I started working on my idea for NaNoWriMo this week, despite all the distractions of real life, i.e., the roof that needs replacement, and the dog that won’t eat, etc. I sat down and did some mind mapping trying to decide what my main theme would be and how that would mesh with the story. I like the idea of the second chances and am trying to weave that into the story.
Then I considered the questions about the characters. Who wants what? Who is against the main goal and why? What’s the main problem that needs to be solved? Once I had some ideas written down for these questions, I went on to think about what the main character’s flaws and failures could be and what situations could lead her to learn and grow over the course of the story.
I also wrote up a few details about the Main Character (MC) and what the critical elements of the conflicts and theme should be in the story. The setting seems to be a big element of this story, so that has to be considered too. I know I will need to do some research about the setting and some other key parts of the background to the story next.
Next week I hope to get more of an idea how to set up the plot of the story which still doesn’t have a clear path in my mind. Lots of work to even get to the point of starting to write those 50,000 words!
How are all of you coming with your ideas for NaNoWriMo? Share with me in the comments below.
Chasing The Tale 
I write historical fiction so I’ve been visiting the library, archives and actual places my story will take place. I’ve studied hotel menus, looked at photos of 1890a bathing suits, read about the lives of men who served at life-saving stations.
I’ve given my characters names—almost all honoring my nieces and nephews. I’ve thought about how they got to this spot where my book will begin. And I look forward to seeing where they will go in November.
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That’s great Mary! I need to do more research on my setting. It’s so exciting – isn’t it, to find out about your characters and decide how they got to the point that you start out the story. Good Luck!
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