I’m working on a client’s chapter book (could be a simple middle grade). It’s to be around 20,000 words, and I don't have much to go on. Normally, this wouldn't be a problem; if I’m given an idea, I can write a publishable story.
This story is different, though. Because of the subject matter, it’s giving me a run for my money. It’s not flowing smoothly.
The original simple outline the client gave me had an adult as the protagonist. This happens now and then. Someone wants to have a children’s book written but doesn’t realize it needs a child protagonist.
The outline also didn’t follow a story arc or character arc.
So, the first order of business was to change the protagonist. And as it’s an unusual storyline in the realm of helping children, it has a specific agenda.
I needed to plot the story with the agenda in mind.
At first, I intended to create a full outline, but as I started writing, I ended up taking the seat-of-your-pants approach. And being half done, I’ll move forward with this approach.
Since I knew this story would be problematic, I had to get a solid foundation in place.
The basics of a story plot or story structure are:
1. Exposition
2. An inciting incident Rising action
4. Climax
5. Descending action
6. Resolution
Certain elements need to be in place to create the plot:
1. Who’s the protagonist (point of view)
2. What’s the character arc?
3. What’s the conflict?
4. What tense will it be written in?
5. Where will it take place (setting)?
6. Will there be secondary characters? If so, how many?
7. Will there be a subplot?
WHAT I HAVE SO FAR
-As it’s a client’s story, I can’t go into detail, but I did decide on a protagonist and know the character’s arc. I also have the conflict, and it’s in third-person.
Third-person is my tense of choice, and unless a client specifically asks for something different, I always use third-person.
-My setting is in place.
-There are four secondary characters, and because of the nature of the story subject matter, there will be more in the second half of the story.
Normally, it’s a good idea to limit the number of secondary characters in a chapter book. A seven- to ten-year-old shouldn’t have to keep track of too many characters.
-I decided on a simple subplot.
PUTTING IT TOGETHER
With the elements in place, it’s a matter of filling in the details and putting it all together.
This is where narrative, dialogue, conflict, and flow come in, where the story evolves into an engaging read for the audience.
And this is where it can get more difficult.
I think you need a clear view of the story for it to flow smoothly. If you’re writing fantasy or world-building, you need to see what doesn’t exist.
I’ve written 50,000-word stories without the hesitation I have with this story.
With the story I’m working on now, I can see it, but it’s not a crystal clear view, at least not yet. For some reason, I don’t feel connected to the characters like I usually do, and I just can’t figure out why.
It’s a bit frustrating.
When I ask for the client’s input, I get, “I trust you. Just write it.”
So, when your story just won’t flow, just keep writing.
And that’s what I’m doing. One word at a time. One sentence at a time. One paragraph at a time. One chapter at a time.
Half down, half to go.
I’m a working children’s ghostwriter, book doctor, editor, and self-publishing consultant. I help turn your idea, outline, or manuscript into a book you’ll be proud to call your own—and provide hands-on guidance through every step of the self-publishing process.
OTHER HELP I OFFER:
HOW TO WRITE A CHILDREN’S FICTION BOOK
A 200+ page book that will help you write your own children’s book.
CHILDREN’S PICTURE BOOK AND CHAPTER BOOK COACHING
4- to 12-week programs
WRITERS ON THE MOVE SELF-PUBLISHING GUIDANCE & SERVICES
Guidance and more for children’s authors (specializing in picture books and chapter books)
You can contact me at kcioffiventrice@gmail.com.
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