[Fedora]

Speaking of writing, writing problem I'm working on tonight: how to work an extensive backstory (think on analogy with Silmarillion) into the main storyline without disrupting the plot flow with too much exposition. Any ideas? Know any writers who are particularly good at this who would be good to read?

[JenB]

Hmmm... on the backstory... it's always tricky. I would say, if you can, pick the most salient points and work them in early, maybe as flashbacks. Then when the reader's hooked, give it to us in larger chunks.

Who does this well? Drat, I know someone I should be mentioning. Obviously no one does it that well! Have you ever read Tad Williams' (brilliant, wonderful) Otherland series? It's not exactly what you want, but it has a number of different characters whose stories get told over time.

Does that help? I'm struggling with "make something happen, everyone's just talking", myself.