My Magna Cartas

Chris Baty, author of "No Plot? No Problem!" suggests that NaNoWriMo participants write two lists, or Magna Carta's, and refer to them frequently during the Challenge, particularly when one is stuck or doesn't like the turns the story is taking. Here are mine so far....

Magna Carta I - What I Think Makes A Great Novel
- Spy stories/espionage/intrigue
- Surprising plot twists; things & people not being what they seem
- Intriguing & unique plot situations or Central Problems
- Underdogs triumphing over bullies or 'The System'
- Strong, confident characters with a clear inner objective and who are fearless in taking action --- sexy, dynamic characters
- I really like strong, intelligent female characters
- Confident, relaxed writing (a la Stephen King), the kind of writing that is so laid back and yet engaging -- like Grandpa spinning tales from his rocking chair on the back porch --- that you are instantly transported into this fantastic and yet utterly believable world, and the storytelling looks like the easiest thing in the world
- Action-oriented storytelling - cool weapons/technologies/vehicles; short, clever, and witty dialogue that keeps the story moving quickly; and lots of movement and initiative by the characters
- Characters who are clever and creative in beating the System or using resources to their advantage

Magna Carta II - What I Think Makes A Lame Novel
- Unnecessary details that slow down the story, such as what a room looks like or the color & texture of someone's clothes
- Unoriginal and overused plots & character relationships
- Fantasy worlds w/no connection or reference point whatsoever to the real world
- Weak, limp characters who don't have a clear purpose or motivation
- Low stakes for the characters involved, like "improving their relationship." I want high-stakes stuff where lives, limbs, and one's general viability as a member of the human race is at stake.
- Family or relationship stories, like family members coming to terms after years of discord.
- Cross-country driving trips. ICK!
- Stories about drama in regular life. BORING! I live it and I've got the weekly laundry to prove it. I don't want to read about it. After all, writing is my way of being able to do all the exciting, death-defying things that I can't do in real life! :-)