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Daily Digest: How Much is Too Much Backstory?

Daily Digest: How Much is Too Much Backstory?

Readers want backstory information on characters and events. Having the right amount of backstory is tough, especially when you have so much great material to choose from. So, how much backstory should you include AND how do you effectively add it to the story? Backstory helps create complexity in your characters. [Like an iceberg], ninety percent of any given character … lies beneath the surface. —Megan Burkhart First, Let’s Look at the Pros and Cons of Backstory.

Discovering Depth in My Characters

Discovering Depth in My Characters

I just finished a great 2 hour writing session — 1000 words based on introducing two of sub-characters in my book “Bully of Burke.” I am fascinated by history, and when they state “a picture says a thousands words” it is so true. I have been scouring the photographic records of TN Barnard and Nellie Stockbridge from the Coeur d’Alenes, and with each photo – a new character comes to life. Over 10 years ago I outlined my mining story…

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