Middle Grade Matters

[Listen Again] Ep. 8: Joel Brigham on Six Things Every Story Needs to Succeed

Shannon Balloon

On this episode, which originally aired in October, 2023, I talk with Joel Brigham of Brigham Editorial on the craft of writing. Together we dive deep into six things every story needs to succeed and answer the following questions:

  1. What makes a great premise?
  2. What are stakes and when and how do you raise them?
  3. How do you craft interesting characters?
  4. What are the basic elements of a good plot? 
  5. What is voice, and how do you develop it?
  6. What is a theme, and how do you write it into your story? 

Books and resources mentioned in this podcast include:

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