A Valuable Tool for Novel Writers

For me, the art of writing is equivalent to working a puzzle, and Body Beats to Build On is like finding the center piece that connects the frame. It offers suggestions and ideas for authors. I've scanned and re-scanned pages, dog-earred many, and literally worn-out the book. But how could I ever part with this ragged copy? Having spent hours thumbing through the chapters, I know where every jot, tittle, and drop of sweat lies. LOL

But let me back up and explain what drew me to Body Beats to Build On. One thing is that it omits lengthy text and chapters about why the author wrote the book. That appeased my ADHD which worsens if I can't get to the gist of a craft book quickly. I wanted to roll up my sleeves and get busy enhancing my story, and this book delivered. How, you might ask? Well, I'll tell you about the next thing that drew my attention...

After four scant pages, I dove headfirst into chapters filled with golden ideas for actions and gestures, which are otherwise known as body beats. Coming up with motions is often time-consuming. We might sit in front of our manuscript for eons trying to create the right action for a situation. But no more. After reading through this book, I kindled my palms, then clicked open my story on the computer screen, and got to work.

The final things that drew my attention were the types of actions I found—those to replace dialogue tags, describe characters' behaviors, and show their body gestures and emotions. Those examples and more fill the book's pages. Rather than use the author's ideas verbatim, though, I reword the suggestions to make them my own. However, April W. Gardner gives plenty of ideas. I highly recommend this book to authors. After months, you'll fly on your own.