The story shelf

All stories

Browse pieces on plot, characters, setting, story forms and the craft choices that give a tale its shape.

The Promise Hidden in a Story’s Opening

See how a story opening sets expectations through a question, image or disturbance, then use those signals to shape a…

Nov 4, 20267 min read

First person vs close third person changes how readers receive a character’s thoughts, blind spots and surprises…

Oct 30, 20268 min read

Why doorways matter in stage stories: see how a threshold directs attention, divides dramatic space and turns an…

Oct 24, 20267 min read

Learn how to write a mysterious stranger whose choices alter relationships, obligations and plans, so the mystery…

Oct 20, 20265 min read

Reading a story aloud around the table reveals how voice, rhythm and silence shape a scene, while giving everyone room…

Oct 14, 20266 min read

Our point of view

We believe the fun is in noticing how a story works: what it reveals, what it withholds and which details stay with us.