Linda Seger

Linda Seger is an American script consultant and author known for developing the profession of script consulting in 1981. She holds a doctorate in dramatic theory and criticism from the University of Denver and has written multiple influential books on screenwriting. Her most recognized work is "Making a Good Script Great," first published in 1987, which has become a standard text in screenwriting education. The book introduces her systematic approach to script analysis and development, including her "Step Outline" method that breaks down screenplay structure. Seger has consulted on over 2,000 scripts and presented lectures and seminars in over 30 countries. Her other significant works include "Creating Unforgettable Characters" and "The Art of Adaptation: Turning Fact and Fiction into Film," which are frequently used in film schools and writing programs. Beyond screenwriting, Seger has written about religion and spirituality in film, including "Jesus Rode a Donkey" and "Spiritual Steps on the Road to Success." She continues to work as a script consultant and has influenced many contemporary screenwriters and film industry professionals through her methodologies and teachings.

Readers consistently praise Seger's clear, practical approach to screenwriting instruction. On Amazon and Goodreads, "Making a Good Script Great" maintains 4.5/5 stars across hundreds of reviews. Readers highlight her step-by-step methods and concrete examples. What readers liked: - Detailed breakdown of script analysis techniques - Practical exercises and checklists - Clear explanations of complex concepts - Focus on revision and development process What readers disliked: - Some find her methods too formulaic - Examples can feel dated - Repetition between her different books - Basic concepts may be too elementary for experienced writers Review metrics: Goodreads: "Making a Good Script Great" - 4.16/5 (2,100+ ratings) "Creating Unforgettable Characters" - 4.08/5 (850+ ratings) Amazon: "Making a Good Script Great" - 4.5/5 (400+ reviews) "The Art of Adaptation" - 4.4/5 (90+ reviews) Reader quote: "Seger breaks down the craft into digestible, actionable steps without oversimplifying the creative process." - Amazon reviewer

Making a Good Script Great - A guide to screenplay revision focusing on layering, character development, and story structure.

Creating Unforgettable Characters - A systematic approach to developing complex characters for film and television.

From Script to Screen - An examination of how successful screenplays are transformed into finished films.

Making a Good Writer Great - A collection of exercises and techniques for developing writing skills and creativity.

Web Thinking - An analysis of how successful organizations use connected, non-linear thinking to solve problems.

Advanced Screenwriting - A detailed exploration of advanced storytelling techniques for experienced screenwriters.

The Art of Adaptation - A guide to transforming novels, plays, and other source material into screenplays.

When Women Call the Shots - An examination of women's leadership roles in the entertainment industry.

Spiritual Steps on the Road to Success - An exploration of the relationship between spirituality and professional achievement.

Jesus Rode a Donkey - An analysis of the relationship between Christianity and progressive political values.

You Talkin' to Me? - A guide to writing effective dialogue for film and television.

And the Best Screenplay Goes to... - An analysis of Oscar-winning screenplays and their common elements.

Robert McKee writes about story structure and screenwriting principles, with detailed analysis of film examples. His book "Story" covers character development, plot mechanics, and dramatic techniques similar to Seger's teaching approach.

Syd Field developed the three-act structure paradigm for screenwriting that influenced script analysis. His books examine screenplay formatting and scene construction with a focus on commercial filmmaking practices.

John Truby breaks down story elements through a 22-step method covering plot, character, and theme. His approach centers on organic story development and the interconnection between plot points and character growth.

Christopher Vogler applies Joseph Campbell's hero's journey to modern storytelling and screenwriting. His work examines mythic structure and character archetypes in films and narratives.

William Goldman combines screenwriting instruction with insider accounts of the film industry based on his experiences as a professional screenwriter. His books blend practical writing advice with case studies from his career writing successful Hollywood films.