This week on the Story Works Round Table, Alida and Kathryn sit down with Ben Hawken, author of the new novel “Chandelier.” Ben shares his remarkable journey from a career in marketing and speech writing to writing his debut book. Learn how he balanced life, work, and writing to achieve his creative dreams. Ben offers insights into story structure, the art of dialogue, and practical tips for aspiring writers. Whether you’re looking to start your own writing journey or curious about the creative process, this episode is packed with inspiration and advice. Tune in now to hear Ben’s story and get motivated to pursue your own creative passions!
AUDIO
VIDEO
Ben Hawken is the award-winning creator of several beloved video series and a small handful of children.
Previously, he was the author of zero other books and graduated with honors from a community college, as well as a real college.
He lives outside Seattle with his family.
SHOW NOTES
What we talked about:
The journey to becoming an author. (3:34)
How did Ben’s day job affect his turn into an author? (6:01)
The universal story structure. (8:40)
The story of Chandelier. (14:10)
Premise of Chandelier. (21:15)
How did Ben manage to do all this in one year? (26:50)
What sort of tools and strategies can we take from Ben’s journey? (32:20)
LINKS
Things We Mentioned:
Homer
Home Alone
Fievel Goes West
Keyboard Link
Have thoughts, questions, other examples? Join the conversation at the Story Works Writers Facebook group.
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About Your Hosts
Kathryn Arnold writes fantasy and anything else that sparks her creativity from her home in Kingston, Washington. She currently earns her living as an insurance underwriting assistant, where she also creates marketing and web copy. When not writing, she plays (and teaches) piano and keyboard in a band (or two), and is working on starting a ministry team with her husband. You can find Kathryn at www.skyfirewords.com.
Robert Scanlon was born in Australia, but whisked off to England when only a baby. After many years complaining about the weather, he did the sensible thing and moved back to Australia. Despite a career in the music industry, followed by decades teaching public speaking, Robert is an introvert who adores reading. Robert grew up on a diet of sci-fi masters, eventually discovering he had read the library’s entire science fiction section. Now he has to write his own. Robert is the author of Constellation, book one of the Blood Empire space opera series. Find out more at www.RobertScanlon.com