Story activates the imagination in service of human truth, by portraying flawed characters who enter a Plot and either change or fail to change as a result.

The Story Map is a relational model of Story, created to help novelists write deeply impactful books. Unlike fragmented approaches based on structure and craft, the Story Map emphasizes the interconnected elements and relationships that make successful stories work. This holistic approach helps authors complete meaningful narratives that leave a lasting impression.

To write a novel that connects with readers, you have to understand the landscape of Story that underlies structure, craft, and language. Most novelists can’t see the forest for the trees–let alone the roots that bind everything together. When you become a Story Mapper, you get an integrated view that leads to focused, purposeful writing and yields a better novel, faster.