NaNoWriMo Series: Writing Tip #10

I know that this sounds counter-intuitive, but hear me out. Reading other works inside and outside of your chosen writing genre is a great way to relax your mind and spark creativity. Learn from others how to craft worlds through vivid descriptions, captivating dialogue, and the unique voice of every author on the planet. This will also help you decipher what you absolutely love in a story and what you could do without. Currently, I'm re-reading one of the first series that sucked me in with every word, The Immortal Series by Alyson Noel. I first picked up this book in 2009 and found myself detached from reality while I was (and wasn't) reading these books. My mind lingered in this world as I waited patiently for the next book to come out. Flash forward to 2023 when the series called to me from a used bookshelf, I found myself right back in the same space. These are the kind of books that you want to line the shelves of your mind. I'd love to give you a whole reading list for you to follow, but we'd be here for a while. Instead, here are questions to ask yourself to help you get started:

1. What is your favorite book of all time and why?

2. What is your least favorite genre to read and why?

3. What elements from your favorite book(s) do you implement in your own writing?

4. What kind of tone of book are you drawn to the most?

5. What is your favorite main character type and least favorite character type?

If you want to learn more NaNoWriMo tips, check out the 30 Days of Tips that will unfold this month. Can't wait? Then check out my mini-course on The Basics of Storytelling that's available for $1. I look forward to seeing you in whatever form I appear. Until next time.

About the Author

Crystal Cabrae is a storyteller who specializes in writing dystopian, romantic, and adventurous worlds for animation and fantastical fiction. She is a proud graduate of Full Sail University, AMDA, and New World School of the Arts. Her six years of acting training in New York and Miami gives her a unique perspective when approaching her characters. She has a passion for sharing how to create stories with the world and inspiring the storyteller that lives within all of us. Follow her on IG or Pinterest to know the latest.