[Listen Again] Ep. 8: Joel Brigham on Six Things Every Story Needs to Succeed

On this episode, which originally aired in October, 2023, I talk with Joel Brigham of Brigham Editorial on the craft of writing. Together we dive deep into six things every story needs to succeed and answer the following questions:

1. What makes a great premise?
2. What are stakes and when and how do you raise them?
3. How do you craft interesting characters?
4. What are the basic elements of a good plot? 
5. What is voice, and how do you develop it?
6. What is a theme, and how do you write it into your story? 

Books and resources mentioned in this podcast include:

• Brigham Editorial
• Save the Cat Writes a Novel
• Save the Cat Writes a Novel (Audiobook)

For bonus content and info on upcoming episodes, subscribe to the Middle Grade Matters newsletter here: Newsletter, and follow us on Instagram, Threads, and Twitter.

I love audiobooks! If you do, too, consider switching to Libro.fm, a platform that supports indy bookstores.

If you're enjoying this podcast, please leave a rating and review (thank you!).