Story Genius

How to Use Brain Science to Go Beyond Outlining and Write a Riveting Novel (Before You Waste Three Years Writing 327 Pages That Go Nowhere)

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Story Genius

By: Lisa Cron

Narrated by: Brittany Pressley

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About this listen

Following on the heels of Lisa Cron's breakout first book, Wired for Story, this writing guide reveals how to use cognitive storytelling strategies to build a scene-by-scene blueprint for a riveting story.

It's every novelist's greatest fear: pouring their blood, sweat, and tears into writing hundreds of pages only to realize that their story has no sense of urgency, no internal logic, and so is a page-one rewrite.

The prevailing wisdom in the writing community is that there are just two ways around this problem: pantsing (winging it) and plotting (focusing on the external plot). Story coach Lisa Cron has spent her career discovering why these methods don't work and coming up with a powerful alternative, based on the science behind what our brains are wired to crave in every story we read (and it’s not what you think).

In Story Genius, Cron takes you, step by step, through the creation of a novel from the first glimmer of an idea, to a complete, multilayered blueprint - including fully realized scenes - that evolves into a first draft with the authority, richness, and command of a riveting sixth or seventh draft.

Words, Language & Grammar

Writing & Publishing

Brain Science Writing

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Critic reviews

"Using brain science, Cron busts the myths of good writing to help you find the real story behind all that plot and metaphor." (The Writer)

"In [Cron's] new book, Story Genius, she picks up the...theme...that a protagonist's internal struggle makes the story work, and offers step-by-step advice on how to exploit this truth about neuroscience for richer, deeper, better first drafts.... Cron provides exercises and examples to keep writers on track, always highlighting the fact that emotions engage the brain faster than anything else.... The concepts are easy to understand and they are certainly important. Even if you can't go on a retreat, you should try to find time to do the exercises for your own blueprint." (PsychologyToday.com)

"It's a simple question: 'How do you write an effective, engaging story?' Ask Lisa Cron. An accomplished author and story coach, she has just published her second book, Story Genius. A manual of sorts, it teaches cognitive storytelling strategies and uses actual brain science to help make its readers into better writers." (Creative Screenwriting)

Most relevant

Story Genius by Lisa Cron is an absolute treasure trove for anyone who is passionate about storytelling. This audio book is a comprehensive guide that delves deep into the art and science of crafting compelling narratives. I have listened to it multiple times, each time discovering new insights and perspectives that have significantly enhanced my understanding of storytelling.

The narration is engaging and the content is well-structured, making it easy to follow along. The concepts are explained with clarity and depth, making it an invaluable resource for both beginners and seasoned writers. The examples and exercises provided throughout the book are practical and thought-provoking, encouraging you to apply what you've learned to your own writing.

Having a physical copy of the book alongside the audio version has been incredibly beneficial. It allowed me to follow along as I listened, much like a read-along story for children. This immersive learning experience helped me to absorb the material more effectively. Now, I find myself switching between the two formats, using the text as a reference and the audio as a reminder.

Lisa Cron's expertise and passion for storytelling shine through every chapter of Story Genius. Her approach is not just about teaching you how to write a story, but also about understanding the psychological aspects of storytelling. This book has not only improved my writing skills but also deepened my appreciation for the power of stories.

In conclusion, Story Genius is a must-have for anyone interested in storytelling. It's a masterclass in narrative craft, delivered with wisdom, insight, and a genuine love for the art of storytelling. Whether you're an aspiring writer or a seasoned author, this book will undoubtedly enrich your storytelling journey.

Masterpiece of Storytelling Wisdom - Story Genius by Lisa Cron