Writing can be defined in many ways… as an art, as  a science in some ways, using a particular methodology depending upon the type of writing. 

If you have a writing project that needs a thoughtful approach, that tells the story in a way that it will be remembered- Please refer to my writing page as an introduction- https://donnagore.com/writing  and my consulting page.-https://donnagore.com/consulting;

One of my favorites is true crime writing, as that is what I have known for 44 years. I particularly like investigative pieces for they combine research, analytical thinking, creativity and much perseverance. 

Years ago, I coined a style I sometimes use called, ‘The Stone Soup Method,’ based on the classic book by Marcia Brown. It’s a delightful and clever story! 

https://www.amazon.com/Stone-Soup-Aladdin-Picture-Books/dp/0689711034/ref

As true crime writers, for example, we try to assist victims in an attempt to create public awareness, to tell their side of the story with accuracy, compassion and balance, as the perpetrators frequently get 99% of the media’s attention. 

We may hear of a case that has been reported in the news with little information to offer because:

1. “An ongoing investigation is underway” (May or may not be true);

2. Law enforcement has a track record of mistakes that they don’t want revealed;

3. Police protocol or a particular investigator’s style  is to be very “close to the vest” regarding information;

4. The crime victim may have lead a life fraught with problems, making it difficult to ‘humanize the victim’ and get past the dysfunction, abuse, addictions or whatever the case may be;

5. There may be few intriguing details making it ‘less newsworthy’;

6. There may be little to no knowledge of resources available due to the crime victim’s family being in a remote geographic location, poverty situation or not having the educational resources;

7. Unreliable sources concerning the events of the case.

Under these circumstances, what can you do?

Can you write about the facts of the case in a way that does justice, spurs interest or makes people “grow a conscience?” 

Can you make meal from a scrap of bread

Can you make something out of nothing?  Well… as a matter of fact, you can if you write holistically;

As it relates to writing about crime, the real cases; the real human beings; the real shattered lives, as opposed to fairy tale stories, it is much the same for this writer.  

You begin with a few basic facts, add detail (just like the salt and pepper.) You look to enhance the ‘broth’ to provide richness.                                       You let your curiosity lead you to new areas of the case and the  background of the case. You become the reader! 

Some examples-  

Who was the victim as a human being? 

What was his/her immediate environment like? 

Did the victim stand out in some way or was he ‘an average Joe’? 

Who were his/her friends? 

Did he/she have demons that may have contributed to his/her ultimate fate? What were the missteps, blatant errors, territorial issues, miscommunications or… was there just plain indifference?  

Who was/is carrying the ball now? 

Why do we need to know?

 Why is this case important?

 What organizations are involved? 

What lessons can we learn?

In other words, if you think you have a "typical” case in terms of engaging reader’s interest…. THINK AGAIN…and re-tool!  

It would be my honor to assist you… ‘Please get in touch!