Three-Dimensional Novels

One of the ways you can make your novel stand out is to make it three-dimensional. The same principles can be applied to shorter written works, but you have better opportunities to do it within the length of a novel. The width dimension of a novel is enhanced by intertwining and layering plots. Instead of a single start-to-finish plot, use two or three main plots interwoven and coming together as each strand meshes with the others before the climax. Sub-plots add further layering and change-of-pace interests for the reader. The depth dimension of a novel concerns its message or messages. A good novel will convey a message or philosophy to the reader which must be consistent with the nature of the story. The length dimension of a novel is obviously its numbers of words and pages, but it should contain enough twists, turns, and character developments to give the reader the feeling that he or she has undergone an experience by its completion. Generally, the novel length should range from 75,000 to 100,000 words. Most readers won't tackle a work much longer than that unless the author is well-known and respected. If your novel has well-developed width, depth, and length, your reader is very likely to get immersed in it.