Robert McKee’s book is an exposition of the principles of story – how to write a gripping plot, how to write scenes that build tension, how to craft believable and intriguing characters. Though ostensibly about screenwriting, there’s little that doesn’t apply to any kind of storytelling in general. McKee is a master of the craft. His explanations are lucid, his examples are compelling and his insights are stunning. It’s all very deep stuff so I think I’ll have to buy this book and go through it again slowly as I rework some of the stories I’ve written. I wonder why all this isn’t taught in English class? Even if you’re not a writer, being able to analyse stories to see why they work would seem to be a valuable ability. In any case, I highly recommend this book.