Is my novel worth telling?
Asked by Chuck Knueve on May 4, 2023
I have completed a rough draft of my novel. I have previously mentioned that it is about my son’s lengthy experience to get a diagnosis of Cushing’s disease. The story is told from my son’s POV. When I reviewed what had been written on this topic, I found that most stories give the doctor’s viewpoint. I want to tell this story from the patient’s perspective. Hopefully, all parties, doctors, patients, and advocates, can improve their response to an earlier diagnosis. An earlier diagnosis is my primary objective for future patients. I do not want to chastise anyone. I only want to show what happened and excite a response that will achieve an earlier diagnosis. For me, this is a story that needs to be told. But would others agree? What are your thoughts?
Writing it as a novel based on a true story seemed to accomplish my goals. Any suggestions?
Jerry's Answer
Chuck, as you know, a novel is fiction. This story is not fiction. Tell it as a true story. But it must not simply be about something. It must be for the purpose of something, and that purpose must involve the reader. Resist the temptation to make application for the reader. A good true story well-told will make the application plain on its own, and if the shoe fits, the reader will wear it.
Think reader first. Change names to protect identities if you must, but I think telling as nonfiction is the way to go.