Building a Book 'Bible'

Building a Book 'Bible'

A book 'blble' is a basic writing tool. It enables the author to keep pertinent information in an easily accessible manner.

When I started Ancient Awakening, it was to be a stand-alone book. The details of the different characters after several chapters and I realized I needed a better way to keep track of eye color, hair style, physical description and other pesky details. I've used character sheets, interview forms, lists and found they didn't meet my needs.

When another author mentioned using a 'Bible', a lightbulb flashed over my head. What could be easier than a method I could use on the fly?

After creating a new document, I skimmed what I already had written. It was easy to cut and paste details. I used bold type for proper names for character names and added sections of description each time I mentioned him/her.

Let me amend that. I copy the info when I do a simple edit. I never stop the writing process for editing. It breaks the flow and I don't recommend using anything that does that.
I also found it helpful to include a timeline of events. Mine is at the front of the 'bible'.
Once I decided Ancient Awakening would be the first of a series set in Rhodes End, I added the town as a character. I'm also drawing a map using my characters actions. You'd be surprised to know how hard it is to recall if you turn right or left out of the driveway to get to the cemetery.
Since I started book two and three, the information is invaluable. I have opened 'bibles' two and three, copied the appropriate character descriptions as needed, and keep on writing.

I've also found it helpful to add research details. Too many times I've wasted hours hunting for that important detail because I couldn't recall the spelling, the year, whatever.

The 'bible' is a flexible tool. I recommend it.

Barbara Edwards