1. Take a teaspoon of this; add a pinch of that… before you know it you have the makings of a bestseller. Yeah, right!

2. The items you need The Riven Quest, by David and Leigh Eddings, discusses the formulae for writing a fantasy novel. All of these are not necessarily required, but the certainly help! Most fantasy writers set their novels in a different world: Pern, Narnia, Forgotten Realms. If the Fantasy features humans, there is either a different time frame (Middle Earth) or a clash of worlds (Harry Potter).

3. Item no. 1: The Quest This is a search for something, someone, or a specific mission. It is at the core of the plot. “The quest gives you an excuse to dash around and meet new people. Otherwise, you stay home and grow turnips, or something.” What are some examples?

4. Item no. 2: The Magic Thingamajig The OBJECT of the quest – the Holy Grail; The Ring; the MAGIC JEWEL. However, the “magic thingamajig” doesn’t necessarily have to be an object: it can be an OBJECTIVE. A what? Have a look at this… http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V1emtr5FKcc&feat ure=related

5. Item no. 3: The Hero Brave Muscular Handsome Dumb. Dumb? Let’s discuss this. If he’s so clever, then why would he need…

6. Item no. 4: the Resident Wizard This is the wise one. He is old; usually magic. He gets everyone (especially the hero) out of trouble. Can you think of any characters from mythology or other stories that fit this character profile? Discuss their characteristics.

7. Item no. 4: The Heroine Usually in need of rescuing, although this character is the easiest one to develop/change. Why might this be? What is her role?

8. Item no. 6: The Villain Da da da da. Da da da da DA!!!!! No story can happen without the villain trying to spoil the party. Like the heroine, he creates tension, sometimes between characters; always with the hero/wizard.

9. Item no. 7: The Companions The supporting cast. “…assorted muscular types from various cultures who handle most of the killing and mayhem until the hero grows up to the point where he can do his own violence on the bad guys.” Comment!

10. The Map If you don’t have an accurate map, readers will find faults in your placement of events, battles, etc. For example: Suggest how this can be done simply(?????)