"Don't outline every book in the series." Me who literally just finished outlining a 10 book series in EXTREME detail............................. Jenna...... why???? *cries in Shakespeare*
@@jh.4761 It's very diverse in genre. But basically, it takes the structure of the MCU, setting up various plot points that will be payed off in the final book. It's based on Lovecraft's Cosmic Horror and is very science fiction, fantasy, and horror based instead of a superhero thing. The idea is to set up an overarching narrative that is the equivalent to an Epic fantasy in scale but still grounded and you can read the individual stories without much knowledge of the other. Basically stand alone stories that can be read together or by themselves. Only the final book will require a little bit more knowledge from previous books to be better understood in terms of the rules of the world.
Heh...I’m also writing a 10 book series! Are you reading my mind? Also, I wish I had an outline. I don’t even have an outline! Just a big bunch of ideas in my head. Most of them are pretty detailed. How did you outline?
@@pinkninjamusic9898 Oooh, I'm not the person you're asking how to outline but would you feel comfortable to share what your series is roughly about? Because 10 books as I mentioned before is so much in my eyes and I would really like to know how you all know that there is so much to tell etc.
I'm only 13 but I've always liked to write stories, little short ones. But lately I've been writing them a lot longer and I'm starting to be more creative about what I'm writing about. This video really helped, thank you.
yeah! i was exactly the same way when I was younger, except I used to run out of space or time when writing my stories (during class) because I would go crazy and flesh it out as much as I could and make it too long.
@@bastiaanmoes3344 Awesome! I'm hoping I'll only need two drafts but strongly doubt it. I really think I'mma need a third and maybe even a fourth. Lol. It's hard with school though. Lol
For my own benefit and hopefully other will find it useful 01:43 - Structure 02:44 - Divide & Conquer 03:48 - Subplots 04:24 - Formats 05:24 - Character Arcs 06:08 - Thought Dump 06:58 - General Structure 07:41 - Outline 08:18 - Wait, What? 09:19 - Use Your Imagination
Nice. ...yeah, writing tips apply to writing anything...I guess that's why I'm a little intrigued by writing advice. ...maybe I could write a series of songs or poems and end up with an album!
#10 was literally what I needed to hear. I have so much trouble focusing on one book at a time and I feel like I am failing because of it. It was validating to hear that it is something I should be proud of and that an abundance of imagination is a good thing. Thank you Jenna!
I'm not even thirteen chapters into my first book, and I literally cannot stop thinking about book three and four. (for some really stupid reason, I can't work out book two.)
I started writing on a whim during quarantine and it turned out to be so much fun. Your videos have helped me so much through everything and I just wanted to say thank you, Jenna! Hopefully, I can get my ideas published one day.
@@StoryToGo It's a fantasy book, but I'm not really certain if it would be considered YA or New Adult because I'm currently writing it like a YA novel but it deals with themes like war, religion, and racism between two opposing races so idk if I should change that at some point or not.
@@kbstsd Oh interesting. I always enjoy those sorts of stories for the freedom that they allow in getting people reflecting on their own world and seeing the parallels between.
Anita Nielsen I did draft a prequel in my original manuscript, but now that scene comes much later in the story near the end of the beginning. Had to work out a lot of kinks 😂
Anita Nielsen Oh thank you! Don’t feel bad for not working on yours - taking a break is ok! I took a several month long break - 6 months, and then worked on it, then took another 4 months off later on. The story has evolved quite a bit and it’s taken me so long and so many rewrites because when I started the story I honestly wasn’t in a place to write it correctly. I’ve grown a lot and changed my mind on a lot of things so the story had to be updated along with myself. I also had to learn a lot of writing craft to make the quality itself much better. Rn I’m researching world building techniques and learning as much as I can about the places that inspire my universe so I can make it as visceral as possible. It’s a long, slow process, but it’s worth it to me to have a good quality piece in the end. So take your time, even if that means you take a really long break without touching the manuscript for awhile! ☺️☺️ Sometimes you need a break to be able to refill your creative juices or work out problems
Number 10 used to frustrate the hell out of me when it happened to me, and now i absolutely love. I have got so much writing done this month it's unreal, like i might finally have a finished first draft next year. I am beyond excited.
Jenna, I'm so glad you pointed out that outlining the whole series at once is a judgment call. As someone who likes to do that, it is beneficial to do so. However, like you said things change as you write. I like what Brandon Sanderson does. He is a heavy outliner. He has a loose outline for his whole series. Yet, he considers them as notes. When it comes time to write the next book he make s the changes accordingly as he develops the official outline.
Another great piece of advice is to specifically plan for escalating action and stakes. It can be easy to back yourself into a corner by pushing the stakes to high, to fast. This can tempt you as a writer into "jumping the shark" so to speak, with something really dramatic to try and one up the stakes in the previous book. Or, at the opposite end, can result in a finale that has less punch than the climax at the middle. Better than jumping the shark, but still not that satisfying.
Thought Dumping is legitimately so fun. So many ideas. Like my wattpad has a ton of chapters 1, so for any story I want to extend into a novel, that means I can going with a plot I want and change things up while having information I can use. It's so much fun.
I'm writing a book series and it feels overwhelming. Book one is 300 pages, two is 500 and book three is so far 330 and still has a looooong way to go. I know the main points and characters development, I've been plotting for five years but it still feels overwhelming since I'm planning prequels.
It’s been a month since I published my first book ‘The Gem of Portia’ and I’m thinking of making my next book idea as a series. Thanks for posting the video right on time!
1. Series Structure: Episodic or "Standard" series 2. Divide and Conquer: the plot. Each book needs a mini plot (inciting incident, rising action, climax, resolution I think) 3. Divide the Subplots: have a basic outline of how your subplots 4. Consider Your Formats: consider how you're going to write your book; things like companion novels, sequels, prequels, or spin-offs 5. Character Arcs: have a basic outline for your most important characters' arcs 6. Thought Dump: jot down all your ideas for your series, can be for the whole series or dumps specific to each book 7. Consider the Structure: consider and create a basic outline for your series 8. Outline Each Book: after assembling the previous info, outline what is presented in this book 9. Be Careful Outlining: each book at the beginning 10. Allow Mind Wandering: don't be afraid to add more to the Thought Dump
Tips 6 and 10 are what I needed to hear. I'm currently outlining my graphic novel series and I keep finding myself hyperfixating on multiple future arcs and procrastinating my first arc. I recently finished my some drafts of the first two chapters and this video is exactly what I needed, I'll definitely focus on Book 1 before getting too invested in the subsequent arc of the arc 5 years into the future. Thank you.
Word of advice. If you do wind up writing a bunch of stuff for later books, wait to publish anything until everything is done. I'm writing a fanfic, and all 4 parts are being written simultaneously. (It's simply my writing style. I've tried a lot of different styles, and I just bounce around too much for those to be effective. XD) There have been times where I start writing something in Pt 3 that changes something in Pt 1. Had Pt 1 been published, I would have to scratch the entire day's work in 3 because the story conflicts. It makes for a slightly tighter story. :)
I'm writing a book series (well, currently languishing because I can't find beta readers for the first book--the first draft is just sitting there, having been done since near the end of last year) and my approach is to make the first book work well as a stand-alone novel. Yes, unresolved questions and the like, but the conflict is reasonably finished at the end. It makes me think (in spite of the author's fall from grace) of Harry Potter. Philosopher's/Sorcerer's Stone feels like it's all nice and contained, and you don't need there to be a sequel to enjoy it and feel a resolution. The reason is one I feel is good simply because you might not get a series out of your book. Leave an opening for a sequel, but don't assume your publisher is going to want one and instead make sure the story will satisfy either way. Wish a lot of these movies trying to start a cinematic universe would consider this approach.
I understand what you're saying, and agree with most if it, though I have to strongly disagree on the Harry Potter point. Sorcerer's stone does not at all feel like a stand alone. If I read that without any promise of a sequel I wouldve been pissed. They introduced an incredibly powerful villain, a main character with a connection to said villain, and did not wrap any of that up in the end. That is not a stand alone. A stand alone should have all the important questions answered by the end of it.
Now that I think of it, J.K. took a lot of risks with her publishers back then, despite being a debut author. She made it clear that Harry Potter was to be a series from the very 1st book without even being sure the book would be successful, and it being a manuscript rejected many times. She was damn lucky. Such things would never happen today.
“Thought dump” I do that all the time; however, I either don’t put pencil to paper, or I just don’t type it up. It’s apparently a thing with writers in general
The title of my first book series,is Chronicles of the old West: the rising darkness which is a western and steampunk series with some fantasy and supernatural elements. My second series title is Titled Celestial star chronicles: the shadows of the sea, which is a alternative history fiction and parallel universe fiction series with some fantasy and supernatural elements
Pretty glad to hear I'm on the right path for my series. I've been feeling down that all I've been able to focus on is polishing the first book to finally get it out there, even though i have the next three either written in first-draft mode or outlined, collecting dust.
I’ve got a series idea, I have the general basis of at least when the first two stories take place, I have some ideas of some scenarios to put in both, I have the main characters figured out, and some of their backstories too... the rest is blank though, it’s like I prepped a few moments and characters... and that’s it. I hope to get a grasp on what I’ll be doing with it soon.
I’m planning a book series and I think I have WAAAAY too much content! I probably also have too much content for my first book. But I think I’ll worry about that after my first draft
Jenna you’re out here saving lives. So many things made me face palm because they’re so simple yet I didn’t consider them. ㅠㅠ thank you! ^^ My series will have 2 or 3 books and a companion novel / novella. Not fully sure. I’ve described my process for this series as wandering in a dark room, groping the wall for the light switch. Not found it yet, but I know a lot about what’s in the room... the insights this video gave me will help a lot. Thanks!
Working on a seven book series myself with a hope of publishing one day, but really in it for the fun of writing to be honest. Finished my first book last year at just over 100,000 words. Starting second book soon. Got to say, I love the scope a series gives you.
My planned series is mainly episodic, with tiny hints of standard (but the hints aren't crucial to understanding the episodic parts). For format, I'm thinking of doing a weird mix of sequels and prequels, so thanks for your outlining-but-not-too-much advice!
Jenna dear, we need an eyebrow tutorial! Your eyebrows are actually PERFECT every damn time we see you!! Seriously, you’re gorgeous! 🖤🥰 Also, this video was extremely helpful! Thank you so very much as always! Much love to you, Butters & Cliff!
This helps a LOT. I've always wanted to be a hobbyist writer but it wasn't until recent times I was able to have my own laptop. It's been a small struggle to properly plan everything out, but this guide definitely helps give me an idea of how to start planning.
I usually never comment on videos but I am writing my book now as I have been wanting to for years now, and I must say I LOVE your videos. I have binged almost all of them and I swear you are amazing. I did just spend way too much money on books because of booktok but I swear after that I will be ordering your books.
I've been writing a series for the past five to seven years and I'm glad that I've been having many of these points into consideration. They're truly useful.
@Kat Ross It's actually a mixture of different things and genres because I'm building a universe so I have no easy or concise way to explain exactly what they're about. They belong into the same universe but they tell different stories that connect for millions of things.
Yay for you, sister!!! So happy for you!❤️ Great video! I talked out loud to you through the whole thing! Lol I agree with everything you said here! When I started my series I knew it was gonna be 7 books long. I didn’t plot anything per se, but I already knew how book seven would end. Great content Jenna!! And congrats, again, on the successful launch of TSS! ❤️❤️
So happy to see this! Very helpful to hear about the idea of thought-dumping and getting a basic idea of each book but not outlining the future ones. Also I keep checking on my tracking number for your book, so excited to start reading!!
Congrats on a kick ass release for TSS! Thanks for uploading a series video, as well. I've been struggling with subplot pacing in a standard series and get caught up trying to outline too much at once (more than one book? Yes, I'm guilty.).
Awesome writing advice, it really helps with the two book series that I’m writing , editing and self publishing I’m writing and editing books 1 and 2 back to back
Jessica it’s a fantasy series, but the first book is more of a mystery. a girl’s mom goes missing and she has to go find her in this secluded part of the world, where she finds these fantastical creatures hiding from humanity.
Thank you for this so much Jenna! I have had multiple series ideas for years and whenever I get ready to start, I freeze because I don’t know where to start. This is an episode I have been waiting for, and I couldn’t be happier. I think I can really get going now on my first! And cannot wait to read TSS when it arrives next week, very excited!!!
Thank you for making this video I've been struggling with my series for forever, but since I started watching your videos I find the process going a lot better
Okay this is the vid i was looking for lol sorry for the other comments. After watching a few of your vids, i have a better understanding on what i need to do going forward. Thank you for this. You can probably tell im a seasoned vet when it comes to writing, but it doesnt hurt to get another writer's perspective. I started this book or rather series back at the end of 2019. Im ready to write some more now. And ill be watching more of your vids from here on out.
I love ur channel Jenna!!!! FR U have already gotten my writing skills to a good good level. And idk but I feel like you give an aunt vibe. 😂 don’t worry I have dope aunts! But I just got an idea for my second book. It takes too much time and I know I won’t stop!!!
ok, I have a question: so I'm writing a book series, and the goal slightly changes in the second book. How would I make a structure for that? I'm new to writing an entire series, as I've only written stand alone books and fanfiction lol.
I'd suggest you pop over to "How to be a Great GM" (Channel on YT)... Specifically "Campaign Structures"... AND you'll want to look at the "5 act structure" 1. Intro 2. Hook "this is the goal" 3. First twist, "this goal (#1) is NOT a goal at all" 4. New Path, New goal "NOW we know (#2) is the goal for victory" 5. Goal achieved... (BBEG smited, McGuffin recovered, whoever saved, etc...) This works for each act being it's own separate adventure in TTRPG's, as well as fleshing out a sophisticated "One Shot" (When we plan to run an entire adventure in a single night, or possibly allow for two or even three nights... BUT short)... SO instead of trying to force a "3 act structure" as you've likely seen countless times, add in the occasional "5 act structure" where you are allowed the revelation that one goal is simply not "right" and has to change... This gives you ample space for "plot twists" as you wish. ...AND it can "stitch together" just as well around other "3 act" adventures, too. ;o)
I'm writing a few series' of books and Jenna is always such a huge help! 😊 Abbie Emmons explains the three act structure which is also a good idea when choosing how to structure your book.
I've started writing multiple series, both of which I hope to have animated sooner or later, this will definitely be a huge help with setting things up
OMG! Did Jenna just say Enzo is getting another love interest?! Aaahhh! Yes, please, he's amazing! I really want him back. Thanks for the awesome video again Jenna!💕
You’re totally right about planning too tightly. I’m working on a trilogy right now and I wrote a chapter by chapter plan before I started writing the rough draft but then as I was writing I realized some of the chapters timing didn’t line up (I’m switching between two storylines throughout the book) so I changed the plan. Basically I stuck with the basic story idea while cutting out some unnecessary parts.
This is great help with the series I'm working on. (still on the first book but already have ideas out for the other books down the road). I really do need to idea dump them into a document though so that way I have it in case I forget... which doesn't happen as I think about it all the time. Coming up with more stuff to compliment the rest of the books as I go.
I'm so happy this video came out! I'm planning a series atm and I was so excited once I saw the notif that I watched this right after I woke up! Love you Jenna!
I had an idea for a story, but there's a kidnapping to solve, a war to end, and a pandemic to cure. I was thinking "Maybe this is too much for one book. Maybe a series?" Then boom I find this 4 month old video. Yay!
There's also a serial, which is similar to a series. A series has each book with a contained subplot (think the Harry Potter series). A serial, however, is basically one long story broken apart into separate books, but there is no book-specific subplot for each one (think Song of Ice and Fire). My 'All That Glitters' books are a serial, while my Dyrkon books are a companion novel series.
I'm currently planning a graphic novel series, this was really helpful!! ..and suggested exactly when I needed it.. hmm.. creepy but helpful! Thank you!!
I can vouch for not outlining all stories in the series! I'm still writing book one and there has been a lot of deviation because I just flow with what feels more natural. So the outlines are almost completely irrelevant at this point 😅
Thank you for explaining this! I've got an idea for a trilogy and this really helps because I've been struggling with format. This really helps clear things up. Thanks so much!
Thanks To This, I've Now Decided To Add A Spinoff/Prequel About The Secondary Lead And Pull A Midnight Sun With My Villain I Haven't Even Finished Book 1 Yet
![Noob To Max With DRAGON REWORK In Blox Fruits [FULL MOVIE]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/LnBMOinoOvA/mqdefault.jpg)
"Don't outline every book in the series."
Me who literally just finished outlining a 10 book series in EXTREME detail............................. Jenna...... why????
*cries in Shakespeare*
10 books is very long! May I ask what it's about?
@@jh.4761 It's very diverse in genre. But basically, it takes the structure of the MCU, setting up various plot points that will be payed off in the final book. It's based on Lovecraft's Cosmic Horror and is very science fiction, fantasy, and horror based instead of a superhero thing. The idea is to set up an overarching narrative that is the equivalent to an Epic fantasy in scale but still grounded and you can read the individual stories without much knowledge of the other. Basically stand alone stories that can be read together or by themselves.
Only the final book will require a little bit more knowledge from previous books to be better understood in terms of the rules of the world.
@@randohuman5559 Sounds great! :) I think it's really amazing to be able to create something so big. Good luck and much fun with it in the future!
Heh...I’m also writing a 10 book series! Are you reading my mind? Also, I wish I had an outline. I don’t even have an outline! Just a big bunch of ideas in my head. Most of them are pretty detailed. How did you outline?
@@pinkninjamusic9898 Oooh, I'm not the person you're asking how to outline but would you feel comfortable to share what your series is roughly about? Because 10 books as I mentioned before is so much in my eyes and I would really like to know how you all know that there is so much to tell etc.
Why the heck is this posted exactly when I’m having trouble with planning my series? Jenna, are you watching me?
Same! Like literally same
Same! I literally looked up how to plan a series a few days ago😂
She’s a cyborg, obviously. Jenna knows EVERYTHING. 👀
(Currently hoping that she isn’t watching me)
Same RUclips knows me well. Too well...
The answer to this kind of question is always Yes.
"#10 Use Your Imagination" No, I want to sell books not mentally scar readers.
Why not both tho...
Anjali Johnson
Like George R.R. Martin
Why not both?
Do both!
Listen, my tastes as a reader is "Fuck my shit up, fam"
I'm only 13 but I've always liked to write stories, little short ones. But lately I've been writing them a lot longer and I'm starting to be more creative about what I'm writing about. This video really helped, thank you.
yeah! i was exactly the same way when I was younger, except I used to run out of space or time when writing my stories (during class) because I would go crazy and flesh it out as much as I could and make it too long.
Im planning a 5 book series rn. Almost finished book one. Gimme this stuff pls
Same! Well, not really almost done with the first book. I'm on chapter nine of the second draft so who knows? Lol
@@abbyfleiss2882 im over 2/3 of my second draft
Damn, good luck, you're almost there!
Good luck! You got this!
@@bastiaanmoes3344 Awesome! I'm hoping I'll only need two drafts but strongly doubt it. I really think I'mma need a third and maybe even a fourth. Lol. It's hard with school though. Lol
The way I’m literally in the middle of trying to plan out a series 😂
Literally same
You got this
ikr how does she always know
Same
What genre are you writing?
For my own benefit and hopefully other will find it useful
01:43 - Structure
02:44 - Divide & Conquer
03:48 - Subplots
04:24 - Formats
05:24 - Character Arcs
06:08 - Thought Dump
06:58 - General Structure
07:41 - Outline
08:18 - Wait, What?
09:19 - Use Your Imagination
I’m not making a book series but I’m using these tips for a RUclips series.
Edit: I changed my mind, I want to work on cartoon shows
Same lmao
Alex Palnick sane here too lol
Same
Nice. ...yeah, writing tips apply to writing anything...I guess that's why I'm a little intrigued by writing advice. ...maybe I could write a series of songs or poems and end up with an album!
Doug Arnold agreed, storytelling is pretty similar regardless if it’s in a song, in a book, in a movie, etc
#10 was literally what I needed to hear. I have so much trouble focusing on one book at a time and I feel like I am failing because of it. It was validating to hear that it is something I should be proud of and that an abundance of imagination is a good thing. Thank you Jenna!
I'm not even thirteen chapters into my first book, and I literally cannot stop thinking about book three and four. (for some really stupid reason, I can't work out book two.)
I started writing on a whim during quarantine and it turned out to be so much fun. Your videos have helped me so much through everything and I just wanted to say thank you, Jenna! Hopefully, I can get my ideas published one day.
i feel the same way jenna is so helpful
Good for you. What sort of stuff are you writing?
@@StoryToGo It's a fantasy book, but I'm not really certain if it would be considered YA or New Adult because I'm currently writing it like a YA novel but it deals with themes like war, religion, and racism between two opposing races so idk if I should change that at some point or not.
@@kbstsd Oh interesting. I always enjoy those sorts of stories for the freedom that they allow in getting people reflecting on their own world and seeing the parallels between.
Writing is one of my favorite things to so. I made a Wattpad account in March 2020 to read fanfiction, and now I have three ongoing fanfics😂
A prequel is the author’s excuse to finally make good use of that prologue they couldn’t include 😂😂😂
Harley Quinn Hah. Agreed. I never thought of that before. I never drafted a prequel
Anita Nielsen I did draft a prequel in my original manuscript, but now that scene comes much later in the story near the end of the beginning. Had to work out a lot of kinks 😂
@@CharlieHorse4363 I am jealous that you actually continued working on it *thumbs-up but/cuz I'm not on my phone fer this*
Anita Nielsen Oh thank you! Don’t feel bad for not working on yours - taking a break is ok! I took a several month long break - 6 months, and then worked on it, then took another 4 months off later on. The story has evolved quite a bit and it’s taken me so long and so many rewrites because when I started the story I honestly wasn’t in a place to write it correctly. I’ve grown a lot and changed my mind on a lot of things so the story had to be updated along with myself. I also had to learn a lot of writing craft to make the quality itself much better. Rn I’m researching world building techniques and learning as much as I can about the places that inspire my universe so I can make it as visceral as possible. It’s a long, slow process, but it’s worth it to me to have a good quality piece in the end. So take your time, even if that means you take a really long break without touching the manuscript for awhile! ☺️☺️ Sometimes you need a break to be able to refill your creative juices or work out problems
*I feel attacked*
Number 10 used to frustrate the hell out of me when it happened to me, and now i absolutely love. I have got so much writing done this month it's unreal, like i might finally have a finished first draft next year. I am beyond excited.
How did she know I was writing a...
Jennaaaaaaaaaaa 😂😂😂
You just made me think of "But Jennaaaa!"
@@orion_x-000 lol ikr thats my fav. line but jennnnnnaaaa
Well, she's a cyborg, right? And I bet you are using some form of computer. Just saying. ;)
@@j.f.fisher5318 And that is why today's sponsor is E X P R E S S V P N ! ! !
Jenna, I'm so glad you pointed out that outlining the whole series at once is a judgment call. As someone who likes to do that, it is beneficial to do so. However, like you said things change as you write. I like what Brandon Sanderson does. He is a heavy outliner. He has a loose outline for his whole series. Yet, he considers them as notes. When it comes time to write the next book he make s the changes accordingly as he develops the official outline.
Another great piece of advice is to specifically plan for escalating action and stakes. It can be easy to back yourself into a corner by pushing the stakes to high, to fast. This can tempt you as a writer into "jumping the shark" so to speak, with something really dramatic to try and one up the stakes in the previous book. Or, at the opposite end, can result in a finale that has less punch than the climax at the middle. Better than jumping the shark, but still not that satisfying.
Thought Dumping is legitimately so fun. So many ideas. Like my wattpad has a ton of chapters 1, so for any story I want to extend into a novel, that means I can going with a plot I want and change things up while having information I can use. It's so much fun.
I'm writing a book series and it feels overwhelming. Book one is 300 pages, two is 500 and book three is so far 330 and still has a looooong way to go. I know the main points and characters development, I've been plotting for five years but it still feels overwhelming since I'm planning prequels.
It’s been a month since I published my first book ‘The Gem of Portia’ and I’m thinking of making my next book idea as a series. Thanks for posting the video right on time!
The Gem of Portia? It sounds interesting. Is it available with major retailers?
It’s available on Amazon as an ebook as well as paperback.
1. Series Structure: Episodic or "Standard" series
2. Divide and Conquer: the plot. Each book needs a mini plot (inciting incident, rising action, climax, resolution I think)
3. Divide the Subplots: have a basic outline of how your subplots
4. Consider Your Formats: consider how you're going to write your book; things like companion novels, sequels, prequels, or spin-offs
5. Character Arcs: have a basic outline for your most important characters' arcs
6. Thought Dump: jot down all your ideas for your series, can be for the whole series or dumps specific to each book
7. Consider the Structure: consider and create a basic outline for your series
8. Outline Each Book: after assembling the previous info, outline what is presented in this book
9. Be Careful Outlining: each book at the beginning
10. Allow Mind Wandering: don't be afraid to add more to the Thought Dump
I think the canon term is just... "serialized". xD
Tips 6 and 10 are what I needed to hear. I'm currently outlining my graphic novel series and I keep finding myself hyperfixating on multiple future arcs and procrastinating my first arc. I recently finished my some drafts of the first two chapters and this video is exactly what I needed, I'll definitely focus on Book 1 before getting too invested in the subsequent arc of the arc 5 years into the future. Thank you.
Word of advice. If you do wind up writing a bunch of stuff for later books, wait to publish anything until everything is done. I'm writing a fanfic, and all 4 parts are being written simultaneously. (It's simply my writing style. I've tried a lot of different styles, and I just bounce around too much for those to be effective. XD) There have been times where I start writing something in Pt 3 that changes something in Pt 1. Had Pt 1 been published, I would have to scratch the entire day's work in 3 because the story conflicts. It makes for a slightly tighter story. :)
Finished TSS and OMG!!!!
Thank you so much for a wonderful 2nd book in the series!
I'm writing a book series (well, currently languishing because I can't find beta readers for the first book--the first draft is just sitting there, having been done since near the end of last year) and my approach is to make the first book work well as a stand-alone novel. Yes, unresolved questions and the like, but the conflict is reasonably finished at the end. It makes me think (in spite of the author's fall from grace) of Harry Potter. Philosopher's/Sorcerer's Stone feels like it's all nice and contained, and you don't need there to be a sequel to enjoy it and feel a resolution.
The reason is one I feel is good simply because you might not get a series out of your book. Leave an opening for a sequel, but don't assume your publisher is going to want one and instead make sure the story will satisfy either way. Wish a lot of these movies trying to start a cinematic universe would consider this approach.
What is the genre and age category of the first book?
I understand what you're saying, and agree with most if it, though I have to strongly disagree on the Harry Potter point. Sorcerer's stone does not at all feel like a stand alone. If I read that without any promise of a sequel I wouldve been pissed. They introduced an incredibly powerful villain, a main character with a connection to said villain, and did not wrap any of that up in the end. That is not a stand alone. A stand alone should have all the important questions answered by the end of it.
Now that I think of it, J.K. took a lot of risks with her publishers back then, despite being a debut author. She made it clear that Harry Potter was to be a series from the very 1st book without even being sure the book would be successful, and it being a manuscript rejected many times. She was damn lucky. Such things would never happen today.
I recommend going on Goodreads to find beta readers.
@@CharlieHorse4363 It's a young adult fantasy.
Brilliant advice Jenna. You packed more in 11 Minutes than I have learned in hours when watching others talk about this subject.
“Thought dump”
I do that all the time; however, I either don’t put pencil to paper, or I just don’t type it up.
It’s apparently a thing with writers in general
This is very helpful as I am also planning a series. Not a trilogy but, lets say, fifteen books.
I'm planning a three or so book series of my own, so thanks again Mama Moreci for your advice :)
Congratulations, and all the best on the third book.
The title of my first book series,is Chronicles of the old West: the rising darkness which is a western and steampunk series with some fantasy and supernatural elements.
My second series title is Titled Celestial star chronicles: the shadows of the sea, which is a alternative history fiction and parallel universe fiction series with some fantasy and supernatural elements
Pretty glad to hear I'm on the right path for my series. I've been feeling down that all I've been able to focus on is polishing the first book to finally get it out there, even though i have the next three either written in first-draft mode or outlined, collecting dust.
I’ve got a series idea, I have the general basis of at least when the first two stories take place, I have some ideas of some scenarios to put in both, I have the main characters figured out, and some of their backstories too... the rest is blank though, it’s like I prepped a few moments and characters... and that’s it. I hope to get a grasp on what I’ll be doing with it soon.
I’m planning a book series and I think I have WAAAAY too much content! I probably also have too much content for my first book. But I think I’ll worry about that after my first draft
You can always break it up into into two books. Good luck!
Good luck, what is your book about?
Jessica a monk with elemental powers dealing with his trauma and saving the world from a wolf wizard alongside his new acquaintances
Chris Lussier/Djinsin ooooh
Jenna you’re out here saving lives. So many things made me face palm because they’re so simple yet I didn’t consider them. ㅠㅠ thank you! ^^
My series will have 2 or 3 books and a companion novel / novella. Not fully sure. I’ve described my process for this series as wandering in a dark room, groping the wall for the light switch. Not found it yet, but I know a lot about what’s in the room... the insights this video gave me will help a lot. Thanks!
Working on a seven book series myself with a hope of publishing one day, but really in it for the fun of writing to be honest. Finished my first book last year at just over 100,000 words. Starting second book soon. Got to say, I love the scope a series gives you.
This is just what I needed. That you cyborg queen.
lovelyte off topic, but I love the film theory pfp.
Thought dumps. Let your mind wander. I kinda figured that out already, but it's a little too much of an indulgence.
My planned series is mainly episodic, with tiny hints of standard (but the hints aren't crucial to understanding the episodic parts). For format, I'm thinking of doing a weird mix of sequels and prequels, so thanks for your outlining-but-not-too-much advice!
Jenna dear, we need an eyebrow tutorial! Your eyebrows are actually PERFECT every damn time we see you!! Seriously, you’re gorgeous! 🖤🥰 Also, this video was extremely helpful! Thank you so very much as always! Much love to you, Butters & Cliff!
This helps a LOT. I've always wanted to be a hobbyist writer but it wasn't until recent times I was able to have my own laptop. It's been a small struggle to properly plan everything out, but this guide definitely helps give me an idea of how to start planning.
This is really gonna help with my series I’m trying to make
I am planning to make a 3 book series, tysm for making this video! I really need it, now I'm gonna watch it.
"Meet his new love interest in book 3" YAY! I love that character so this makes me so happy!!
This video is perfect for me since I'm writing a series!
Thank you so much I just started writing my own first ever book and it's part of a series and I'm figuring bout how I'm gonna plan it
I usually never comment on videos but I am writing my book now as I have been wanting to for years now, and I must say I LOVE your videos. I have binged almost all of them and I swear you are amazing. I did just spend way too much money on books because of booktok but I swear after that I will be ordering your books.
Good advice. Thanks!
The new artwork in the bottom right is great.
I am just writing a book series, currently writing the book one first draft 💖
My story might be too big to fit in one novel so this is amazingly helpful
I've been writing a series for the past five to seven years and I'm glad that I've been having many of these points into consideration. They're truly useful.
@Kat Ross It's actually a mixture of different things and genres because I'm building a universe so I have no easy or concise way to explain exactly what they're about. They belong into the same universe but they tell different stories that connect for millions of things.
Yay for you, sister!!! So happy for you!❤️ Great video! I talked out loud to you through the whole thing! Lol I agree with everything you said here! When I started my series I knew it was gonna be 7 books long. I didn’t plot anything per se, but I already knew how book seven would end. Great content Jenna!! And congrats, again, on the successful launch of TSS! ❤️❤️
I am writing a book series and don’t know what to write in the sequel. You have posted on the right time.
So happy to see this! Very helpful to hear about the idea of thought-dumping and getting a basic idea of each book but not outlining the future ones.
Also I keep checking on my tracking number for your book, so excited to start reading!!
6:08 lol I actually have this sorta thing in a separate document. It reads “tHe LoSt PaRaGrApHs”😂😂😂 Luv u Jenna, never stop :)
Just the advice I needed, also I bought Tss today after receiving tsc earlier this month for my bday❤
Thank you for talking about this! I really liked this video!!
Congrats on a kick ass release for TSS!
Thanks for uploading a series video, as well. I've been struggling with subplot pacing in a standard series and get caught up trying to outline too much at once (more than one book? Yes, I'm guilty.).
Awesome writing advice, it really helps with the two book series that I’m writing , editing and self publishing I’m writing and editing books 1 and 2 back to back
I'm working on the 1st book of my second cozy mystery series. Thank you for these tips
I’m currently writing a companion novel series! I watch your videos to laugh and take a brake when I get writers block.
Anyone noticed that she changed around her background? Looks good :D
Also I really like how you’ve started to relate your advice to what you have done. It is SOOO helpful to hear a real author explain how they did it ❤️
omg this is exactly what i need right now🥺
Aria Frey What are you writing about?
Jessica it’s a fantasy series, but the first book is more of a mystery. a girl’s mom goes missing and she has to go find her in this secluded part of the world, where she finds these fantastical creatures hiding from humanity.
@@ari7333 OOOOO SOUNDS SO INTERESTING! LEMME KNOW WHEN YOU’VE FINISHED IT!!
Thank you this really helped me, I’ve written this stuff down and I think I’m ready to start making my own book or story now
Thank you for this so much Jenna! I have had multiple series ideas for years and whenever I get ready to start, I freeze because I don’t know where to start. This is an episode I have been waiting for, and I couldn’t be happier. I think I can really get going now on my first! And cannot wait to read TSS when it arrives next week, very excited!!!
Thank you for making this video I've been struggling with my series for forever, but since I started watching your videos I find the process going a lot better
Okay this is the vid i was looking for lol sorry for the other comments. After watching a few of your vids, i have a better understanding on what i need to do going forward. Thank you for this. You can probably tell im a seasoned vet when it comes to writing, but it doesnt hurt to get another writer's perspective. I started this book or rather series back at the end of 2019. Im ready to write some more now. And ill be watching more of your vids from here on out.
I love ur channel Jenna!!!! FR U have already gotten my writing skills to a good good level. And idk but I feel like you give an aunt vibe. 😂 don’t worry I have dope aunts! But I just got an idea for my second book. It takes too much time and I know I won’t stop!!!
I screamed when this popped out, this is what I've been waiting forr. Thank you in advancee Jennnaaaa😍😊
This is exactly what I needed and I LOVE the way you explained this!! Thank you so much for this!!
ok, I have a question:
so I'm writing a book series, and the goal slightly changes in the second book. How would I make a structure for that? I'm new to writing an entire series, as I've only written stand alone books and fanfiction lol.
I'd suggest you pop over to "How to be a Great GM" (Channel on YT)... Specifically "Campaign Structures"... AND you'll want to look at the "5 act structure"
1. Intro
2. Hook "this is the goal"
3. First twist, "this goal (#1) is NOT a goal at all"
4. New Path, New goal "NOW we know (#2) is the goal for victory"
5. Goal achieved... (BBEG smited, McGuffin recovered, whoever saved, etc...)
This works for each act being it's own separate adventure in TTRPG's, as well as fleshing out a sophisticated "One Shot" (When we plan to run an entire adventure in a single night, or possibly allow for two or even three nights... BUT short)... SO instead of trying to force a "3 act structure" as you've likely seen countless times, add in the occasional "5 act structure" where you are allowed the revelation that one goal is simply not "right" and has to change... This gives you ample space for "plot twists" as you wish.
...AND it can "stitch together" just as well around other "3 act" adventures, too. ;o)
I'm writing a few series' of books and Jenna is always such a huge help! 😊
Abbie Emmons explains the three act structure which is also a good idea when choosing how to structure your book.
I've started writing multiple series, both of which I hope to have animated sooner or later, this will definitely be a huge help with setting things up
Thank you so much. This is really helpful. I'm gonna continue writyng my book series.
OMG! Did Jenna just say Enzo is getting another love interest?! Aaahhh! Yes, please, he's amazing! I really want him back. Thanks for the awesome video again Jenna!💕
You’re totally right about planning too tightly. I’m working on a trilogy right now and I wrote a chapter by chapter plan before I started writing the rough draft but then as I was writing I realized some of the chapters timing didn’t line up (I’m switching between two storylines throughout the book) so I changed the plan. Basically I stuck with the basic story idea while cutting out some unnecessary parts.
This is great help with the series I'm working on. (still on the first book but already have ideas out for the other books down the road). I really do need to idea dump them into a document though so that way I have it in case I forget... which doesn't happen as I think about it all the time. Coming up with more stuff to compliment the rest of the books as I go.
I'm so happy this video came out! I'm planning a series atm and I was so excited once I saw the notif that I watched this right after I woke up! Love you Jenna!
This is perfect timing. My preptober project is going to be a series
I need help in keeping sub plots as sub plots. Tips for figuring out what is main, what is sub, and what should find the cutting room floor.
I had an idea for a story, but there's a kidnapping to solve, a war to end, and a pandemic to cure. I was thinking "Maybe this is too much for one book. Maybe a series?" Then boom I find this 4 month old video. Yay!
I just had a major breakthrough with the series I am writing right now and feel so much better. Thank you very very much.❤
Oh! FINALLY! I now have a definition for “spin-off”! Thank you thank you THANK YOU!!!
always a great video! I'm a plot maniac writter and what you said gave me a lot to think!
yahh Jenna the live stream was the best we love you and will stay with you till the end.
This is exactly what I need! I'm like in the planning phase XD
There's also a serial, which is similar to a series. A series has each book with a contained subplot (think the Harry Potter series). A serial, however, is basically one long story broken apart into separate books, but there is no book-specific subplot for each one (think Song of Ice and Fire).
My 'All That Glitters' books are a serial, while my Dyrkon books are a companion novel series.
I took a thought dump yesterday. It was great
Great video! As someone who is currently writing and planning a big series, this was very helpful!
This video helped so much 💋👏🏽
I am actually in the process of writing book 3 on my five book series 😍 thx you for the advice
You are the best writing teacher. Know that
I absolutely love her! So helpful and so detailed
I'm currently planning a graphic novel series, this was really helpful!!
..and suggested exactly when I needed it.. hmm..
creepy but helpful! Thank you!!
Your advice is so helpful and clear Jenna..thankyou
So Cyborg Jenna is on to us, I knew it. She knew exactly that we are currently planning out our own series.
I can vouch for not outlining all stories in the series! I'm still writing book one and there has been a lot of deviation because I just flow with what feels more natural. So the outlines are almost completely irrelevant at this point 😅
Thank you for explaining this! I've got an idea for a trilogy and this really helps because I've been struggling with format. This really helps clear things up. Thanks so much!
#6 thought dump - yeah I love it 😁
Thanks To This, I've Now Decided To Add A Spinoff/Prequel About The Secondary Lead And Pull A Midnight Sun With My Villain
I Haven't Even Finished Book 1 Yet