Do you want to write a book?

So, you want to write a book? That can’t be hard – right? Well, yes – and – no. Does your story take place in a day – a week or longer? Where to start? Every writer has their own system. For me, a calendar is just what I need to help me organize my thoughts. It also makes me aware of and take into consideration the weather my protagonist may have to deal with. Is there going to be snow and ice as in Picketing The President or the heavy winds and rain Matt faced in Trouble In Texas?

Weather can be a major character or a bit player. Imagine writing a book about a group of friends who head out for a spring hiking adventure in the mountains. A late snowstorm catches them unprepared. What happens? And then there is the father and son duo who venture into the Everglades in early summer. Their first morning out, they miss the hurricane warning that is posted after they leave their base camp. In both situations, the weather will play a major role.

What holidays fall during the time frame you’ve chosen? Religious or patriotic holidays can play a role in your book, even if they are not the main point of your narrative. The allegiance of one of your characters to his/her religion or country can be an underlying theme.

The calendar can also help determine the pace of your narrative. To avoid having all the exciting events happening at the same time, plan ahead. If John chases someone he believes is a thief, let the thief escape the first time. A week later John catches sight of the thief again. The second time John gives chase, he catches the thief and realizes the thief is his cousin Andy. They have a fight and Andy escapes. What now? This leaves a lot of questions for John to investigate. All the while, you can note on your calendar major and minor events to keep your narrative moving.