The Last Draft

The definitive handbook for the novelist who is ready to revise This wise and friendly guide shows writers how to turn first-draft manuscripts into the novels of their dreams. A critic, longtime teacher, and award-winning novelist, Sandra Scofield illustrates how to reread a work of fiction with a view of its subject and vision, and how to take it apart and put it back together again, stronger and deeper. Scofield builds her explanations around helpful concepts like narrative structure, character agency, and core scenes, using models from classic and contemporary writers. The detailed, step-by-step plan laid out in The Last Draft offers invaluable advice to both novice and experienced writers alike. In Scofield, they will find a seasoned, encouraging mentor to steer them through this emotional and intellectual journey.

"Individual liberty is ingrained in American culture. Yet, in contrast to this cherished ideal, American men were inducted into military service under a system that flourished for more than twenty years before its rationalization was seriously questioned by more than a small minority of citizens." "Analyzing this paradox, George Flynn provides the first comprehensive look at an institution that managed to sustain political and public favor through two wars before dying out under a barrage of protests during a third. Placing the American draft within a historical context, he shows how social and political considerations determined the character of conscription in the United States." "The draft developed as it did, he argues, not mainly because of military needs or strategy, but because of political decisions initiated by civilians with nonmilitary agendas. Explaining why the draft remained relatively immune to political criticism prior to the Vietnam conflict, Flynn chronicles the draft's military and strategic successes and failures in America's mid-century wars. He shows how major institutions and lobbies representing science, education, and various professions and religions influenced it and how, ultimately and ironically, the selective character of the draft eventually made the system inequitable and helped cause its downfall."--BOOK JACKET.Title Summary field provided by Blackwell North America, Inc. All Rights Reserved

A treasure-trove of scene-writing wisdom from award-winning author and teacher Sandra Scofield To write a good scene, you have to know the following: • Every scene has an EVENT • Every scene has a FUNCTION in the narrative • Every scene has a STRUCTURE: a beginning, middle, and end • Every scene has a PULSE The Scene Book is a fundamental guide to crafting more effective scenes in fiction. In clear, simple language, Sandra Scofield shows both the beginner and the seasoned writer how to build better scenes, the underpinning of any good narrative.

"The NFL Draft is where dreams are born and legends are made." Discover the secrets behind the NFL Draft with "The NFL Draft Playbook: Strategies, Stories, and Insights" - the ultimate guide for football fans and aspiring scouts alike! In this comprehensive resource, you'll delve deep into the world of scouting, player evaluation, and draft strategy to understand what it takes to build a championship team. In "The NFL Draft Playbook," you'll explore: The history of the NFL Draft and its impact on the league The pre-draft process, including the Scouting Combine and Pro Days Essential scouting techniques and how to evaluate player potential The intricacies of draft strategy, from trades to late-round steals The role of analytics and technology in modern scouting The art of drafting quarterbacks and the importance of finding a franchise signal-caller Building a roster through the draft and managing the salary cap The Rookie of the Year race and the impact of first-year players on the field The undrafted free agent market and how to find hidden gems From college standouts to future Hall of Famers, this book covers every aspect of the draft, providing you with the knowledge you need to become a true NFL Draft connoisseur. Whether you're a casual fan, a fantasy football enthusiast, or an aspiring scout, "The NFL Draft Playbook" is your ultimate guide to the most exciting event of the football offseason. Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your understanding of the game and gain a newfound appreciation for the strategic chess match that is the NFL Draft. Order your copy today and unlock the secrets behind the Draft! Contents: The History of the NFL Draft Origins and evolution Memorable draft moments The Draft Process Eligibility requirements Declaration and invitations Scouting and Evaluation College scouting Pro Days and the Combine NFL Scouting Combine Drills and tests Player interviews and medical evaluations Draft Strategies Best player available vs. drafting for need Trading picks and maneuvering the draft order Positional Draft Value Quarterbacks Running backs Wide receivers and tight ends Positional Draft Value (cont.) Offensive linemen Defensive linemen Linebackers Positional Draft Value (cont.) Cornerbacks and safeties Special teams players Analyzing College Statistics Production and efficiency Adjusting for level of competition Draft Busts and Success Stories Biggest draft busts in history Late-round gems and steals NFL Draft Rules and Regulations Draft order determination Compensatory picks Draft Day Experience The green room Fan events and festivities The War Room Draft preparations Decision-making on draft day Agents and Contracts Role of the agent Rookie contracts and negotiations Post-Draft Analysis Grading the draft Immediate impact and long-term potential Undrafted Free Agents Signing process Success stories Rookie Minicamps and Offseason Training Learning the playbook Acclimating to the NFL Impact on the Team Roster competition and position battles Developing chemistry with new teammates The Road to the Super Bowl The impact of draft success on team performance Building a championship roster The Evolution of Draft Coverage Early days of draft reporting The rise of television and internet coverage Mock Drafts and Draft Projections The art of predicting the draft Well-known draft analysts and experts International Players and the NFL Draft Scouting talent abroad Success stories and challenges