Book Review: The Science of Storytelling by Will Storr

In "The Science of Storytelling: Why Stories Make Us Human and How to Tell Them Better," Will Storr presents a compelling exploration of the art and science behind effective storytelling. This groundbreaking work, published in March 2020, has quickly become a go-to resource for writers across various disciplines.

Critical Reception

The book has earned a stellar 4.6 out of 5 stars from nearly 2,000 Amazon readers and a solid 4.1 rating on Goodreads from over 6,000 reviewers.

Author's Approach

Storr, an award-winning writer and respected creative writing instructor, expertly weaves together insights from psychology, neuroscience, and literary analysis to uncover the fundamental elements that make stories resonate with human beings.

Bridging Science and Craft

The book's strength lies in its ability to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical writing advice, making it accessible to both aspiring and experienced writers.

Diverse Examples

One of the book's standout features is Storr's diverse range of examples, drawing from sources as varied as Harry Potter, Jane Austen, and Breaking Bad. This eclectic approach demonstrates the universality of effective storytelling techniques across different media and genres.

Structure and Content

The book is well-structured, with sections dedicated to crucial storytelling elements such as "The Dramatic Question," "Creating a World," and "Plot, Endings, and Meaning." These chapters provide a comprehensive overview of the storytelling craft, backed by scientific evidence.

Practical Application

Particularly noteworthy is the inclusion of "The Sacred Flaw Approach" in the appendix, offering readers a practical, step-by-step guide to apply the book's concepts in their own writing.

Neuroscience of Storytelling

Storr's exploration of how our brains create worlds through storytelling is particularly fascinating. He argues that great storytellers are attuned to moments of unexpected change, mirroring how our brains process and make sense of the world around us.

Versatility

While the book is primarily aimed at fiction writers, its principles are applicable across various forms of writing, including creative nonfiction and traditional nonfiction.

Potential Challenges

Some readers might find the scientific explanations occasionally dense, but Storr's engaging writing style and relevant examples help to clarify complex concepts.

Will STorr's Science of Storytelling

"The Science of Storytelling" is a must-read for anyone interested in the craft of writing or the psychology behind human storytelling. It offers a unique, science-based approach to understanding what makes stories work, providing writers with tools to create more compelling narratives. Storr's work stands alongside other creative writing classics, offering fresh insights that can benefit writers at any stage of their career.