Roll Models

                                               

                 Relating directly into the last post, where there is learning from other writer's there is the formation of admiration and respect for those writers. Let's talk about literature giants that we look up to.

Today's Topic:
What fellow writer's do you look up to and why?

My Answer: I have a few individuals I admire in the world of literature. Here's who they are and why they have my admiration and respect.


    First there's CS Lewis, author of The Chronicles of Narnia. In addition to being a writer of fiction he is a noted scholar and philosopher. When I contemplated and prayed about doing Christian based fantasy his work came to mind as an example. He had woven his fiction world with such smoothness and simplicity. He helped me realized that when writing Christian fantasy one doesn't need a representation for every single biblical detail. All that is really required is the firm backbone of the faith, allowing more flexibility in the story. I admire him as a fellow Christian and a fellow writer.

        Next is widely renowned writer Brian Jacques, author of the Redwall series as well as several other works of fiction. Jacques was the one who really made me love reading. There was, after all, a time when I didn't like books. The wonderful woodland world he created pulled me in straight away and for the first time I began examining plot structure as well as the importance of diction. For storytelling he was my first teacher.

    Another writer I admire is Christopher Paolini, author of The Inheritance Cycle. In addition to learning a lesson or two from his work I was inspired by his backstory. A bestseller at the age of nineteen, he reminded me that one does not have to be advanced in years in order to write successfully. He is an inspiration to young, aspiring authors worldwide.

    And now most recently, John Flanagan, author of Ranger's Apprentice and the Brotherband series. I fell in love with his work relatively quickly. The characters are deep and very endearing and the stories are engaging. I admire the wit and well balanced elements he brings to each and every book. From him I'm continually learning about cultural contrast and character personalities as well as a few other things. He has my full recommendation.

As a writer you are continually evolving, continually learning. With every book you explore, try and take something with you.

Those were my heroes, now let's hear some of yours.