Most are familiar with the classic ice breaker, “What’s your sign?” Typically in reference to sun signs, it can be used to present an archetypal structure for the person being asked, giving the inquirer a general idea of who this new person might be. Libras are known for balance, a sense of justice, and relationship building. Capricorns focus their energy on social climbing and career success. Pisceans, like me, are considered natural mystics and are closely linked to spirituality.

For the average person, this can either be a point of interest and guidance along a journey toward self-discovery or an eye-roll inducing topic centering on escapism and frivolity. For a writer, however, the concepts presented by astrology could be a narrative developing goldmine.

In the inaugural Reading on Writing book of the month, Astrology for Writers by Corinne Kenner, writers are introduced to the world of astrology and shown how to use the drama of the night sky to develop captivating characters and spellbinding settings. Part beginner astrology guide, part writer handbook, this month’s pick provides a wealth of unconventional knowledge for writers at any stage of expertise looking for a new way to develop their art.

Why I Liked It:

As a screenwriter, I am always looking for new ways to develop my craft. I have turned to astrology on more than one occasion for inspiration on a new script, seeking character guidance using the signs of the Zodiac. Kenner’s approach to character development via the use of the planets was an angle I hadn’t considered previously, and it was fascinating to read her breakdowns.

I also enjoyed the sections where she gave introductory lessons to the less rudimentary areas of astrology, including charts and pictures to help guide readers through deciphering ptolemaic* aspects and horoscope charts. It was refreshing to have these concepts explained without making the reader feel like they need to be a mild expert. It served to reiterate her prior assurance that the reader doesn’t need to know a thing about astrology to use the book as a guide.

Her section, “The Houses of the Horoscope,” put a fresh spin on locale and setting creation, presenting intricate opportunities for character development through the use of space to depict underlying detail. This section arguably had the most unconventional principals to pull inspiration from, inciting the writer to consider every possible angle to project a fully formed hero in their narrative.

Constructive Criticism:

Though the book promises to cover all aspects of story creation, ranging from character development to story and scene structure, most of the astrological resources provided focus on character creation.

One of the main points of interest for me was Kenner’s claim that the Zodiac cycle could be used as a guide for story structure. In the past, I have used the signs of the Zodiac to create three-dimensional characters, but I had never considered using the cycle of the sun through the signs as a story guide. I was skeptical and I was interested to see how she would approach it.

Though she did spend a short chapter on the parallels between the Hero’s Journey and the signs of the Zodiac, I felt as if the concepts were glossed over to create space for more sections on character development. It was a major bummer.

Famous Last Words:

Overall, I found Kenner’s work to be both insightful and fun to read. Moving forward, I can see myself referencing this guide whenever my characters begin to feel bored or paper-thin. For those looking for an extensive character creation guide, this book might be what you’re looking for, for those seeking structure guidance, move on.

*Ptolemaic- relating to the philosophies of Hellenistic mathematician, astronomer, and geographer, Claudius Ptolemy.

For more work from this author: Llewellyn Publishing

To create a Horoscope Chart for your character: Co-Star Astrology

Mercedes K. Milner is a Co-Founder and Administrator of the Write or Die Chicks and the Writer’s Group Coordinator. She is a staff writer for the WODC Blog and she heads the Reading on Writing column.