:40 pm blayze316: 8:40 pm joycelansky: 8:40 pm PeriPam: 8:40 pm MyraMcEntire: 8:40 pm EngridE1: 8:40 pm alijwalker: 8:40 pm KatGirl_Studio: 8:40 pm jennibly: 8:40 pm lights_aurora: 8:40 pm elizaosborn: 8:40 pm peg366: 8:40 pm ktubb: 8:40 pm johannaharness: 8:40 pm VeroPettingill: 8:40 pm bonnieadamson: 8:40 pm DDHearn: 8:40 pm edithcohn: 8:40 pm leewind: 8:40 pm EgmontGal: 8:40 pm rillajaggia: 8:40 pm AudryT: 8:40 pm Shelltex: 8:41 pm KatGirl_Studio: 8:41 pm EKokie: 8:41 pm elizaosborn: 8:41 pm PattyJMurphy: 8:41 pm LiaKeyes: 8:41 pm KindrilyKaren: 8:41 pm CynthiaCWillis: 8:41 pm ktubb: 8:41 pm EllenHopkinsYA: 8:41 pm jeanie_w: 8:41 pm storyexperiment: 8:41 pm thaliachaltas: 8:41 pm jennibly: 8:41 pm jodotha: 8:41 pm leewind: 8:41 pm AudryT: 8:41 pm tabithaolson: 8:42 pm karenkincy: 8:42 pm rillajaggia: 8:42 pm EgmontGal: 8:42 pm bonnieadamson: 8:42 pm PeriPam: 8:42 pm EllenHopkinsYA: 8:42 pm EKokie: 8:42 pm CIsenhower: 8:42 pm thaliachaltas: 8:42 pm KindrilyKaren: 8:42 pm DDHearn: 8:42 pm EgmontGal: 8:42 pm dlschubert: Topic: how do you approach plot? Do you start from templates (ala “the quest story”) or let character determine plot or…? #kidlitchat
@mrsmegc You can click on the magnifying glass at the top of tweetdeck and type #kidlitchat and it will open a new column.
@jeanie_w Oooh, thanks Jeanie! I am still learning. #kidlitchat
Hello all! I have a bit of work to do but will be lurking. Hopefully I can participate more later in the chat. #kidlitchat
For current MG fantasy, used hero’s journey as a model. #kidlitchat
@gregpincus I know we’re supposed to plan ahead but I’m a go by the seat of my pants kind of girl. #kidlitchat
RT @gregpincus: Topic: how do you approach plot? Do you start from templates (ala “the quest story”) or …? #kidlitchat
@lindsayeland Hi Lindsay! #kidlitchat
@gregpincus This is gonna be a VERY interesting chat, with that topic! Thank you! #kidlitchat
@gregpincus Oh-good! Plot is something I really need to work on! #kidlitchat
@gregpincus Character, then a bit of mapping out in general, then always back to character #kidlitchat
@gregpincus I usually start with the character and they help me determine the plot. If I’m lucky. #kidlitchat
Just had this weird image of all these writers, fingers poised over keyboards, waiting with bated breath for @gregpincus heehee #kidlitchat
My plot sprouted from a single sentence, and I kept asking myself why. Why would this happen? And why that? #kidlitchat
@gregpincus Great Topic! I suspect the answer is many of the above and then some as the plot thickens. #kidlitchat
Hi everyone on #kidlitchat
I’d especially like to hear from picture-book plotters . . . #kidlitchat
#kidlitchat on NOW. Topic: how do you approach plot? Twitterchat tips: http://bit.ly/writerchats
I try not to let anyone tell me what to write. Even me. ;> #kidlitchat
I let the character direct me. After a few thousand words, once the ideas start coming up, I usually stop and make an outline. #kidlitchat
Has anyone had books or courses that really helped them with plot? #kidlitchat
Hi everyone! We usually start with a general idea of what we want to have happen and our MC then the plot evolves from there #kidlitchat
@marybrebner Ha ha ha….image not weird, image accurate! #kidlitchat
I use a color-coded, multi-tab spreadsheet to map plot . YAY spreadsheets! #kidlitchat
For me plot is like the ignition that starts the story – then the character takes over – it’s my first #kidlitchat – hi everyone
#kidlitchat (first time joining in) I usually get characters & follow whatever story they wantIf something feels off, I’ll do some plotting
Hi everyone! Love the topic! I approach plot with outlining.To begin with. #kidlitchat
I usually have one specific scene that comes to mind first, then kind of build on that. #kidlitchat
RT @EgmontGal: Has anyone had books or courses that really helped them with plot? #kidlitchat
My MG adventure plot just came to me one day, the story sort of “just happened” #kidlitchat
My last two plots started with worlds I wanted characters to live in…kind of backwards, I guess. Then characters came along. #kidlitchat
@TheMeganRebekah My plot started with a visit to The Crime & Punishment Museum in DC. 1 sentence in an exhibit struck an idea. #kidlitchat
I start w/ an interesting character and a basic problem. But then I wind up needing 2 – 3 rewrites before I find the real story #kidlitchat
Once I started with a setting, and the plot developed from there. #kidlitchat
@nomadshan Wow! Wish I had that kind of discipline. #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal Robin LaFevers has done a brilliant plot workshop here in California – she is ON IT. #kidlitchat
For me, it’s idea > character > template > light storyboarding > detailed outlining. #kidlitchat
Also, you should know that my sister calls me the idea whore. I’m known to get random ideas for books and call her at 2 AM. #kidlitchat
@bonnieadamson I too would like to hear from picture book writers re: plot. #kidlitchat
@gregpincus Great topic! #kidlitchat
@bonnieadamson I usually “see” a pb scene in my head, let it play out of control and then trim, trim trim to fit. #kidlitchat
I start w/ an idea and then figure out what characters I need.Then the characters personalities and actions mold the plot #kidlitchat
@joycelansky Funny how that’s all it take. One sentence to build an entire booK! #kidlitchat
#kidlitchat I start with the basic story idea and let the characters determine where the story goes. After a start, then I map.
Elana Roth is on the same page with the chat tonight. Her talk is Plot and Pacing. #kidlitchat
Does anyone use formula for pb plot? #kidlitchat
My plot came like random colorful puzzle pieces. Luckily the all linked together in the end. #kidlitchat
I just go with the character. I just realized my current WIP is not a quest even though its urban fantasy #kidlitchat
I approach plot with a lot of angst and whining. Then character & outlining. Whatever speaks to my sanity. #kidlitchat #kidlitchat
Do whole plots come full formed out of the air for many of us? Or do broad arcs arrive and we fill in the dots to make it work #kidlitchat
#kidlitchat Love this topic. I always, always, always start with an outline first, then change it for the characters as they develop more.
I believe character IS plot. My plots are always defined by what a given character would do in a given situation. #kidlitchat
Since I’m new to kidlit writing, my plots are derived from stories I’ve had in my head for a while. #kidlitchat
#kidlitchat Oh my, I can see why you peoples use both tweetchat AND tweetdeck!
@jimhill I do just the opposite– build and build instead of trim… just try to push it as far as it can go… #kidlitchat
@jimhill Me, too, Jim–I’m looking for a more efficient method! #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal McKEE’s STORY; Donald Maass’s WRITING THE BREAKOUT NOVEL. Both incredibly helpful when discussing plot’s how-to’s #kidlitchat
I love-love-love teh Snowflake Method for character + plot development http://bit.ly/esiYr #kidlitchat
Hi from Europe! It depends on MSS but most are chracter driven & then plot from main problem they have #kidlitchat
@gregpincus I have an overall scheme and message that I want to convey and work from there. #kidlitchat
@cuppajolie Y’all don’t start for an hour there, right? Let’s see your whole group here at #kidlitchat!
Ack, sorry I’m late… My stories always start from characters, I find plots as I follow them. #kidlitchat
I know my main character, and how it ends, then write to that. #kidlitchat
@bonnieadamson I didn’t take a course or read a book on plot, but I disscected The Hunger Games. Revolutionized my plot strategy #kidlitchat
@gregpincus That would be magic, wouldn’t it, if the whole plot came out of the air?? Mine doesn’t work that way… #kidlitchat
I start with the character, but I often get lost halfway through. Then I have to sit down and figure out what happens. #kidlitchat
For my YA COR I started by building the world, then the character and the story came from that. #kidlitchat
#kidlitchat For my picturebooks I try to imagine the story developing with each page turn and plot accordingly.
I have to work to develop my plot. Start w/ basic idea, outline, then shade in as I go-building like @swdillard #kidlitchat
@gregpincus I get more of the broad arcs and fill in details as I write. #kidlitchat
@gregpincus *raises hand* whole plot. . . #kidlitchat
@nomadshan Oh–I’ve heard of that! Do you have a link to that site? #kidlitchat
@gregpincus Depends. My 1st novel was missing a minor thing called plot. I added it later. I’m doing better w/ that now. #kidlitchat
The more I work on my basic plot structure, the more details come to me, the more I am able to beef up the plot. #kidlitchat
@gregpincus Broad arcs for me. Beginning and middle-ish, no end at first. Then I see what happens. #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal Plot and Structure by James Scott Bell has been really great for me. #kidlitchat
@bonnieadamson My plots come directly from my life and kids. I write very much what I know. I haven’t developed my fantasy side #kidlitchat
@CREvers I admire the economy of words in Hunger Games she gets so much across so quickly. I adore that book #kidlitchat
Then I found a line I had written a long time ago and now the whole project revolves around that one line. #kidlitchat
@CREvers How did dissecting The Hunger Games revolutionize your plot strategy? I’m hugely curious. #kidlitchat
Once an opening sentence for a book came when i was in my fave place…I don’t think there’s a formula but there must be an arc. #kidlitchat
#kidlitchat I have general idea of the beg, mid, and end but adjust along the way.
@CREvers Interesting! I’ve tried to study favorites, but can’t be objective enough. #kidlitchat
@gregpincus Altho, sometimes I’ll get specific scenes first. #kidlitchat
I’m a dedicated index-card-ist #kidlitchat
idea or character comes first, then a lot of freewriting, onto a synopsis and finally a light outline #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal I adore Hunger Games for that reason too! So deep yet to the point #kidlitchat
I usually start with a cool idea, or a cool climax scene, and work that into a story #kidlitchat
@jimhill I also see my pb and mg as a scene or movie and write what I “see”. #kidlitchat
@KatGirl_Studio Yea! Thought I was a rare bird for that type of idea–but I like to imagine the worlds characters inhabit first #kidlitchat
@BonnieAdamson Snowflake Method http://bit.ly/esiYr #kidlitchat
@CREvers What a great idea (dissecting existing book) #kidlitchat
@bonnieadamson I have some pic books under development – it’s plot first then, I get to know the character and let it evolve #kidlitchat
I write multiple plot lines all out of order. One 4 character, one 4 action, one 4 evil guy. All stand alone. Then I weave. #kidlitchat
I love plot. I always have a road map for my characters with major points along the way, but I let them decide how to get there #kidlitchat
RT @debbieohi: @CREvers How did dissecting The Hunger Games revolutionize your plot strategy? Im hugely curious. me, too. #kidlitchat
#kidlitchat: I do what sounds exciting to me, then plop the character into the story.
coming up with the plot and subplots has been different with each book. #kidlitchat
RT @nomadshan: @BonnieAdamson Snowflake Method http://bit.ly/esiYr #kidlitchat
RT @nomadshan: @BonnieAdamson Snowflake Method http://bit.ly/esiYr<–Thank you! #kidlitchat
<– Trying to finish a writing critique but am finding this chat way too interesting. =:-O #kidlitchat
#kidlitchat I might roll them round in my head for days before I do anything with it.
@swdillard I have a hard time cramming it all in to 32 pages, hence the trimming, but playing it out first is critical. #kidlitchat
I use an outline, but it chagnes as my characters and plot develop #kidlitchat
I usally let my characters tell me where they want to go. #kidlitchat
@CIsenhower Now that’s interesting!!! #kidlitchat
@thaliachaltas can’t keep up with 1! Wouldn’t be able to follow both methods! #kidlitchat
When it comes to learning plot, I find nothing beats reading successful novels. #kidlitchat
@KindrilyKaren Isn’t it funny what will trigger an idea for a plot? #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal me too. I just finished Catching Fire. Luv’d it! Even my hubby liked it and he doesn’t usually get into YA. #kidlitchat
Writers Digest has FIRST DRAFT IN 30 DAYS, which really helped me through my (third) draft, just remembering pacing & stuff. #kidlitchat
So many folks start off by knowing a character they must write about. Some have a plot and work to fit a character in! #kidlitchat
has anyone used “phase plotting”? #kidlitchat
@debbieohi sorry, we’ll be more boring. #kidlitchat
I just found out about it the other day and have started using that to plot out the missing pieces of COR #kidlitchat
@CREvers Cool idea to dissect a great book! #kidlitchat
Screenwriting books and DVDs have great plot tips too #kidlitchat
@jimhill right, I see what you mean– I guess I do trim after playing it out.. #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal I admired that about Hunger Games too (the economy of words). Just started Catching Fire. #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal Me, too. Had a moment of writer’s jealousy then writing crisis imagining I’ll never write like that…past it now! #kidlitchat
@debbieohi hi, deb…good to see you here:) #kidlitchat
I outline my plot or get bogged down in middle. I use screenplay models – but character arc first. plot serves that. #kidlitchat #kidlitchat
I do what sounds exciting, then plop in the character. #kidlitchat
RT @jeanie_w: When it comes to learning plot, I find nothing beats reading successful novels. #kidlitchat
@jeanie_w I agree! But great novels teach in so many ways, don’t they? #kidlitchat
@thaliachaltas re: being more boring. Oh yes, please, I’d appreciate that. #kidlitchat
I have an idea for a character & fuzzy idea for plot. I write, then plan out plot further once I read a writer’s block. #kidlitchat
Lois Lowry wrote an article about characters. She never gets fan mail saying they like her plot. It’s all about the characters. #kidlitchat
At the treadmill desk, just catching up on #kidlitchat
@CIsenhower that sounds interesting. Have to try it. #kidlitchat
It’s got its cheesy elements but I like Sid Fields’ screenwriting DVD for plotting methods #kidlitchat
What is “phase plotting” I have been trying to help writers who don’t have enough plot for YEARS and am not usually very helpful #kidlitchat
Don’t use formula for PB plot but seem to need it for novels. #kidlitchat
@joycelansky Well isn’t that a great point! #kidlitchat
@gregpincus I like to interview my characters. Get to know them and who they are…what they like, what they might do or not do. #kidlitchat
@KatGirl_Studio I’ve got the article bookmarked–is it working for you? #kidlitchat
For plot, I use mindmapping and also phase drafting. #kidlitchat
@ninaberry yes, i’ve recently started working with screenplay models. They’re great for focus. #kidlitchat
@PattyJMurphy So would you say your characters have inate story arc sense? For me, sometimes a plot point can change a character #kidlitchat
For picture books, I write spontaneously starting with an idea, and see where it takes me (sometimes nowhere!) #kidlitchat
@CynthiaCWillis And sometimes I learn what not to do from reading novels with weak plots. #kidlitchat
@JSColley Funny what triggers it, then amazing how once the trigger is pulled, the bullets wont stop flying! #kidlitchat
@KateMessner What the hell is the treadmill DESK? Sounds like a contradiction in terms. #kidlitchat
@jeanie_w and in that vein, also reading less successful stories – seeing what works and what doesn’t and then comparing why #kidlitchat
@PeriPam YES – we’ve found a number of websites about screenwriting very useful when it comes to plots and outlines #kidlitchat
Hello all. #kidlitchat
@etch_in_stone Good point! #kidlitchat
What is “phase plotting” I have been trying to help writers who don’t have enough plot for YEARS and am not usually very helpful #kidlitchat
@joycelansky Probably because her plotting is successful enough not to distract from those wonderful characters. #kidlitchat
@jeanie_w Yes…I tend to learn a lot from what I don’t like about what not to do. #kidlitchat
The way I write plot seems to change with every project. Sometimes it starts with the event, and sometimes the character. #kidlitchat
@PeriPam you’re great at plot and everyone keeps telling me how useful that screenplay DVD is. I’m going to buy it. #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal so glad you asked that #kidlitchat
@rillajaggia. Yes, screenplay structure makes you put in the arcs, keep your middle from sagging, or I hope it does! #kidlitchat #kidlitchat
@landlroecker for picture book plotting and pacing I like sitcoms.. #kidlitchat
@jeanie_w LOL!! That’s absolutely true! Sometimes via reading we see exactly what NOT to do! #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal Laptop set up on a board that runs across treadmill’s arms – I type and walk 3mph. (helps plot move quickly…ha!) #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal I like the Blockbuster Plots books, & they have a workshop on DVD for kid’s writers. #kidlitchat
Also, who is the teacher who breaks down Casablanca line by line over a weekend? Bruce Coville credits him with a lot #kidlitchat
@debbieohi Mindmapping?? Do tell, Debbie! #kidlitchat
@bonnieadamson Can you post the link for @EgmontGal i don’t have it on this computer #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal Don’t know if phase plotting = phase drafting, but here’s how @johannaharness describes it: http://bit.ly/3jMH7f #kidlitchat
RT @tabithaolson: The way I write plot seems to change with every project. . #kidlitchat
@gregpincus It’s like the whole chicken/egg thing, you have to be true to your characters, but they have 2 have somewhere to go. #kidlitchat
Re: screenwriting – part of this #kidlitchat topic came up in regards to the NYT article about Spike Jonze/Wild Things http://bit.ly/8VuIe
@EgmontGal Phase plotting: http://bit.ly/11dr5T #kidlitchat
Join me for a #kidlitchat TweetChat at: http://tweetchat.com/room/kidlitchat #kidlitchat
@CynthiaCWillis It can be very messy @ first…I revise A LOT. #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal That Casablanca breakdown– sounds intriguing. #kidlitchat
@KateMessner I’ve heard of the treadmill Desk. You get though a lot of work AND get your exercise. It always scared me, though. #kidlitchat
@marybrebner Thanks for the welcome back #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal My favorite book about Story and Plot is Story by Robert McKee #kidlitchat
@debbieohi Yes! Mindmapping really helps me figure out what’s missing in plot. #kidlitchat
@dpeterfreund No cold, but I do have killer jetlag. #kidlitchat
@thaliachaltas @debbieohi Freemind is a great software for mindmapping. I use it to brainstorm. #kidlitchat
@jeanie_w Thank you for the welcome back, it means a lot #kidlitchat
@CIsenhower I’m impressed!!! #kidlitchat
@KateMessner Love it! Now that’s what I call multi-tasking. #kidlitchat
@thaliachaltas I use Novamind to brainstorm plot ideas. Then I organize the plot using phase drafting techniques. #kidlitchat
@peripam I’m envious of your index card use…I do love them so, but I always wind up with a bunch of blank ones #kidlitchat
@PeriPam Syd Field has two books (Screenplay and another) that were the “bibles” at one point for screenwriting #kidlitchat
@gregpincus. Great link re: screenwriting and Where the Wild things are. Thanks! #kidlitchat
I like @PattyJMurphy’s chicken egg analogy – it’s a back and forth thing between letting the plot or character drive the story #kidlitchat
@rillajaggia I’m reading that now and LOVING it!!!! #kidlitchat
@elizaosborn What program do you use for mindmapping? #kidlitchat
@CIsenhower I love that idea, writing multiple plots separately then weaving together – can I use it? #kidlitchat
I feel like phase drafting would feel too restrictive for me. #kidlitchat
@EgmontUSA Don’t have treadmill desk, but do have standing workstation. Otherwise my back starts hurting. #kidlitchat
@EgmontUSA don’t get any ideas, Doug will make us get a treadmill desk and I say no, no, no #kidlitchat
@rillajaggia John Truby has a great book called ANATOMY OF STORY. It’s amazing. #kidlitchat
Original phase drafting article (I think) #kidlitchat http://bit.ly/11dr5T
I like Darci Pattison’s revision workbook. Gives you a nice global view of your work so you can tweak scenes to build the plot.#kidlitchat
I’ve always been a “plunger” w/ regard to plot, but new mystery project required more planning – LOVING Scrivener for that. #kidlitchat
@gregpincus Why read when you can watch a DVD? Kidding, kidding! #kidlitchat
Great plot book: The Writer’s Journey – myth model a la Joseph Campbell. #kidlitchat
@CynthiaCWillis Yes! I keep it as a reference and keep going back! #kidlitchat
RT @amylundebrek: Original phase drafting article (I think) #kidlitchat http://bit.ly/11dr5T #kidlitchat
@thaliachaltas Tasted okay, just a weird color. Maybe I can use that in a story, hmmmm #kidlitchat
Started writing a story with a setting and a few loosely worked out characters. Took me a looonnnng time to find the plot. #kidlitchat
@bonnieadamson and yes i have found it extremely useful. Has made COR seem less like a big forest with holes in it #kidlitchat
@PattyJMurphy Thanks! will check it out. #kidlitchat
@johnlechner So, no “three attempts” or “quest”? #kidlitchat
@aecbks I *know* The Casablanca weekend sounds like genius. Bruce C took it twice and took copious notes both times #kidlitchat
@johnlechner Oh, you mean that’s not the normal confusion of writing? Multi plots and weaving? #kidlitchat
@lindsayeland I get over zealous with index cards. They often end up covering my floor, especially with complex plots. #kidlitchat
@KateMessner I just got a mac and I’ve been debating scrivener – over outlining sucks my energy. How are you findings crivener? #kidlitchat
I write both screenplays and novels and think one must be careful in how you apply screenwriting tools to a book #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal I first heard about them when offices were getting them for employees. I like slumping in my comfy swivel chair. #kidlitchat
Sharing all these diverse plotting ideas reminds me why no two books are alike. #kidlitchat
@rillajaggia Mind adding your vote to the top 25 books related to writing? Just leave a comment with vote: http://bit.ly/RLrTH #kidlitchat
@Idaho_Laurie I love all things Darcy Pattison! (speaking of, she’s declared this “random acts of publicity week”) #kidlitchat
@lkblackburne I’ve used Freemind for mindmapping, too. I like Novamind’s interface a bit better, but Novamind does cost money. #kidlitchat
@tabithaolson I string my index cards on a wire that runs the length of my study #kidlitchat
@onbeyondwords I find that if I can separate character from plot – I’m not doing it right. #kidlitchat They’re bound together like a knot.
@KateMessner I’m a plot-challenged plunger. Keep wondering how R. Stead managed her intricate plot in When You Reach Me. #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal Almost postive Bruce Coville is referring to Robert McKee’s course. 3 days. Held in NYC, LA different times of year. #kidlitchat
@KateMessner I work on a treadmill desk, too…my own private hamster wheel : #kidlitchat
@gregpincus can you say more about dif between books and screenwriting, greg? #kidlitchat
@tabithaolson My zealousness is with sticky tabs to denote how well a char. is spaced throughout…many many colors #kidlitchat
@merylevans Will do! #kidlitchat
@PattyJMurphy Good to see you here too, Patty! We have to figure out a phonecall time soon. #kidlitchat
@EKokie I’m loving Scrivener. @sarazarr recommended it – said it helped her a lot w/ ONCE WAS LOST, which is…well…perfect. #kidlitchat
@gregpincus Interesting. Is there anything specific that you would warn authors about? #kidlitchat
@merylevans I love Immediate Fiction by Jerry Cleaver. #kidlitchat
@tabithaolson Sticky index cards and post notes work pretty well, too:) #kidlitchat
@KateMessner I’ve always been a “plunger” too. Sometimes I do major climaxes, 1st act climax, 2nd act climax, 3rd act climax #kidlitchat
Treadmill desk!!! Are you kidding!!! I like to write lying down on the sofa holding a clipboard. #kidlitchat
@gregpincus. Agree. Must use screenplay tools w/caution in books. Good for action plots, but not perfect. #kidlitchat
@PeriPam I was hoping you’d take about your plotting wire. I think it’s a very cool technique. #kidlitchat
@lioncaller I have heard great things abt the treadmill desk. How are you finding it? #kidlitchat
SECONDARY TOPIC (since it’s happening anyway) – share your tools and tricks (scrivener, screenplay dvd) for helping with plot #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal I second your request! ; ) #kidlitchat
@peg366 Yes, sometimes I come back to ideas again and again, trying to make them work. #kidlitchat
@tabithaolson I use index cards to research, then organize them into a rough outline – do you do this, too? #kidlitchat
@debbieohi Absolutely. It will be great to catch up. #kidlitchat
@WriterRoss Yes I’ve heard a lot about what a great speaker he is as well. #kidlitchat
@rillajaggia What’s the name of the Robert McKee book? #kidlitchat
Current WIP has characters & overal plot arc. But early crits are they aren’t “doing” enough. Sub-plotting seems to be my issue. #kidlitchat
@gregpincus Ooo, I’m a Scrivener-holic. #kidlitchat
@Idaho_Laurie Just read WHEN YOU REACH ME out loud to my 8yo, who is dying to see @rebstead & ask how she made it all work. #kidlitchat
@KateMessner OK, that’s it, I’m finally going to get scrivener. Everyone that has used it seems to love it. #kidlitchat
@PeriPam Ooo, I LOVE that idea! But does it ever get tangled up? #kidlitchat
I start with a moment that comes to me complete with chars and place and a bit of plot, then build synergistically from there #kidlitchat
A big whiteboard and sticky notes are my main organizational tools. Super-visual and easily changed #kidlitchat
@rillajaggia Hey Rilla! Good to see you here. #kidlitchat
#kidlitchat Tried to get in on the chat but none of my tweets are showing up. Maybe next time.
I’m curious — does anyone follow the “every scene mus tadvance plot or gets cut” philosophy? #kidlitchat
I’ve been playing with spreadsheet plotting lately. It’s surprisingly helpful. Anyone else? #kidlitchat #kidlitchat
I use a loose outline and then “pants” it from there. Thats my writing technique! I blame my 2 AM muse! #kidlitchat
@bonnieadamson Story– Substance, Structuer, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting #kidlitchat
@KateMessner any compatibility issues between scrivener & word? This multi-POV wip needs more structural tools I think… #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal @CynthiaCWillis Screenplays are written to be filmed. Books are written to be read. Movies are hugely collaborative #kidlitchat
@KateMessner Is Scrivener an online program? Shareware? Freeware? #kidlitchat
Have to duck out for a couple of secs. Hope I don’t fall too far behind. #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal thirding your q @gregpincus #kidlitchat
@gregpincus What’s a scrivener? #kidlitchat
@debbieohi I’d love to hear more about the features of Scrivener. #kidlitchat
And what about the “every obstacle must increase tension until climax of story” philosophy? #kidlitchat
@JSColley I saw that one! #kidlitchat
@gregpincus – one thing about learning from screenwriting is authentic pithy dialogue – BTW – Hi Greg I finally made it #kidlitchat
@KateMessner Hi, Kate…agree…read, read, read…and see how others have done it…and blaze your own plot trail:) #kidlitchat
what is scrivener? #kidlitchat
@KateMessner @idaho_Laurie yes, I’d love to know the plotting story behind when you reach me. I will study it and ask editor too #kidlitchat
Hi all! Trying to catch up on what I’ve missed… #kidlitchat
I am very resistant to plotting tools. Index cards are as high-tech as I feel comfortable with. Am I so two-thousand-and-late? #kidlitchat
@debbieohi Hey Debbie, Great to be here and have you here as well! #kidlitchat
@KateMessner I just bought When You Reach Me. Looking forward to reading it! When are you seeing @rebstead? #kidlitchat
@JSColley They show up for me. #kidlitchat
@BonnieAdamson I was able to see detail I’d never noticed in pacing as I highlighted and graphed certain points in each chpt. #kidlitchat
@tabithaolson No, it’s supposed to be a curtain rod–got it from IKEA–and it’s bolted pretty solidly to my wall #kidlitchat
@lkblackburne Well, I cut the scenes that don’t adv plot once I’m DONE, but sometimes I get surprised, and I need them. #kidlitchat
Plot tool: Excel spreadsheet #kidlitchat
Yes, for me every scene must advance the plot, w/the caveat that character moments can be plot, too. #kidlitchat
@CIsenhower http://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener.html #kidlitchat
When I get struck with an idea for COR I write it down then drop it in where it belongs in the plot afterward #kidlitchat
@bonnieadamson McKee’s book is just called Story. He does seminars too #kidlitchat
@lkblackburne as an editor, I pretty much follow (instinctively) “every scene must add something we want to know or see or feel” #kidlitchat
@jennibly Same here. Only I use notecards online to stay organized (currently using google notebook) #kidlitchat
@KateMessner Yeah. Tricky balance between character development & plot in When You Reach Me. It could seem gimmicky. #kidlitchat
@CREvers @BonnieAdamson Wow, so you annotated the whole book? #kidlitchat
Justine L. has written some good blog entries about spreadsheets and plotting/revising #kidlitchat
@CREvers That would make a great workshop in itself, huh? #kidlitchat
I thought the writing book Begginings, Middles & Ends was very helpful and a good read #kidlitchat
@jennibly I still use them, too – thank you, Linda McGill! (frosh English teacher…) #kidlitchat
@debbieohi Oo, thanks for the link to scrivener, Debbie #kidlitchat
Warning: Jetlag may make my contributions to the conversation incoherent or misspelled. #kidlitchat
@debbieohi Thanks for the link, Debbie. #kidlitchat
Hi everyone. I am overwhelmed by how difficult structuring a novel is. Don’t know how you all do it! #kidlitchat
@Casey_McCormick I live for spreadsheet plotting! Used to old fashioned outline, but I love the visual ease of spreadsheets . #kidlitchat
@ktubb Never been able to go to one of Darcy’s workshops. Maybe someday…. I do use her workbook, though. #kidlitchat
@planetalvina Welcome! Just jump in…no time to catch up! #kidlitchat
@KatGirl_Studio Is that a Writer’s Digest Book? #kidlitchat
@debbieohi Wow, that looks amazing, I may have to recommend it to authors… #kidlitchat
@DDHearn What’s the hardest part for you? #kidlitchat
Do ppl write their novels in multiple docs (e.g. 1 chapter per doc) or one big file? #kidlitchat
@debbieohi @rebstead is at the Rochester Children’s Bk Fest, I think. Also visiting my school in March. : ) #kidlitchat
Yes, @onbeyondwords , there’s much to learn from screenwriting. But you can learn dialogue from great novels, too #kidlitchat
@DDHearn Check out my structure posts on my blog: http://dianapeterfreund.com/blog #kidlitchat
Plot’s a tricky bitch. I recommend using more than one brain for the task. I borrow my husband’s. #kidlitchat
@AudryT I agree. I always ask “is this moving the story along?” If it does,I keep it..if it doesn’t, I get rid of it. #kidlitchat
Anyone used YOU CAN WRITE A NOVEL? Think it uses index cards you keep in a folder. #kidlitchat
@BonnieAdamson No structure at all on PB first draft – then I go back and look for the natural structure to build on. #kidlitchat
@ddhearn but I know excellent novelists who can’t write picture books. They are different art forms. #kidlitchat
I have read & loved all 3 Diary of a Wimpy Kid books, but none of them have a plot. #kidlitchat
RT @BleeBonn: what is scrivener? #kidlitchat Notary Public – public copyist or writer
@bonnieadamson Ya I have a few more at home. I like how they are written, it makes sense to me. #kidlitchat
@PeriPam I use one huge file which annoys ALL my writer friends. #kidlitchat
@PeriPam I do. When I’m editing, I break it up into chapters. #kidlitchat
@PeriPam I’ve incorporated the spreadsheets into my work, & use dry erase boards for parts I’m having problems w/. #kidlitchat
@Idaho_Laurie Her workshops are wonderful. I wrote a blurb for her workbook, I sing her praises so often. #kidlitchat
@PeriPam One big file with two extra docs: “cut stuff” & “to-do” list. #kidlitchat
@PeriPam Last novel was in one big doc, this one in multiple docs re: emotional area of the novel #kidlitchat
I have to admit, I always assume a well-plotted book was well-revised, more than well-plotted durin the writing. #kidlitchat
I like =>RT @EgmontGal: as an editor, I follow (instinctively) “every scene must add something we want to know or see or feel” #kidlitchat
Me too. sounding brdRT @AudryT: Plots a tricky bitch. I recommend using more than one brain for the task. I borrow my husbands. #kidlitchat
@lkblackburne I find I have to be ruthless about each scene advancing the story – but might write those cuttable scenes anyway #kidlitchat
@PeriPam One big file #kidlitchat
@elizaosborn The hardest part for me is just starting it. I have an idea for a fantasy novel, but only written picture books. #kidlitchat
@joycelansky no plot in wimpy kid, so what? In a novel, that’s another problem unless you give me Finnegan’s Wake #kidlitchat
Breaking down stories from great movies is wonderful to do for any writing. Same with great dialogue. BUT … #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal Yes! The PB is way too difficult! #kidlitchat
@lights_aurora Dry erase terrifies me! Erase and it’s permanantly GONE! Eeeek! #kidlitchat
@AudryT I borrow my husband’s brain as well… he knows when things start to be forced #kidlitchat
I’ve written entire drafts to discover plot potential, then worked for a plot in revisions. I’m sick of that, frankly. #kidlitchat
@PeriPam I do in multiple docs. W/ spaces on mac, I can keep them from cluttering my screen when working on once chapter. #kidlitchat
I seem to be morphing from 1 doc per chapter to 1 big doc, not sure what that means! #kidlitchat
@PeriPam I keep mine in one document. I tried breaking it up by chapter once, and got horribly lost. #kidlitchat
@KateMessner Had to help hubby for a minute, just saw your Tweet. Is Scrivener an outline software or a writing software? #kidlitchat
@thaliachaltas Yes, that’s true. Though I never thought of writing the plots separately first, THEN weaving. #kidlitchat
If you don’t name the novel right away, what do you call the document(s)? #kidlitchat #novel
@elizaosborn I have rewritten the novel several times, years ago, but never knew about any of these methods. I just wrote it. #kidlitchat
@PeriPam one big file for me #kidlitchat
@PeriPam All one document, manuscript-formatted. And an addendum with notes and snippets I’ve cut but may add back in later. #kidlitchat
@Idaho_Laurie re: “cut stuff” and “to-do” – me, too! Sounds like we work very similarly. Keep both lists on one doc, tho. #kidlitchat
For my 1st book I knew the beginning & end for a long time, made up the rest as I went along, for the most part. #kidlitchat
@PeriPam one file, but i still break down the chapters into their own file #kidlitchat
Great point! RT @EKokie: I always assume a well-plotted book was well-revised, more than well-plotted durin the writing. #kidlitchat
I plot out my books longhand on paper. Lots and lots of paper. #kidlitchat
@PeriPam One big file. I like to see how much progress I’ve made…and a blank document is slightly terrifying. #kidlitchat
@thaliachaltas I take pictures! And everything gets typed as soon as I feel set w/ it. Its comforting, like if I were in school. #kidlitchat
But… watching a movie works differently than reading a book. The audience has different expectations, interacts differently #kidlitchat
RT @EgmontGal: Picture books are different art forms. [where every word has to do the job of ten] #kidlitchat
@rarararach WIP – Work in Progress #kidlitchat
I have nothing to really add to this conversation- I have no idea how I plot. I just have characters that do interesting stuff #kidlitchat
@thaliachaltas Oh, I so agree! Pencils even bum out my world, Give me pens–things that leave lasting impressions! #kidlitchat
I keep everything in one doc. but create separate sections for chapters and then use the Word document map to get places. #kidlitchat
Strange but I have to title my wip before I can go very far with it. I have to have a working title. #kidlitchat
@rarararach I always give the novel a temp name, one word. Like FURNITURE for what became Because I Am Furniture #kidlitchat
The next book I’m working on has some mystery to it so I’m having to plot a little more to make sure it all works out #kidlitchat
@EngridE1 Scrivener’s for both outlining and writing- link explains features: http://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener.html #kidlitchat
@lynnekelly That’s exactly what I’ve been doing with my WIP #kidlitchat
Hi all – late to the party – what’s the topic? #kidlitchat
@jeanie_w Little bits of paper everywhere! #kidlitchat
@lynnekelly when did you add the bestiality section in your novel? 3rd round? Aftereditor asked for it?Or was it always “there” #kidlitchat
@rarararach if I don’t have a title, I use the date the idea hit ie 09-08-09 or use the characters name #kidlitchat #novel
@thaliachaltas And that temp name is the background for the main character. #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal People visualize so differently, I’m not surprised that great novelists don’t always do PB well. #kidlitchat
@lynnekelly I know the beginning, and several endings on mine. Have to nail down the right one. *sigh* #kidlitchat
@rarararach I’ll just come up with a filler title. #kidlitchat
Thanks @debbieohi for that link to scrivener, now i see what you guys are talking about #kidlitchat
I love hearing about the different processes of different authors. #kidlitchat
@kathleenfoucart Couldn’t agree with you more. Interesting characters are key. #kidlitchat
@Idaho_Laurie I also keep a “cut” file. Feels safer than just deleting. I keep an outline, too, which I keep updated. #kidlitchat
@DDHearn First thing I’d do is grab some index cards and write down 1-2 sentences for ea scene, 1 scene per card. #kidlitchat
@jeanie_w lol I actually WRITE the whole damn WIP in longhand, in leather bound journals. Edit/revise when transcribing like now #kidlitchat
@DDHearn Is there a scene that really sticks out in your mind for your fantasy novel? Why not just start with that scene? #kidlitchat
I am afraid I have to go–great topic! I can’t wait to read everything in the transcripts. Thanks, Greg! #kidlitchat
@KateMessner Thank you, Thank you, Thank you! Going to check it out tonight #kidlitchat
@LiaKeyes Ice Cream! Oh, I mean plot methods. #kidlitchat
@LiaKeyes Novel writing and the process! #kidlitchat
@lynnekelly Would LOVE to try mystery–one of my fav. genres, but seems impossible to plot . . . #kidlitchat
@gregpincus yes, but helpful to think like a movie so dialogue rules and you don’t get bogged down in the expository #kidlitchat
@jeanie_w I also am a fan of longhand. The computer is too hard for me to write original stuff…I’d wearout my bckspce button. #kidlitchat
@kathleenfoucart That also worked in the Wayside School series. You can’t knock the great ones even if their books lack plot. #kidlitchat
@lynnekelly I learned the hard way about mysteries and planning. I have one shelved until I can face the massive re-writes. #kidlitchat
COR has 4 books the books don’t have names yet but the project has always been named COR so that’s what i name the files #kidlitchat
@LiaKeyes How do you plot your story? #kidlitchat
#kidlitchat @rarararach i use working titles for those times when I can’t decide on the right one.
@thaliachaltas yeah. dry erase AND computers. Even with backup, I print out new stuff from each day. I like having it on paper! #kidlitchat
@tabithaolson Okay, Tabitha a “cut” file is brilliant! Can I copy that?! #kidlitchat
@BonnieAdamson I would love to take a workshop like that! #kidlitchat
I do one big doc in manuscript form w/chapters. But I do draft after draft, so might not be most effiecient way – still learning #kidlitchat
@rillajaggia Document map is an extremely useful tool. I love it! #kidlitchat
@gregpincus Wow. Thinks some people seriously overthink plot. Templates? Seriously? You want your books like someone else’s? #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal “every scene must add something we want to know or see or feel” Love it!!! Also something unexpected. #kidlitchat
@tabithaolson I do that too! With a cut file, I tend to trim, trim, trim more, too. Always a good thing! #kidlitchat
@jeanie_w I write everything longhand with a pencil for the first draft. Then I type it on the computer. #kidlitchat
RT @amylundebrek: I…build synergistically (me too! I love when magic happens naturally). #kidlitchat
I can’t write without a title. It may change, but usually not. #kidlitchat
@DDHearn it’s easier to see what you’re working with that way, and add new scenes / structure once you’re looking @ the big pic #kidlitchat
@rarararach normally the name of the MC or something important for the WIP #kidlitchat #novel
@BonnieAdamson Yes! Don’t forget the post-its! #kidlitchat
Anyone else use a digital pen, like LiveScribe or Logitech, and convert ink to Word? #kidlitchat
Movies have pecific actors in each role and show specific actions that readers imagine differntly. It’s a different medium. #kidlitchat
*pokes head in* What’s the topic of the moment? #kidlitchat
I start with the title. The title always is my focal point, like inspiration in design, and it grows from there. #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal I think it was always there– longing, waiting… #kidlitchat
@ohthedotty You should join the chat Louisa; its a “kidlitchat” about kids/YA books! #kidlitchat
@thaliachaltas Plot methods? Great subject! I start with a dream that intrigues me, then find five main turning points. #kidlitchat
@edithcohn Hi Edith! Great to see you here! #kidlitchat
@jeanie_w As we speak! #kidlitchat
How many of you need to write long hand? I do this in the early stages. It gets my creative juices flowing. #kidlitchat
@Shelltex Sometimes I have a title for years before I have a story to go with it. Is that A-backwards or what? #kidlitchat
@edithcohn those are ur words! I don’t think unexpected is always a goal, not at all. but a book of just cliches is boring, true #kidlitchat
@StephanieFeagan I take a lot of direction from my titles, as well. That’s usually a starting point for me. #kidlitchat
@EllenHopkinsYA That’s how I feel about all the ‘plotting.’ I have to do stuff like that to revise, but not for initial plot. #kidlitchat
@rarararach I go w/main character’s name or an obnoxiously long ‘leave nothing to the imagination this is the plot’ title #kidlitchat
@jodotha Plotting & tools for plotting! You’ll like it! #kidlitchat
@LiaKeyes So your book started out with a dream…what dream inspired Tempus? #kidlitchat
I keep a cut file in the notes doc too. When i take something out I put it there. @Idaho_Laurie #kidlitchat
as far as plotting, I just read about milestone plotting (Kathleen Duey’s essay in an old CWIM) great idea #kidlitchat
@tabithaolson Oh, yes, I start long hand! Especially with poetry. #kidlitchat
I have a question for editors/agents: Have you found that there is a predominant method used by successful writers? #kidlitchat
I can never write in long hand it’s all the computer for me and new documents every time I make a major change lets me feel safe #kidlitchat
@tabithaolson I write out first notes. #kidlitchat
@DDHearn @lights_aurora @SuePinto I tend to go back and forth between spiral notebooks and computer for the first draft #kidlitchat
@EllenHopkinsYA I think that’s an oversimplification! The hero’s journey, for example, can yield VERY dif. books #kidlitchat
Ack. Brief power outage problem here knocked out Internet access. I’m back but waaaay behind on the chat… #kidlitchat
@tabithaolson I find sometimes I just have to write long-hand. No idea why, but some scenes don’t come typed #kidlitchat
@etch_in_stone Oh, I have the whole novel in my head. But I have never done any kind of formal planning, just lots of notes. #kidlitchat
@leewind Lee, lovey! Grand to see you! #kidlitchat
@tabithaolson I switch to longhand whenever I’m stuck. makes my brain work in different way, jumpstarts creativity. #kidlitchat
@LiaKeyes Why five? Just what works for you? #kidlitchat
If I wrote long hand no one , incl. me, could read it to transcribe. Only long hand is on the fly or middle of the night notes. #kidlitchat
I’m still here — absorbing all everyone has to say. Amateur on the how to, but a pro on what I love in kidlit. #kidlitchat
@tabithaolson I do a little longhand. Usually when my brain puts on the brakes. Getting away from the computer is nice. #kidlitchat
I use a typewriter, so everything stays written somewhere – even if I later cut it. You never know what may inspire later on. #kidlitchat
Michael Stearns gave a great talk on the 13 Ways to keep from having a way too wimpy plot! #kidlitchat
RT @kathleenfoucart #kidlitchat Your comment made me smile. That’s how I feel tonight.
Plot often comes from asking, “What’s the worst thing I can do to my characters?” #kidlitchat
@llunalila So true. Choose a great name! #kidlitchat
@tabithaolson If I write out longhand I often can’t read it afterwards #kidlitchat
I can’t write unless I’m typing. Long-hand totally stymies me. I can’t go fast enough. #kidlitchat
@DDHearn You use a pencil? How interesting, I honestly never thought about giving that a try. #kidlitchat
@ktubb Yes, I do that with my cards, too. It makes it so much easier to lay things out, isn’t it? #kidlitchat
@gregpincus You can argue that EVERY book is hero’s journey, right? #kidlitchat
Coming in late, but this is odd: I have to sit on the floor to work out plot. I’ve been doing phase drafting sitting on floor. #kidlitchat
@jodotha How do you plot? #kidlitchat
@EKokie Heh, I have the same problem. I used to have decent handwriting but I’ve been way spoiled by keyboard typing. #kidlitchat
@bonnieadamson I sketch and write at the same time – for pb’s I need to see the characters before I can go very far. #kidlitchat
@KatGirl_Studio It’s reassuring to know I can resurrect a phrase, paragraph, chapter if I want. #kidlitchat
@DDHearn If you ever want to talk writing, lemme know. I’m a dive-in person, but know some plot techniques. #kidlitchat
I do a ton of handwriting before I write. The question most often in my notebook? “What has to happen next?” #kidlitchat
I can’t write in longhand. I think the keyboard feels like an obligation or something. Can’t stand the blank screen #kidlitchat
I like that. RT @AudryT: Plot often comes from asking, “What’s the worst thing I can do to my characters?” #kidlitchat
Although title changes usually rule of thumb by editor. I did get to keep one. #kidlitchat
@dpeterfreund So do I! Funny how plain old paper and pencil can do things my computer can’t. #kidlitchat
@dpeterfreund Same here. I’ll write in a notebook to jump-start my brain. I even draw stick-figure commentary. #kidlitchat
@BonnieAdamson I can argue ANYTHING, Bonnie #kidlitchat
@gregpincus I didn’t actually mean you, BTW. I understand your question. Just don’t much like the idea of plugging in info. #kidlitchat
until I got this travel notebook computer I wrote everything in paper note books and then was transcribed onto the computer #kidlitchat
@AudryT the Will Write for Wine podcast has an episode called 50 Ways to Torture Your Main Character #kidlitchat
@swdillard Me, too–page full of doodles. Always use pencil . . . #kidlitchat
@elizaosborn Index cards sound like a good idea. I must try that. #kidlitchat
@ktubb Scrivener has way too many features to detail in 140 chars. Best bet is to check out the website after the chat. #kidlitchat
@AudryT I get some great plot twists & turns when I do terrible things to my MC, too. Also, great form of therapy…lol #kidlitchat
@bonnieadamson 5 turning points are milestones. Then I can find the rest of the plot through asking my characters questions. #kidlitchat
@joycelansky I don’t really. I have phrases that go through my head – those get written on cards or notebook. #kidlitchat
Used to do everything longhand, now I can’t seem to write more than a paragraph with pen and paper. Computer all the way. #kidlitchat
@elizaosborn I use a notebook to ask myself and my main ch all kinds of questions when I’m stuck. #kidlitchat
@gregpincus Oooh, a challenge! #kidlitchat
I’d like to know what advice has been useful to you. I often ask while editing “how does this forward what we want to know?” #kidlitchat
I also find that staring out the window opens my imagination. #kidlitchat
@jodotha Topic: How do you plot? #kidlitchat
@johannaharness The best place to come up with ways to move your plot forwrd is the treadmill #kidlitchat
@dpeterfreund I think that’s when I switch to long-hand. I have a specific journal for ‘unsticking’ my brain. #kidlitchat
@kristinlgray Need to learn to use it. Downloaded 30 day trial. #kidlitchat
@elizaosborn I like, “what has to happen next?” Brings everything down to the essentials. #kidlitchat
@BonnieAdamson Mine’s not a true mystery but the MC finds out the location of a friend who’s been missing for years & follows up #kidlitchat
@thaliachaltas ‘Copy the cut file’ That’s funny! Okay…so I”m a geek… #kidlitchat
When it comes to plotting, how often are you inserting subplot, versus trimming distracting subplot during revisions? #kidlitchat
@jeanie_w I like the freedom of writing in journal. feels like I’m writing memories, not story. Takes the pressure off. #kidlitchat
RT @AudryT: Plot often comes from asking, “What’s the worst thing I can do to my characters?” #kidlitchat Exactly! Give them a 180.
@leewind What is milestone plotting? #kidlitchat
@johannaharness @mstiefvater also claims sitting on the floor improves her creativity. I’ll have to try it. #kidlitchat
@tabithaolson I write everything longhand @ 1st. Blank screens freak me out. I’m much braver when I’ve got a spiral full of wds #kidlitchat
@alijwalker I also like sitting in my armchair and staring at nothing. #kidlitchat
@gregpincus I’d love to see you argue with my daughter. She is amazingly good at it and hard to beat. #kidlitchat
@tabithaolson I only write long hand while commuting. At home or at work, use PC #kidlitchat
@planetalvina One downside to Scrivener: it’s only available for the Mac right now. #kidlitchat
@DDHearn My advice is to just jump in on the scene your itching to write. From there you can circle out and start tying threads. #kidlitchat
You guys should see @jodotha’s notes — she has a really cool system for Post-It-ing & such. #kidlitchat
@MaryBDanielson Yes! I think the visual layout of spreadsheet plotting really helps me, too. #kidlitchat
We can start with a title but title may change based on what agent/publisher thinks will sell. Don’t fall too in luv with title #kidlitchat
RT @EgmontGal: I often ask while editing “how does this forward what we want to know?” Terrific question!!! #kidlitchat
@LiaKeyes You mean actual dreams? My dream ideas always seem great when I’m asleep, and idiotic upon waking. #kidlitchat
@tabithaolson It’s like a really rough outline once the research is done. Once that’s done, I’m ready to write! #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal That’s pretty much what I do in revision- I use LHA’s question “What happens if I throw this out?” #kidlitchat
Sometimes a scene occurs to me spontaneously and I write it in longhand right away- later add it to the manuscript and elaborate #kidlitchat
@alijwalker For me it’s browsing flickr. My window has a crap view. #kidlitchat
@EllenHopkinsYA I think as guidlines, there are classic arcs that are helpful. Adhere too closely… blah. #kidlitchat
@rillajaggia Hi Rilla! haha, this is my first time, having trouble keeping up. #kidlitchat
RT @LiaKeyes: 5 turning points are milestones. Then I can find the rest of the plot through asking my characters questions. #kidlitchat
now i just write everything straight on the net book computer, it’s so small i can take it with me, have it next to the bed #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal Best advice – there may be apropriate or acceptable outcomes, but no “right” process – whatever works for you works. #kidlitchat
@rillajaggia I am very good at staring at nothing. #kidlitchat
I have asked of rejected ms’s: What is the question/problem/worry that will have your reader want to keep reading? #kidlitchat
@kimberlyjsmith I use a keyboard for writing, I type as quickly as my characters tell me what to write #kidlitchat
@ckmarciniak LOL! Yeah, when I get excited, my handwriting gets pretty bad. #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal One great question my editor asked re chapter 1: why does your ch’s story start here? #kidlitchat
@DDHearn I hear ya! My dreams turn upside down when I’m awake! #kidlitchat
@merylevans I didn’t say I’d win, particularly not with kids! #kidlitchat
@johannaharness Yeah, it really does. If you’re thinking in terms of plot & character arc, it really helps weed out extra stuff #kidlitchat
@mgbuehrlen When I hit a plot snag only a spiral notebook and a pencil will do. #kidlitchat
I also use big boards, stickies, a character set–lots of manipulatives. Opens my imagination to plot possibilities. #kidlitchat
@LynneKelly Sounds great–is this current WIP? #kidlitchat
@rillajaggia I e-mail my manuscript to myself after I’ve made revisions. I try to do this regularly. It keeps the older copies. #kidlitchat
@LiaKeyes I was just about to ask you – Why 5? #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal I like asking the how it moves things forward for what we as readers WANT to know. That’s a diff and good question. #kidlitchat
@DDHearn Yes, actual dreams. Characters in mid-action. I ask questions like who are you and why are you doing this? #kidlitchat
RT DDHearn You mean actual dreams? My dream ideas always seem great when I’m asleep, and idiotic upon waking. #kidlitchat #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal yes, the classic “does this advance the story?” top of the hit parade. for ANYTHING. #kidlitchat
Me too -> RT @swdillard I sketch and write at the same time – for pb’s I need to see the characters before I can go very far. #kidlitchat
@swdillard Great format for a critique group! #kidlitchat
@edithcohn Hi, Edith! Welcome! We met at the Gold Kite Luncheon at SCBWI/LA:) #kidlitchat
@thaliachaltas Same here. Like “Why is she acting that way? What happens so that PLOT POINT happens?” #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal That’s really good to think about #kidlitchat
@elizaosborn I’m all for weeding out extra stuff. It just gets deleted in the end anyway. #kidlitchat
@gregpincus I was waay against Hero’s Journey in the beginning. I see some worth, but I don’t like formula. That scared me. #kidlitchat
@gregpincus I’d still like to see it. She’s 15. #kidlitchat
I think people want easy answers as to how to plot a novel. Mediocrity is born of not finding your own way, IMHO. #kidlitchat
@jeanie_w I type so poorly that all the mistakes get in the way of my imagination. So long hand works better for me. #kidlitchat
@BonnieAdamson Yes, not the MG I’m revising, but a humorous YA I’ve written a few chapters & random notes on. #kidlitchat
@PattyJMurphy Hiya Patty!! Great to “see” u here. #kidlitchat
@edithcohn Once you get the hand of it it’s a trip. But you’ll never catch everthing until you read the transcript the next day. #kidlitchat
@lights_aurora I take pressure off by using cheap paper. I freeze up if surface is precious. Same thing happens with drawing. #kidlitchat
@DDHearn Index cards are nice bc you can rearrange, or pull out scenes and add new ones without messing anything up. #kidlitchat
@rillajaggia – or any exercise – I often resolve plot problems or overcome a block when I’m swimming laps #kidlitchat
@MyraMcEntire For me it’s a hot bath and alone time to talk to myself as long as I want. #kidlitchat
I have several notebooks filled with my notes for novels. I would love help with plotting techniques. #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal Absolutely. Nothing beats Story Magic taught by Robin Perini & Laura Baker. http://tinyurl.com/mkag8r #kidlitchat
Anybody else exercise to work through plot swamps? (I run.) #kidlitchat
@alijwalker Hee hee. When I need inspiration I dance around in my pjs, jammin to my iPOD. Works every time. #kidlitchat
@jeanie_w Yup. Blank paper syndrome I call it. #kidlitchat
@joycelansky Yes! I have a special email address i send backups too and never download from the server. makes me fell safer. #kidlitchat
I’d love to discuss the subject of symbolism in storytelling in a future chat here. #kidlitchat
@jeanie_w I use yellow legal pads. #kidlitchat
I often wonder if readers (non-writers) know how much WORK goes into writing a book. #kidlitchat
@EllenHopkinsYA I agree people want an easy method. I do think when you find your own way, some ‘method’ might assist some… #kidlitchat
Gang, can I be an off-topic whore for 1 minute? @egmontusa and I are looking for followers because our boss likes it. (Sorry) #kidlitchat
@uppington milestone plotting: handful of scenes that are PIVOTAL to story. Figure those out, all else flows from there… #kidlitchat
RT @nomadshan: Anybody else exercise to work through plot swamps? (I run.) <<yes – I walk #kidlitchat
@elizaosborn I do the same thing with different color/size stickie notes. I arrange them on a board. . #kidlitchat
@elizaosborn My favorite is to shuffle index cards. See what different placement can do for plot. Also amusing. #kidlitchat
@nomadshan I sleep on mine. #kidlitchat
I find if I resort to longhand, like I did over the weekend (no computer), I can barely read my writing. It’s terrible! #kidlitchat
@EllenHopkinsYA I agree. Plotting should be as unique as ones style, word choice, etc. Nothing works for everyone. #kidlitchat
@nomadshan I take a shower, oddly lots of ideas come to me there #kidlitchat
@onbeyondwords Yeah! I thought I was looney until i acutally read an article that suggests especially walking to solve problems #kidlitchat
@EngridE1 I started writing before PCs. Maybe that’s why I like the pencil. And I don’t make the typing errors with a pencil. #kidlitchat
@debbieohi No Mac, No Bartleby the Scrivener. Whoosh. (Deflated happiness alert.) Don’t ask. My 10 yr old niece just got a Mac. #kidlitchat
Does anyone else interview their characters or let them comment on the plot outside of the manuscript? #kidlitchat
@EllenHopkinsYA RT Mediocrity in plotting born of not finding your own way – couldn’t agree more, but some people need help. #kidlitchat
@bonnieadamson I use those for rewritinng scenes. Spiral notebooks for first drafts. #kidlitchat
Good idea! @CIsenhower #kidlitchat
Index cards are nice. Particularly colored ones so you can keep track of plot threads & see where you drop them. #kidlitchat
@gregpincus To be fair, the hero’s journey is so general, it pretty much describes any story. JC is not revered in the academy. #kidlitchat
@johannaharness I’m such an overwriter. I just -revised- and I’m at 117k. Will be Index Carding the next draft to weed stuff. #kidlitchat
@thaliachaltas And it’s always interesting to hear/read how other people do things, I think. This inspires! #kidlitchat
ACK. I think an Evil Squirrel’s chewing on our power line again. Have to opt out of chat to check what’s wrong. #kidlitchat
@leewind I like the idea of milestone plotting! TY! #kidlitchat
@mgbuehrlen WElcome back! #kidlitchat
RT @leewind: @uppington milestone plotting: handful of scenes that are PIVOTAL to story. Figure those out, all else flows… #kidlitchat
@LJBoldyrev Water stimulates my creative juices. Swim laps or take a shower. #kidlitchat
@KatGirl_Studio I do the same thing! (Shower) It’s weird, I guess running water totally makes the ideas flow, too. #kidlitchat
I have a friend who, wehenver stuck, tosses their pile of index cards down the stairs, repiles them, and tries again! #kidlitchat
@AudryT Yes I interview my characters, out loud even. Crazy writer lady on the cul de sac. #kidlitchat
@EllenHopkinsYA …but I can’t write with a method either! Feels stiff. Boulder-ish. #kidlitchat
@nomadshan I walk. Doesn’t usually take long, sometimes just a trip around the room. #kidlitchat
@KatGirl_Studio I’ve heard other writers promote showers for getting ideas #kidlitchat
@Egmont Gal: “Clarity trumps complexity”~Pete Hautman, especially good for when I get too artsy. #kidlitchat
@mgbuehrlen SHOWERS! True story, stole my kids bath crayons for when genius strikes. And yes on talking to self. #kidlitchat
I adore finding out all the unique ways writers have for discovering their stories! #kidlitchat
is anyone allowed to get in on this #kidlitchat business?
@nomadshan I walk for an hour at lunch… best plotting time except when I’m driving #kidlitchat
Same here. Damned inconvenient, though. RT @KatGirl_Studio: @nomadshan I take a shower, oddly lots of ideas come to me there #kidlitchat
#kidlitchat If I get my dreams down in the first few second I realize I’m awake,they are great.
@AudryT How can you stop them? #kidlitchat
@rillajaggia I never thought of an e-mail address just for backups. That’s a great idea! #kidlitchat
@edithcohn I like colored highlighters. Help show when a story is heavy in one area and light on another. #kidlitchat
@elizaosborn I’m starting new book now, trying not to overwrite like I did in the last. I hear you! #kidlitchat
@AudryT Yes! I thinks this is a great way to develop character beyond the plot line. #kidlitchat
My characters will often determine plot, but I sometimes need to reign them in. #kidlitchat
@kathleenfoucart or maybe its because there is nothing to distract you, there is just water. #kidlitchat
@heidi_heidi_ho Yup, join in! Are you following on TweetChat? #kidlitchat
@rillajaggia Thanks! I am rejuvenated and inspired. Even have a new story idea. #kidlitchat
Showers are awesome for figuring out how to jump roadblocks. #kidlitchat
@KateMessner Scrivener is only for Macs? #kidlitchat
And yes, all, I used Heros’ Journey as the most well known example. You can try “quest” stories or “closed room mysteries” or or #kidlitchat
@EllenHopkinsYA You did find your own way, Ellen – it’s the “Voice” that everyone talks about and needs to find for themselves! #kidlitchat
@gregpincus I was told to do that with Furniture; mess up the order of poems, and re-order them. YOIKS! #kidlitchat
@kathleenfoucart Energetically water is linked with creativity. Rain, shower, even drinking some. That’s what the yogis say. #kidlitchat
I tried index cards–got hung up on organizing, story died. #kidlitchat
What about specific advice that has worked for fixing a scene, a climax, an ending? I’ve had a few toughies in works I edited #kidlitchat
I love overwriting. Are you kidding? So fabulous to get that into it. LOL #kidlitchat
@AudryT:Interviewing them, walking in their shoes, taking them out to lunch-a few of my favorite things to do with them:) #kidlitchat
Do you guys think it’s possible to ‘overthink’ a ms? #kidlitchat
RT @gregpincus: a friend tosses their pile of index cards, repiles them, and tries again! <<this gives me a heart attack #kidlitchat
A fancy meal, a Dr. Pepper, and a chocolate dessert helps too. #kidlitchat
Does anyone talk to themselves when you’re stuck? Or is it just me? #kidlitchat
@KatGirl_Studio That, too, definitely. Alone with thoughts. And sometimes music. #kidlitchat
I can always edit later… >.> #kidlitchat
@audryT I interview my characters w/two questions always, “what are you most afraid of?”and “what makes you the most happy?” #kidlitchat
@KatGirl_Studio The shower works for me as well! A lot of epiphanies in the shower. #kidlitchat
#kidlitchat I work on plotting while I run.
Sometimes I have to write something else when really stuck – an exercise, a scene from outside the book, something to reset. #kidlitchat
I sometimes build scenes around images from dreams. I get a real sense for dynamics between characters w/ single image. #kidlitchat
Sometimes one needs to take a major leap… try something totally unique. It’s scary. But it’s where the best books come from. #kidlitchat
My dance classes inspire story development. Movement, creativity, & being surrounded by teens. Makes for magical scene ideas. #kidlitchat
Walking helps get unstuck. Sometimes so does a nap. #kidlitchat
@bonnieadamson Yea, so easy to organize till there’s nothing left! That’s what I do with PB manuscripts, apparently! #kidlitchat
@MyraMcEntire My characters open up a whole slew of ideas and plot directions when I open my mouth & let them speak through me. #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal My worst plot issue was rewriting a middle chapter in a 4th draft. Just kept poking at it til it came out, no trick. #kidlitchat
@ktubb I think exercise (even driving!) is when you get to activate your subconscious because you’re busy doing something “rote” #kidlitchat
@leewind How many times have we heard an agent or editor say, i can help with plot but with voice you’re on your own. #kidlitchat
@leewind Now that I might actually do. Actually, I kind of do that already, lol. #kidlitchat
@tabithaolson I talk to myself when I’m stuck. I also talk to myself when I’m not stuck. #kidlitchat
@tabithaolson totally talk to myself all the time. always thought I was a nutter. #kidlitchat
@StephanieFeagan you can totally overthink a ms, I’ve done it. Always kills it right then & there #kidlitchat
@DDHearn Idiotic dreams can lead to great comedy! #kidlitchat
Collins’ “Getting Into Character” has all kinds of method-acting based exercises for learning about your characters #kidlitchat
@leewind You. Are. A . Genius. #kidlitchat LOVE the idea of milestone plotting!
@DDHearn Even so, If I use a pen, it sometimes glops up. I type really fast, but there r times I want 2 touch paper – pencil! #kidlitchat
Yes @tabithaolson, and I act out scenes, make the expressions, noises, etc. #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal I hit a snag with my story conflict but then I switched to characters roles and suddenly it all fell into place. #kidlitchat
@storyexperiment Awesome questions! I’ll have to use those on my main character. #kidlitchat
@jeanie_w For me paper has to fee semiprecious. I can look back on journals & reread 1st drafts, review my transformations. #kidlitchat
@johannaharness Yeah, I decided to just let go & write whatever came to mind. Several things to cut now, but I had to SEE them. #kidlitchat
RT @mgbuehrlen: @MyraMcEntire For me it’s a hot bath and alone time to talk to myself as long as I want. #kidlitchat. Cool.
RT @tabithaolson: Does anyone talk to themselves when youre stuck? <<does talking plot w/ 2-yr-old count? #kidlitchat
@tabithaolson I talk to myself when I’m stuck or unstuck. Hearing words out loud helps. #kidlitchat
I find doing the dishes (as much as I hate it) another great way to get the juices flowing. #kidlitchat
@thaliachaltas That’s why I’m trying pbs lately–not my best form, but I need the discipline. #kidlitchat
@LiaKeyes That is wonderful and a blessing. I know people do get great ideas from dreams, but it has never happened to me. #kidlitchat
Showers are awesome. Clean hair, no Internet, damn good book ideas. Sometimes I get only one shaved leg out of it, but you know. #kidlitchat
@johannaharness re: milestone plotting – Kathleen Duey is genius – the interview was in the 2009 CWIM! #kidlitchat
@rillajaggia @leewind that’s interesting. How can you teach voice? If it’s not there and it needs to be, we say no to ms. #kidlitchat
@EllenHopkinsYA i agree. sometimes it’s great to completely rewrite an exitsing story too in a new way to see if it works better #kidlitchat
If something gets problematic (ending, character dev, etc.) I redouble my efforts to fix it. My pride won’t let me avoid it. #kidlitchat
Having more than one wip definitely helps, too. You can switch when stuck on one. I know, not recommended but works for me. #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal now all the conflicts in the story seem deeper. #kidlitchat
@EgmontGal It took me long time to learn to trust the reader at all. Often when scene not working it’s b/c I’m not trusting. #kidlitchat
@heidi_heidi_ho Come join us! #kidlitchat
@MyraMcEntire: Showers work for me, too. I’ve some of my best plot breakthroughs and BIG ideas in the shower and when driving. #kidlitchat
I ask why I’m fascinated, then where story has to end to express that. Then the characters find their own way there. #kidlitchat
RT @Casey_McCormick: @KatGirl_Studio The shower works for me! Lots of epiphanies in the shower.Ditto! I need a waterproof laptop #kidlitchat
@johannaharness Absolutely! And I love to read a WIP out loud. #kidlitchat
@leewind Yes! Like folding laundry (she says, as if this has *ever* sparked a plot idea…) #kidlitchat
I’ll just throw out there as an example Kristina, the (non)heroine from CRANK. Why do readers love her? Got me! She’s so flawed. #kidlitchat
@leewind I like to take long walks. Loosens up my thinking. #kidlitchat
@Casey_McCormick Me too. Shower! I have a paint pen that I take notes on the wall so I won’t forget. #kidlitchat
@rillajaggia So true! Unless you keep writing & writing, no inner voice comes out. It takes a lot of time to find your voice! #kidlitchat
@Shelltex I get palpitations just thinking about working on 2 things at once. #kidlitchat
If I’m really stuck, I’ll start talking in my character’s voice. Say their lines, and others’. Then I type what comes next. #kidlitchat
#kidlitchat Sorry to chat in late and run early, but time to bed-time read to my daughter! Namaste to all, Lee
@storyexperiment Questions I ask charas include, “Why are you staring at me like that?” & “Are you CRAZY? Why did you do that?” #kidlitchat
@StephanieFeagan Most definitely. If I get too deep in ‘think’ mode, I can get stuck there – sometimes ya just gotta write #kidlitchat
Hey, I didn’t even know there was a #kidlitchat. Anyway, I’m in the thick of revising my werewolfy angsty sequel.
@EgmontGal Lots of people try to teach how to develop or find or recognize voice though. #kidlitchat
@EKokie interesting! I point out to trust the reader (in not overstating something, for example) but never thought of it 4 plot #kidlitchat
Doing crossword puzzles before bed helps unstick my brain enough for morning epiphany . . . sometimes. #kidlitchat
@storyexperiment tell me about your shower paint pen, what kind? I want to copy! #kidlitchat
And not a whole lot of redemption in Kristina, either. What has she got? She’s real, not an archetype. #kidlitchat
@leewind Bye Lee. #kidlitchat
@bonnieadamson I’m against organization. I say b messy & choatic & stressed from beginning to end. Keeps you writin like crazy. #kidlitchat
@EllenHopkinsYA Flawed characters are identifiable to a teen, no? I think that’s why it works. #kidlitchat
RT @storyexperiment: Shower! I have a paint pen that I take notes on the wall so I wont forget. (I SO need one of those. Fun!) #kidlitchat
@jeanie_w I write on loose leaf college lined notebook paper. I can cut it up and paste it around in other places. #kidlitchat
@rillajaggia have you found that teaching helpful? I think people try to encourage writers’ voices, which is different #kidlitchat
@MyraMcEntire @leewind How do I find out about milestone plotting?

Please click here to go to part two of the September 8th transcript. NOTE: there are three minutes of missing tweets between this and the next transcript. I have no idea where they are. I will try to find them, as I am sure they unlock the secret to plotting, sales, and character. Apologies!

Kidlitchat Transcript – September 8 (part one)

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