What I'm Reading Now (Nonfiction): The Comic Hero’s Journey by Steve Kaplan

Yes, my friends, comedy can be taught.

Hi, all!

I’m getting ready for a class I’ll be teaching at the Scottsdale Library Workshop on Oct 19, 2019. The title is “The Basics of Comedy in Fiction.”

To get ready for the big day, I’ve been reading Steve Kaplan’s The Comic Hero’s Journey. This book is a great read for anyone wanting to add comedy to their manuscript, or even just to better understand comedy. Mr. Kaplan is funny, and his instruction is very accessible.

I’ve been watching some comedies lately, to help cement what I’ve learned so far. Now I understand why I love the comedies I love, and hate the ones I hate. I have a new-found appreciation for the writers of comedy. That stuff is genius when done well. Can’t wait to apply these new tools to my own writing.

When I’ve finished this book (and I will very soon), I’m going to move on to Mr. Kaplan’s The Hidden Tools of Comedy.

If you live in or near the Phoenix metro area, pop into the Scottsdale Library Workshop on Oct 19. I believe the workshop starts at 10 am and ends at 4 pm. It’s totally free, and there will be some excellent speakers that day.

What nonfiction are you reading now?

Leave me a comment. Thanks!