Published in 1980, The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco is more than a historical mystery—it’s a layered interrogation of knowledge, power and faith. Set in a 14th-century Italian monastery, the novel weaves a detective plot with medieval theology, semiotics and literary theory, inviting readers to engage with ideas as well as story. The…
In Stoner, John Williams crafts a deceptively simple narrative that reveals its emotional and intellectual weight over time. Rather than relying on dramatic plot twists or overt conflict, the novel explores the quiet routines, hidden longings, and moral integrity of its protagonist, William Stoner. Through meticulous prose and deep interiority, Williams shows how a life…
In recent years, storytellers have expanded far beyond linear plots and static formats, embracing hybrid and interactive narratives that blend various media to engage audiences in immersive ways. Hybrid novels combine text with illustrations, collage, maps, diagrams, and audio-visual elements, producing a multi-modal reading experience that transcends the expectations of a traditional book. Meanwhile, interactive…
In every writer’s journey, tapping into the creative well isn’t always effortless—it thrives within intentional rituals grounded in experience-backed practice. Through a combination of mindfulness techniques, expert-led writing prompts, and insights from acclaimed poets, adopting daily creative rituals nurtures both imagination and discipline, establishing trustworthiness and authenticity in your craft. One expert recommends a three-phase…
For self-published authors, a subtitle is more than just an afterthought—it’s a high-impact sales tool. While your main title captures attention, the subtitle clarifies the book’s purpose, value, and target audience. Especially in nonfiction, a strong subtitle can make the difference between being passed over and being purchased. It adds search-friendly keywords, sets reader expectations,…
In the world of self-publishing, writing a great book is only half the battle. Author branding—the way readers perceive and connect with you as a creator—is now an essential ingredient for indie success. With thousands of new titles released each day, your brand helps you stand out, builds trust with readers, and creates a consistent…
One of literature’s most compelling techniques is the use of the unreliable narrator—a storyteller whose credibility is compromised, intentionally or not. This narrative device invites readers to question the truth of the story being told, adding layers of complexity and engagement. By presenting a skewed or deceptive perspective, authors can explore themes of truth, memory,…
Embarking on the journey of writing poetry can be both exhilarating and daunting. For beginners, understanding that poetry is a condensed and powerful form of expression is crucial. Unlike prose, poetry relies on the musicality of words, rhythm, and the strategic use of literary devices such as metaphor, simile, and imagery to evoke emotions and…
For many self-publishing authors, Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) is the go-to platform for distributing their books. With its vast reach, KDP provides authors an opportunity to sell their books worldwide and retain control over their work. However, succeeding on this platform requires more than just uploading a manuscript—authors need to understand how to optimize…
scrapfellow.com – Fables, with their succinct plots and clear moral lessons, are one of the oldest and most enduring forms of storytelling. Rooted in oral traditions and often attributed to ancient cultures, fables serve both as entertainment and as vehicles for teaching ethical values. They often feature anthropomorphized animals or mythical creatures, and while their…
