30 R Discussion Topic
Think back to some of the stories you've read in the last year or two. Of those, maybe you
had one that you started to read, but you just couldn't get into it. Why? What made you
keep putting it down? On the other hand, think about a story you really enjoyed. What
literary elements did the writer use to make it impossible to put down? For example, was
the protagonist easy to relate to? Did the author describe the setting with such vivid detail
that you felt you were right there?
Authors will produce works that place more emphasis on one element than another. As a
result, sometimes there are gaps in literary elements that typically appeal to you as the
reader. Discuss some of the recent stories you've read that have missed the mark. What
advice would you give to that author to fill in the gaps you felt were missing? Also give
your opinion on some stories that you've really enjoyed. Explain the elements that make it
a good story. For example, how did the author use character, symbolism, or point of view
to create such a page-turner?