On Saturday at the California Writers Club, Mt. Diablo Branch, we were treated to a highly entertaining talk by young adult novelist Veronica Rossi, whose book, Under the Never Sky, will be released in January by HarperCollins. Her three-book-deal, which has also been optioned for a movie, is a can’t-wait-for-event!
Veronica filled us in on high concept: it’s actually a Hollywood term which is an idea that sells itself. As quoted from James Bonnet: ” . . . it is an intriguing idea that can be stated in a few words and is easily understood by all.”
Basically, Veronica says, it’s a promise. As you watch movies, can you state it in a few words?
“Date Night” What happens when a bored married couple’s date goes very, very wrong?
“Snakes on a Plane” The title is enough to describe it.
(Disclaimer: Just because a movie or book is high concept, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s high quality.)
Writing Prompt:
Describe your project within 25 words or less. If your pitch can be short and succinct, you will have a better chance at focusing your writing, whether or not you’ve got a high concept writing idea or not.
Next, go through your manuscript and make sure you’ve adhered to your pitch.
How do you write a good pitch? Veronica says, “Tell us who your hero is, what she is up against, and what is at stake.”
Remember to add character development, suspense and a terrific voice so that your novel will be a great high concept read.
Zoie
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