Who's your favorite...
Today during my normal chat time at Long Ridge we were discussing writers and our favorite authors. Discussing the writers was easy. Deciding on a favorite was much harder though.
I know most writers, as they learn their craft become more selective with what they read. I'm the same way. Now, instead of settling into the story I tend to notice how the story was written and pick apart the author's choices. There is a good side and a bad side to this.
The good side is I've become much more aware of how words go together to make scenes and how good scenes can go bad. I notice dialogue that doesn't sound natural for the character along with paying attention to plot lines and the dramatic arc. After a memorable experience with an ending that made me swear to never buy another of the series, I'm much more aware of how story endings need to tie up the loose ends and satisfy the reader.
The down side is that it's been a long time since I last got so lost in a book I practically forgot to breathe. It's been ages since I took a book to the kitchen, continuing to read as I stirred dinner and it's been ages since I took a book to the bathroom with me. I tend to not give a book very long to get me involved. I'm more demanding now.
What about you, has becoming a writer changed you as a reader? How?
What does it take for a book to hook you?
And what have you read and enjoyed lately?
Jean
Oh...I want to encourage you all to stop by the Long Ridge Chat Room. It's a nice place to take a break and get to know other writers. And nope, you don't have to be a Long Ridge student to join us. We love to chat with everyone. Just be prepared...writing isn't the only thing we discuss. Food is often a major topic along with kids and pets. If you are stuck with your idea, we'll gladly help brainstorm with you:-)
We are always there at noon central during the week and on Sunday evenings at 7 central. Stop by, say hi and make yourself at home.
I know most writers, as they learn their craft become more selective with what they read. I'm the same way. Now, instead of settling into the story I tend to notice how the story was written and pick apart the author's choices. There is a good side and a bad side to this.
The good side is I've become much more aware of how words go together to make scenes and how good scenes can go bad. I notice dialogue that doesn't sound natural for the character along with paying attention to plot lines and the dramatic arc. After a memorable experience with an ending that made me swear to never buy another of the series, I'm much more aware of how story endings need to tie up the loose ends and satisfy the reader.
The down side is that it's been a long time since I last got so lost in a book I practically forgot to breathe. It's been ages since I took a book to the kitchen, continuing to read as I stirred dinner and it's been ages since I took a book to the bathroom with me. I tend to not give a book very long to get me involved. I'm more demanding now.
What about you, has becoming a writer changed you as a reader? How?
What does it take for a book to hook you?
And what have you read and enjoyed lately?
Jean
Oh...I want to encourage you all to stop by the Long Ridge Chat Room. It's a nice place to take a break and get to know other writers. And nope, you don't have to be a Long Ridge student to join us. We love to chat with everyone. Just be prepared...writing isn't the only thing we discuss. Food is often a major topic along with kids and pets. If you are stuck with your idea, we'll gladly help brainstorm with you:-)
We are always there at noon central during the week and on Sunday evenings at 7 central. Stop by, say hi and make yourself at home.
Labels: favorite authors, Long Ridge
