How to Write Stories People Will Love

7. Read Other Books

I've seen some debate about this. "Why should I waste my time reading when I could be writing my own work??"

It's a lot like saying, "Why should I study architecture when I can build with Tinker Toys instead?"

Does that sound ridiculous? Well think about it. You create using the knowledge you have. If you're simply keeping a journal, you're just recording your thoughts into words. Nothing fancy. But if you're creating a story to share with other people, well there's a lot more to it. There's plot structure, characterization, dialogue, and numerous aspects of a story that can be taught in class. A creative writing class will definitely beef up your mental toolkit. But it's not a requirement. I've never taken a single creative writing class. I've just been learning from books and articles as I go along. And reading fiction.

There are the countless other nuances that are easy to miss if you don't read. Take paragraph structure, for instance. Read a beginner's work, and you'll notice huge blocks of text filling up the page. (I may go into this more in a later chapter.) You'll see characters "feeling sad" instead of "crying their eyes out." (Telling vs. showing.) You'll find scenes that feel rushed instead of tension building up.

If you can, mix up your reading sources. Read a few Wattpad stories, and throw in some traditionally published books as well. As you read, tune in to your feelings. Can't wait to turn the page? Why is that? Really think about why this story is so enjoyable to you. Can't stand the story? Think about that too. Is the dialogue wooden? Characters unrealistic? By pointing out the things you dislike, you learn to avoid those things in your own writing.

If you're serious about improving your writing, then reading is a requirement. Consider it your homework, or training. Amateurs always watch professionals in order to grow. Medical students go through internships. Football players watch game tapes. Writers read books.

It doesn't have to be a chore. My eyes get tired after 20 minutes of reading or computer-staring. I want to be able to read and do nerdy computer things all day long. I want cyborg eyes just so I can do that without getting headaches. But since that isn't currently possible, I take breaks. Every 20 minutes, I get up and walk around. Wash dishes. Do laundry. Eat some broccoli. Whatever. Just do something else for 5-10 minutes, then go back to reading. I have a little program that reminds me to do this, otherwise I forget and then wonder why I have exhausted eyes.

You also avoid the chore-like feel of reading by reading what you like. If you dislike something, evaluate why you hate it, then put it down and find something else to read. That's the beauty of self-imposed homework. You get to pick and choose.

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