Summary: In segment one of this volume, "Writing the Landscape," Janet Fitch discusses landscape and how its use can distinguish professional writers from aspiring writers. In a clear and conversational style, she provides examples and recommends methods, tools, and exercises to help novelists elevate the level of their prose. In segment two, writers Sands Hall, Max Byrd, Varley O'Connor, and Stephen...
Format: software, multimedia
Publisher / Publication Date: Films Media Group 2006
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Summary: In segment one of this volume, authors Mark Childress, Janet Fitch, and Glen David Gold read and talk about their previously unpublished works. In the second segment, "Conversations," Oakley Hall-founder of the Squaw Valley Community of Writers, author of 24 novels, and former writing teacher-presents 15 tips that every writer needs to know, beginning with Write every day, Observe and listen,...
Format: software, multimedia
Publisher / Publication Date: Films Media Group 2006
View online at AVOD
Summary: Crime writing and the memoir are highlighted in this volume. In segment one, author/journalist Martin J. Smith shares his knowledge about the differences between mystery, crime, and suspense; how to know if you have a solid concept; and five elements that are necessary for success in a crime-related genre. In segment two, author and former columnist Adair Lara walks viewers through The Arc, an...
Format: software, multimedia
Publisher / Publication Date: Films Media Group 2006
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Summary: In segment one of this volume, screenwriter Gill Dennis gives a presentation that addresses how to find the story, develop memorable and realistic characters, uncover "significant irrelevancies" and apply them to fiction, and use emotions to develop story lines. In the second segment, "Psychological and Spiritual Distress of Writing," Anne Lamott provides good advice and great examples as she...
Format: software, multimedia
Publisher / Publication Date: Films Media Group 2006
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Summary: How can a handful of words, scribbled on a napkin or a train schedule, grow into a timeless play? How does a storyteller create characters with lives and intentions of their own? Is writing a miraculous act, impossible to explain or describe, or is it 90 percent perspiration? In this program, a chorus of famous authors discuss creative strategies that lead to emotionally charged stories and...
Format: software, multimedia
Publisher / Publication Date: Films Media Group 2006
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Summary: This volume concentrates on successful storytelling. In a talk called "Scene, Summary, Silence," writer/educator Al Young tells how to engage readers and keep a story moving by creating believable narrative and maintaining a balance between scene and summary. A panel discussion moderated by Mark Childress follows, in which authors Olga Carlisle, James Brown, Lynn Freed, and Al Young examine the...
Format: software, multimedia
Publisher / Publication Date: Films Media Group 2006
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Summary: What if an aspiring screenwriter could get just two minutes of face time with a major Hollywood exec to make a pitch? Welcome to Pitchmart. In this reality-based program, five people with five big ideas express their passions and frustrations as they spend a week with Ken Rotcop to polish their presentations-and then two precious minutes with the decision-makers who could transform their...
Format: software, multimedia
Publisher / Publication Date: Films Media Group 2006
View online at AVOD
Summary: This volume looks at writing from the perspective of agents, editors, and publishers. It begins with a Q&A segment that spells out how to secure an agent. Moderated by agent Betsy Amster, the panel-BJ Robbins, Julie Barer, and Elyse Cheney-fields questions including What do you like to see in a query letter? and What is a good way to find the right agent? A panel featuring editors Ann Close and...
Format: software, multimedia
Publisher / Publication Date: Films Media Group 2006
View online at AVOD
Summary: In this volume, Amy Tan gives a talk called "Serendipity, the Muse, and Divine Intervention." Using examples from The One Hundred Secret Senses, she explores the role that these elements played in the development of her work. This volume also features a lively panel discussion in which authors Amy Tan and Richard Ford and editors Will Allison, Alan Cheuse, and Andrew Tonkovich field questions...
Format: software, multimedia
Publisher / Publication Date: Films Media Group 2006