You’ve written a book, honed an “elevator pitch” and snagged an interested agent or publisher. After you submit your manuscript, you are told it is not publishable in its current state. The very first “reader” has rejected it. What is a first book’s most common flaw? It is probably not what you think.

Grammar, plot, character development? How about a lack of World Building.

On Saturday, our PSB Writers Center was proud to host Donna Galanti speaking about “Foundations of World Building.”

Donna walked us through all the elements that make up the complex structure of world building. This level of planning interweaves seven areas – rules, rituals, environment, people & culture, technology, religion and power – with the plot of your story. She suggested building a Story Bible with your research.

Donna encouraged authors to examine every one of these seven aspects by these parameters:

Donna’s presentation and her answers to our questions made this a rich resource for all attendees, both published and aspiring authors.

Does it move the plot along?

Does it connect to the theme?

Does it support the growth of the characters?

Donna Galanti is the author of the middle grade adventure Joshua and The Lightning Road, which the Midwest Book Review called, “A heart-pounding thrill ride full of unexpected twists and turns from start to finish.” She’s also the author of the follow up, Joshua and the Arrow Realm, the popular Unicorn Island series, and the bestselling paranormal suspense Element Trilogy for adults.

Donna is also a writing contest judge at nycmidnight.com, regularly presents as a guest author at schools, and teaches writers through her online Udemy courses. Visit her at donnagalanti.com

**New Release** Unicorn Island: The Secret of Lost Luck
Joshua and The Lightning Road series for kids. View book trailer. “Vividly imagined characters in a gripping action fantasy.” ~Jenny Nimmo, NYT bestselling author
The Element Trilogy  Thrillers for adults. “A twisty journey into another world.” ~J.T. Ellison, NYT bestselling author
Hey writers, check out my online courses on craft and marketing! Free previews.