Lessons from a Dead Girl by Jo Knowles

[meredith_wood]

I did a small recommendation when I read this book, but now I'd like to work on a review of the craft. What I took away from Lessons from a Dead Girl is:

No excuses.

Believe it or not this was the first thing I learned about writing. Never make excuses for your characters' actions. Yes, this can be argued, it can be dissected. But the important

Comments

[fandoria]

I was nodding my head the entire time I read this. I totally agree with everything you said.

This book is an excellent example of character development. Jo Knowles took a risk with this book, and in my eyes it really paid off.

And it's here, as the reader, that we must put our faith in the writer. I can't tell you how many times I've wanted to scream at people to just trust me. I'm not some idiot who doesn't know what I'm doing and believe it or not, but I do know my characters and my story better than anyone.

[meredith_wood]

When I crit entire MSs I keep a notebook handy of questions that develop as I read, then at the end if my question wasn't answered, I make a note to the writer. I hope this keeps me from coming across as a person who doesn't trust the writer. *G*

[olmue]

Thank you for sharing. This is what you meant in your comment to my post, isn't it? I haven't read this book (access to English books is limited where I live), but both the technique you're doing, and the actual thing you've learned are very important and very useful.

[meredith_wood]

Yeah, I decided a few months ago to start doing these reviews. I don't review for the readers but for me and my writer friends, looking for ways to improve craft, reminding of things we forget as we get caught up in all those other "rules".

Basically, I search past the craft of writing and dig deeper into the craft of storytelling. I'm glad you enjoyed the review! *G*

[olmue]

>Basically, I search past the craft of writing and dig deeper into the craft of storytelling.<

THIS is what I need to be doing. Thank you for pointing out the difference!

[jbknowles]

Hi Meredith!

This is so interesting (and lovely) to read. Thanks!!!!

:-)

Jo

[meredith_wood]

LOL, I'm sure it's somewhat strange to watch all these different things people take away from your books. I know I find it so when I get beta files returned to me. I certainly don't want to give away any spoilers, but there were a few spots where you used this technique that once the book was finished, I'd learned a few lessons of my own. *G*

[meredith_wood]

It's such an easy thing to forget. *G* Thanks so much!

[d_michiko_f]

Incredibly well put! Brava!

[meredith_wood]

Thank you!