Full of expert, effective advice from a producer and professional writer for 15 network television series, this book offers pragmatic techniques for constructing a compelling story and developing rich characters and extraordinary dialogue. In clear and concise language, this lively guide explains that the same methods used in the high-pressure world of writing for television can be applied to fiction storytelling in all its forms, from poetry, short stories, and novels to memoirs, stage plays, and movie scripts. Included is advice on such writing elements as building a story, constructing action sequences, creating memorable characters, developing scene structure, and avoiding cliche dialogue. Also covered are problem-solving strategies for polishing the final product.
Novelist, screenwriter, playwright Thomas B. Sawyer was Head Writer/Showrunner of the hit CBS series, MURDER, SHE WROTE, for which he wrote 24 episodes. Tom has written 9 network TV pilots, 100 episodes, and has been Head Writer/Showrunner or Story Editor on 15 network TV series.
Tom wrote, directed and produced the cult film comedy, ALICE GOODBODY, and is co-librettist/lyricist of JACK, an opera about John F. Kennedy, backed by the Shuberts, that has been performed to acclaim in the US and Europe. He is publisher of STORYBASE 2.0 writer's software.
The best-selling mystery/thriller, THE SIXTEENTH MAN, is Tom's first novel. His book, FICTION WRITING DEMYSTIFIED, and STORYBASE are Writer's Digest Book Club Selections. He's taught writing at UCLA, at other colleges and universities, at numerous major writers conferences, and online at Writers University. Mr. Sawyer has been nominated for an Edgar and an Emmy. His website: www.ThomasBSawyer.com
Tom's latest thriller is NO PLACE TO RUN.
