Books
in graphic form are not just filled with superheroes, Japanese manga, or women
in push-up spandex bustiers. Occasionally, you can actually learn
something. Writer/Cartoonist Jessica
Abel’s new book describes the ins and outs of producing radio shows at NPR. The
oral medium of storytelling is well suited to graphics, especially in Abel’s creative
hands.
Although
the book focuses on NPR, the information applies to writing in general. Whether
producing a podcast or novel, the creative processes overlap in several ways.
Oral and written storytelling requires solid ideas and finding the right voice.
Each needs a logical structure and a way to make audience care. As with
fiction, the best stories come from “following some itch.” Catherine Burns,
artistic director of the program, The Moth, makes a comment any writer can
relate to. “The simplest way to say it is...who are you at the beginning and
who are you at the end.” That’s Storytelling 101 for any writer.
In
both podcasting and radio much time is spent determining structure, and Abel
makes some interesting observations. Scenes in chronological order is the
default, but not always necessary. Some stories start at the end in order to
grab listeners. Screenwriters use a common hook. When a hero faces impossible
odds, the screen goes black, and words such as Twenty-four Hours Before appear
before the story takes a backward leap. Radio can do the same thing. Or as one
producer notes, the structure is less important than what catches the audience
and makes the story sexy.
Abel
also includes practical advice for those wishing to attempt their own podcast.
Getting started is surprisingly easy. A person needs a digital recorder, a set
of headphones, a good microphone, and quiet. And no—the built-in mic on an
iPhone won’t cut it if you want the interview to sound professional. More
important is a little gumption. Mic placement is key. You have to shove that
mic in a wazoo for an interview that’s up close and personal.
The
function of sound and music also get noted. Music can highlight a story.
Obvious spots for music cues are introduction of a new character or description
of a feeling. As one producer says, music can be used to “shine a light” and be
a “dousing rod” for hidden moments. Just as important is to note when sound or
music are distracting. “You always take the music out when there’s a big idea
that you want people to pay attention to. You lose the music so it stands out.”
This
is good book for anyone with curiosity about the work behind radio broadcasts
or has an itch to create a podcast of their own. The simple graphic layout
makes the explanations of the different facets of story construction easily
understandable to the layman, and the cheery rah-rah, you-can-do-it attitude
will encourage the beginner to take the first step.
I received this book
from Blogging for Books in
exchange for a
review.
