Product Description

Blockbuster Plots Pure and Simple (BBP) shows plot rather than talking about it. Using two unique step-by-step visual tools for developing and deepening scenes and plot, BBP shows how the pros layer three distinct yet overlapping plotlines – Character Emotional Development, Dramatic Action, and Thematic Plot. When the dramatic action changes the character at depth over time, the story becomes thematically significant.

BBP uses the Scene Tracker as a visual tool to track the seven essential elements of scene, side-by-side from the beginning to the end of any project. BBP uses the Plot Planner as a visual place to plot out the action, character and thematic plotlines. Both parts are intended as a step-by-step interactive guide for writers interested in maximizing their scenes and providing depth to their stories.

BBP is unique because of its hands-on, down-to-earth multi-sensory approach to learning. BBP provides specific activities linked directly to each writer’s individual project. The book is divided between explanation and activity forms.

By analyzing scenes and plots from classic and contemporary writers such as Twain, London, and McCarthy, writers learn how to add a dynamic, effective twist to their work.

BBP provides writers with the tools and resources to get from where they are – stuck and unable to begin or stuck and unable to finish – to where they want to be – holding a finished project. BBP effectively demonstrates the relationship between scene and plot and explains the principles involved in the art and craft of developing sizzling scenes and compelling plots and story design. BBP offers techniques to help writers maintain faith and enjoy the process of creation.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #215237 in Books
• Published on: 2005-01-30
• Original language: English
• Binding: Paperback
• 200 pages

Midwest Book Review 10/1/05
Any writer seeking to produce not just acceptable but superior works must have this guide.

McGraw-Hill 9/1/05
Unique in the marketplace: no other fiction writing guide offers tools like the Scene Tracker and Plot Planner.

Writer's Digest Magazine editor Melanie Rigney 5/1/04
If you only buy one writing book this year, buy BLOCKBUSTER PLOTS!"

Customer Reviews

Got plot? If not, buy this book.
Award-winning author, Martha Alderson, brings you the best advice a novel writer could have in order to design and complete a novel. Blockbuster Plots is the result of her many years' work as a fiction writer, one who has been able to articulate her own winning methodology for creating outstanding plots that entice the reader and create the page turner novel from the outset. If you buy the DVD, you can work along with others as you take part in a live class that outlines her process, step by step. You will find either the DVD or the book immediately applicable. This information will be helpful even to seasoned fiction writers.
Sandra Foster, PhD
writing coach and performance enhancement psychologist

Like No Other
I just sold my screenplay and I owe it all to Martha Alderson and her great book -- Blockbuster Plots Pure & Simple! This book takes you by the hand and gives you every single thing you need to develop scenes with clout, three-dimensional characters, dynamic action and the ultimate secret of how to tie it all together to provide lasting meaning.

Before I read this book, I advanced one thing in one scene at a time. After I read her book and used her hands-on, practical, concrete techniques, my scenes work on seven levels at once! Once you know what to do, it's easy. Only trouble is, most of the screenwriting teachers out there don't have a clue. Most of the writing teachers in general don't have a clue.

I hope all writers learn about this book so they don't have to go it alone any longer. She's also got a couple of amazing DVDs out that demonstate her techniques in an actual writers workshop that you can view in the comfort of your own home.

Check it out. You won't regret it!