I have an awesome idea for a movie! But the only way I think it can go somewhere is if I wrote it as a novel. I’m only a freshman in high school, do you think it’s even possible to start writting and make it a novel that will go somewhere, like into movies for instance? Do you have any suggestions or sites with good information that will help me write?? If so, don’t hesitate to write…Thank you so much!!!
I would recommend reading as many books as possible in the genres that you like to write, as well as about the craft of writing. When you are reading other fiction books, pay attention to how the authors structure their work.
Here are some of my favorites about writing:
1) "Writing Down The Bones" by Natalie Goldberg
2) "Bird by Bird" by Anne Lamott
3) "On Writing Well" by William Zinsser
4) "How to Write Science Fiction & Fantasy" by Orson Scott Card
5) "On Writing" by Stephen King
6) "No Plot? No Problem!" by Chris Baty
7) "Eats, Shoots, and Leaves" by Lynne Truss
"The Elements of Style" by Strunk and White
Also, take a look at a few websites where authors gather. Some of them have very helpful articles and forums. Holly Lisle has a fantastic website that has articles on both the business and writing aspects, including an excellent article on worldbuilding that I highly suggest for any fantasy writer:
http://hollylisle.com/fm/
Forward Motion is a wonderful, helpful community:
http://www.fmwriters.com/
Absolute Write is one of my favorite author communities, with a vast pool of resources and helpful people:
http://www.absolutewrite.com
Write every single day. Set a target for yourself. For instance, my goal right now is to write 1,000 words a day. I get this done before I go on the internet, read, watch TV, or goof around. To begin, maybe set an easier goal for yourself– try 250 words each day. Write in a journal as well, if you feel so inclined!
When you get ideas, find a way to record them as well. I have a spiral notebook that I keep just for that purpose. This way, when I want to begin a new project I can read through my notes and find just the right idea!
Also, never forget how important it is to edit and rewrite! When you finish a short story or novel, I suggest setting it aside for a month. Don’t look at it or think about it (if you can help it). Work on another project. Once that time has passed, go back and read what you wrote. Try to be objective– are there parts that need to be expanded? Cut out? Rewritten? How is the grammar and spelling? Editing could (and should) take more time than the original draft!
The ideas really have to come from within you. We can give you all the ideas in the world, but if you aren’t passionate about it then the novel won’t end up being any good IF you even finish it. Write about what you love. The rest will come!