How to Write a Novel: Plot Gardening With Chris Fox

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Craft is the heart of the writing life, and in today's show, I discuss Plot Gardening with Chris Fox, as well as some thoughts on how to build a career for the long-term.
Chris Fox is the bestselling author of science fiction and dark fantasy as well as nonfiction for authors including Write to Market, and Six-Figure Author. Today we're discussing his book on craft, Plot Gardening: A Simple Guide to Outlining your Novel.
On the impetus to write a book about craft
On the development of writing craft over time
Using the gardening metaphor in relation to both storytelling and author backlists
Tips for writing conflict that is rooted in story and interesting to readers
On the different types of conflict that can add depth to a story
Thinking like a reader when you’re plotting
Balancing world-building with writing fast
On the recent changes in Amazon discoverability
Protecting our future as writers
You can find Chris Fox at www.ChrisFoxWri... and on Twitter @ScholarlyFox
You can always find the show notes and links at: www.thecreative...
You can find my course on How to Write a Novel at:
creative-penn-...

[@etinarcadiaego7424]

The emotional resonance I like to create is the idea that all people are flawed, broken, and traumatized. I like creating characters we can all identify with because they are all struggling with the human condition and coping with suffering.

[@Andrea_Manconi]

By now I like each video in advance! (Can't have enough!)

[@oracleofaltoona]

I like the matter of fact way that Chris approaches his work. It is very liberating for someone whose approach tends to be too elevated (for lack of a better word).

[@HeartDrivenTarot]

Love this and love you two!

[@gigartina]

I re-read this book every time I start a new book. It's thoughtful, insightful, and crazy informative.

[@discoverybg31]

In my third book, one of the conflicts is between what's good vs. what's just. When someone frames a vampire for murder, destroying the vampire (who's an evil monster) is good. But is it just to kill someone who hasn't committed a crime just because they're a vile, disgusting creature?

[@ValeVin]

Chris Fox is always a good interview =]

[@mladenr3464]

You should do this more often. You two are amazing!

[@AdeleCeleste]

Good advice! I enjoy keeping up with the trends in the indie, self-publishing world. Thanks, Joanna! :-)

[@abbeylarastables]

Great episode - love Chris Fox! Question about something you mentioned in the podcast - would you recommend the Dan Brown masterclass?! I've been looking at it but can't seem to decide.

[@thecreativepenn]

I've enjoyed it :)

[@gussiefick2590]

Great interview--full of helpful advice. You're both inspiring!

[@quantumlandbooks4005]

Great video! I'm really looking forward to that RPG.

[@angelicagiovanni7395]

I have over 100 writing craft books and audiobooks I study. I don't have plans to publish a book until I feel I have all the skills garnered from those books. I write, but I write to practice the current topic I am studying. I do always prefer the outline method as to not waste time and know ahead of time where the story is going. Allows me to know the structure, characters arcs, plot points, conflicts, emotional resonance, etc. Hard to juggle all the balls without an outline. I am forever looking for new insights into how other authors handle their drafts. I have How to Write a Novel: Plot Gardening by Chris Fox on my wish list on audible. Looking forward to listening to his insights.

[@risafey]

It's the best metaphor xD Great interview.

[@paulapoetry]

Great interview - thank you. I definitely agree with you, Joanna - and would highly recommend Chris's You Tube channel. 😃👍💝

[@DiggingNorway]

Interesting, but very little about plot gardening, more a business chat really

[@richardmonday3774]

i'm tryiing to get into childrens books can you point me in the right direction

[@thecreativepenn]

Check out this video - th-cam.com/video/P5shAGsqHg8/w-d-xo.html

[@Ebadams]

Richard Monday I also wanted to be a children’s author, but it seems like kids (including mine!) are watching youtube more than reading books so I’ve been experimenting with publishing directly to youtube. If you’re an illustrator and writer, that might be an option for you. It does feel more like being a youtuber than an author. But the audience is HUGE and I’m happy that more kids have “watched” my stories than if I had published traditionally or self.

[@richardmonday3774]

Currently trying wattpad

[@richardmonday3774]

I have no idea on how to use it to publish a book

[@Ebadams]

@@richardmonday3774 I remember one of Joanna's guest talking about wattpad, i think it was this one: th-cam.com/video/a3wOXNQqaks/w-d-xo.html From what i remember it's a very hungry YA and teen audience (fanfic can do very well), but it's also a lot of work (like any platform!). Good luck!