Unlocking the Secrets of Reading Like a Writer for Better Storytelling

Seeing as how yesterday was my birthday and I didn't post, today we're doing double duty.

So, what does it mean to read like a writer? Have you had moments when reading that something on the page stands out to you as awkward and you find yourself annoyed and pulled out of the story? Have you been reading and all of a sudden a line stands out to you as awesome and you really wish you'd come up with it?

Reading is often seen as a way to relax or gather information. But what if you could read with a different purpose—one that sharpens your storytelling skills? Reading like a writer means paying attention to how stories are crafted, not just what they say. This approach can transform your writing by helping you understand narrative techniques, character development, and pacing. Let’s explore how reading like a writer can unlock new storytelling abilities.

Close reading of a novel with annotations

What Does It Mean to Read Like a Writer?

Reading like a writer means approaching a text with curiosity about the craft behind it. Instead of just following the plot, you focus on how the author builds scenes, develops characters, and uses language. This mindset helps you notice techniques that make a story compelling.

For example, you might observe how an author uses short sentences to create tension or how dialogue reveals personality without stating it outright. By identifying these elements, you learn tools you can apply in your own writing.

How to Practice Reading Like a Writer

To read like a writer, start by slowing down your reading pace. Here are some practical steps:

• Annotate the text: Mark passages that stand out. Note why a description feels vivid or why a character’s voice feels authentic. Make a mess!

• Ask questions: Why did the author choose this point of view? How does the setting influence the mood?

• Analyze structure: Look at how chapters or scenes are arranged. Notice where the story builds or slows.

• Focus on language: Pay attention to word choice, metaphors, and rhythm.

  
  

Try applying these steps to a short story or a chapter of a novel. Over time, this practice will become natural.

Examples of Techniques to Look For

Here are some storytelling techniques to watch for when reading like a writer:

• Show, don’t tell: Instead of saying a character is angry, the author might describe clenched fists or sharp words.

• Foreshadowing: Small details early on hint at events to come, creating suspense.

• Character arcs: Notice how characters change through the story, what challenges shape them.

• Pacing: See how the author speeds up or slows down the narrative to control tension.

• Dialogue: Look at how conversations reveal relationships and move the plot forward.

  
  

By identifying these techniques, you gain insight into how stories work on a deeper level.

Benefits of Reading Like a Writer

Reading with a writer’s eye offers several advantages:

• Improved storytelling skills: You learn how to craft scenes and develop characters more effectively.

• Expanded vocabulary and style: Exposure to different authors broadens your language use.

• Better editing: Understanding narrative structure helps you revise your own work with clarity.

• Inspiration: Seeing how others solve storytelling challenges sparks new ideas.

  
  

This approach turns reading into an active learning experience rather than passive consumption.

Applying What You Learn to Your Writing

Once you start reading like a writer, the next step is to apply what you discover. Here are some tips:

• Practice writing exercises: Try mimicking a technique you admired, such as writing a scene using only dialogue.

• Rewrite passages: Take a paragraph from a book and rewrite it in your own style to understand choices.

• Experiment with structure: Play with pacing or point of view in your stories.

• Seek feedback: Share your work with others and discuss how you used techniques from your reading. Join in on a peer feedback group here at Poetic Paws.

  
  

By actively using these insights, your storytelling will become more intentional and effective.

Final Thoughts on Reading Like a Writer

Whether you're reading for fun or to see how the masters' did it, reading like a writer takes practice. The more you read the better your writing will be. Pay attention to the elements that you find difficult to master yourself. Seek out feedback here at Poetic Paws by joining in on a peer workshopping...coming soon!