Make your dialogue really talk

. . .  is the topic of tonight's Christian Writers Guild webinar.

Presented by Dennis E. Hensley
Tuesday, August 12
8:00 to 9:00 p.m., Eastern Time

Dialogue has two central functions: to provide vital information and to advance the story’s action. But the way that is conveyed can involve accent, stage direction, timing, word choice, slang, sentence fragments, shoptalk, professional vocabulary, and emotional connotation.

Getting the right blend is the trick, and Doc delivers numerous tips on how to master the art of “talking the talk.” As the author of eight novels, two plays, and more than 150 short stories, Doc draws from his hands-on experience to help you make your dialogue functional, entertaining, and believable.

Dennis E. Hensley, Ph.D., is the author of 54 books, the most recent being Jesus in the 9 to 5. He is director of the professional writing major at Taylor University, and a columnist for Christian Communicator. His 3,000 freelance articles have appeared in Downbeat, Modern Bride, Writer’s Digest, Essence, War Cry, The Writer, People, Vista, Evangel, The Detroit Free Press, and The Indianapolis Star, among many others. He is a judge for the annual Christy Fiction Awards, the Evangelical Press Association Awards, and Operation First Novel contest.

Click here to register.

Coming up later this month:

Your Novel’s First 50 pages (part 2)

Presented by Jeff Gerke
Tuesday, August 19
8:00 to 9:00 p.m., Eastern Time

First impressions are vital. Compelling opening scenes are key to catching an agent or editor’s attention, as well as keeping readers engaged. In this continuation of Jeff’s June 19 webinar, you’ll learn more about:
• how to bring your protagonist onstage the first time
• how (and why) to establish normal for your hero and your story world
• what exactly goes on a great first page
• what makes for a terrific first line

Jeff Gerke is a novelist and book doctor. He worked for a dozen years at various publishers before founding Marcher Lord Press. His books include The Art &Craft of Writing Christian Fiction, Plot Versus Character, and The First 50 Pages.

Click here to register.

SOURCE: Christian Writers Guild Webinars webpage.