Changing Chapter Formatting

In the follow-up book to There’s No Such Thing as Dragons, the story continues, but it’ll continue in smaller pieces.

When I was a kid I was more interested in running around outside than reading books, so when I did have to read, and I had a choice about what to read, I always chose books with the shortest chapters. That way I could stop reading sooner and get back outside.

I still have that feeling now but it doesn’t impact my book choices anymore.

I recently picked up a book called Northern Spy by Flynn Berry, published in 2021. It’s a fine book targeted for an adult audience and contains blissfully short chapters.

I’m now reading No Country For Old Men by Cormac McCarthy, published in 2005. It contains chapter lengths that I expect, 15-20 pages or so.

Based on no research and an obviously small sample size, I wonder the following: are book chapters getting smaller to accommodate shrinking attention spans? No shade on Flynn Berry here, by the way. It's just that the difference between the books got me thinking.

Recognizing that my books are meant for middle graders, mostly, I’m going to make a change in my formatting that 12 year old me would have really appreciated.

I'll have unlimited small chapters, some might just be a page or two. Those will be numbered. Maybe more than a hundred. Then, some of those chapters will have titles. There are currently 22 titled chapters. Each titled chapter will mark the change in perspective between the two story lines. Here is where I reveal the first three chapter titles as an example:

CHAPTER	TITLED	STORYLINE
1	Disharmony	Alexandria
2		Alexandria
3		Alexandria
4		Alexandria
5		Alexandria
6	Marie	Plainsette
7		Plainsette
8		Plainsette
9		Plainsette
10	Humiliation	Alexandria
11		Alexandria
12		Alexandria
13		Alexandria

I hope this makes for an easier read.

Mastering the Craft: 10 Essential Tips to Elevate Your Writing

1. Finish the First Draft

   

   The first draft is often the most difficult step for writers because it represents the first tangible form of an idea. However, it’s essential to finish the draft, no matter how rough or incomplete it may seem. The goal is not perfection but to create a foundation. Once the draft is done, it can be edited, reshaped, and refined. Overthinking and trying to perfect each sentence can hinder progress. Remember, the beauty of writing lies in the process of revision, and every great story or piece starts with a messy first draft.

   
   

2. Show, Don’t Tell

   

   This advice emphasizes the importance of engaging the reader’s senses and emotions through vivid, descriptive language instead of simply explaining the action or situation. When writers "show," they create scenes that allow readers to experience the story themselves. For example, instead of saying, "He was angry," you can show it by describing his clenched fists, the tightness in his jaw, or the sharpness in his voice. This approach helps immerse the reader in the narrative, making it more relatable and compelling.

   
   

3. Read a Lot

   

   Reading is one of the best ways to improve your writing. By consuming a variety of genres, styles, and voices, you gain insights into narrative techniques, vocabulary, and structure. Reading widely exposes you to different ways of storytelling, helping you find your voice and expand your creativity. It also enhances your understanding of what works and what doesn’t in writing, making it easier to refine your craft. Whether it's fiction, nonfiction, poetry, or essays, each reading experience can offer new lessons that contribute to your development as a writer.

   
   

4. People Watch

   

   Observing people in their natural environment is a great way to develop authentic characters and dialogue. When you watch how people interact, you notice body language, speech patterns, and subtle nuances that make each person unique. These observations can inspire more realistic characters in your writing. Pay attention to how emotions are expressed non-verbally, how people react to different situations, and how they carry themselves. This practice helps you understand human behavior better, allowing you to write characters that feel genuine and relatable.

   
   

5. Learn Plot Structure

   

   Plot structure is the framework that keeps a story coherent and engaging. Familiarizing yourself with different types of plot structures—such as the three-act structure, the Hero’s Journey, or Freytag's Pyramid—can help you organize your story effectively. A strong plot has a clear beginning, middle, and end, with rising action, conflict, and resolution. Understanding plot structure ensures that your narrative has a natural flow, and it also helps you manage pacing, tension, and character development in a way that keeps readers hooked.

   
   

6. Environment

   

   The environment, or setting, plays a crucial role in storytelling, as it grounds your characters and plot in a tangible world. Whether it's a bustling city, a small town, or a fantastical universe, the environment can influence the mood, tone, and even the actions of your characters. Describing the setting vividly helps create a sense of place and can serve as a tool to reflect themes or emotions. For example, a stormy night can enhance a scene of conflict or tension. Pay attention to the sensory details of the setting—sights, sounds, smells—to immerse your readers fully in the story’s world.

   
   

7. Read Out Loud

   

   Reading your work aloud is a powerful tool for improving rhythm, flow, and clarity. When you hear your words spoken, you can spot awkward phrasing, repetitive sentences, and inconsistencies in dialogue that might not be as obvious when reading silently. This method also helps ensure that dialogue sounds natural and that the pacing of your narrative works well. If something sounds off when you read it out loud, it’s a signal that it may need revision. It also helps keep your writing smooth and readable for your audience.

   
   

8. Intensify Problems

   

   Conflict is the engine of any good story, and intensifying the problems or obstacles your characters face keeps readers invested. Whether it’s internal struggles, interpersonal conflicts, or external threats, the more you raise the stakes, the more your readers will care about the outcome. As the tension builds, characters are forced to grow and change, which adds depth to the story. Make sure that the problems your characters face are meaningful and challenge them in ways that resonate with your readers emotionally.

   
   

9. Strong Verbs

   

   Using strong, active verbs can elevate your writing by making it more dynamic and engaging. Instead of relying on adverbs or passive constructions, opt for verbs that convey specific, vivid actions. For instance, instead of saying “She walked quickly,” you could say “She sprinted” or “She hurried.” Strong verbs paint clearer pictures in the reader’s mind and add energy to your writing, making it more compelling. Avoid overusing generic or weak verbs like "is," "was," or "did," and focus on verbs that show the action clearly and powerfully.

   
   

10. Enjoy Writing

    

    Writing should be a rewarding and enjoyable process, even if it comes with challenges. When you allow yourself to enjoy the creative journey, it reflects in your work. This doesn’t mean the process will always be easy, but finding joy in storytelling, exploring new ideas, and expressing yourself can make the experience fulfilling. Celebrate small victories—whether it’s completing a draft, developing a character, or crafting a beautiful sentence. The more you enjoy writing, the more likely you are to stick with it and continue improving.