Essential Guide to Writing a Novel
James ThayerHosted by James Thayer, the podcast is a practical, step-by-step manual on how to craft a novel. It presents a set of tools for large issues such as story development and scene construction (Kirkus Reviews said Thayer's novels are "superbly crafted') and it also examines techniques that will make your sentence-by-sentence writing shine. The New York Times Book Review has said Thayer's "writing is ... more
| Publishes | Weekly | Episodes | 220 | Founded | 4 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | EducationFiction | |||
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Latest Episodes
The phrase "cut to the chase" originated in the film industry. When shooting and editing a movie, if things are getting dull cut to a chase scene. Cut to the chase applies to our novels and short stories, too. Here are ways we writers can make our... more
Here is a checklist of things we likely should think about as we begin our first chapter: some elements to have in the beginning pages of our story and some things to avoid. Also: the strong technique of using contrast in consecutive scenes so that ... more
What is a singular attribute that separates Oscar Wilde, Ernest Hemingway, and Edgar Alan Poe? Their literary voices. Here are thoughts on our own voices: if and how we should try to develop them. Also: the strong tool of contrast, when the charac... more
Writing is like learning the violin. We can get better. Here are reasons we should practice, and suggestions how to do so. And what sparked Edgar Alan Poe's imagination? Also: how much of our story should be scenes rather than summary? The answer... more
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Reviews
- Outstanding
I’m a 53 year old lawyer and mom, attempting a third act. Jim is my soothsayer. Everything about this podcast is gold and I could not be more grateful. What a gift.
Apple Podcasts5A42BS
United States18 days ago - Helpful & a JOY to listen to
This podcast gives great practical tips for writing - lots of examples of the tips in action, too, which is helpful. James is a joy to listen to… he’s very passionate about writing & literature & has such a cheerful disposition to him that makes listening to his episodes delightful!
Apple Podcasts5Anne AldenUnited States4 months ago - Vital information for all fiction writers.
Updating this review two days after Christmas. I’m so sorry to hear that Jack has died. I always loved hearing about his antics. So sorry for your loss. They are like family to us.
This podcast is packed with useful information. I love James’ quirky presentation and occasional digressions. Well worth subscribing.
Apple Podcasts5Lynn Mac
Spain5 months ago - Pragmatic and Professional
I’m nine episodes in, and honestly, it feels like slipping into an old-school Novel Writing 101 lecture where the professor actually likes teaching. Thayer is organized, generous with examples, and somehow pulls off a charming faux-modesty that gives the whole thing a warm, gently humorous vibe.
Full confession: I’ve never written a novel, and now I’m trying to write one. (Don’t laugh. Or do. It’s fine.) There are countless writing resources out there—some ramble, some are drowning in self-pr... more
Apple Podcasts5MrDzynUnited States6 months ago - Incredibly good
I love the show. I’m writing a book and the advice
In this podcast has proven truly crucial.
Apple Podcasts5HappykittyonthemoonUnited States9 months ago
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Apple Podcasts | #247 | United States/Education |
Apple Podcasts | #172 |  Norway/Education |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Essential Guide to Writing a Novel
What is Essential Guide to Writing a Novel about and what kind of topics does it cover?
A practical, craft-focused series that guides listeners through the fundamentals of writing a novel, with emphasis on developing a distinctive authorial voice, scene construction, showing versus telling, and tight editing. Episodes frequently illustrate concepts with concrete examples from classic and contemporary fiction, and often include actionable exercises, real-time writing prompts, and occasional masterclass promotions. Noteworthy is the host's warm, teacherly approach and a recurring emphasis on structure, pacing, and craft discipline, which makes it useful for both aspiring and active writers seeking tangible skills and steady progress.
This show stands out for its concise lesson length, concrete technique demonstrations, and a pe... more
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Which podcasts are similar to Essential Guide to Writing a Novel?
These podcasts share a similar audience with Essential Guide to Writing a Novel:
1. Fiction Writing Made Easy with Savannah Gilbo | How to Write a Novel & Writing Advice
2. Helping Writers Become Authors
3. The Shit No One Tells You About Writing
4. Writing Excuses
5. Writer's Routine
How many episodes of Essential Guide to Writing a Novel are there?
Essential Guide to Writing a Novel launched 4 years ago and published 220 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
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