The Writer's Tool Box

by Patrika Vaughn

A Cappela Publishing  ISBN: 0-9656309-4-3

Review by Jonathan David Masters

Think of an advocate as a writer's crystal ball, someone who helps writers look ahead and make the right decisions for getting successfully published. An advocate is different from an agent. A literary agent doesn't come into the picture until your manuscript is complete. The agent then assesses it and says one of three things: "This is good, I think I can sell it." Or, "Get a book doctor." Or, "This won't sell." An advocate, on the other hand, works with the writer from the concept stage and helps the writer crystallize a project that will sell.

The advocate helps target the market, suggest the best writing style for that market, and then helps determine the publishing options for that work. Today that includes everything from major publishing houses to electronic publishing and self-publishing. Options that didn't even exist ten years ago. You will hear the difference between an agent and an advocate on every tape in this set. I found that a bit too redundant. However, having said that, the information and examples provided in this set is a writer's dream come true. Without spending huge fees, the listener has a vast arsenal of information. Everything from writing a dynamite hook, to choosing a voice and understanding the differences between plot and theme are included.

Furthermore, not only does Ms. Vaughn cover so many important topics, she does so in precise and easy to understand language. Her examples are superb and her speaking voice, gentle listening. I previewed these tapes in a variety of different players (auto, handheld, stereo) and found their quality to be good.

If you have ever wrestled with crafting a great opening, these tapes give eight to choose from, explain how they are crafted and what types of writings they work best with. If you have every pondered the difference between voice (narrator and author) or how voice sets the tone for your writing, these tapes pinpoint the three major things you must know in order to understand the voice that will project the effect desired onto your readers.

Finally, if plots are your worst nightmare, The Writer's Tool Box will help you grasp what a plot is and what it does, then show you how to carefully craft a plot that will keep your readers intrigued.

For both beginning writers and experienced, I highly recommend The Writer's Tool Box. Put it right next to your Strunk and White.

[From Issue #3, June 29, 2000, of http://ewritersplace.com]

Copyright © Jonathan David Masters 2003