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"For my next novel, I’m starting with Story Skeleton to find a story structure that speaks to my content—the book is that good. The organization of the chapters provides a helpful context for story beats, for really all the basics of novel structure. Thank you, David and Michelle, for helping me find a story shape to liberate my novel."
—Cornelia Hoogland, author of Woods Wolf Girl

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"This is a great study of what makes a novel work and truly resonate with readers. By dissecting the structure, plot, and nuanced details of classic novels, the authors take a deep dive into every little thing that makes these books classics. For both writers and readers, this is a fascinating look into the timeless elements of what makes a good book that endures for generations. I'm going to re-read some of these classics and have a whole new appreciation for them."
—Joseph VanBuren, author of Mask: Shadow

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"The Classics is a pragmatic guide that distills the narrative structures of literature into a clear framework. This book offers a roadmap to the bones beneath the beauty. What sets this book apart is its balance of scholarly insight and practical application. The included examples are thoughtfully chosen and analyzed, showing how even complex stories rely on universal principles of setup, conflict, transformation, and resolution. This is a book that changed how I read—and how I write."
—Rod Ausis, Darling Axe Publishing Advanced Reader

Story Skeleton: The Classics is co-authored by David Griffin Brown and Michelle Barker, both experienced developmental editors and regular presenters at writing conferences and webinars. They also co-host an annual writing retreat on British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast. The book is being promoted through the authors’ combined platform, including 77K followers on Twitter/X and 21K on Bluesky. Ongoing outreach includes blog features on DarlingAxe.com, targeted advertising on Amazon, Meta, and Reddit, as well as a recent Goodreads giveaway.