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 | 232 | Founded | 4 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | EducationFiction | |||
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Latest Episodes
Readers love dialogue. It's as if they are part of the scene, sitting there and listening to our characters argue or romance each other or plan something important. Here are additional techniques to grip readers with our dialogue. Also: V.S. Naipa... more
Dialogue is like a Snickers candy bar: it's good. Here are eight techniques for making conversations in our story engage the reader, things we should do and things we should avoid. Also, how did Sue Monk Kidd handle her first rejection? And Meg Ca... more
The shark. Dracula. Draco Malfoy. Cathy Ames. Annie Wilkes, Hannibal Lecter. Jadis the White Witch. Aren't these villains masterful creations, and don't they keep readers glued to the story? Here are ideas on how we can create wonderful--is t... more
Every element of our story should add interest, including the settings. What if--because of the plot or characters--we must place a scene in an otherwise dull place? We can juice it up. We can make it lively and fascinating. Here is how the maste... 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 States3 months 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 States7 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
Spain8 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 States9 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 Statesa year ago
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Chart Rankings
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Apple Podcasts | #223 |  United Kingdom/Education |
Apple Podcasts | #212 |  Australia/Education |
Apple Podcasts | #76 |  Norway/Education |
Apple Podcasts | #87 |  Finland/Education |
Apple Podcasts | #174 |  Poland/Education |
Apple Podcasts | #219 |  Colombia/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 show for aspiring and practicing novelists, offering step-by-step guidance on story development, scene construction, and tightening sentence-level writing. Episodes repeatedly emphasize concrete techniques—from setting and sensory detail to showing versus telling and pacing—bolstered by literary examples and structured practices. The host often promotes paid master classes as deeper learning avenues, and maintains a warm, encouraging teaching style that feels like a live-writing class. A standout trait is the clear, technique-first approach paired with accessible, actionable exercises, making it helpful for listeners who want hands-on improvements and a reliable routine for daily writing practice.
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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. Writing Excuses
4. The Shit No One Tells You About Writing
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 232 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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