Novelist's Essential Guide to Crafting Scenes [Paperback]

If you are like me, you will have read several books on writing by now. You probably started out with the basics (e.g. Stein On Writing?) and now you would like to focus on specific subjects, parts of your talent that need some fine tuning.

Well, I'm not saying this book is of no use, but there was nothing new to be found for me. The index is impressive, it certainly gives you the idea that there's lots to be learned... but I couldn't find anything I didn't know. Because I am a novice writer, I find it hard to question the masterpieces quoted in the examples. But... I can't help but wonder, is it just my taste or are most of the examples really nothing to write home about?

It is up to you. I would recommend reading "Characters and Viewpoints" by Orson Scott Card, which delivers much more than the title promises. My personal opinion is, you don't need "Crafting Scenes". If you find your scenes are not ideal, it is a lot more likely that something else is wrong instead. Picking up Orson Scott Card's book will proof my point.

Though the book is trade paper sized and only 211 pages, it is simply jammed with helpful ideas. Each chapter covers an essential aspect of writing scenes expertly. There is information on:

* Beginning a Scene
* Length
* Point of View
* Setting
* Ending a Scene
* Character, Plot, & Theme Development
* Writing the Payoff
* Character Meetings
* Finales
* Structure
* Revising

Plus there are chapters that discuss how to write genre-specific scenes (sci-fi, romance, etc.) that are also compelling.

A typical chapter within the book starts with quotes from others on the art of writing. Obstfeld then lays out general concepts and cites examples from novels and movies that support his chapter topic. Excerpts from several award-winning novels raises the quality of the book as it lets beginning writers see how the "pros" do it. Some chapters include workbook-like assignments to help readers flesh out their scenes.

While all the chapters are developed well, the one covering character, plot, and theme development is particularly enlightening. The author elects to write an encounter scene with an emphasis on each aspect. It is amazing to see how a scene can change as it is written to the characters rather than plot and vice versa.

Obstfeld has taught writing professionally in addition to having published more than two dozen novels and it shows in his style. He can quickly and directly address a topic and elucidate it easily. As a result, writers of all varieties and levels of talent can benefit from "Crafting Scenes".

Highly recommended to all writers and truly worthy of a five star rating.