| When writers are asked to pen a synopsis of their | | | | So in your synopsis, describe the obstacles your main |
| novel, their immediate reaction is to crumple into a | | | | character is tackling, how the stakes keep getting |
| heap on the floor and start wailing. | | | | raised--which might affect your main character's |
| 'Not a synopsis! No please, not that! Anything but that!' | | | | goals--and what the final biggest challenge is for your |
| What are some of the blocks to getting that synopsis | | | | hero or heroin. You need to convince the editor that |
| down? | | | | your story is page-turning. |
| Um....exactly what is a synopsis? | | | | * a satisfying ending |
| Block number one. Many writers aren't really sure what | | | | Don't you hate it when you get to the end of a gripping |
| a synopsis is, and what it isn't. | | | | book and it just fizzles out, or the conclusion is based |
| Here's a handy tip. A synopsis is not a blurb. | | | | on coincidence? No-one wants a weak ending! |
| A blurb is the enticing paragraph or two on the back of | | | | How does a synopsis look? |
| a book that makes you want to buy it. It throws out | | | | * Start by introducing your main character--who is she, |
| hooks and keeps you guessing. It never reveals the | | | | what is the turning point or conflict, why is it important, |
| ending. If it did, you wouldn't buy it! | | | | what does she want to do about it, and how? (This |
| In contrast, a synopsis does tell you how the book | | | | would be your first paragraph.) |
| ends. But that doesn't mean you're giving away the | | | | * Spell out your plot--who or what gets in her way, |
| ending to prospective buyers. A synopsis is for the | | | | how does she overcome these obstacles, and how |
| editor's eye, not the reader's. | | | | does this affect goals and actions? (This is the bulk of |
| What do I put in my synopsis? | | | | your synopsis.) |
| Block number two. Many writers aren't clear about | | | | * What is the final challenge? |
| what content goes in their synopsis. | | | | * How does the story end--what does your main |
| By asking for a synopsis, an editor is looking for: | | | | character do and how is the situation resolved? |
| * evidence that you can write | | | | One more thing |
| The beauty of the synopsis is that it showcases your | | | | Write your synopsis in the present tense. It's a |
| talent as a writer. You've summed up your lengthy | | | | powerful way of drawing the reader in. |
| story in just a few paragraphs. It forces tight writing, | | | | The pluses for you |
| the use of strong verbs and active sentences. | | | | Spending time crafting your synopsis pays off in many |
| * the tone of the story | | | | ways. It gives you |
| Reading the synopsis should be like reading your book. | | | | * A succinct summary of the plot for easy reference; |
| It's written in the same tone. So if you've written a | | | | and |
| humorous story, for example, write the synopsis in the | | | | * A chance to tighten up weaknesses in the structure |
| same vein. It gives the editor a feel for your work. | | | | and raise the stakes. |
| * proof that the plot is strong | | | | So don't shy away from the task of getting your |
| A plot consists of the series of obstacles a main | | | | synopsis down. See it as a writing exercise with many |
| character has to overcome to reach the ultimate goal. | | | | benefits. |