ARA Review by Christopher Henry 2 of How to Write a Novel in 20 Steps
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ARA Review by Christopher Henry 2 of How to Write a Novel in 20 Steps
3 out of 5
Adam van Susteren's “How to Write a Novel in 20 Days” is a book that promises a motivated and faster approach to writing a novel. It is geared towards aspiring writers looking to complete their first novel quickly. The book provides A structured plan and a series of exercises to guide them through the process. The book offers some valuable tools and insights but has some limitations.
One of the strengths of Van Susteren’s books is its emphasis on discipline and structure. The author provides a step-by-step outline that helps writers stay on track and break down the overwhelming task of writing a novel into bite-size daily goals. The book also includes practical exercises and writing prompts that can help stimulate creativity and overcome writer's block. For those who lack motivation and productivity or struggle with it, these aspects of the book can be genuinely beneficial.
Additionally, the discipline and organization of Van Susteren's writing style are clear, concise, and very easy to follow. He presents his ideas in a manner that makes them accessible even for new writers. The book structure and layout are well-designed, allowing readers to navigate the content with little effort.
However, the book's main disadvantage is its focus on speed over depth and quality. While it's true that some writers thrive under tight deadlines, the pressure to complete a novel in just 20 days may not be suitable for everyone. The approach advocated in this book may sacrifice the necessary time for proper planning, character development, and revision. Writing a novel is an involved undertaking that requires patience, multiple drafts, and careful editing, which are aspects that could be explored in more detail with more time.
Furthermore, the book lacks an in-depth discussion of crucial elements of novel writing, such as plot structure, character arcs, and world-building. While it briefly touches upon these topics, it fails to provide more in-depth practical guidance and techniques for developing them effectively. As a result, the reader may find themselves ill-equipped to tackle these fundamental aspects of storytelling.
In conclusion, “How to Write a novel in 20 Days” by Adam van Susteren has its merits as a great motivational tool for writers seeking to complete a story quickly. Its disciplined approach and practical exercises can help writers overcome procrastination and establish a writing routine. However, it falls short of providing the necessary depth and guidance for crafting a well-rounded novel. Writers looking for a comprehensive guide to novel writing may want more from this book.
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