1. Subplots

2. A subplot’s job is to make a novel seem complex to the reader

3. A good subplot fleshes out a story (makes it fuller) in a number of ways…

4. In plot-driven stories, a subplot often shows the theme because the main character may be too busy with action in the “A” story to get into big life problems

5. In character-driven stories, a subplot may carry the action in the story

6. Subplots are all about contrast –not recycling the events of plot “A”

7. - The main plot line is often referred to as the “A” story.
- The “B” story is the secondary plot or subplot.
- There can also be a “C” story, or tertiary subplot.
Any more distracts readers from the “A” plotline and confuses the story.

8. Each subplot is structured as a complete story
Each subplot is structured as a complete story. Wherever a subplot comes from, it is structured like the main plot with a beginning, middle, and end.

9. A subplot’s scenes can occur anywhere in a story

10. - Subplots are not independently of each other or the main plot, each subplot connects to the “A” story and weaves in and out of it. - Good subplots are so important to the story, that to take them out of the main plot wouldn’t be the same

11. As interconnected as subplots are with the main plot, their impact is not felt until the end….

12. The Hunger Games Katniss and Peeta

13. Harry Potter
Harry and Ginny
Hermione and Ron

14. The Lightning Thief Percy and Annabeth