How to Write a Strong Story Concept (Reverse Book Blurb Exercise)

• Start by explaining the basic information about the book in straightforward language:
• Primary genres
• Audience
• Tone
• Main character
• Core conflict
• Comparative books, TV shows, movies, or video games

Ask yourself interesting questions:

• What two literary tropes could I combine in an unexpected way?
• If a protagonist was the complete opposite of me in terms of personality and goals, what would their life story look like?
• What is the most awkward, painful, or shocking scenario I can think of?

Inject the summary with a touch of narrative voice that matches the protagonist’s personality or the overall tone of the story. It should included:

Character: Who is the main character? What do they want? What do they stand to lose if they don’t achieve that goal? What is compelling about their personality and narrative voice?

Plot: What is interesting about the story world or setting? What’s the inciting incident? What obstacles stand in the way of the protagonist’s goals?

Originality: What new twist or feature does the story add to this genre? What is the “unique selling point” of this book?

Blurb: You just need to pinpoint one or two specific details about the protagonist and conflict.

Example...

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Query: They’re aimed directly at someone in the publishing industry.

Example...(Query of the above blurb)

https://miro.medium.com/max/700/1*1Zxkck0D01Xq4Jz_QXeD4g.png

Approached my concept redesign from three angles:

1. Plot Redesign
2. Character Redesign
3. Setting Redesign

In redesigning your blurb, look at the feedback you received:

• List the concept’s strengths and weaknesses.
• What aspects intrigued readers the most? What confused them?
• What parts do you still feel “meh” about?