S.P. Sipal, Harry Potter 4 Writers

Susan Spial
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We'll be giving away two copies of A WRITER'S GUIDE TO HARRY POTTER during this presentation. Be sure to leave your email in the comment trail for a chance to win! *You must be present to win*

Because of the wealth on information Susan has for us, she's provided a short introduction, and her "presentation in a nutshell". For more chat enjoyment, we encourage you to read the articles in advance. Susan welcomes your questions and looks forward to chatting with you!

Though many an envious writer would like to think JK Rowling’s secret to success is just a bunch of magical mayhem, we Muggle writers can learn from the skills which have made her Harry Potter series more than beloved, but truly an absolute obsession among millions.

Over the last several years, I've analyzed JK Rowling's work to understand the techniques and storytelling craft which made her series so successful.  I've presented workshops at home and abroad, published books, and founded a whole blog dedicated to uncovering her secrets.

We could spend hours, days, discussing her work.  But instead I've compiled for you here the top ten craft techniques I believe writers can learn when they search beneath the pages of Potter.

Tip 10: Plot like you're Hermione about to face her boggart

Tip 9: Quirky gamekeepers can be captivating

Tip 8: You've got to have a Snape

Tip 7: The Dark Lord's in the details

Tip 6: Challenge the reader as if casting your first Patronus

Tip 5: Dive deep, like seeking your treasure in the Black Lake

Tip 4: Be like Dumbledore--Withhold your backstory until the very end

Tip 3: Keep your mysteries hidden, like Pettigrew

Tip 2: Engage the Reader ... like J.K. Rowling

Tip 1: Above all ... Have fun like you're Ron (or the Twins)!