Screenwriting for Teens: The 100 Principles of Screenwriting Every Budding Writer Must Know

Each chapter of ‘Screenwriting for Teens’ defines a concept, illustrates it with examples of current and/or classic films, and challenges its readers with creative writing, analytical, and discussion exercises. The material has application to coursework in English, media, theatre, journalism, and psychology.

About the Author

Christina Hamlett

Grade 8 Up—This workshop-in-a-book aims to prepare teens to complete a first short film. Each "concept" includes plot, pacing, character development, introductions to various genres, and more, and is presented in a few paragraphs followed by suggested examples in existing films and three writing exercises. The tone is chatty, avoiding formality and condescension in favor of encouragement to keep trying despite the rejection often found in the entertainment industry (Concept 100 is "You Hate Me, You Really Hate Me"). Aspiring writers hungry for more information will appreciate the recommended reading list.

Beth Gallego, Los Angeles Public Library, North Hollywood