The 12 Key Pillars of Novel Construction Workbook: Your Blueprint for Building a Solid Story (The Writer's Toolbox Series)

All this is, is the checklists from the book that goes with it (which contains the checklists anyways), which was a separate price. The checklists are spread out and have blank lines between them. The couple of examples are the EXACT same ones from the book. They author has added a few "my ideas" underneath the blank lines, so it actually makes it better than the original how-to book, which seriously lacks examples (I counted 2 sections with them). You are repaying for the same stuff. If you are going to buy one or the other, buy this one. You'll get checklists and the few examples and at least the author's thoughts and ideas on them.

Both the original book and the workbook are great resources in and of themselves. The workbook adds more questions. Plotter and Pantsers can benefit from the workbook. It's amazing how these questions are asked in just the right way, and in just the right order to spark a writer's creativity and make the story stronger.My only wish would be to separate out the brainstorming, questions in story development (4 pillars and more) from the editing of those same pillars. The workbook comes with some excellent checklists upon finishing and polishing a novel. I have incorporated 90% of C.S. Lakin's questions into two parts. I can't wait to see the end results.

I got this workbook to go with the '12 Pillars' textbook after reading a blog article about this book-pair. It did not disappoint. While I'm too cheap to WRITE in this workbook, I photocopied the exercise pages and found them extremely helpful to think about and identify characteristics and themes I hoped to develop in my novels without falling down a rabbit-hole. For a pantser like me, who HATES to kill creativity by over-plotting, it was perfect because it was like taking each side-character out for a fun little holiday before I got to writing them, which is half the fun of writing.

In 12 Key Pillars of Novel Construction Ms. Lakin shines a bright light on the elements an author needs to master to produce a publishable novel. In this companion workbook, she leads the reader through the process from flicker of an idea to a crackling story plan. She gives practical techniques and examples for brainstorming and mind-mapping--ways to illuminate the dark crevices of the mind where the best story material is often hidden. Many authors give examples from published works of what a good finished product looks like, but Ms. Lakin gives examples of all the steps in between as she develops a story idea using the same steps she asks of her readers. Her ‘my answer’ then ‘your answer’ makes you feel like you are not alone in the very solitary exercise of writing. I highly recommend buying both and using them together, and you may find you’ve caught lightning in a bottle.

I'm trying to become an author. I have read other craft books, but this is the first one that constantly makes sense as you read it. it gives you a structure to start with and the testing tools to push your imagination further than if you didn't have them your self. Plainly written with outstanding examples, this was a treasure that I found that is repaying me every day.

I'm working on my first novel...and after lots of planning I thought I had it pretty much nailed down. But as I plowed my way through the workbook...I started to realize how little I had considered. I allowed me to consider things most budding novelist like me probably never think to consider. I don't have any feedback yet from readers...but I'm guessing my characters will be a lot more well-rounded and my storyline will be a lot more interesting after having developed the 12 pillars of my novel.

This book is truly what it claims to be - a blueprint for building a solid story. I first purchased and read the text that goes with this workbook. The text is called "The Twelve Key Pillars of Novel Construction." While the title is a mouthful, Lakin's writing instruction are not. She gives information that is constructive and concise. I use the text as a reference in working through the workbook. Through a series of questions and exercises, Lakin challenges me to take my story further and deeper - more than I would ever to be able to do on my own in writing my first novel. If you follow along and write in the workbook, you will eventually clarify your story in a single sentence or paragraph. That has been the toughest thing for me to do on my own. I am starting pillar #4 - theme with a heart, and on my way...

Thought provoking questions for novelists as the plan or write their current WIP. The book is well laid out. I was able to use each section with the book by the same title. Both beginners and advance writers will find this resource of value in their library.

Still working my way through this workbook. Very inspiring and encourages you to think more deeply about your story, characters and their motives. One of the things it hit home for me is how important it is to know why all your characters do what they do and why, not just the main character. Superb book to get you to plan and outline your story in depth.

Incredibly impressed with this book. I have the accompanying textbook on Kindle which motivated me immediately to start taking notes on the first sheet of paper I could grab, so when I discovered the workbook, I was thrilled to find a place to organize my jumbled thoughts.Only half-way through, but after years of being unfocused, starting and restarting, I think I finally see a light!

Good guide. Very helpful.

I found this book to be very easy to follow and motivating. It gave me a concrete starting point without over whelming me with too much detail. There is so much that goes into writing a novel but this book I found very helpful! I would recommend it to anyone like myself who just wants to do it so I can say I did! Thanks C.S Lakin for a matter of fact and to the point guide!

Excellent