Writing for the Soul of the World with the Universal Grammar of Story®
The Universal Grammar of Story: An Author’s Guide to Writing for the Soul of the World is one of the best books on the subject of writing, storytelling, and storytelling structure in recent memory. Yet this is much more than about story and writing. It is also about Denhart’s lifelong adoration of the written word, regardless of genre, and its multifaceted powers of transformation and communication….[as it] explores the writer’s audience, story structures hardwired into the collective unconscious since time immemorial, and how writers fill their work with mythic power. ~Reprospace Reviews, Seattle
A philosophical and technical wonder. Breathtaking in its density and scope, the Universal Grammar of Story is more than simply a how to book for writers. In language both poetic and concise, Hazel Denhart unpeels the beauty of the writing process with a deft skill that is the testament to her 30 years of teaching experience, both domestically and internationally. It’s a classic in the making. Buy two, and give one away to your favorite writer. Ten stars.
~Rev. Sarita Brown Smedley, Heythrop College, University of London
An amazing book, not just for writers also for readers. This is not your typical how-to-write guide. Now I understand why I love some books while others though best-sellers left me unmoved. I am eager to dust off my unfinished pieces, inspired by a new perspective and a new set of tools. –Brigitte Goetze, Author
After reading this book no writer will ever be the same. Thank heaven. Roy Kaut, editor.
This is a wise book which deals with a densely populated field. ‘The Universal Grammar of Story’ is a truly worthy insight into the storytelling craft and the wisdom at its heart worth the price of admission alone. If you enjoy anything related to the formation and/or thought of story, this book is a must have! Rob, Goodreads.
The Universal Grammar of Story is an enlightened method of storytelling that integrates structure with mystery, ignites the intellect, and opens our minds to the audacity of intuitive encounter. –Brian Jaeger, Inside Works, Seattle
A smart, erudite, and accessible philosophy of storytelling, packed with clear examples, that integrates several different theories but goes somewhere new with Dr. Denhart’s experience, wit and wisdom. This text is a bracing reminder of why we need stories as individuals and as a culture. –Thomas Andes, New Orleans Writers Workshop
Never has more deep thought, research, experience and passion been so beautifully integrated into a step-by-step guide to the anatomy of a story. –Nani Lawrence author of Living in a State of Grace
Beautifully written and extensively researched. The author successfully integrates her personal experiences and vast knowledge of various disciplines into a fascinating philosophy of story writing. –Kelly Rushing, New Orleans
Hazel Denhart opens your eyes to an entirely new way of viewing writing and shows you the common world of every great piece of writing or film that you’ve ever come across. –Karen Gatens
Deep, poetic and daring. I have gained many epiphanies and renewed excitement to begin writing again, now through a more sacred lens. ~Akiala I, author of 100 Things