Book Description
With Story Structure Architect, writers discover how to use the classical structures found in all literature since Greek mythology to create unique and successful works. Presented in a fun, 2-color illustrated design, this book:
-Walks readers through each step of the structuring process--from identifying characters to weaving in subplots to building conflict -Offers thousands of possible story combinations with its browsable and interactive index format -Features 56 timeless dramatic situations, plus a blank situation template writers can use as they structure their own work
These techniques apply to every genre--making this book a must-have resource for anyone who writes short fiction, novels, scripts, or plays.
Customer Reviews:
First impressions are not always correct.......2007-01-18
When I first picked up this book I thought it was a simple little how-to book. I was wrong. This book has a wealth of information. It strips away the flowery prose most how-to-write books use and leaves the meat.
Don't just read this book. Study it, take notes. Write out the information and put it in an order that makes sense to you. If you're like most writers I know, you'll learn more by hand writing notes than simply skimming over the pages.
Poorly written........2006-11-13
I wish this book were easier to read! I'm interested in Schmidt's plot configurations, but her writing is so flat and repetitive that reading it is the literary equivalent of eating cardboard. Here's a quote: "Obtaining means to acquire or to succeed in gaining possession as the result of planning." Thanks. But why do I need to read that? If I'm not familiar with the word "obtaining" I'm probably not really up to writing a book, or even reading one.
As another reader pointed out, many of her examples are Hollywood bombs. That may simply be a limitation of this type of a guide, but it's even more discouraging, as I slog through the pages trying to get a few structural ideas, to think that the best I might end up with is something like "Striptease." I think I'd forgive the author this if her prose wasn't so stiff. Her editor is also to blame.
if you write seriously, i'd say buy it..........2006-09-09
I just bought this book recently and devoured all of its contents from beginning to end in one long sitting. UNLIKE so many other books that claim to help a writer flesh out their novel and then only give vague refrences as to character and plot, this book just about details step-by-step how one can go about doing it.
Another reviewer commented that the print in the book is 'too small' and that it is very hard to read -NO. It has the same print size of any paperback novel.
Another reviewer said something about an error relating to the book saying that the book states that stories are either plot related or character related with the other taking second and then gives examples which are actually the same as each other. Well, i have the book in front of me and this is NOT true. What the book says is that (and you can skim the other reviews to find the one i'm talking about) plot driven stories have the characters REACTING to the events of the story and that character driven stories have the characters ACTING to cause the plot to further itself.
What this means is that in a character driven story if the main character(s) stop deciding to act, which will further the plot of the story because of what they then do, then the story would simply be over. Think of it like your main character deciding that they need milk for their cereal and decide to go to the store to get some. That decision furthers the plot but at any time during their trip to the store they could just as easily decide that they change their mind and don't need milk after all. Then they could just turn around and the story of them taking a trip to the store to buy milk would be over with their decision.
Plot driven stories are like if you are driving to the store to pick up some milk and then on the way there your tire blows out causing your car to veer off the road. When you wake from the crash you try to call on your cell phone for help but just as the operator picks up the line your battery dies. Then you are forced to walk and as you do a storm comes and drops tornados down all around you.
Can you see the difference? That is what the book explains and i think that the reviewer whom i mentioned earlier missed that point.
Anywho, this is a very well written book that explains the information within so well that it is hard not to understand it. Not only is there a great amount of detail to what is stated inside but there are numerous examples to follow and guide the reader.
In my opinion: buy it. I'm glad i did.
A Valuable Compendium.......2006-08-14
Schmidt provides excellent coverage of the variegated structures of plot. The book is divided into four parts. The first explains how to plan a narrative. The second explains how to structure a plot. The third is a compendium of story structures. The fourth is a brief guide to research.
In the Part 1, Schmidt emphasizes character motivation and conflict. Unlike many books of its kind, "Story" clearly explains the relation between the "throughline," the conflict and the genre. If you aim to produce marketable works, this point is crucial. Schmidt covers this material at just the right depth, neither too theoretical nor too paraphrased.
However, in Part 1 you will find the only error in the book. The author makes a distinction between plot-driven stories and character-driven stories, but it is a distinction without a difference. According to Ms. Schmidt, a plot-driven story moves forward by events that "cause the characters to react to those events. Characters are secondary to the plot." On the other hand, a character-driven story moves ahead by "action and choices." Character-driven stories advance by the actions and choices of characters, while plot driven stories advance by the reactions of characters to events. The distinction claimed evaporates when we see that reactions invariably involve choices and actions, and moving ahead by "action and choices" invariably involves reaction to events.
For over 2,000 years, a good plot has been understood to be the logical and probable actions of characters. This is a plot-driven story. In some rare cases, the characters are not people, perhaps not even living. The long descriptive pieces in Hugo's "Toilers of the Sea" are a good example. A kind of story is told, but the characters are the Chanel Islands. So, to tell a story some kind of character must act. Good stories have logical and probable actions, but all stories have a plot.
The character-driven story places the focus on the development and changes in a character's character. Thus, character-driven (in this context) doesn't mean "an actor in a story" but rather "a characteristic property that defines the apparent individual nature of something." Character-driven stories tell of the events that change the nature, personality, or individuating property of a character in the story.
In short, character-driven stories are a species of plot-driven stories that show how a character's character changes. (That's a mouthful!) A good example to study is "Heart of Darkness."
Part 2, is very interesting. Schmidt explains all the traditional plot structures, and even some modern twists on them.
Part 3, is the reason I bought the book. The author compiles a very comprehensive list of story structures, along with questions and examples. I can now stop relying on Bocaccio's "Decameron" for my story ideas!
Part 4 is very brief, but enough to get you going.
It's a good book. I'm glad I bought it.
Saved my writing career!!!.......2006-03-31
I can not tell you enough how impressed i was with this book!!!! This book changed my life!! I was working on a few books at the time and i was feeling rather overwhelmed; my storie was flopping in the middle, it just didn't seem to be going aywhere! I basically gave up and didn't plan to finish at all when i saw this book and thought, "Well, maybe this is the motivation i need." After the first few pages i was on a roll!! I worked and worked into the wee hours of the morning and had my entire story, from start to finish, planned out in a very satisfactory manner!!! This book saved my writing career!! THANKS SO MUCH!!
Average customer rating:
- An extensively researched, skillfully articulated presentation.
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The Plausible God: Secular Reflections on Liberal Jewish Theology
Mitchell Silver
Manufacturer: Fordham University Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
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Breaking the Spell: Religion as a Natural Phenomenon
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The God Delusion
ASIN: 0823226824
Release Date: 2006-11-15 |
Book Description
A Plausible God evaluates the new God by analyzing the theology of three recent Jewish thinkers —Mordechai Kaplan, Michael Lerner, and Arthur Green—and compares faith in the new God to disbelief in any gods. Mitchell Silver reveals what is at stake in the choice between naturalistic liberal theology and a nontheistic naturalism without gods. Silver poses the question: "If it is to be either the new God or no God, what does—what should—determine the choice?"
Although Jewish thinkers are used as the primary exemplars of new God theology, Silver explores developments in contemporary Christian thought, Eastern religious traditions, and "New Age" religion. A Plausible God constitutes a significant contribution to current discussions of the relationship between science and religion, as well as to discussions regarding the meaning of the idea of God itself in modern life.
Customer Reviews:
An extensively researched, skillfully articulated presentation........2007-04-14
Written by philosophy teacher Mitchell Silver, A Plausible God: Secular Reflections on Liberal Jewish Theology is a studious, serious-minded discussion for intermediate to advanced students, scholars, and practitioners of religious philosophy. Examining the "liberal" concept of God that has emerged in monotheistic tradition since the seventeenth century, A Plausible God poses the question: does belief in a malleable, naturalistic deity come from, or lead to, a different political, moral, psychological, or aesthetic phenomena from simple atheism? Chapters inquire about "the usefulness of a plausible God", issues of idolatry and its avoidance, fundamental changes that different shades of belief allow or promote in human behavior, and much more. Though A Plausible God is written specifically with the cognition of Jewish thinkers in mind, changes in contemporary Christian thought, Eastern religious traditions, and "New Age" religion are also considered. An extensively researched, skillfully articulated presentation.
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CCEL Classics CD: works by Saint Augustine, John Calvin, John Donne, Julian of Norwich, Brother Lawrence, Martin Luther, Saint Teresa of Avila, Thomas Aquinas, Thomas a Kempis, John Wesley, and more!
Dr. W. Harry Plantinga
Manufacturer: Christian Classics Ethereal Library
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: CD-ROM
Mariology
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Augustine, Saint
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ASIN: 1931848076
Release Date: 2006-12-15 |
Product Description
The most important spiritual writings of Christian history are available on this Classics CD by the Christian Classics Ethereal Library (CCEL) at Calvin College. It contains 118 Christian classics, including three versions of the Bible, several commentaries, Bible dictionaries, readings, spiritual guides, sermons, poems and journals -- all in a convenient, searchable form. Books are available in HTML and PDF formats. The easy-to-use CCEL Desktop software powering the CD enables users to browse and print books and install additional books from the Web. The top-of-class search engine can search for words or phrases in books, in authors works or in the whole library. In addition, it can search for dictionary definitions of words and commentary or references to scripture passages. The interface is a Web browser. The CD is compatible with Windows 2000+, Macintosh 10.3+, and most Linux versions.
Book Description
Divine discourse comprises Nicholas Wolterstorff's philosophical reflections on the claim that God speaks. This claim figures large in the canonical texts and traditions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, but there has been remarkably little philosophical reflection on it, in good measure (so Professor Wolterstorff argues) because philosophers have mistakenly assimilated divine speech to divine revelation. He embraces contemporary speech-action theory as his basic approach to language; and after expanding the theory beyond its usual applications, concludes that the claim that God performs illocutionary actions is coherent and entails no obvious falsehoods. Moving on to issues of interpretation, he considers how one would interpret a text if one wanted to find out what God was saying thereby. Prominent features of this part of the discussion are his defense, against Ricoeur and Derrida, of the legitimacy of interpreting a text to find out what its author said, and his analysis of the double hermeneutic involved when the discourse of one person is appropriated into the discourse of another person. The book closes with a discussion of the epistemological question of whether we are entitled to believe that God speaks.
Customer Reviews:
A seminal work of philosophical theology.......2007-05-10
Wolterstorff delivers a carefully argued defense of the claim that God speaks today. This book would be an interesting read for those who might doubt whether God does indeed actively interact with humans today. However, the seeker might be frustrated by the fact that the argument is based upon the assumption that God does indeed exist. Overall, the precise argumentation and the unusual subject make this book a real gem.
Maybe not divine, but quite good. .......2006-12-30
The reviewer below has summarized what Wolterstorff accomplishes in this book well. Let me only add that I think I will find it useful. I'm doing research on how great Christian thinkers have related their faith to the truths of pre-Christian tradition in Europe, India, and China. Divine Discourse helps me better understand how God "takes up" the literature of the Jews and early Christians to communicate to us. His approach is respectful of both human and divine dimensions -- a bit like C. S. Lewis on the Psalms. This book is full of insights that I think will lend more philosophical depth to my understanding of "how God speaks" to my research. It may also give me a more subtle appreciation of the Biblical revelation in general, and personally. Wolterstorff manages to convey a great deal of the insight that is the fruit of rigorous thought, in a graceful, elegant and humane manner.
A thoughtful mix of philosophy and devotion.......2001-01-16
Divine Discourse is a philosophical and theological treat. It offers a philosophical exploration of the devotional reading of scripture. In so doing, it unveils the conceptual, epistemic and interpretive obstacles that one faces if one believes that God spoke and perhaps continues to speak through sacred texts. Like most of Professor Wolterstorff's books, it is a first word rather than a final word on a thought provoking topic. It begins a conversation and encourages further discussion. In Divine Discourse, Wolterstorff takes up three important philosophical topics, viz., divine revelation, philosophy of language and hermeneutics. The opening argument of the book is that the Bible should be understood under the rubric of divine speech, rather than divine revelation. This argument is followed by an analysis of divine speech in light of the speech-act theory of John Austin and John Searle. Such an analysis attaches significant weight to the role of the speaker or author in fixing the meaning of a speech-act or text. Since this is not an uncontroversial position in contemporary philosophical discussions of interpretation, Wolterstorff devotes a couple of chapters to answering criticisms from two of his more important critics, Paul Ricouer and Jacques Derrida. The remainder of the book takes up a variety of interesting hermeneutic and theological issues that arise from the fact that the Bible is both a divine and a human product. I would recommend this book on the strength of the opening discussion of Augustine's conversion experience alone. For anyone interested in the philosophical and theological issues surrounding the nature and interpretation of the Bible, this book is worth a careful read. For anyone interested in the impact of philosophy of language on hermeneutics, Divine Discourse provides important food for thought. And for anyone who is weary of the traditional disciplinary lines separating theology from philosophy, hermeneutics from the philosophy of language, or Anglo-American from contemporary European philosophy, this book will provide a welcome and refreshing change.
Book Description
A probing look at one of America's pressing social concerns--crime and the spiritual needs of those who suffer because of it. Headlines and nightly news programs remind us constantly of the reality of crime and victims who suffer from it. This important book is the first to make a theological exploration of the spiritual issues that victims face in the aftermath of crime and to offer practical advice for assisting those in need. Written by teachers, theologians, and practitioners well known for their expertise in the field, GOD AND THE VICTIM probes and examines issues of evil, justice, victimization, and forgiveness. Working from the view that crime is primarily a spiritual issue, the authors look at examples of victimization in the Bible for guidance about we can better minister to victims today. Readers of the book will attain a deeper understanding of what crime victims experience, insight into their practical and spiritual needs, and concrete suggestions for giving wise and sensitive help. Including thought-provoking sidebars and study guides for personal or group use, this volume is the best av! ailable resource for readers ranging from pastors and counselors to individuals whose own lives have been impacted by crime.
Book Description
Exhilarating, provocative, and inspiring, the photographs, commentary, and quotations in Reflections on the Nature of God elucidate some of the reasons that more and more scientists are considering spirituality in their explorations of the universe. Whether they be scientists, believers in God, general readers with or without strong spiritual beliefs, or casual passers-by, the photographs and text of this book will provoke awe and thought.
Editor Michael Reagan gathers together awe-inspiring images of the brightest stars in the universe, nebulas, constellations, and galaxies far, far away—millions of light years away from earth, alongside provocative photographs of earth's creatures, landscapes, and natural occurrences. The spectacular visuals are juxtaposed with the insights of scientists, theologians, philosophers, poets, authors, visionaries, and even imaginary characters from much-loved books. The quotations share the insights of others into the nature of existence, creation, and our relationship with our creator.
Customer Reviews:
Space photos accompanied by a rich selection of quotes.......2006-03-28
Another in the series featuring photos of stars and galaxies, mostly from the Hubble space telescope, with a rich selection of quotes from scientists, poets, authors and others who have been touched by an awareness of the vastness of spiritual dimensions.
"Divinity is not playful. The universe was not made in jest but in solemn and incomprehensible earnest. By a power that is unfathomably secret, and holy, and fleet. there is nothing to be done about it, but ignore it, or see. --Annie Dillard, Pilgrim at Tinker Creek"
A book that evidence the miracle of the nature in words and pictures..........2005-08-21
I went to the book store yesterday and picked up this book for my own viewing pleasure. The words are very inspiring and I am so drawn to the pictures at the same time. The pictures are evidence about the nature - animals, plants, the stars, the universe, etc. The pictures are so delicate and so vivid, with loving, kind and gentle words behind.
What a way to create some peaceful moment when you just had a hectic day. I will highly recommend reading this book with the little ones too. This book gives reader/viewers a sense of wonder about the loving nature. Books like this is a true reflection of nature... through the eyes of pure love and compassion.
Customer Reviews:
Ambitious and Successful.......2006-03-30
This is a genre-busting book: it is a lecture series adapted and expanded into book form, an analysis and response to William James and that leaves James behind, a critique of theism, a positive portrayal of Schleiermacher, an introduction to the thought of von Hügel, and so much more.
There is a lot he covers, but Lash retraces his steps plenty of times to keep your head strait and the argument going.
I am still kind of stunned by it overall and amazed that it is not more well known. I suppose it is a little too extended and extensive for popular consumption, but that is just kind of sad. May be it is a little old and everyone has already read and I'm just getting on the bandwagon, but I doubt it.
Oh well, read the book, it is far better than whatever hesitations you might have to the contrary.
Theology to enrich the spirit!.......2002-03-31
Buy this book!
It is not written in an overly accessible style. When I say--truthfully--that it will enrich your spiritual life, I do not mean that Lash has written a set of meditations on which it would be easy to focus in worship or prayer. I mean that the ideas he elaborates are profoundly important. Drawing on the thought of Karl Rahner, he offers a powerful critique of dualistic spiritualities--he focuses on William James in particular--that equate "experience of God" with a particular range of conscious feelings. He rejects the view that God can be isolated to a narrow district of experience, suggesting instead that Easter happens in the ordinary. The book is a marvelous trip through recent theology, full of useful insights. (Because it isn't especially reader-friendly, it might be worth spending time with the parallel essay in the author's 1986 collection, Theology on the Way to Emmaus.)
Buy this book!
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Finding God in the World: Reflections on a Spiritual Journey
Avery Brooke
Manufacturer: Cowley Publications
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Religious
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ASIN: 1561010898 |
Customer Reviews:
Heaven sent message.......2001-04-03
Having just read a book on Christian aopolgetics that, instead of reafirming my faith, sent me into a tailspin of doubt, I picked up "Finding God in the World" and felt closer to Him than I have in months. Avery Brooke tells of her spiritual journey step by step, and while it is entirely different from mine, her insights and discoveries are wondrously in line with my own. This was a book that I needed to read and God put it in my hands at the right time.
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Advent Reflections: Come Lord Jesus
Timothy B., Archbishop Dolan
Manufacturer: Our Sunday Visitor
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
General
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Inspirational
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ASIN: 1592763936 |
Product Description
Transition from the fast pace of your real-world holiday preparation into the simple intuitive place of faithful preparation with the help of Archbishop Dolan and his Advent reflections.
Make this Advent unique with this practical, accessible spiritual guide divided into four manageable sections for each week.
Using contemporary stories connected to the lives of Mary, Joseph, Jesus, and John the Baptist, Archbishop Dolan leads you through refreshing and insightful meditations to make the most of this Advent season.
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