Cleveland Unzips Short Stories
Peterson's Guide to Structuring the Writing Process
Ceil Cleveland unravels visual images so readers see the art of storytelling in short stories.
Ceil Cleveland writes a reference guide for anyone interested in learning how to write short stories. This book gives a broad overview of fictional writing through visuals, sidebars, and famous writers’ excerpts. Since writers are always searching for visually articulate resources to improve their writing, Short Stories Unzipped goes a long way in showing the difference between mediocre, good, and great writing.
Skeletons
The author identifies writing tools and techniques which accompany writers throughout the process. Cleveland defines all types of short stories as skeletons (mysteries, suspense, family tales, romance, and horror). Of course, he does not fail to introduce the twisted skeleton (the surprise endings!). In these sections, he provides specially selected pieces and analyzes them for the reader; both pointing to their positives and negative attributes. He also examines how the works could be accentuated by quick revisionary work. Allowing the reader to see the difference in a short a time frame makes the writers’ feel up for the challenge.
Goods you Need
Throughout the book, a motif of “unzipping” appears on the pages. Basically, readers are encouraged to “think outside the box.” Unzipping is more of the same. Also, there are many suggestions throughout the book which offer writers prompts, scenarios, and possibilities to improve their writing. Each chapter adds a new puzzle piece to propel a potential short story forward.
Whammys
These gems are the most playful part in any writer’s tool box. They are similar to the prestige for an Illusionist. Just as a magician teases an audience throughout a show until the grand finale, Cleveland leaves hints and suggestions of what is coming up next—teasers. How a writer is able to surprise readers can make or break a story. Cleveland cleverly gives many examples of short stories in fiction from Poe, Hemingway, and D.H. Lawrence.
Writing Unzipped
This writer’s guide serves as an educational guide for both beginning and seasoned writers alike. For anyone wanting to write fiction, Short Stories Unzipped is an extremely valuable resource to have on your shelf. Cleveland covers all the bases needed to write a sharp short story and used concise language and imagery to convey his message. Beyond the light conversational style, he backs up his point with excerpts from talented authors from varying genres.
Peterson’s, a Nelnet company offers a plethora of information on several subjects, including test preparation, educational opportunities, guidance of college admissions, and financial aid. To seek more information: www.petersons.com.
Ceil Cleveland
Short Stories Unzipped
ISBN 10: 0768924812
240 pgs.
$10.40
Peterson's Publishers
July 1st, 2007
