In his groundbreaking book, Into the Woods, John Yorke takes readers on a captivating journey through the heart of storytelling. Rather than simply replicating the teachings of notable figures like Aristotle or Robert McKee, Yorke builds on their insights to deliver a unique historical, philosophical, scientific, and psychological exploration of narrative structure. This five-act structure serves as the backbone of dramatic storytelling, contrasting with the more common three-act approach.
Yorke argues that every story follows a unifying shape, much like the age-old fairytale narrative that leads protagonists into the woods. With a compelling blend of examples, from the tension of The Godfather to the intricacies of True Detective, and from the depth of Shakespeare’s plays to modern television dramas like Mad Men and The Killing, he illustrates the timeless nature of the five-act journey.
This book is destined to be a key text for writers and anyone interested in narrative art. It joins the ranks of classic guides such as David Mamet's Three Uses of the Knife and Syd Field's Screenplay, as one of the most inspiring resources for those who seek to understand the essence of storytelling. Yorke's take is not just instructional; it's also a celebration of the craft that will ignite the passion for storytelling in every reader.
Praise for Into the Woods:
“Love storytelling? You need this inspiring book. John Yorke dissects the structure of stories with a joyous enthusiasm allied to precise, encyclopedic knowledge.” —Chris Chibnall, creator/writer, Broadchurch
“Outrageously good and by far and away the best book of its kind I've ever read.” —Neil Cross, creator/writer, Luther
“Part 'how-to' manual, part 'why-to' celebration, Into the Woods is a wide-reaching and infectiously passionate exploration of storytelling.” —Emma Frost, screenwriter, The White Queen
