I don't know what title to give my story
by Katie
(Kent)
Question: I have found a plot for a story I like but i can't seem to think of a fitting title to call it. any ideas on how to come up with a great story title?
Answer: Finding the right title is a difficult yet crucial task, which is why most publishers insist that their marketing department has the final say on it.
For this reason, all the writer needs to produce is a working title, which takes some of the pressure off. Of course, it helps if your working title appeals to agents/publishers when you are marketing your work.
The ideal title will...
1. Target the audience; that is, catch the eye of those who love your particular genre. For this reason, the titles of many paranormal romance novels contain words like "dark," "wicked," or "seduction." The title of a children's novel is more likely to contain words like "adventure," "friends," or "school."
2. Suggest what is unique about your plot. This can contradict the above point. That's why this job is tricky.
3. Capture the voice, mood, or style of the book. Sometimes a key phrase from the book works well as the title - one that gives a little taste of your style and an indication of the book's theme.
4. If you're writing a series, you may want to have a word or phrase that will be included in the title of all the books in the series, such as "Clockwork" or "Harry Potter and the..."
5. Create a little mystery to awaken the reader's curiosity about the story, so they'll want to open the book.
It's all about making a promise to the reader that the book will fulfill. The worst thing would be to have a title that promises something different than what the book delivers, because then your reader will be disappointed. In other words, the picture on the box should match the contents.
Comments for I don't know what title to give my story
|
||
|
||
|
||
|
||
| site search by freefind |
Recent Postings
-
Perspective
Jan 10, 21 10:38 PM
Question: There are many important characters in my novel. That's why I use a third-person omniscient perspective. When I write a book, the events come
-
First Person POV
Jan 04, 21 09:41 AM
Question: If I am writing in the first person,is the following acceptable dialogue? What are you thinking about George? I'm just thinking how lovely
"I've read more than fifty books on writing, writing novels, etc., but your website has the most useful and practical guidance. Now that I understand how a novel is structured, I will rewrite mine, confident that it will be a more interesting novel." - Lloyd Edwards
"Thanks to your "Create a Plot Outline in 8 Easy Steps," I was able to take a story that I simply just fooled around with and went willy nilly all over, into a clearly defined, intriguing battle where two characters fight to keep their relationship intact, and try to find a balance in control of themselves and their lives. Thanks to you, I'm not ashamed of the poor organization of my writing." - Nommanic Ragus
"I am so glad I found your site. It has helped me in so many ways, and has given me more confidence about myself and my work. Thank you for making this valuable resource, for me and my fellow writers. Perhaps you'll hear about me someday...I'll owe it to you." - Ruth, Milton, U.S.A.
"I never knew what to do with all the characters in my head, but since discovering Dramatica I am writing again in my spare time. Thank you for making this available. Yes, it is a bit complex, and it does take time, but I love it because it works." - Colin Shoeman
"I came across your website by chance. It is a plethora of
knowledge, written in a simplistic way to help aspiring writers. I
truly appreciate all of the information you have provided to help me
successfully (relative term) write my novel. Thank you very much!" - Leo T. Rollins
"I
can honestly say that this is the first website that is really helpful.
You manage to answer complex questions in relatively short articles and
with really intelligent answers. Thank you for taking the time to write
these articles and sharing them so generously." - Chrystelle Nash
"...had no idea that a simple click would give me such a wealth of valuable information. The site not only offered extremely clear and helpful instructions but was a very enjoyable read as well. The education from your wonderful site has made me a better writer and your words have inspired me to get back to work on my novel. I wish to give you a heartfelt thanks for How to Write a Book Now, sir." -- Mike Chiero
