I’ve written five novels that were never published. Each one began with a strong voice and plenty of momentum. But they failed, ultimately, because I couldn’t find the right plot. In this craft session, we’ll unlock the keys to plot: cleaving a chain of associations to a chain of consequence, creating rising action, and pushing your characters into danger. We’ll look at classic and contemporary examples of enthralling plots, and even examine a few of my failed novels to root out (and remedy) the ways plot can go wrong.

Steve Almond is the author of the New York Times Bestsellers “Candyfreak” and “Against Football.” His first novel, “Which Brings Me to You” is now a major motion picture starring Lucy Hale. His second novel, “All the Secrets of the World,” is under development by 20th Century Fox. His new book, “Truth Is the Arrow, Mercy Is the Bow: A DIY Kit for the Construction of Stories” is about craft, inspiration, and the evil voices that keep us from telling the stories we’re meant to tell.