Basics

Question 1

What is backstory and why is it important?

Answer 1

Backstory is everything that happened prior to page one.
It is important because it shapes who your characters are today and how they will react to things

Question 2

What’s the problem with backstory?

Answer 2

1. Backstory kills suspense, especially if introduced too early. Unanswered questions are a good thing.
2. Backstory isn’t story - readers want to find out what happens in the present
3. Backstory slows down pacing