by Tammi Sauer (from 2012)
In past PiBoIdMo posts, I’ve encouraged you to…
This time around, I want to focus on structure.
Just like houses and dinosaurs, every story needs an underlying framework.
Most of my books follow the Classic Picture Book Structure:
- MC has a problem
- MC faces obstacles that escalate
- MC encounters a dark moment in which things can’t possibly get any worse
- MC figures out how to solve the problem
- MC grows/changes by the book’s end
My book PRINCESS IN TRAINING is an example of this.
Behold!
Princess Viola is great at skateboarding and karate-chopping, but she’s lousy at the royal wave, walk, and waltz. The king and queen are not pleased. What’s a princess to do? Attend the skill-polishing Camp Princess, of course. In the end, it’s a good thing Viola is made of tougher stuff. Who else will save the day when a hungry dragon shows up?
This is how the Classic Picture Book Structure works with PRINCESS IN TRAINING:
- Princess Viola Louise Hassenfeffer has a royal problem. She is not an ordinary princess and the kingdom is unhappy about it.
- Princess Viola faces three obstacles at Camp Princess (she is unable to properly master the royal wave, royal fashions, and royal dancing).
- A hungry dragon shows up at Camp Princess.
- Princess Viola uses her unique skill set to save the day.
- Princess Viola may not be an ordinary princess, but she is deemed the darling of her kingdom anyway.
Although the Classic Picture Book Structure is my super-favorite way to frame a story, there are a variety of other options. Below are many of them along with some examples.
Circular:
The story’s ending leads back to the beginning
If You Give a Mouse a Cookie; When a Dragon Moves In
Concept:
The story focuses on a single topic or category
All the World; Kindergarten Rocks; Hello Baby!; The Quiet Book
Cumulative:
Each time a new event occurs, the previous events in the story are repeated
My Little Sister Ate One Hare; I Know an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly
Mirror:
The second half of a story echoes what occurred in the first half of the story
Old Bear and His Cub; Boy + Bot; A Sick Day for Amos McGee
Parallel:
Two storylines are taking place at the same time
The Dog Who Belonged to No One; Meanwhile Back at the Ranch
Reversal:
Character and/or plot is portrayed in a way that is opposite from the norm
Bedtime for Mommy; Children Make Terrible Pets; Little Hoot
This month, I’m challenging myself to come up with at least one story idea for each of those frameworks. C’mon, groovy Storystorm people. Who’s with me?
Tammi Sauer has been a guest blogger for every year of Storystorm, even when it was called that thing no two people pronounced the same, PiBoIdMo. Learn more about Tammi at her super-snazzy new website tammisauer.com.
At the conclusion of Storystorm, prize packs will be given away (books, swag, writing tools). Comment once on this blog post to enter into the prize pack drawing.
You’re eligible to win if you’re a registered Storystorm participant and you have commented once below.
Good luck!
666 comments
Comments feed for this article
January 4, 2019 at 8:06 am
Jen Fier Jasinski
Thanks for the great challenge and mentor texts to study! Loving StoryStorm 2019 already!
January 4, 2019 at 8:07 am
swugar2
Helpful information!
January 4, 2019 at 8:08 am
loiedunn
Thanks for sharing 🙂 this is super helpful. Loie
January 4, 2019 at 8:11 am
Lisa M Griffin (@LisaMGriffinArt)
I might challenge myself in a few of these categories… especially ones that I don’t naturally gravitate to. Thanks for sharing!
January 4, 2019 at 8:11 am
Sherry Howard
Love your challenge! I need to embrace that. Most of my ms are pretty circular!
January 4, 2019 at 8:14 am
Kathy Halsey
Hi again, Tammi. I love studying PB structure. It is one of my fave ways to revise. TY for sharing this with us again.
January 4, 2019 at 8:14 am
naturewalkwithgod
Thank you for sharing with us, Tammi. Good reminders of story structures. Challenge accepted. 🙂
January 4, 2019 at 8:20 am
lindaschueler
Sounds like a great challenge! Thanks for the examples.
January 4, 2019 at 8:22 am
Manju B. Howard (@ManjuBeth)
I remember this post. I haven’t used a reversal or mirror structure, yet.
January 4, 2019 at 8:22 am
hallee2012
Plot playaround is always fun. Thanks for this!!
January 4, 2019 at 8:23 am
Tina Cho
I remember this post, very, very helpful!
January 4, 2019 at 8:23 am
Andrea Mack
I love your challenge to come up with an idea for each different structure.
January 4, 2019 at 8:24 am
Lucky Jo Boscarino
A beautifully presented variety of story book structures. Thank you, Tammi, for sharing your wisdom and saving us Stormers time not having to reinvent the wheel!
January 4, 2019 at 8:24 am
Lauri Meyers
Great example of obstacles and character using their unusual strengths to solve problems.
January 4, 2019 at 8:25 am
michelemeleen
I’ve never seen such a concise explanation of pb story structures! Thanks Tammi😍 And, challenges accepted!
January 4, 2019 at 8:27 am
R.J. Koehn
Oh! There are so many structures to choose from! Which one should I try first?
January 4, 2019 at 8:29 am
Susan Nicholas Korstanje
Great idea prompts. This is something I will save and use over and over again. ( I enjoyed your workshop at the Carolinas SCBWI )
January 4, 2019 at 8:31 am
Joana Pastro
Great ideas and mentor texts! Thanks!
January 4, 2019 at 8:31 am
writersideup
Tammi, this is brilliant. SO “to the point” and basic, there’s no way not to get it 🙂 Thank you!
January 4, 2019 at 8:32 am
kirsticall
This is a great post and I’m glad to read it again! Thanks Tammi. I love exploring story structures!
January 4, 2019 at 8:33 am
RebeccaTheWriter
This such a great easy breakdown of different plot structures. Thank you!
January 4, 2019 at 8:34 am
mariemanleytucker
Sounds like fun! Thanks for putting the skeletons all together for us!
January 4, 2019 at 8:34 am
authoryvonafast
Thanks for the great mentor text on various types of stories! And the challenge to write in one of those other styles.
January 4, 2019 at 8:37 am
Mark Bentz
Great post. Very helpful.
Thank you Tammi.
January 4, 2019 at 8:37 am
jennysarawrites
One of these frameworks helped me realize that a game I play with my kids could be a seed for a story idea! Thank you!
January 4, 2019 at 8:38 am
sarahheturadny
I am in! I’ll accept your challenge and try to come up with each of those flavors of PB. 🙂
January 4, 2019 at 8:43 am
Andria Rosenbaum
That’s one awe inspiring challenge. Thanks for all your inspiration, Tammi. I dub thee –The PB Queen :-)!
January 4, 2019 at 8:44 am
candicemarleyconner
OOOh, I’m intrigued and eager to try these out! Thanks for the examples and such no-nonsense presentation, Tammi
January 4, 2019 at 8:45 am
Jane Dippold
Thanks for sharing this breakdown-so helpful for revision also!
January 4, 2019 at 8:47 am
rosecappelli
Thanks for the suggestions! It’s always good to be reminded of the possibilities that exist for the stories we want to tell. And also good to stretch ourselves.
January 4, 2019 at 8:50 am
Amy Houts
Great summary and examples! Thanks!
January 4, 2019 at 8:54 am
Kristy Ryan
Great breakdown of story structures. I am going to challenge myself to write a mirrored story! Thanks for sharing!
January 4, 2019 at 8:55 am
CeCeLibrarian
Tammi, can I just say that I love that Princess Viola can’t master the royal wave?! That made me 😂 Thank you for the examples you shared of different types of picture book structure. This was super helpful!
January 4, 2019 at 8:56 am
Lisa L Furness
Tammi, Thank you for the outline of different story structures. I will definitely attempt your challenge!
January 4, 2019 at 8:59 am
Juliana Lee
Good morning Tammi and Tara! Thanks for another great wake me up! I too write in the traditional storybook structure. Think I might give one of the other structures a go this coming week. Happy Writing!
January 4, 2019 at 8:59 am
Cynthia Hawthorne
Somethings like this post are timeless. I like the challenge of coming up with one story for each structure. On to brainstorming. Thank you Tammi and Tara.
January 4, 2019 at 8:59 am
SARAH Meade
Great post! Sounds like a fun challenge too!
January 4, 2019 at 9:00 am
jheitman22
To Tammi’s challenge–it could happen! Thanks for this list of story structures and the good examples that we can learn from!
January 4, 2019 at 9:02 am
Katie Engen
Story structure crib sheet is awesome!
January 4, 2019 at 9:03 am
ptnozell
Thanks Tammi & Tara for dusting off & sharing this helpful post from StoryStorm past.
January 4, 2019 at 9:04 am
KATHY Z.PRICE
Fun! I’m totally doing this. I’m making it a challenge plus. I will use existing story ideas for each structure AND I am also thinking of brand new ones! Good morning!
January 4, 2019 at 9:06 am
thecrowsmap
I love this challenge! I’m in:)
Gail Hartman
January 4, 2019 at 9:07 am
Suzanne LaLiberte Lewis
Love this concise, easy-to-reference post on story structures/frameworks. Great challenge, too. Thanks, Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 9:07 am
Sallye O'Rourke
Thanks for this helpful summary on story structure!
January 4, 2019 at 9:09 am
LaTonya Richardson
This is awesome! This type of information is priceless! I definitely want to expand my ability to write in different structures!
January 4, 2019 at 9:10 am
Ashley Congdon
Thank you for this! I was just thinking about the different story structures the other day. Now I have a list of books to go check-out to study! It has only been four days of this challenge and I’ve learned so much. Looking forward to what’s to come.
January 4, 2019 at 9:10 am
Jennifer Bower
Love the new website and have enjoyed all of your posts. Thanks Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 9:12 am
Joan Longstaff
Wow, this is certainly going to challenge the old brain cells! Thanks for the prod Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 9:14 am
Elizabeth Metz
This is a tremendous resource, both for idea generation and revision of existing stories. Thank you, Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 9:15 am
Joan Swanson
Great show on all the different ways a picture book could be set up. Thank you!
January 4, 2019 at 9:15 am
mlflannigan
Great advice Tammi. I love all of your Pb’s. I will try at least 1new structure idea, Thank you!
January 4, 2019 at 9:17 am
sunwalker2013
Wahoo! Prompts are the best! And i’ve grown by attempting the same core story in different structures. Great blog!
January 4, 2019 at 9:17 am
Nadine Gamble
What a fantastic summary of all things PB! Thanks, again, Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 9:19 am
Jennifer Phillips
Challenge accepted! Helpful insights!
January 4, 2019 at 9:19 am
Laura Purdie Salas
I’m with you! I love thinking about structure first and letting it lead to concepts and story ideas.
January 4, 2019 at 9:22 am
rekrall@yahoo.com
Great summary about PB framework!
January 4, 2019 at 9:25 am
David Bernardy
Wonderful. I find it so helpful to have these structures in the back of my mind when I come up with possible story seeds. Then I can sort of try the new story out and see which structure fits best, which pushes the initial story into new and unexpected places. I appreciate you articulating them all so well.
January 4, 2019 at 9:25 am
Deslie English
I’m in. I love the challenge and thank you!
January 4, 2019 at 9:25 am
Lisa Pavalon
This one will be a challenge for me; bring it on!
January 4, 2019 at 9:25 am
Kristen Tipman
What a great post! Very helpful. I’m going to save it for future reference. Thanks for sharing!
January 4, 2019 at 9:27 am
Tracy Hora
I remember this one! It’s one I refer to when I want to look at structures. Thanks!
January 4, 2019 at 9:29 am
Lindsay Fiore
Thanks again, Tammi! What a great challenge to write in each unique picture book structure. I’m looking forward to challenging myself to write in new ways this year!!
January 4, 2019 at 9:35 am
pathaap
Lots of different frameworks for structuring our PB’s. Thanks for reminding us and giving us examples of them. Very helpful, Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 9:35 am
Brianna Zamborsky
Thanks again, Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 9:36 am
Deb Sullivan
Very helpful storybook structure tips (and sample texts) to get me out of my comfort zone….thanks so much for sharing Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 9:36 am
Jamie L. B. Deenihan
This post is such a good reminder that there’s so many ways to write a great story, but no matter which path we take, we need to focus on the structure. Thanks, Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 9:37 am
Michelle Klump
Great challenge
January 4, 2019 at 9:39 am
bookfish1
I’m with you. I love the refresher on story structure. Thanks very helpful.
January 4, 2019 at 9:40 am
Matt Forrest Esenwine
Thank you both for this post! I’ve written a number of poems that are circular, and “Flashlight Night” is more of a concept book…so I’m going to start kicking around ideas for these other structures!
January 4, 2019 at 9:41 am
Poppy P
I keep my storystorm ideas in an excel spreadsheet by year. If I am at a loss at what to write, I go into them until I find one I want to work on. *Princess in Training is one of my favorites. 🙂
January 4, 2019 at 9:43 am
thelmakat
These are great ideas and I love your challenge! Thanks Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 9:46 am
Tara Hannon
This is one of my favorite ways of pushing myself creatively. And I should admit something I don’t always remember to do. Thanks for the great reminder and useful screenshot! 😉
January 4, 2019 at 9:47 am
amshahen1
Excellent post! I’m so glad you brought this post back as it’s a great refresher.
January 4, 2019 at 9:48 am
Diana Murrell
I love this challenge! I’m in!
January 4, 2019 at 9:50 am
supermario6
Super valuable resource! Thanks
January 4, 2019 at 9:50 am
Annie Cronin Romano
Great idea! I’m definitely going to give it a go!
January 4, 2019 at 9:50 am
Debbie Huard
Day 4 and I’m getting so many great ideas and tips. Thank you so much. Also excited that, being a mom of little ones, my PB knowledge seems pretty vast…we have read (and reread) so many of these books. 🙂
January 4, 2019 at 9:51 am
Megan Whitaker
It’s nice to see them laid out so succinctly. Thanks Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 9:51 am
Sarah Tobias
I love this. Naming the story structures is so helpful to me. I struggle to keep the specific names of writing “rules” in my head. I am making a list and hanging it on my wall. I’m in for trying out all the structures this year. Pushing my story writing to new places.
January 4, 2019 at 9:51 am
Darcee A Freier
Ok. I’m in. Stretching is good for the brain. Thank you, Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 9:53 am
Barbara Senenman
Having this list of different structures handy will hopefully get my imagination going for the type of story I want to tell. Thank you.
January 4, 2019 at 9:54 am
Shel ledrew
Thank you!
January 4, 2019 at 9:54 am
David McMullin
It’s great seeing the examples with each structure.
January 4, 2019 at 9:55 am
Susan Halko
This is super helpful. Thank you for the examples!
January 4, 2019 at 9:59 am
Lisa Katzenberger
Great post! Love your work Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 10:01 am
nicolesalterbraun
Ooooh…..I just got another idea! Thanks, Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 10:03 am
Susie Sawyer
Oh I love this post! I’m joining you in coming up with a story for each structure! Thank you!
January 4, 2019 at 10:05 am
Nicole Turner
Great challenge!
January 4, 2019 at 10:05 am
Mary Worley
Good reminders. Need to add this to my revision menu, too. Thanks.
January 4, 2019 at 10:05 am
Karin Larson
This is an awesome and helpful list to keep handy, Tammi. Thank you!
January 4, 2019 at 10:06 am
Margie Markarian
Hi Tara,
Can you confirm that I am a registered participant in your wonderful StoryStorm. I am not sure if my registration took. Thank you very much! I love all the posts so far. They are definitely inspirational.
Margie Markarian Margiemarkarian27@gmail.com
http://Www.margiemarkarian.com @Margielogues (twitter)
On Fri, Jan 4, 2019 at 7:01 AM Writing for Kids (While Raising Them) wrote:
> Tara Lazar posted: “by Tammi Sauer (from 2012) In past PiBoIdMo posts, > I’ve encouraged you to… celebrate the weird stuff in life, put a twist on > the familiar, and use setting as a takeoff point. This time around, I want > to focus on structure. Just like ” >
January 4, 2019 at 10:07 am
Becky Scharnhorst
I love trying out different structures for my stories. Coming up with a new idea for each structure sounds like a fun challenge. Thanks, Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 10:08 am
Kim Pfennigwerth
This has always been one of my favorite posts! I have gone back into the archives and looked it up in the past. Love the description and examples of the story structures!
January 4, 2019 at 10:09 am
Mary Miller
Thank you, Tammi and Tara. These posts are gold!
January 4, 2019 at 10:10 am
Kimberly Marcus
💁🏻♀️I’m with you! Thank you for the mentor texts!
January 4, 2019 at 10:14 am
Carlie Cornell
Thank you for the daily nudge. I started with five ideas that had been knocking around my head. Figured they could help ensure that I would get to 30 by month end, even if life happens some. The daily reminder has kept me on track to stir the brain pot each morning and find at least one more idea. Some days the pot is sludgier than others!
January 4, 2019 at 10:19 am
Katie Giorgio
I like the idea of these reminder posts…thanks for sharing!
January 4, 2019 at 10:22 am
Louann Brown
Thanks for the reminder about all the PB structures. I’m printing out a list now to consider for the ideas I have so far.
January 4, 2019 at 10:22 am
Susan Schade
Interesting exercise! I’m in. Thanks for your post!
January 4, 2019 at 10:23 am
Janice Woods
Love the reminder ofcdufferent story structures! Thank you!
January 4, 2019 at 10:23 am
ranessadoucet
Great info! This post got my mind thinking about all the different story structure possibilities.
January 4, 2019 at 10:28 am
Lucretia
This is truly a timeless Storystorm reference post! Thank you for the handy, concise overview of PB story structures,Tammi, as well as the mentor text examples. Challenge accepted!
January 4, 2019 at 10:29 am
rachelnrosenthal
Thank you for sharing! Great advice!
January 4, 2019 at 10:29 am
carolmunrojww
Well, look at that! You’ve reminded me of a cumulative story idea I’ve let gather lots of dust. Thanks! And I accept your challenge. *squints eyes, thinks hard*
January 4, 2019 at 10:30 am
Stephanie Wildman
Thanks for the categories and examples.
January 4, 2019 at 10:32 am
Anne Bielby
Great jumpstarts! Thanks!
January 4, 2019 at 10:32 am
Penny Merritt
Thanks for the information! Very useful.
January 4, 2019 at 10:33 am
Sally Lotz Spratt - Badass 2019🦋 (@SallyLotzSpratt)
Wonderful advice! A mini beat sheet for picture books.
January 4, 2019 at 10:36 am
Shutta Crum
Good to have it reiterated for all of us! I have a handout called Story Skeletons at my website that basically lays out the 10 most common picture book structures. But I love the idea of coming up with plot ideas for each kind…yikes! I’ll have to get crackin’ . Thanks for the homework…Hugs.
January 4, 2019 at 10:37 am
polly renner
Printing this one up right now for my wall! Great reminders!!
January 4, 2019 at 10:38 am
writeknit
That is quite the challenge to come up with a story for each type of structure, but a fabulous way to pull me out of my comfort zone structure and stretch my brain a bit. Thank you for adding books for examples, that brings each type crystal clear. Can’t wait to start thinking of ways to use this challenge to grow and learn.
January 4, 2019 at 10:40 am
Tanya Shock
Great information!
January 4, 2019 at 10:43 am
gcartee86452015
Thank you for the varied types of structures and examples. This helps me to keep reading and knowing that just because a story may not fit one structure doesn’t mean it’s not well done. Your helpful post will keep me busy and growing.
January 4, 2019 at 10:44 am
curryelizabeth
Love this! Great challenge. Thanks so much!
January 4, 2019 at 10:45 am
Lisa Robinson
Structure! Love this reminder of all the possibilities.
January 4, 2019 at 10:45 am
Johnell DeWitt
An excellent mini-lesson on PB writing. Thank you.
January 4, 2019 at 10:45 am
Giselle
Tammi should start a second career as a life coach, such is the contagious “yeah let’s do this”!
January 4, 2019 at 10:46 am
authoraileenstewart
Another great post and I actually woke with a pb idea this morning :0)
January 4, 2019 at 10:48 am
Carole Calladine
Weird with structure. Great combination! Thanks for your posts!
January 4, 2019 at 10:48 am
rimna
Classic structure is my favorite but thanks for challenging me to try the others.
January 4, 2019 at 10:48 am
leslievanzee
Thanks for posting this. It clarified a lot for me that I have been puzzling out on my own. Will try to do the same with idea challenge.
January 4, 2019 at 10:50 am
Kate S
Thank you for laying these out so clearly!
January 4, 2019 at 10:51 am
maryshorgan
Lots of great information on story structures! Thanks!
January 4, 2019 at 10:51 am
Amber Webb
I always try to use the classic picture book arc, but I am excited to try one of the others for some of my new ideas! Thanks Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 10:53 am
Marjory Lynn
I’m going to post the simple summary of classic PB structure by my computer as a reminder for when I get stuck on plot development. Thanks
January 4, 2019 at 10:56 am
DaNeil Olson
Great post and I love the challenge, Thank you.
January 4, 2019 at 10:56 am
Ashley Bankhead
I love this post! I have referred back to it many times over the years. Tammi’s advice is always fantastic!
January 4, 2019 at 10:56 am
June Sengpiehl
What a fascinating post. I learned a great deal from this one.
January 4, 2019 at 10:58 am
Monica A. Harris
Besides coming up with an idea each day, you’ve thrown down the gauntlet to come up with stories in different styles! Yikes! You sure know how to push us. (Thank you)
January 4, 2019 at 10:58 am
lizricewrites
Thank you Tammi and thanks for the links to some of your previous posts.
January 4, 2019 at 10:59 am
Laurel Ranveig Abell
Thank you for these wonderfully concise reminders on structure!!! This is a fav of mine, too! ❤
January 4, 2019 at 11:00 am
megcason1
I think it helps to break down the story into the main structure points. It helps me ensure my message is coming through. Thank you Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 11:02 am
Tempy
Princess in Training is a favorite at our house!
January 4, 2019 at 11:03 am
Robyn McGrath
I’ve looked back at this post multiple times over the years, never disappoints!
January 4, 2019 at 11:03 am
tanjabauerle
I love some of the structure ideas that you listed. Looking forward to exploring. 🙂 Thank you!
January 4, 2019 at 11:04 am
cath jones
I remember this post from 2012!
January 4, 2019 at 11:04 am
Nancy Ramsey
Very helpful post! Thanks very much!
January 4, 2019 at 11:06 am
aka Francis S. Poesy (@tcanny)
I accept your challenge Tammi! Also, am I the only one who read your website URL the first time as tammisauerusrex.com!?!
January 4, 2019 at 11:06 am
Linda Bozzo
I’m in!
January 4, 2019 at 11:06 am
Lori Dubbin
Thank you for your post on structure, one of the hardest things to get just right. I’ll be going back to re-read it again and again.
January 4, 2019 at 11:07 am
Aimee Isaac
Fun Challenge! Thank you!
January 4, 2019 at 11:10 am
Debra K Shumaker
Another great post. Thanks!
January 4, 2019 at 11:11 am
Pamela Harrison
Listing the different story structures is so helpful, Tammi! I’m looking forward to experimenting.
January 4, 2019 at 11:12 am
debbeauchamp
This is a great challenge! So easy to get stuck on one favorite format. Thank you!
January 4, 2019 at 11:13 am
Writer on the run
Great post! Time to get outside my usual! Thanks Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 11:15 am
sallie wolf
I’ve always said that picture books depend more on structure than plot. I accept the challenge to think of an idea for each of these structures. Thanks for a great post.
January 4, 2019 at 11:18 am
deniseaengle
Perfect timing! Needed this! Thank you for laying out the classic story structures again!!
January 4, 2019 at 11:19 am
Julie Mondi
Thank you! Can’t wait to check out the books you mentioned.
January 4, 2019 at 11:19 am
judyrubin13
Thank you, Tammi, for sharing your great examples of how to develop the structure of a story.
January 4, 2019 at 11:20 am
alisongoldberg
This is very helpful! Thank you!
January 4, 2019 at 11:21 am
Cortney Benvenuto
Thanks Tammi for breaking it down and providing structure. 🙂
January 4, 2019 at 11:22 am
Laurie Bouck
Thank you for sharing these frameworks!
January 4, 2019 at 11:23 am
KRISTINA CASTILLO
Love the challenge. I bet we all stick to a familiar structure. It’s good to think about others!
January 4, 2019 at 11:25 am
Debra Daugherty
Thanking you, Tammi, for defining structure of a story. Princess in Training – what a great example!
January 4, 2019 at 11:25 am
paulabpuckett
Great information about structures of a PB. Will use those suggestions to improve/revise works in progress and in creating those to come. Thank you.
January 4, 2019 at 11:27 am
Laura Hancock
Excellent. Great having all these story structures in one spot.
January 4, 2019 at 11:27 am
seschipper
Wow! We are so fortunate to have Tammi share her amazing talent with us!! Just what the doctor ordered as the old expression goes!!! Thank you again!! 🙂
January 4, 2019 at 11:29 am
ingridboydston
I’m with you! Thanks for the challenge. If Storystorm is the puzzle, you just provided the picture on the box, a framework for guidance. Thanks!
January 4, 2019 at 11:36 am
colleen kosinski
Trying each type of story sounds like a good plan. My stories tend to be circular.
January 4, 2019 at 11:38 am
danielledufayet
Thanks for breaking it down so simply. Story structure is so crucial to a successful manuscript- as Tammi so clearly exemplifies!
January 4, 2019 at 11:39 am
Poupette Smith
Great challenge and very, very helpful. Thanks! I’m giving it a whirl.
January 4, 2019 at 11:41 am
Mary Jane Muir
This is a handy post! Thanks Tammi.
January 4, 2019 at 11:44 am
C.L. Murphy
Lucky us to have Tammi two days in a row! Thanks for sharing this timeless information.
January 4, 2019 at 11:45 am
Suzanne Lieurance
Great post. I love the idea of trying to come up with ideas for each of these structures. Thanks!
January 4, 2019 at 11:47 am
Aimee
Love your breakdown of structure and frame for a story! Now I’m excited to build in new ways☺️
Thanks, Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 11:48 am
Susan Johnston
Love this! I’ve been trying to come up with an epistolary story too (a story told through letters such as Can I Be Your Dog?).
January 4, 2019 at 11:50 am
beckylevine
Got my opposite! Thanks, Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 11:51 am
LaurenKerstein
THIS! This post led to my 2019 debut! In 2012, I read your post and decided I was going to write stories in different structures during NaPiBoWriWee. I drafted what would someday (4 million revisions later) become my book that is debuting in June! I LOVE THIS POST! Thank you, Tammi, for inspiring me and changing the course of my writing career! Thank you, Tara, for providing this wonderful opportunity to all of us!
January 4, 2019 at 11:57 am
LaurenKerstein
*BRAKE SQUEAL*
Okay, hold on… I got so excited, I misspoke. I actually read a similar post by Tammi during ReFoReMo in 2016 entitled How to Do the Structure Strut. This is the post that inspired me to write my debut. I used my StoryStorm templates to flesh it out. I have holiday brain– I hope it comes back to full power soon! The moral of the story is that all of these challenges, groups, and opportunities to learn from experienced authors are invaluable! Thank you!
January 4, 2019 at 11:51 am
Sheri Radovich
Great ideas and I have a lot of weird things that happen to write about.
January 4, 2019 at 11:52 am
Amy Mann
I’m learning as much for myself as for the children I teach at my library. Thank you!
January 4, 2019 at 11:55 am
Laurie Swindler
I’m keeping this list handy and accept your challenge, Tammi. Thanks.
January 4, 2019 at 11:57 am
Li’vee Rehfield
Thank you Tammi and “I’m with you”
January 4, 2019 at 11:58 am
Anjali Amit
Thank you for pointing to the underlying structure of a story–of all stories. And then going on to talk about the different structures, with examples.
January 4, 2019 at 11:59 am
Nicole Vuong
My favorite post so far, thanks! 🙂
January 4, 2019 at 11:59 am
Linda Mitchell
I love when authors make things simple. I don’t have a background in writing…I’m new to knowing the “rules” So, these bullet points really help
MC has a problem
MC faces obstacles that escalate
MC encounters a dark moment in which things can’t possibly get any worse
MC figures out how to solve the problem
MC grows/changes by the book’s end
January 4, 2019 at 12:00 pm
melissamiles1
Thanks so much! I’m going to challenge myself to use those frameworks as well.
January 4, 2019 at 12:01 pm
Carolyne Ruck
Very helpful way to break down story structures. And I love your challenge.
January 4, 2019 at 12:03 pm
Jessica
Thank you for the review on structure. It’s fun to remember there are many to choose from.
January 4, 2019 at 12:05 pm
Rachel Anderson
Thank you for sharing ALL THIS. A wealth of info just waiting for us to dive in.
January 4, 2019 at 12:06 pm
Sarah Maynard (@SarahDMaynard)
Great post! Thank you!!
January 4, 2019 at 12:10 pm
Divya Ramakumar
Thank you for sharing. Having the story structure explained is so helpful!
January 4, 2019 at 12:11 pm
Lisa Billa
Terrific post and challenge. Thanks for helping some new ideas take shape!
January 4, 2019 at 12:14 pm
Gretchen McLellan
I love this challenge. Yoga for the story brain. Thanks!
January 4, 2019 at 12:20 pm
Joanna Rowland
Great to think about these different structures to play around with. Thanks!
January 4, 2019 at 12:22 pm
Lisa Riddiough
Great challenge: one idea for each structure type. I’ll try this, too!! Thanks, Tammi.
January 4, 2019 at 12:22 pm
Anita Palmeri Overgaard
I really have trouble with middles and endings. Blah!! I’m going to use your suggestions to further one idea along! Thank you!
January 4, 2019 at 12:24 pm
Paisley Schade
I bet every author, editor, or agent has preferences on story structure, but all of the structures have such potential.
January 4, 2019 at 12:26 pm
Chris M. Regier
Hah! I’m with anyone who thinks I’m groovy.
January 4, 2019 at 12:29 pm
Janet Smart
Thanks, Tammi! I’ll try that, too.
January 4, 2019 at 12:30 pm
bevbaird
Another great post of inspiration! Thanks Tammi
January 4, 2019 at 12:30 pm
hhhender
Our brains crave patterns which is why structure helps make a story so satisfying. Im going to use your examples to help my students become more aware of structure. Thank you for the great suggestions!
January 4, 2019 at 12:31 pm
Krista Maxwell
Thanks. I am going to try to come up with an idea for each framework as well.
January 4, 2019 at 12:31 pm
K.A.Steed
Weird things and now focus on structure. Thanks a bunch for these approaches!
January 4, 2019 at 12:32 pm
Stephen S. Martin
Never hurts to be reminded of the basics. Thanx.
January 4, 2019 at 12:35 pm
Daryl Gottier
Thanks for reviewing the PB structures. I’ve tried some but not others, time to broaden my horizons!
January 4, 2019 at 12:36 pm
Janie Reinart
Great idea to write a story for each structure! Thanks!
January 4, 2019 at 12:36 pm
Jennifer Judd
This post is definitely a favorite—love reading it again. Identifying the bones of a story is a big step in structuring my own, and I struggle with this. Tammi, you do a great job of breaking down story structures—an invaluable post!
January 4, 2019 at 12:37 pm
Sue Heavenrich
I LOVE Princess in Training! And dinosaur skeletons – so yeah, structure. Thanks for a quick review of PB structures.
January 4, 2019 at 12:42 pm
andreesantini
Thanks for the story structure summaries, this is helpful
January 4, 2019 at 12:42 pm
Jane Serpa
Thank you for reminding me of all the different ways to structure a picture book.
January 4, 2019 at 12:43 pm
wyszguy
That’s quite a challenge – thanks for defining the different story structures!
January 4, 2019 at 12:43 pm
Gayle Veitenheimer
I’m in. Great challenge! I have a reversal in the works as we speak.
January 4, 2019 at 12:53 pm
Stephanie Shaw
Great list of mentor books! Thanks, Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 12:54 pm
Erica Joseph
Cool post! Thanks!
January 4, 2019 at 12:54 pm
Rene` Diane Aube
What a great challenge! Writing down each category to explore throughout my day! Thank you, Tammi! Happy storming, everyone!
January 4, 2019 at 12:56 pm
Elizabeth Brown
Great review on PB structures and recommendations for examples of each! Thanks so much!
January 4, 2019 at 12:57 pm
angie9091
This is a great list of structures and you gave me some great ideas!
January 4, 2019 at 12:59 pm
Christine Pinto
Thanks, Tami. I love the challenge of creating from a structure. You’re on! I’m doin it!
January 4, 2019 at 1:01 pm
Josie Liming Gawlowski
Great challenge! Thanks for the examples of each structure!
January 4, 2019 at 1:05 pm
teacherwriteracker
Quite a challenge and some great mentor texts. Thank you.
January 4, 2019 at 1:06 pm
reluctantspy
Congratulations on your success!
January 4, 2019 at 1:10 pm
Meghan Daniels
Thank you for those examples!
January 4, 2019 at 1:11 pm
Cathy Ogren
This is a great challenge, Tammi. I’ll give it a try!
January 4, 2019 at 1:12 pm
Susanne
This week our Read-alouds have used the classic and concept frameworks. Thank you for this handy list!
January 4, 2019 at 1:13 pm
Claire W Bobrow
It’s really helpful to see the common types of story structure assembled in one post, plus the breakdown of Princess in Training. I think it just sparked a revision brainwave! Thanks, Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 1:14 pm
Heather Stigall
Thanks for reminding us of different story structures to try!
January 4, 2019 at 1:15 pm
Amelia G Gossman
A great refresher – thanks!!
January 4, 2019 at 1:18 pm
Dea Brayden
Thanks for all of the framing info!
January 4, 2019 at 1:27 pm
Sheryl Murray
Thanks for the great overview! You covered some interesting foundations to build on that I don’t always think of when I’m constructing a story. Definitely will add to my tool belt!
January 4, 2019 at 1:27 pm
kellion92
I’ve never approached story ideation from the direction of structure like this — I’m going to give it a try — although I will probably skip the cumulative and circular, which are not my favorites.
January 4, 2019 at 1:32 pm
storyfairy
Great post. I’ve always thought that picture books have very interesting structures.
January 4, 2019 at 1:38 pm
Prairie Garden Girl
I’m up to the challenge, Tammi! I look forward to brainstorming an idea for each of these six classic pb structures.
Suzy Leopold
January 4, 2019 at 1:42 pm
Linda KulpTrout
I usually stick to the classic or circular structures, but you’ve inspired me to step out of my comfort zone and try a new one!
January 4, 2019 at 1:42 pm
heidikyates
Challenge accepted! Thanks for sharing all of the wonderful info on frameworks.
January 4, 2019 at 1:43 pm
Sharon Nix Jones
Tammi, thank you for the info on story structures. Now I need to figure out what types I have written.
January 4, 2019 at 1:45 pm
bgonsar
So many structure options! Thanks for the refresher Tammi
January 4, 2019 at 1:47 pm
creationsbymit
GREAT post!! This is a great way to plan your story. I’ve printed this out! Thank you!
January 4, 2019 at 1:49 pm
teresa.mi.schaefer
Good challenge: An idea for every format.
January 4, 2019 at 1:49 pm
Nancy Schleihauf Ferguson
This is a SERIOUS challenge. I tend to be a concept writer so will challenge myself to try a few more. Thank you for the structure.
January 4, 2019 at 1:49 pm
Beth Gallagher
I so love this post! Today’s idea was specifically a “weird one”. 😁😁😁
January 4, 2019 at 1:50 pm
Amy
This is such an organized and structured way to help focus my story building, I’m really going to benefit from this, thank you!
January 4, 2019 at 1:55 pm
Chana Stiefel
Great post! Thanks for breaking this down with examples.
January 4, 2019 at 1:55 pm
Rebecca Colby
Another great post! Thank you, Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 1:56 pm
alishagabriel
I love this challenge and all the PB examples. It’s time for a trip to the library!
January 4, 2019 at 1:58 pm
Maria Marshall
Great challenge Tammi. I’m excited to give it a go! Thanks.
January 4, 2019 at 1:58 pm
Maritza M. Mejía
Great information here. Thank you, Tammi.
January 4, 2019 at 1:59 pm
chardixon47
Challenge accepted 🙂 Thank you, Tammi, for this inciting idea to try all those story structures. I appreciate the examples!
January 4, 2019 at 1:59 pm
Sherri Jones Rivers
Tammi, you’re a StoryStorm Super Star. I am particularly drawn to the reversal idea. Hmmmmm. let’s see where this road leads.
January 4, 2019 at 2:00 pm
tiffanydickinson
Great ideas, Tammi! Thank you for sharing. I must put on my thinking cap.
January 4, 2019 at 2:01 pm
Katie Erickson
What a great way to help me process some of my ideas!
January 4, 2019 at 2:02 pm
Lynn Alpert
I’m going to take you up on the challenge. Thanks Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 2:03 pm
Jen Bagan
Thank you, Tammi! I always write in the same structure – great reminder to explore the other options!
January 4, 2019 at 2:06 pm
Cindi Goodeaux
Another wonderful post! I like to structure mine in bullet points before building the story around them. 🙂
January 4, 2019 at 2:06 pm
Jennifer G Prevost
This is an incredibly helpful post… thanks for breaking it down so simply!
January 4, 2019 at 2:10 pm
Genevieve Petrillo
good post! I love a list. And YES! I’m in! I will also do an idea for each type of story. …..I’m lying. Mostly, I write circular stories. I’ll try to branch out some, but yeah. That was pretty much a total lie.
January 4, 2019 at 2:18 pm
Janet Frenck Sheets
I admire mirror texts. It will be a challenge to come up with an idea for one!
January 4, 2019 at 2:18 pm
Amy Harding
This is a great list to save!
January 4, 2019 at 2:18 pm
Debbie Meyer
How can we go wrong with a list like this?! OOH! I just felt a spark of inspiration. No foolin. Thanks, Tammi! 😀
January 4, 2019 at 2:25 pm
Aimee Satterlee
Love the list of the various story structures. I have a story with a cumulative structure I’ve been working on for awhile and this posting really helped me to start researching this structure more in depth. I am excited to try a structure that I haven’t written yet like Reversal. Thanks Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 2:29 pm
mona861
Thanks again, Tammi. Appreciate another mini lesson from you.
January 4, 2019 at 2:30 pm
Lisa murphy
This is quite the challenge!
Excited to give it a whirl 🤪
January 4, 2019 at 2:30 pm
sherilyncook
This is AWESOME! One can take a character and create multi stories! Thanks!!!!
January 4, 2019 at 2:32 pm
Lenora
Awesome post! I love Princess in Training ❤ and Nugget and Fang. I've studied them as mentor texts for classic story arc to the point of memorization.
January 4, 2019 at 2:36 pm
Jodi Mckay
Great idea! I haven’t tried a mirror structure yet so wish me luck!😬
January 4, 2019 at 2:36 pm
ktfrawley11gmailcom
GAH! Can’t believe I haven’t commented yet! Great throw-back post! I’m partial to the classic structure, myself. Though my debut coming out next year is an epistolary PB!
January 4, 2019 at 2:37 pm
Alice Carty Fulgione
Thanks for sharing this helpful information!
January 4, 2019 at 2:41 pm
Martha
It’s great having alternative story structure models all in one place. Thank you!
January 4, 2019 at 2:45 pm
Shauna Bagenstos
Thank you for laying out the various forms so simply and including examples! Loved this post! 🎉🎊🎈💜
January 4, 2019 at 2:46 pm
Chambrae Griffith
Love it! I have always wanted to try a few of these structures, perhaps this is the year!
January 4, 2019 at 2:55 pm
Emily Patriquin
I hadn’t really given that much thought to the different types of picture book plots before! Thank you!
January 4, 2019 at 2:57 pm
Summer Quigley
putting on my thinking cap now! 👍🏻
January 4, 2019 at 3:00 pm
Gregory E Bray
Great post. Thank you!
January 4, 2019 at 3:01 pm
Anne Bromley
This classic structure looks so simple, but I know it’s not easy. Thank you for the challenge and for sharing this great example. I love this book!
January 4, 2019 at 3:03 pm
mariagianferrari
This was one of my favorite PiBoIdMo posts ever!! Thanks for sharing it again, Tammi (& Tara!)
January 4, 2019 at 3:05 pm
writeforapples1
Thanks for the great examples!
January 4, 2019 at 3:06 pm
aturner513
Thanks for the great structure examples. I’ve read most but will go find the others. Keeping this list for comp titles and for mentor texts.
January 4, 2019 at 3:08 pm
marsha e wright
Oh, Tammi! The gauntlet is thrown. To meet your challenge, we’ll need to tighten our knickers. But what fun, fun, fun we’ll have storystorming ideas for each of the unique structures you posted. THANK YOU SO MUCH for your insight..
January 4, 2019 at 3:13 pm
Kathy Ceceri
Food for thought. Thanks!
January 4, 2019 at 3:15 pm
Vicki Wilke
Thanks! Love the “circular” challenge!
January 4, 2019 at 3:16 pm
Sarah Kilfoil
This is a great challenge! I love having an “assignment.”
January 4, 2019 at 3:20 pm
laura516
Your suggestions are always on point!
January 4, 2019 at 3:23 pm
tanyakonerman
Always great to remember these structures, especially when I get stuck!
January 4, 2019 at 3:23 pm
aliciaminor
It’s worth a try. I don’t know which one I’m going to tackle yet but hopefully at least one. Thank you for the challenge. More power to you.
January 4, 2019 at 3:24 pm
Keila Dawson
I remember this post. I refer to it often. 🙂
January 4, 2019 at 3:26 pm
Alicia
Fantastic info! I really appreciate this challenge. I have 5 ideas written down so far!
January 4, 2019 at 3:26 pm
wpdrey
Oooh, what a fun challenge! Thanks!
January 4, 2019 at 3:26 pm
Katie L. Carroll (@KatieLCarroll)
Another gem of a post!
January 4, 2019 at 3:27 pm
Antje
I’m in! What a great challenge. Thank you, Tammi.
January 4, 2019 at 3:31 pm
Kaitlyn Leann Sanchez
I’m with you! So excited to try a few new story styles, thanks for the awesome ideas!
January 4, 2019 at 3:36 pm
shannonjovonnecreativeco
I love this post. I’ve printed it out for reference. Thanks!
January 4, 2019 at 3:34 pm
Sarah Momo Romero
Thanks for the great suggestions on structure, and the awesome books for reference. I can’t wait to check out the ones I’m not familiar with.
January 4, 2019 at 3:35 pm
Ellen Sirianni
Great post! Love your books Tammi.
January 4, 2019 at 3:41 pm
Jess Bourgeois
Love love love cumulative stories – but have never structured one of my own that way. Will definitely be giving it a shot!
January 4, 2019 at 3:44 pm
Laura Jean Watters
I’m in….and I’m wondering if I can use some of the same elements in each structure….
January 4, 2019 at 3:46 pm
Aryn Kennedy
The Tale of Two Beasts is a great mirror example.
January 4, 2019 at 3:48 pm
Carrie Finison
The examples are especially helpful. Thanks!
January 4, 2019 at 3:48 pm
Jenifer McNamara
Enjoyed reading your post about structuring a PB.
January 4, 2019 at 3:48 pm
karammitchell
This is a great list. I’ve been obsessed with the idea of a parallel story. I’m gonna do it! Thanks, Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 3:53 pm
Helen
I like the challenege of trying to create a story for each structure type.
January 4, 2019 at 4:00 pm
matthewlasley
I woke up this morning (very early) with a concept story running through my head. I have never attempted one of those!
I often think of picture books in one form, and often forget there are many forms.
January 4, 2019 at 4:05 pm
Mirka Hokkanen
thats a challenge. I will try… Thank you Tammi for sharing.
January 4, 2019 at 4:06 pm
karengreenwald2985
This is like yoga for your writing brain! I’m stretching…looking forward to the results of this exercise! Thanks:)
January 4, 2019 at 4:07 pm
moviemommie
So helpful!!! Thanks
Jenna
January 4, 2019 at 4:10 pm
Krista Harrington
Great advice, Tammi. I too need to embrace the other structures I seldom use:)
January 4, 2019 at 4:11 pm
Sara Fajardo
Thanks for the concise breakdown and picture book structure challenge.
January 4, 2019 at 4:18 pm
Meena
Frame your ideas! Thanks for the PB structure challenge and examples, Tammi.
January 4, 2019 at 4:26 pm
Liz Steinglass
For those of us who struggle with plot, this is super helpful. Thank you!
January 4, 2019 at 4:35 pm
Irene Grace
Thank you Tammi for revisiting the classic picture book structure and for giving options. Love your books!
January 4, 2019 at 4:38 pm
jenabenton
I recently started a list of structures and I’m now adding a couple of these to that list. Thank you! ❤
January 4, 2019 at 4:38 pm
Michele Helsel
I need to think of reversal. I never get in that box.
January 4, 2019 at 4:41 pm
Melanie Vickers
I’ve read the different PB structures before but it’s great to get a review and then use the story storm to practice.
Thanks for the suggestion.
January 4, 2019 at 4:46 pm
Caren Cantrell
Thanks for the great reminders of all the different types of stories we can tell. Often I get stuck in a rut.
January 4, 2019 at 4:47 pm
jshaklan
It’s great to read these structures in such straight-forward terms! Thanks.
January 4, 2019 at 4:53 pm
Jennifer
It’s so interesting to see these structures listed and defined like this. I like the idea of coming up with a story based on the structure I want to follow. Challenge accepted!
January 4, 2019 at 4:58 pm
lchardesty
Ooh. Love this post. I love the challenge of an idea for each structure. Thanks!
January 4, 2019 at 5:04 pm
msvukidlit
Wow, you don’t fool around when you set a challenge. I’m in!
January 4, 2019 at 5:07 pm
Margaret Flint Suter
Sometimes my framework seems to be a house of cards…on fire…working on structure!
January 4, 2019 at 5:15 pm
Mary York
Thank you, Tammi, for the great list of different story structures! It’s a keeper!
January 4, 2019 at 5:15 pm
cynthiahm
Thank you for reminding me of an idea I had for a parallel story. Now I’ve got it recorded in my StoryStorm journal. Yay!
January 4, 2019 at 5:16 pm
Teresa Daffern
I love this! I want to get my hands on all these books and reflect on how they are structured. Looking forward to reading Princess in Training!!
January 4, 2019 at 5:17 pm
Robin Robb-Kraus
Thank you for covering different frameworks for PB! I appreciate you using Princess in Training as an example =) Wow…. on the challenge!! Thank you Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 5:17 pm
Helen Matthews
Ideas galore!
January 4, 2019 at 5:18 pm
Carolyn
I’ve never tried to put structure first. Interesting idea.
January 4, 2019 at 5:19 pm
Michelle Kashinsky
Very inspiring, thank you!
January 4, 2019 at 5:20 pm
Dawn Prochovnic
What a helpful post. I especially appreciate the comps you’ve suggested that model the different frameworks. Off to the library I go!
January 4, 2019 at 5:20 pm
Patti Ranson
Thanks to both you and the princess…now off to my skill-polishing efforts!
January 4, 2019 at 5:26 pm
annabrookswriter
I just got an idea for how to fix a *shitty* first draft that wasn’t working! I’m going to try the mirror structure. Not a new story idea but totally helpful! Thank you 🙂
January 4, 2019 at 5:26 pm
mariaordish
Thanks again, Tammi! You are wonderful at stimulating creativity and organizing it! I wrote a MS in a half hour the last time I heard you speak…what powerful inspiration you posess!
January 4, 2019 at 5:27 pm
Rita Russell
Tammi, you definitely know your stuff when it comes to writing and selling popular picture books. Thanks for sharing a bit of your inside knowledge.
January 4, 2019 at 5:28 pm
Kelly
Tammi, you make it look so easy! Thanks for the great starting points.
January 4, 2019 at 5:31 pm
Gabi Snyder
I’m with you, Tammi! Great challenge to stretch us out of our usual writing styles/structures.
January 4, 2019 at 5:34 pm
Jenny Boyd
I’m up for the challenge, too. Thanks for the tips!
January 4, 2019 at 5:40 pm
Jilanne Hoffmann
Love changing up structures, figuring out which one works best for the story I’m telling. Cheers!
January 4, 2019 at 5:41 pm
Heather Gallagher
Great post summing up all the different structures – thanks Tammi 😀
January 4, 2019 at 5:41 pm
Nancy Colle
Such a practical post! Thank you;)
January 4, 2019 at 5:45 pm
Dayne Sislen, Children's Book Illustrator
Thank you again Tammi for giving us some structure.
January 4, 2019 at 5:45 pm
Kim D
I always stick to the rule of 3 too, I’ll have to try one new one this year.
January 4, 2019 at 5:45 pm
Linda Chavez
Structure is exactly what I need help with. Thanks Tammi! I always learn from your posts!!
January 4, 2019 at 5:46 pm
Kaye Baillie
I love Princess in Training. It’s a great text to learn from.
January 4, 2019 at 5:50 pm
Artelle Lenthall
Thank you Tammi, I had heard of some, but not all of those PB types. You’ve given me something to play with now😊
January 4, 2019 at 5:52 pm
Sue Reichard
I love mentor texts and have learned so much from them. Structure is important no matter what the genre. Thanks for sharing!
January 4, 2019 at 5:54 pm
Steve Schwartz
Thanks for the insights. Looking forward to putting them to good use!
January 4, 2019 at 5:56 pm
Chelle Martin
Thanks, Tammi. Some great ideas to build from.
January 4, 2019 at 6:00 pm
Lisa Gerin
Great post today, Tammi. I’ll have to try a new structure for the New Year!
January 4, 2019 at 6:02 pm
Carmen White
I like the typical adventure type story, though I want to experiment with the turn things on their heads one.
January 4, 2019 at 6:03 pm
jaclynsmiller
Great structure info!
January 4, 2019 at 6:05 pm
Sandy Foster
This is great stuff! Thank you for the tips and ideas!!
January 4, 2019 at 6:06 pm
Tracey Brown
Love this challenge, Tammi! The mirror story idea is very intriguing
January 4, 2019 at 6:08 pm
Erik Ammon
Ooohhh, I like the reversal idea!
January 4, 2019 at 6:12 pm
pjaegly
Tammi, thanks for the challenge. I’m stretching my brain for each type of structure you suggest.
January 4, 2019 at 6:14 pm
Kathy
Always good to hear reminders about different structures and putting them to use. Thank you!
January 4, 2019 at 6:18 pm
Deborah Cuneo
thanks for the great suggestions. I recognize the different structures but just never thought to use anything but the traditional. I definitely have to think outside the box more!
January 4, 2019 at 6:27 pm
mbhmaine
Thanks for the structure challenge! I also went back to your old posts and was intrigued by your post about setting. Now I’ve got a double challenge for myself 🙂
January 4, 2019 at 6:32 pm
jeanjames926
I love how you outlined all the structures and shared some excellent examples of each. Thanks Tammi for setting up a great challenge.
January 4, 2019 at 6:37 pm
SuZan Klassen
More good ideas. Thank you.
January 4, 2019 at 6:39 pm
Jaclyn Kruzie
I have read Princess In Training so many times I have it memorized! It is my ultimate go to mentor text
January 4, 2019 at 6:39 pm
Erika Morton
Could easily spend a month just playing with story structure.
January 4, 2019 at 6:49 pm
Brittanny Handiboe
I always use the circular ending so maybe I should explore with some of the other structures. 🤔
January 4, 2019 at 6:51 pm
Frances Kalavritinos
Wow—that’s quite a challenge, Tammi! I can already see that I typically go for the classic structure, but your post has inspired me to branch out.
January 4, 2019 at 6:52 pm
Violet Charleston
This exercise encourages me to branch out and get outside my comfort zone. Always a good thing.
January 4, 2019 at 7:01 pm
Jocelyn Rish
I’m new to picture book writing, so it will be fun to try out these different structures!
January 4, 2019 at 7:05 pm
Alicia
Great challenge! Thanks.
January 4, 2019 at 7:12 pm
Jessica Potts
Very insightful!
January 4, 2019 at 7:16 pm
saputnam
Great post, Tammi! Thank you for sharing your breakdown of various story structures and for giving us a behind the scenes peek at how “Princess in Training” came about using the classic story structure.
I enjoyed reading about the other forms and was glad to see that you had included mentor texts as I’m eager to try my hand at using the Mirror and Parallel structures.
January 4, 2019 at 7:43 pm
betlw
Love this post, Tammi. There are lots of possibilities for story ideas. They will make me try something that I haven’t done before, stretch my mental muscles. Thanks.
January 4, 2019 at 7:46 pm
Karan Greene
Good info. I want to study the example books more. Thanks!
January 4, 2019 at 7:47 pm
Amy DiMouro
I think I’m going to try the MC has a problem that escalates- that sounds like it could be fun!
January 4, 2019 at 7:49 pm
Erika Henkart
These are so great for generating ideas and for revising! Thanks!
January 4, 2019 at 7:53 pm
Rani Iyer
Great post with tips! Thank you for generous sharing, Tammi.
January 4, 2019 at 8:02 pm
Jacqueline Adams
I see that this post is from the first year that I participated, but I totally forgot about most of these structures. What a great idea to revisit some of the awesome posts from the past!
January 4, 2019 at 8:07 pm
yangmommy
Like the challenge of finding new ideas within each story structure–thanks Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 8:10 pm
Amanda Malek-Ahmadi
I accept the challenge you have given yourself. Thanks for defining all the types of picture books.
January 4, 2019 at 8:13 pm
cravevsworld
Super helpful reminder about structure. Thank you!
January 4, 2019 at 8:21 pm
Bettie Boswell
Thank you for this challenge.i will keep this in mind as I ploy story storm ideas.
January 4, 2019 at 8:27 pm
Sharon Langley
Thanks. It’s really helpful to have a variety of structure options. There’s more than one way to structure a story.
January 4, 2019 at 8:33 pm
Moon Bishop
I love this idea! Totally in!
January 4, 2019 at 8:36 pm
Jim Chaize
I like your list of other story structures. And groovy Storystorm people had me laughing. Thanks, Tammi.
January 4, 2019 at 8:37 pm
Aurora K
Tammi, thank you for outlining PB structures to try out. It is very helpful. Besides trying out new ones, I will check which ones I have been leaning on for my existing work.
January 4, 2019 at 8:41 pm
Val McCammon
Excellent challenge re: idea for each of the structures to push me to try new formats. Thanks, Tammi.
January 4, 2019 at 8:42 pm
Robin Brett Wechsler
Very helpful overview of PB structures. Thanks again, Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 8:47 pm
photojaq
I’ll think on these. Meanwhile, going with a couple nursery rhymes and a fairy tale – all three women. There was an old woman who lived in a shoe store and had so many shoes she didn’t know what to do. and Old Mother Hubbard who came in wanting to buy slippers for her poor sore “dogs” (feet) but only found glass slippers, Enter a Fairy Godmother, in swirls of sparkles, who changes every shoe into a soft plush slipper. Old Mother Hubbard buys 365 – one for each day. The Old Woman (shoe store owner ) closed the store and took the money for a trip to Tahiti where every one went barefoot in the sand.
January 4, 2019 at 8:49 pm
stephanie williams
This will take some thinking. thanks 🙂
January 4, 2019 at 9:05 pm
Melanie Ellsworth
It’s helpful to read this structure summary again, Tammi. I’ll take you up on the challenge and attempt a new structure in my own work this month.
January 4, 2019 at 9:08 pm
Nicole Loos Miller (@beautify_life)
Oooh! What a great challenge! Thank you 🙂
January 4, 2019 at 9:10 pm
Nancy Riley
So much great advice! Thanks! I’ll see If I can come up with a project for each kind of story structure, Victorville be a challenge!
January 4, 2019 at 9:13 pm
Debbi G
What a great challenge- this will put a fun twist on my Story Storm ideas.
January 4, 2019 at 9:24 pm
Lori Mozdzierz
I’m a full circle writer. I look forward to the challenge, Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 9:26 pm
Ashley Franklin
Concept is my safe place. I have to challenge myself to branch out.
January 4, 2019 at 9:26 pm
Kirsten Leestma (@missleestma)
Thank you! I like seeing different types of structure in a list like this to get some ideas going.
January 4, 2019 at 9:33 pm
Arlene Schenker
I’m in. great idea. Thanks, Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 9:43 pm
Mary Warth
Thanks Tammi. This is a great summery of structure with bonus mentor texts!
January 4, 2019 at 9:47 pm
Carol Nelson
Trying to come up with an idea for each structure is a great idea! Thanks!
January 4, 2019 at 9:54 pm
donnacangelosi
Thank you for the helpful reminder of story structures, Tammi! Love the examples and challenge to try new approaches.
January 4, 2019 at 9:55 pm
Bobbie Dacus
This is wonderful! So much fabulous info! Thank you, Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 9:55 pm
Gail Hedrick
Terrific post-thanks for being so generous with your time, enthusiasm, and pertinent details. Love the new website, too!
January 4, 2019 at 9:55 pm
kathydoherty1
Tammi, in my next life I’m coming back as you! You are the master of writing picture books. I am in awe!
January 4, 2019 at 9:56 pm
Connie L Van Horn
Love all these wonderful ideas!
January 4, 2019 at 9:56 pm
CarolynLe
Thanks for breaking down the picturebook structure, very helpful. Your website looks great!
January 4, 2019 at 10:03 pm
8catpaws
MC has a problem: how to structure a story. MC builds the plot up, up, up–like building blocks. The plot falls down. MC sneaks a peak at your post and gets another idea…
January 4, 2019 at 10:07 pm
Julie Pepper
I find this super helpful. Thank you!
January 4, 2019 at 10:11 pm
sandrabyrdlawson
Awesome post!
January 4, 2019 at 10:18 pm
Julie Pepper
I am weird. My kids are weird. We love weird books. Therefore, I love this post.
January 4, 2019 at 10:23 pm
Cinzia V.
I love love love how you’ve outlined the structures. Thanks!!
January 4, 2019 at 10:24 pm
M Lapointe Malchik (@imartytweet)
WOW! This approach is going to help me figure out what picture book structures can do for various story ideas. Thank you, Tammi. I’m up for the challenge, now!
January 4, 2019 at 10:35 pm
Jennifer Bush
I love the challenge of working with a structure that might not be my normal go-to — during revision that intended structure might not stick, but the initial intention and practice encourages creative thinking that may help develop the story in an unexpected way. Thanks for sharing these!
January 4, 2019 at 10:38 pm
Buffy Silverman
Love how clearly you’ve outlined story structures, and given examples. A great goal to come up with one of each!
January 4, 2019 at 10:39 pm
Debra Katz
It never hurts to have a story structure refresher. I really appreciated the reminder about alternative structures.
January 4, 2019 at 10:45 pm
Angie
I tend to enjoy both the classic and mirror structures most. I wonder if most picture book writers tend to stay within one structure or experiment…
January 4, 2019 at 10:47 pm
Rebekah Lowell
The books I write have always leaned towards lyrical nonfiction and haven’t had the whole high stakes plot thing happening, but I love the other options that you’ve mentioned and will try them out! Thanks, Tammi!
January 4, 2019 at 10:50 pm
Sensibility and Sense
Another great post, Tammi! Reviewing structure and making sure our stories measure up is so important! Thanks so much! Patti RIchards
January 4, 2019 at 10:54 pm
danesusawwii
Nice with such a clear outline of structure.
January 4, 2019 at 11:00 pm
Natalie Lynn Tanner
TAMMI: I LOVE the “dino/house” structure reminders. This post has been a go-to for me in the past (and I’m sure in the future) to help me shake up my storytelling formats. And I LOVE your goal to push yourself to write a story with each format. GREAT INSPIRATION!!! THANK YOU!!!
January 4, 2019 at 11:05 pm
marty bellis
Having specific examples of the various story structures is super helpful. Intend to give them all a try.
January 4, 2019 at 11:13 pm
Ellen Leventhal
I have been challenging myself to change things up a bit in my writing. Thanks for reminding us of all those other formats.
January 4, 2019 at 11:19 pm
Leah Coleman
Structure is something I have yet to experiment with broadly. Thanks for the challenge!
January 4, 2019 at 11:21 pm
julielacombeauthor
Thank you for using “Princess in Training” to illustrate story structure. I’m going to challenge myself to try each framework this year. Happy writing!
January 4, 2019 at 11:24 pm
suumac
Tammi – thank you for this very useful, instructive overview of story structures.
January 4, 2019 at 11:33 pm
Kimberly Cowger
More great advice from a master!
January 4, 2019 at 11:33 pm
authorlaurablog
This is an excellent idea! I’ve done some twists on well-known stories but this is a whole new level. Thanks!
January 4, 2019 at 11:40 pm
saralakron
Great idea generator. Thanks!
January 4, 2019 at 11:46 pm
James Arthur
Love this!
January 4, 2019 at 11:49 pm
Terry Hojnacki
Love this challenge! Already have two ideas for alternate frameworks! Thanks, Tammi
January 4, 2019 at 11:56 pm
Nina Johnson
This is an amazingly helpful article. Thanks Tammi.
January 5, 2019 at 12:03 am
Melissa Koosmann
Great list of PB structures!
January 5, 2019 at 12:05 am
Trine Grillo
These alternative structures give us an interesting challenge. Thanks!
January 5, 2019 at 12:08 am
Andi Butler
Thanks so much for the great post! a 🙂
January 5, 2019 at 12:15 am
J.D. Silverwood
All these great posts by Tammi during Storystorm just keep driving up her incoming applications for Writing with the Stars!
DRAT
Curse you for being so awesome, Tammi… and thanks for sharing!
January 5, 2019 at 12:17 am
Anne LeBlanc (@AnneLeBlanc2)
I love the way story structures are outlined! Very useful for my students and myself! Thank you!
January 5, 2019 at 12:18 am
Carolyn Currier
Thank you for sharing a different way to approach finding a story idea.
January 5, 2019 at 12:25 am
martina.franklin.poole
I love patterns in stories. Might be fun to try a different pattern or structure. Thanks for listing examples.
January 5, 2019 at 12:28 am
susanzonca
Looking forward to trying formats I haven’t explored yet. Thank you!
January 5, 2019 at 12:35 am
Jennifer Hunt
It’s a goal of mine to try a different structure. 2019 is the year!
January 5, 2019 at 12:41 am
Liz
What great ideas thanks for sharing. Being new to the community it’s nice to have some pointers
January 5, 2019 at 12:47 am
Beth Stewart
Good tips! I’ve had a few ideas for the reversal framework. Just need to focus on one really good one.
January 5, 2019 at 12:50 am
rgstones
You’ve got me all excited to play with different story structures. Thanks!
January 5, 2019 at 12:57 am
Patricia Toht
What a terrific challenge, Tammi! Thanks!
January 5, 2019 at 12:58 am
denitajohnson
Thanks for the helpful information.
January 5, 2019 at 1:01 am
Natasha Garnett
I’m with you Tammi, accepting the challenge of trying all the story frameworks. Could be hard, could be fun, could be great!
January 5, 2019 at 1:15 am
RaeMcDonald
Tammi, Great post and good to be reminded to sit down with picture books and read them with writer’s eyes for emergent patterns. Thank you.
January 5, 2019 at 1:23 am
Loralee Petersen
Ooh. I like this challenge! I’ll give it a try. Thanks!
January 5, 2019 at 1:27 am
rjtraxel
I’m with you! Thanks.
January 5, 2019 at 1:27 am
Barbara Farr Renner
Thank you for all the examples of PB Structures. I love your idea to write a story using each one – maybe I’ll try my hand at that too.
January 5, 2019 at 1:29 am
Michelle Kogan Art, Illustration, & Writing
Thanks for sharing these additional 6 picture book forms Tammi. I’m going to give the two parallel storylines a try.
January 5, 2019 at 1:40 am
Beth Stilborn
Great list! I must ponder applying them to MG.
January 5, 2019 at 1:43 am
Jill
Great ideas for focusing stories that are yet to be created as well as current manuscripts. Thanks!
January 5, 2019 at 2:41 am
Kellie
I honestly had no idea!! (And I thought I knew stuff …) I’m going to go through the PB I’ve written and those I own to see if I can identify all types … then I’ll have a crack at them myself.
January 5, 2019 at 3:23 am
fireurchin
I agree with others that this is a great challenge. Also admit, even though I thought I knew story structures, and done various, not recognizing this one off the names – MIRROR, and Parallel in picture books – so appreciate the mentor titles to check out and to learn or revive my memory!
These two will be my first priority, because I have often been told to narrow down my plot with two main characters… so will see what works here.
Wondering if I can turn one idea into various plot structures, or if not, see what happens trying. Or at least perhaps on MC to see how their story changes.
January 5, 2019 at 3:26 am
ggolant
I learned soooo much from your post! Thank you! I will try to come up with idea an idea for each of the frameworks you described in your post.
January 5, 2019 at 3:51 am
Susan Tuggy
Thanks for describing the variety of story frameworks. I will try out the many types.
January 5, 2019 at 7:30 am
Kathryn E Kass
This reminds me of Kurt Vonnegut’s Shape of Stories. Would make a great infographic just like his chart.
January 5, 2019 at 7:39 am
chrisynthia
Thank you. I had an idea yesterday and couldn’t quite figure out how to make it work. I needed to structure it differently. More circular less linear.
January 5, 2019 at 8:09 am
Sara A
Thanks for this. I’ve been trying to explore different structures more…now off to the library!
January 5, 2019 at 8:21 am
Laurie L. Warchol
Thank you for sharing the options for plots and examples of books that follow them. Very helpful.
January 5, 2019 at 8:22 am
Hélène Sabourin
I will give it a go
January 5, 2019 at 8:24 am
Robin Currie
I love the different structures! Challenge accepted!
January 5, 2019 at 8:28 am
freda lewkowicz
Thank you!
January 5, 2019 at 9:20 am
Kristal Kelly
Thank you for the story structure tips. This is very helpful.
January 5, 2019 at 9:25 am
ccnolympia
Thanks for the structure review! It has inspired me to look back at a WIP and try it in another form to see if it strengthens the writing. TY!
January 5, 2019 at 9:38 am
Emily Lim-Leh
Love the post and challenge. On!
Emily Lim-Leh ______________________________________
>
January 5, 2019 at 9:38 am
learningtobemomsite
Great ideas.
January 5, 2019 at 9:45 am
gayleckrause
Excellent overview of types of picture books. Thanks for reminding us. 😉
January 5, 2019 at 9:51 am
Juliana Jones
This is very helpful. Thanks especially for the examples of books to demonstrate the types you’ve mentioned.
January 5, 2019 at 10:12 am
Amanda Davis
Thanks for summarizing the different story structures with examples, Tammi. What a great reference! Awesome idea for a challenge too!
January 5, 2019 at 10:17 am
Cindy Faughnan
Great assignment! I’ll try it!
January 5, 2019 at 10:30 am
Ms. Schubé
Thank you for this!
January 5, 2019 at 10:39 am
Christine Fleming McIsaac
I love the reminder of basics. This is not only a great way to generate ideas but challenge yourself to look at stories in different structures. Thanks for the inspiration!
January 5, 2019 at 10:54 am
Sue Lowell Gallion
I’ve kept this post in my Idea file since it came out — one of the best essays on PB structure I’ve ever read, and a key revision tool for me. Thanks Tammi and Tara!
January 5, 2019 at 11:20 am
Laura Perdew
Love that we got two of your posts in a row, plus links to past posts. This one is a terrific reminder of the basics. We just need to flesh out the details. Thank you!
January 5, 2019 at 11:33 am
Kath McGreechan
Wow! Another great post…so helpful and a great idea!
January 5, 2019 at 11:36 am
nrompella
Thanks! I have some ideas and don’t know what to do with them. I think I’ll play with the structure.
January 5, 2019 at 11:41 am
Mary Boehmer
Thank you for the reminder about “the basics”!
January 5, 2019 at 11:43 am
Joyce
I like the challenge of writing something for each structure. Thanks!
January 5, 2019 at 11:44 am
Sylvia Grech
Such a helpful post! Thanks Tammi!
January 5, 2019 at 11:44 am
Mariana
It is interesting to know about the different structures for a story. I have been trying the classic one mostly. I will definitely work on expanding my options with new ones for future stories. Thanks for sharing this knowledge. It is very helpful.
January 5, 2019 at 12:14 pm
kcareywrites
Thanks for posting — trying out those different structures could lead to a fabulous revision.
January 5, 2019 at 12:17 pm
Kelly Ohlert
Great info! Thanks for sharing!
January 5, 2019 at 12:20 pm
Carolyn Lucas
Love this idea and definitely going to challenge myself to write in each form. Thank you!
January 5, 2019 at 12:56 pm
Carolyn Farina
Thanks so much! So helpful!
January 5, 2019 at 1:22 pm
Rinda Beach
Thank you for sharing your story structure!
January 5, 2019 at 1:24 pm
Rinda Beach
Thank you for sharing and for being my teacher today!
January 5, 2019 at 1:24 pm
Kristin Wauson
Love the idea of trying to come up with a story for each framework. What a great challenge. Thanks for another fantastic post!
January 5, 2019 at 1:26 pm
Judy Cooper
Thank you for sharing mentor texts that reflect each story structure. I will be checking those out.
January 5, 2019 at 1:28 pm
Shelly Hawley-Yan
Thank you for sharing!
January 5, 2019 at 2:03 pm
Lynne Marie
Writing the different types of story is a fun challenge in itself! Thanks for the fodder for our imagination and the mentor texts.
January 5, 2019 at 2:17 pm
newfordfan
Meditating on structure – does the story dictate the structure or vice-versa?
January 5, 2019 at 2:23 pm
mginsberg10
Fabulous! Thank you, Tammi.
January 5, 2019 at 2:26 pm
Marykate Smith Despres
I’ve never approached a story this way before. Excited to give it a try!
January 5, 2019 at 2:57 pm
Elizabeth C Steiner
I’m going to try to write a PB using each of the non-classic structures too. Thanks for the extra challenge of 5 types!
January 5, 2019 at 3:00 pm
shiela Fuller
Thank you Tammi for reviewing story structures with us again.
January 5, 2019 at 3:07 pm
Diane O'Neill
Thanks for reminding us of the different structure options–I’m going to try to see how many I can use! Thanks!
January 5, 2019 at 3:35 pm
Bethanny Parker
Very helpful post. Thank you.
January 5, 2019 at 3:43 pm
Nicole Strangman
I love this idea of thinking about the structure as you’re brainstorming – puts you on great footing
January 5, 2019 at 3:44 pm
Alexandra Hinrichs
Thank you for revisiting this post and reminding us of the classic story structures. I love the suggestion of trying to come up with an idea for each one!
January 5, 2019 at 3:47 pm
Nora Fry
Love the variety of structures
January 5, 2019 at 4:02 pm
Meghan Burch
Thanks, Tammi!
January 5, 2019 at 4:02 pm
Kim Wilson (@AuthorKimWilson)
A new challenge for a new year! Looking forward to trying some more of these structures this year!
January 5, 2019 at 4:04 pm
angiecal76
Love your challenge and super LOVE your books, Tammi!
January 5, 2019 at 4:06 pm
Ryan Roberts
Great reminder to stretch ourselves and try new things. Thanks
January 5, 2019 at 4:31 pm
Sara Matson
Sounds like a great challenge. Thanks for sharing!
January 5, 2019 at 4:45 pm
Sharalyn Edgeberg
That’s a great challenge! I’ll try to write a couple different structures! Thanks for sharing!
January 5, 2019 at 5:24 pm
Kathy O'Neill
A great challenge for us! Thank you!
January 5, 2019 at 5:27 pm
Marge Gower
Thanks for the different story structures and examples. I have read many of these stories and never realized they followed a specific structure. I will look back on my stories and challenge myself to rewrite them in a different structure. I will definitely save the examples. 🙂
January 5, 2019 at 6:34 pm
catpledger
My stories are pretty circular, but this challenge is a great eye-opener for how the story can change, depending on the structure
January 5, 2019 at 6:43 pm
hdening
Hmmm…. a challenge to step out of the box with story structure. I prefer the classic structure. But change is good. I’m willing to try something different, even uncomfortable. Let’s do this!
January 5, 2019 at 7:00 pm
celticsea
I will challenge myself as well! Thanks for the ideas!
January 5, 2019 at 7:30 pm
Laurie Goodluck
Wow, a great lesson in story structure. Good to have this eye when reading story books. Perhaps this is where I will start.
January 5, 2019 at 7:42 pm
Susan Burd
Thanks for the variety of structures. I have had an idea for a storyline that I now will re-frame using the circular structure- which will give it a new spin!
January 5, 2019 at 7:50 pm
Jen Kraar
Thanks for the structures – I love giving my creative ideas a shape.
January 5, 2019 at 8:20 pm
Tamawi
Thanks. Thanks for the post. Thanks for the inspiring post on story structure!
January 5, 2019 at 8:35 pm
Lucy Staugler
Tammi,
Challenge accepted! I’m in!
January 5, 2019 at 8:42 pm
Gabriele
Another great post! Thank you!
January 5, 2019 at 8:48 pm
doreenrobinson
Terrific tips on story structure! Thanks for sharing your wisdom!
January 5, 2019 at 8:58 pm
Amalia Reef
Looking forward to exploring these different structures! Thank you.
January 5, 2019 at 9:51 pm
Rona Shirdan
Great post and great challenge,Tammi! I’m in!
January 5, 2019 at 10:46 pm
Cheryl Malandrinos
Always love a challenge. Think I’ll go for a reversal idea.
January 5, 2019 at 11:10 pm
Heather Kelso
I like the challenge of creating a PB with all of the structures you outlined. Thank you Tammi!
January 5, 2019 at 11:16 pm
Dan Burns
Thanks for sharing the frameworks.
January 5, 2019 at 11:40 pm
Susanne Whitehouse
I loved going back and reading old posts from the past. Thank you for sharing!
January 5, 2019 at 11:46 pm
annjex
This helps to have a concise run-down of the various plot structures. There were a couple I wasn’t familiar with.
January 5, 2019 at 11:57 pm
carmelamccainsimmons
This is a gauntlet I will run with you, Tammi. I love the idea of using the structure to find a story!
January 6, 2019 at 12:28 am
viviankirkfield
Thanks so much, Tammi…hopefully this is not my second comment here…love your lesson in structure!
January 6, 2019 at 12:33 am
Cynthia Harmony
Loved this helpful post before and again now, thanks!
January 6, 2019 at 12:46 am
Julia Dworschack
Oooo thanks. Good “options” framework. I’ll try them this month!
January 6, 2019 at 12:47 am
Terri Sabol
Love these examples of different types of story structure. Thanks!
January 6, 2019 at 1:14 am
Lori Alexander
Thanks for this refresher!
January 6, 2019 at 5:32 am
Varda Livneyv
Thanks for this post! Read the other ones you mentioned as well. Great inspiration!
January 6, 2019 at 8:16 am
susan
Great post. Love the examples of each structure.
January 6, 2019 at 8:26 am
junesmalls
Each category breakdown is fantastic. I need to practice each format!
January 6, 2019 at 8:46 am
rhumba20
Thank you for the story structure possibilities outline, very helpful!!!!!!
January 6, 2019 at 9:20 am
Zoraida Rivera
Plotting is a skill I want to work on this year and your post is a good place to start. Many of my drafts don’t fit the classic structure. Thank you and have a great year.
January 6, 2019 at 9:35 am
Nadine Poper
Thanks again Tammi!
January 6, 2019 at 10:13 am
justinrcolon
Great post. I’m a fan of the classic picture book structure and circular structure.
January 6, 2019 at 10:35 am
cantsing1
I might need to combine yesterday’s weird w/ today’s parallel. Hmmmm
January 6, 2019 at 10:37 am
Natalie Banker
Great tactics. Thank you, Tammi!
January 6, 2019 at 10:49 am
Ana Crespo
Love this!
January 6, 2019 at 10:57 am
Midge Ballou Smith
I do love this! Very helpful!
January 6, 2019 at 11:05 am
Meilssa Chupp
Love the variety of structures you shared. It allows for such creativity. Thanks!
January 6, 2019 at 11:48 am
Suzanne Alexander
Very helpful information! Thanks!
January 6, 2019 at 1:15 pm
Mic
Challenge accepted! Thank you for the great list of structure ideas, and for all of your encouragement.
January 6, 2019 at 1:59 pm
setwiggs
2019 is my year to work on structure. Is it the same for nonfiction picture Books? Do these fit for those too? I’ll have to try and see.
January 6, 2019 at 2:52 pm
Vicky Howard
This is so encouraging! I’ve struggled at times to make a story fit the traditional structure. This post is priceless!
January 6, 2019 at 4:06 pm
Rhonda Whitaker
Awesome! Love the idea of switching up the structure from the typical way I write!!
January 6, 2019 at 4:30 pm
M.A. Cortez
Thank you, this is a great reminder of the different types of story structure. I like the list and examples you gave. I’m sure I’ll refer back to it many times this year.
January 6, 2019 at 6:09 pm
Brittney Kauffman
Excited to try out the different frameworks with my characters
January 6, 2019 at 7:21 pm
debbiemccue
Great post on the different story structures and helpful examples. And thanks for the challenge.
January 6, 2019 at 8:23 pm
Maria J Cuesta
I really enjoyed this post. I am trying a reversal. Thank you for challenging me ❤️
January 6, 2019 at 9:04 pm
Laurie Kaiser
I like the idea of trying to write a story for each one of the categories. I have a long way to go!
January 6, 2019 at 9:12 pm
Suzanne Poulter Harris
Challenge accepted! Thank you!
January 6, 2019 at 9:24 pm
Elizabeth Kuelbs
Love the structures as prompts! Thank you for the inspiration!
January 6, 2019 at 9:35 pm
KidLit Underground
Love this! I’m doing this as a MG writer to generate sub-plots, character depth, or who knows, new books. But I did send to a couple PB-writing friends. Structure is my Achilles’ heel, and posts like this are golden.
January 6, 2019 at 9:39 pm
Robin Perkins
Nice breakdown of story structures. This will be useful!
January 6, 2019 at 11:31 pm
Jennifer Weisse
Very challenging and fun!
January 6, 2019 at 11:45 pm
Carol Angels Khan
A wonderful explosion of ideas, thanks for the invitation to your world. Great stuff. xxx
January 6, 2019 at 11:47 pm
DB Cote
Your examples of different ways to frame a story were very helpful. Thank you.
January 7, 2019 at 7:25 am
Meli Glickman
It’s a wonderful reminder to think more broadly than our typical story structure, as sometimes the gems come in other forms and formats. Many thanks for sharing!
January 7, 2019 at 7:50 am
vijikc
Wonderful ideas. I will give it a shot.!
Thank you!
January 7, 2019 at 9:25 am
Therese Kay
Good refresher of the various story structures!!
January 7, 2019 at 10:35 am
Vicky Ford
I love the various story structures you gave and the example of the princess one. Really helpful to organize my brain. lol
January 7, 2019 at 11:50 am
Teresa Robeson
I remember Tammi teaching us some of this at an excellent PB workshop I attended years ago. Tammi has a magic formula and we would do well to emulate it!
January 7, 2019 at 11:57 am
Penny Parker Klostermann
I love that Tammi explored structures and then followed through with stories. So inspiring!
January 7, 2019 at 12:24 pm
Kassy Keppol
Thank you for sharing.
January 7, 2019 at 12:48 pm
Angie
Wonderful explanation of the different structures of stories. Thank you!
January 7, 2019 at 1:03 pm
Margaret Greanias
Such a great post. Glad you decided to share it again. Thank you!
January 7, 2019 at 1:05 pm
Shawna J Tenney
I usually use the traditional story format for my picture books also. I am going to try expanding my horizons and try to come up with some story ideas for each of these structures. Thanks for sharing!
January 7, 2019 at 1:37 pm
Elizabeth Saba
This is a task I am up for. Tammi – I loved when you presented these structures as LA SCBWI
January 7, 2019 at 1:45 pm
Anna E. Jordan
Yes! These help me flesh out my ideas.
January 7, 2019 at 2:24 pm
Kathryn Jean Hagen
Thanks for the summary of picture book structure. Helpful to have a reminder that it doesn’t always have to go one way–options are fun!
Kathryn
January 7, 2019 at 3:30 pm
Susan Orton
Tammi, all of your suggestions are always pure gold. Whenever I need inspiration, I pull up a Tammi Sauer tidbit and I’m up and running. I got my first dose of your amazing talent at the LA SCBWI and I’ve been following you ever since. Thank you kind lady for sharing your creative ideas and your positive energy!
January 7, 2019 at 3:40 pm
CindyC
That’s a great challenge, Tammi. Count me in!
January 7, 2019 at 4:41 pm
Amelia Shearer
This was a really helpful framework for organizing my current manuscripts as well as new ideas! Hoping to try at least one new structure I haven’t done before! 🙂
January 7, 2019 at 4:46 pm
Teresa Klepinger
I’m excited to try a new story structure!
January 7, 2019 at 5:22 pm
Sue Niemann
Great suggestions!
January 7, 2019 at 6:03 pm
gingermeurer
Your stories always have good bones. Thanks for providing confirmation that your structure is intentional.
January 7, 2019 at 6:38 pm
Susan
It’ll be fun to try out a new structure. Thanks!
January 7, 2019 at 7:05 pm
Michelle Sumovich
Great ideas for making a body of work more diverse. I can see how considering framework could be helpful in revision also, when things just aren’t working. Thanks!
January 7, 2019 at 8:01 pm
lorisherritt
A great reminder of the different ways to frame a story!
January 7, 2019 at 8:30 pm
Diana Calio
Love this lesson in structure! Thanks for the challenge, Tammi! 🙂
January 7, 2019 at 8:46 pm
Dawn
This is a great challenge! It will be interesting to see what happens when I step outside of my comfort zone.
January 7, 2019 at 10:04 pm
Tracy Molitors
Thanks for the review of structures–Helps me get out of my rut!
January 7, 2019 at 10:19 pm
Kim Erickson
Great ideas!
January 7, 2019 at 10:34 pm
Shirley
Thanks for this inspiring post.
January 7, 2019 at 10:37 pm
Lydia Lukidis
I remember this post!! I actually saved it. Love the great info
January 8, 2019 at 12:33 am
Cindy E. Owens
I can already tell I love this Princess. She sounds like me. 🙂 Not being traditional so-to-speak. 🙂 I’m a tomboy, rather than a girly girl.
Thanks for the various options for picture book formats. I can’t wait to look into those.
January 8, 2019 at 1:21 am
kmajor2013
Valuable post with structure techniques! Thanks!
January 8, 2019 at 2:18 am
kimgjolly
Tammi- thank you forthwith fantastic tips and lessons in structure. It is so helpful to wrap my brain around how these stories in my head will go!
January 8, 2019 at 2:39 am
thesheilster
Great lesson on story structure. Thanks for the challenge.
January 8, 2019 at 3:15 am
Nancy Kotkin (@Brave_New_Words)
Love the challenge of brainstorming ideas for each structure. Thank you for the definitions and examples. I’m heading to the library.
January 8, 2019 at 10:56 am
Angela De Groot
Thank you for the clear explanation and mentor texts for each structure type. I’m excited to join you in the challenge of PB idea for each type. Now to find my thinking cap . . .
January 8, 2019 at 11:32 am
jessica shaw
I love Princess Viola:) A great post that gives us many wonderful storyline options! Thank you, Tammi!!!
January 8, 2019 at 12:23 pm
Carrie Kruck
I am totally inspired by the idea of being inspired by story structure as a starting point! What a great challenge!
January 8, 2019 at 12:36 pm
joyceschr
I’m doing this one! 🙂 Thank you for the lesson in different story structures. I’m in!!!
January 8, 2019 at 1:09 pm
Sandy Perlic
That sounds like quite the challenge – coming up with one idea for each of those frameworks will take a little research and (my favorite) playing with possibilities. Thanks, Tammi!
January 8, 2019 at 5:11 pm
Maria Bostian
One of each!?! I’m accepting that challenge! Thanks for the inspiration.
January 8, 2019 at 5:48 pm
Diane Tulloch
Awesome points to remember. Thanks Tammi.
January 8, 2019 at 6:54 pm
Noelle McBride
Great challenge – I’m going to see which of my WIPs need to be whipped into another structure!
January 8, 2019 at 7:40 pm
kjerstenhayes
The more picture books with weird fun, the better!
January 8, 2019 at 7:49 pm
kjerstenhayes
Oops, put my comment for the last post on this one. Well I love this post too. Thanks!
January 8, 2019 at 8:15 pm
Christine Irvin
Thanks for re-posting these great ideas!
January 8, 2019 at 8:25 pm
jennagrodzicki
Lots of information and inspiration in this post
January 8, 2019 at 8:39 pm
Kyle McBride
Amazing frameworks for stories! Thank you!
January 8, 2019 at 10:52 pm
Amy Bradshaw
Thank you for explaining the classic storybook structure. I love your books!
January 8, 2019 at 11:15 pm
Joannie Duris
Thanks, Tammi. Love the challenge of coming up with a different story for each framework. And quadruple (or some fantastic number) thanks for all the links to your other posts for more creative sparks.
January 9, 2019 at 2:46 am
sruble
I remember this post. (I’ve always liked this post!) Thanks for all the different kinds of PB story structures, Tammi, especially with a contrast to a classic PB structure! And thanks for reposting this, Tara!
January 9, 2019 at 5:32 am
Mindy Alyse Weiss
Thanks for the structure challenge, Tammi. Count me in!
January 9, 2019 at 10:51 am
Anne Appert
I love the idea of thinking about the structure of the book to brainstorm ideas. And a list of books to read too! Thanks!
January 9, 2019 at 12:12 pm
Sensitive and Extraordinary Kids
This is a great post, thank you Tammi!
January 9, 2019 at 12:13 pm
aidantalkin
I love starting with structure! And so fantastic to go back and reread your old posts… I’m making one liner summary lists of ALL the Storystorm articles to post around me
January 9, 2019 at 1:19 pm
Anita
Thank you for the wonderful post.
January 9, 2019 at 3:39 pm
Wendy
This one is hard! Great post and examples–just my brain that won’t cooperate. It will be interesting to see if I can meet this challenge!
January 9, 2019 at 4:26 pm
Sara Pistulka Weingartner
This is awesome. Thank you Tammi!! And I love the challenge of trying out all story structures this month. Going to give it a whirl.
January 9, 2019 at 5:47 pm
Linda J Thomas
Thanks, Tammi! I’m going to look at revising some manuscripts with these structures in mind! And your new website looks great!
January 10, 2019 at 9:46 am
kaleegwarjanski
I took notes on this one. So good!!! Thank you
January 10, 2019 at 10:27 am
Melissa Stoller
Thanks for the challenge to write stories with all these structures! Great post, Tammi!
January 10, 2019 at 12:54 pm
LAUREN BARBIERI
Great challenge–thank you!
January 10, 2019 at 9:07 pm
Naomi Gruer
Thanks for the great suggestions and ways to look at story structure.
January 10, 2019 at 10:48 pm
Faith Sun
I hadn’t thought about using some of these alternate story structures for children’s books. Thanks for the suggestion!
January 10, 2019 at 10:49 pm
Linda Bendor
Super summary! Thanks for the guided tour!
On Fri, Jan 4, 2019 at 4:04 AM Writing for Kids (While Raising Them) wrote:
> Tara Lazar posted: “by Tammi Sauer (from 2012) In past PiBoIdMo posts, > I’ve encouraged you to… celebrate the weird stuff in life, put a twist on > the familiar, and use setting as a takeoff point. This time around, I want > to focus on structure. Just like ” >
January 10, 2019 at 11:24 pm
Dani Duck
Lots of great info here. Glad to see it again. How quickly I forget!
January 11, 2019 at 6:12 am
Linda Hofke
thank you for the list of different ways to frame a story. I will look over my existing manuscripts and see which of those I haven’t tried yet (and then I’ll try it)
January 11, 2019 at 12:31 pm
shanah salter
love the idea of experimenting with different pb structures.
January 11, 2019 at 3:49 pm
Julie Rand
As usual, you are filled with inspiration. Thank you!
January 12, 2019 at 7:07 am
Laura Mannering
Book structure ideas are a great twist!
January 12, 2019 at 8:06 am
Lindsey McDivitt
Just what I need WHEN I needed it!! Tammi and Tara!
January 12, 2019 at 9:51 am
Johna Nicole Rossetti
Tammi, thank you for breaking down the structure in easy-to-understand format. Another good experiment might be to write a story several different times in the different structures to see which structure is the best fit for that particular story. Thanks for the inspiration! You rock!
January 12, 2019 at 5:28 pm
Melissa Mwai
I’ve bookmarked this. I love thinking about plot because it helps you diagnose where your story can be perked up
January 12, 2019 at 8:00 pm
Janet Halfmann
That’s quite a challenge, but I’ll definitely at least give it a try!
January 12, 2019 at 11:18 pm
Jennifer Broedel (@JBroedelAuthor)
I remember reading this post when I was first dabbling in PB craft! I’m delighted to read it again, as its evergreen, in terms of usefulness. I just saved it to my favorites bar! Thanks so much!
January 12, 2019 at 11:22 pm
Stephanie Lau
Ah! I remember someone linking to this post when I first started writing picture books. A great refresher now that I’m a little less green!
January 13, 2019 at 7:59 am
Erin Le Clerc
Love this – will be reading the mentor texts to get some new ideas about story structure! Thank you!
January 13, 2019 at 2:14 pm
Barb Ostapina
Now that’s a solid foundation to build ideas on, Tammi! Thanks
January 13, 2019 at 2:51 pm
Patti Cake
Very nice summary of PB structures. Thanks!
January 13, 2019 at 4:55 pm
Shereen S.
I love Boy+Bot. I’d like to give the mirror structure a try! Thank you!
January 14, 2019 at 2:14 pm
Judy Bryan
I like how you challenged yourself to come up with different structures. Thank you for the great examples!!
January 14, 2019 at 5:22 pm
Emma Wood
LOVE your posts, Tammi! Thanks so much for sharing your super-helpful insights!
January 14, 2019 at 6:28 pm
Doris k Stone
Wonderful post. Thank you for the reminder to try different structures when writing PB. Thank you, Tammi.
January 15, 2019 at 12:01 am
Carolyn Kraft
Great examples of each story structure, thank you so much!
January 15, 2019 at 2:56 am
Susan Cabael
During my New Year’s vacation I bought a shirt that says, “stay weird” (printed upside down, of course!), so I’m all for the weird stuff.
January 15, 2019 at 12:02 pm
keertisharmablog
You have the best ideas! Celebrating the weird and now this one are my two favorites! Thank you!
January 15, 2019 at 2:09 pm
Pauline Ts'o
Catching up on my StoryStorm reading and wow! Such a super helpful list! Thank you!
January 16, 2019 at 12:08 am
Kelly Rice Schmitt
I love seeing all the structural options laying out in front of me. What a great way to make it easy to come up with new ideas.
January 16, 2019 at 12:37 am
Andrew Lefebvre
I’m going to use this challenge. Thanks.
January 16, 2019 at 4:07 pm
Janine Johns
This is very helpful! Thank you for a great post . . . again!
January 16, 2019 at 6:39 pm
Francoise
Useful info here — something to refer to again and again. Thanks!
January 17, 2019 at 1:16 am
Charlotte Offsay
This is great, thanks!
January 17, 2019 at 1:29 pm
Cassie Bentley
I realized my stories all have the same structure. I’ll design with a new idea and new structure and see what happens. Thank you.
January 17, 2019 at 11:16 pm
Jill M Proctor
Such great suggestions! Thank you!
January 18, 2019 at 12:12 pm
imagination4lf
I’m with you, Tammi! Thank you so much for sharing these ideas.
January 19, 2019 at 4:55 pm
readstuffnwrite
Thank you for the structure ideas. I think I need to use some different ones (mostly use the problem solving one)
January 20, 2019 at 11:35 am
dlapmandi
Such a great challenge! I will try to get at least one idea per framework! Thanks for the post!
January 20, 2019 at 1:02 pm
Dianne
Wow. Thanks for those awesome structures and examples! I want to look them ALL up and study them.
January 20, 2019 at 11:42 pm
Lori Z
Great structure inspiration!
January 21, 2019 at 12:27 am
Angela H. Dale
Great goal for the month – structure as prompt is a cool starting point – and so many to choose from / try.
January 21, 2019 at 6:49 am
Rick Starkey
Thanks for sharing this with us. Structure is important.
January 22, 2019 at 2:11 am
Shelly
I hadn’t thought to add plot structure to my list of ideas. Thanks!
January 22, 2019 at 12:14 pm
Kelly Vavala
That’s quite a challenge! Love your book!
January 22, 2019 at 4:52 pm
Paula VanEnkevort
I love this idea – thanks! Great starting point for brainstorming outside of the usual structure.
January 22, 2019 at 11:36 pm
sharongiltrow
Great idea to write a story using different frameworks. I do love the reversal framework.Great mentor texts too :-).
January 25, 2019 at 10:52 pm
Dana Atnip
Thank you for sharing so many different structures to a story, I’m inspired to try them all!
January 26, 2019 at 4:07 pm
Cheryl Johnson
Thanks for all the examples of the various frameworks!
January 26, 2019 at 10:29 pm
Robyn Campbell
I just finished working on a cumulative rhyme story. It was the most fun I have ever had. It is about a serious subject, and I believe it is also creative nonfiction. Thanks so much. Thanks for coming to Carolina.
January 28, 2019 at 3:37 pm
Sharalyn Edgeberg
Structure sounds so easy, but I think it’s hard so thanks for the details.
January 29, 2019 at 12:40 pm
Marie Powell
This is really useful material. Thanks!
January 29, 2019 at 1:04 pm
hannahtuohyillustration
This batch of sample story structures is gold! Thank you for sharing!
January 29, 2019 at 2:50 pm
Sheri Dillard
Great post! Thanks, Tammi!
January 30, 2019 at 2:36 pm
Danielle Hicks
I love the idea of a reversal structure! This was a very helpful post. Saving it for reference! Thank you for sharing!
January 31, 2019 at 9:32 pm
Becky Shillington
Thanks for these great ideas!
January 31, 2019 at 10:12 pm
higherthanrubies
Great information! Thank you!
January 31, 2019 at 11:48 pm
Laurie Swindler
Thanks for your analysis of plot structure. Very helpful.
February 2, 2019 at 6:26 am
Gabrielle Schoeffield
This is fantastic explanation of the story structure! Thanks, Tammi!
February 3, 2019 at 2:40 am
Charmaine
Great idea!
February 4, 2019 at 5:08 pm
loelmu
I’ve never thought of the framework before! Fun!
February 20, 2019 at 11:13 pm
Janet AlJunaidi
This is fantastic Tammi! (As well as your previous PiBoIdMo posts!) I am going to print this out and challenge myself to try each of them as well!
January 4, 2020 at 2:25 pm
heatherbell37
Love this challenge. Really helps to take a step outside the comfort zone 🙂
January 20, 2020 at 8:09 pm
thedandelionzoo
It was so much fun figuring out how I could restructure my story ideas!
January 26, 2020 at 10:56 am
teachom
Thank you for the examples! This one is challenging.