The Proven Formula That Makes a Story Irresistible

Summary

This video script delves into the allure of high-concept books, highlighting their succinct, attention-grabbing premises that inherently pitch themselves. It clarifies misconceptions, noting high concept isn't limited to action-driven narratives but can feature robust character development across genres. The script provides a framework for crafting high-concept stories through re-imagining tropes, posing 'what if' scenarios, creating unexpected mashups, and experimenting with structure. Examples like 'The Silent Patient', 'The Martian', and 'The Handmaid's Tale' illustrate the concept's broad appeal. The video also offers a free resource for writers to assess and enhance their novels.

Takeaways

• 📚 High concept books have a simple, attention-grabbing premise that can be summarized in one sentence.
• 🌟 These books pitch themselves due to their easily grasped plots and tend to have a broad appeal.
• 📈 High concept books are attractive to publishers because of their large potential audience.
• 🚫 It's a myth that high concept books lack character development; they can be rich in character growth.
• 🎭 High concept books can exist across all genres, not just action or plot-driven stories.
• 📋 Literary agents and publishers often look for high concept books, but execution is key.
• 📖 Examples of high concept books include 'The Silent Patient', 'The Martian', and 'The Handmaid's Tale'.
• 💡 To craft a high concept premise, re-imagine a familiar trope or twist a classic story.
• 🤔 Ask 'what if' questions to challenge reality and create intrigue for your story.
• 🔀 Create unexpected mashups by combining elements from different stories or genres.
• 📝 Experiment with structure by using unique narrative techniques to make a story stand out.

Q & A

What is the key to making a book highly popular according to the transcript?

The key to making a book highly popular is having a high concept premise, which is an attention-grabbing idea that can be summarized in a single sentence, making it easy to pitch and attracting a broad audience.

Why are high concept books attractive to literary agents and publishers?

High concept books are attractive because they have a broad appeal and large potential audience, which increases the chances of selling more books.

Is it a misconception that high concept books focus more on action and less on character development?

Yes, it's a common misconception. High concept books can also feature strong character development, contrary to the belief that they are solely plot-driven.

Can a high concept book be written in any genre?

Yes, a high concept book can be written in any genre, not just thrillers or sci-fi. The high concept nature is not limited to specific genres.

What does the transcript suggest about literary fiction in relation to high concept?

Literary fiction tends to be quieter on plot and more focused on character and prose, and while it may not always have a high concept premise, it can still be successful.

What are some examples of high concept books mentioned in the transcript?

Examples include 'The Silent Patient' by Alex Michaelides, 'The Martian' by Andy Weir, and 'The Handmaid's Tale' by Margaret Atwood.

How does the transcript suggest coming up with a high concept story idea?

The transcript suggests four techniques: re-imagining a familiar trope, asking 'what if' questions, creating an unexpected mashup, and experimenting with structure.

What is the 'what if' technique for crafting a high concept premise?

The 'what if' technique involves asking big, bold questions that challenge reality, creating intrigue and making the reader want to explore the scenario in the story.

Can you explain the 'X meets Y' formula mentioned in the transcript?

The 'X meets Y' formula is a way to describe a high concept book by combining two different and unexpected elements, such as 'Groundhog Day meets Mean Girls' for 'Before I Fall'.

What is the unique narrative structure example given in the transcript?

An example is 'Daisy Jones and the Six', which uses an interview structure that makes the story feel like a documentary.

What is the importance of execution in a high concept book according to the transcript?

Even if a book is high concept, execution is crucial. The pitch alone is not enough to sell it; the story must also be well-executed.