A Passion for Narrative

Library Journal

Described as ``a book of inspiration and practical exercises for fiction writers,'' this work examines all the aspects of writing, from getting started through setting, character, plot, structure, revision, and a final section entitled ``And now what?'' Novelist Hodgins identifies the range of options available at each stage; quoting other writers, many of whom are little known in this country, he makes this book a voyage of discovery. Grammar is not discussed, nor is motivation; Hodgins presumes both. He does not presume knowledge of the terminology of writing, though, and is careful to explain terms before discussing each concept. In each chapter, exercises and a reading list further illuminate the points discussed. Divided into discrete sections, this book can be used as a reference tool, but it should be read through once first. It's fair to say that while the text does lag at times, it never lags for long, and struggling novelists out there should find most of their conundrums addressed. Recommended. -Robert C. Moore, DuPont Merck Pharmaceutical Co. Information Svces., Wilmington, Del.