Halo's Eve Tip #6: Theme is the Thing

  Good, Monday.

Received this tip from my copy of the current issue of BookMark magazine page 11. Mickey Pearlman's "Forget the Plot, Find the Theme."

 

This article is geared toward reading groups and book clubs, but it is important for writers to take a closer look at this article. Why? Because not only does it show book club members how to have a more enjoyable and meaningful meeting, but also it lets us, authors understand what's most important to our  readers...to find an intimate connection with someone(albeit fictional.)

 

Book groups allow these readers to come together and share these connected experiences. "At their best, they provide both the incentive to share and the opportunity to be heard and acknowledged."

 

For me, I write for the same reason. Do you?

 

Two years ago I was an Oprah Book Club President for Suwanee & Lawrenceville, GA--The Suwanee Social Club was our name. We had about twenty-five members and a waiting list just as long. Even now, every month I receive an email from someone wanting to join the club. If I wasn't so busy, I would start it back up. I hate sending away reading souls. Shoot. I might do it again in the near future, but Girl Scouts is a ministry. I tell ya. :0

 

So...as you continue revising or writing your novel this month, think about your reader and how they will relate to your work. Put all the plot tricks I will pass onto you in perspective. And focus on your reader. What do you want them to say at a book club meeting about your story? What must matter over everything else? And most importantly, is your story inviting your readers into a shareable experience that only you can deliver? I'm thinking this concept is what Claudia wants to create with her simple stories. How about you?

 

Writing to see what the end's gon' be,

Dee

 

 

 Powered By Qumana