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Why is TV writing different from any other kind of writing? How will writing a spec script open doors? What do I have to do to get a job writing for TV? Writing for television is a business. And, like any business, there are proven strategies for success. In this unique hands-on guide, television writer and producer Ellen Sandler shares the trade secrets she learned while writing for hit shows like Everybody Loves Raymond and Coach. She offers concrete advice on everything from finding a story to getting hired on a current series.
Filled with easy-to-implement exercises and practical wisdom, this ingenious how-to handbook outlines the steps for becoming a professional TV writer, starting with a winning script. Sandler explains the difference between “selling” and “telling,” form and formula, theme and plot. Discover:
• A technique for breaking down a show style so you’re as close to being in the writing room as you can get without actually having a job there • The 3 elements for that essential Concept Line that you must have in order to create a story with passion and consequence • Mining the 7 Deadly Sins for fresh and original story lines • Sample scripts from hit shows • In-depth graphs, script breakdown charts, vital checkpoints along the way, and much, much more!
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Loads of really specific advise. Went to a seminar Ellen gave and her words and ideas were excellent. This book continues in the same clear, precise vein. Recommend.
Most Helpful Customer Reviews on Amazon.com (beta)
Amazon.com:4.8 out of 5 stars 31 reviews
11 of 11 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 starsSuperb!14 Feb 2008
By Justine E. Schroeder - Published on Amazon.com
Format:Paperback
I've been using Ellen Sandler's book as a guide for the last few weeks, and I feel I've done much better work in that short time than I did all last year. The book is mainly geared towards sitcom writers, and for those interested in writing a comedy spec, this book is the one to get!
9 of 10 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 starsGreat Book12 July 2007
By LA Mommy - Published on Amazon.com
Format:Paperback|Amazon Verified Purchase
This is by far the BEST TV writing book I've ever read and I have nearly all of them. Sandler doesn't just tell you the steps necessary to write a fantastic spec script, like all these kinds of books do, she guides you through the creative process of mining story material for it. And she tells you how to fashion subject matter that has the most emotional meaning for you, the author--which is the benchmark of great writing. It was a concept that until now, that no matter how many books I read, or how many harsh notes from execs I received on all my previous specs (or so I thought, now I FULLY understand their notes!) that I didn't grasp until now. TV Writer's Workbook, has provided the creative lightbulb I needed to get me out of my sucky spec script darkness. Highly recommended!
9 of 10 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 starsI can't believe I am saying this, but there are no words for how amazing this is!19 Jun 2007
By T. Salisbury - Published on Amazon.com
Format:Paperback
But for the sake of those wondering if they should purchase this or not, I will try to find some. YES, YOU SHOULD BUY THIS! How is that? :) Putting aside the fact that Ellen has written for some of the best TV I've ever watched, I don't see how anyone couldn't benefit from the generous advice she offers in this guide and so inexpensively! Be warned though, this book is not one that you just read. I guess you could, but I would honestly recommend trying the things she suggests. I tried most of her exercises and the differences in my spec script definitely stood out. This book is priceless, in my opinion.
