The Tower by E. Webb is a captivating young adult fantasy, blending self-discovery and courage with an imaginative magical world. Ena's relatable journey and universal coming-of-age themes make for an engaging read, appealing to readers of all ages. With well-developed characters and a balanced magic system, this book offers an enjoyable and adventurous escape.
This post delves into the distinction between hard and soft magic systems in fantasy literature, highlighting their defining characteristics and providing examples. It encourages readers to consider creating their own magic system and outlines key questions to ponder in the process. Ultimately, it advises writers to thoughtfully integrate magic into their storytelling, enhancing the reader's experience.
In hard fantasy, magic systems have strict rules that authors rigorously follow. Soft fantasy blurs reality with whimsy, bending rules to evoke wonder. Both captivate readers through immersive worlds and skillful storytelling. Consistency remains key to either genre's success.
Understanding the distinction between hard and soft story elements is key to shaping your readers' suspension of disbelief. Hard Sci-Fi focuses on scientific accuracy and feasibility through research. Soft Sci-Fi allows more creative freedom, emphasizing imaginative social issues and compelling characters over hard facts.
This year, commit to honing your science fiction and fantasy writing skills. Study character development, worldbuilding, complex narratives, genre fusion, and publishing insights. Immerse yourself in speculative fiction and experiment outside your comfort zone. A year of dedicated practice will elevate your storytelling.
Kenneth W. Myers 