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How to Create a What If Story Series

Ever wondered what would happen if a pivotal moment in history took a different turn? What if the Roman Empire never fell? What if the dinosaurs hadn’t gone extinct? These questions are the fertile ground for speculative fiction, and more specifically, the “What If” story. Crafting a compelling “What If” story series allows you to explore alternative realities, delve into complex themes, and captivate readers with endless possibilities. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of creating your own engaging and thought-provoking series.

This article is designed to help you write speculative fiction, specifically the “What If” scenario. We’ll cover everything from brainstorming ideas to building believable alternate worlds and developing compelling characters that thrive (or struggle) in those worlds. Get ready to unleash your imagination and embark on a journey of creative exploration!

Understanding the “What If” Genre

The “What If” genre, a subgenre of speculative fiction, explores alternate histories and possibilities based on a single point of divergence (POD). This point is where reality as we know it takes a different path. These stories hinge on the consequences of that change, exploring how society, technology, politics, and even human nature might evolve differently.

Key Characteristics of a “What If” Story

• Point of Divergence (POD): The single event that alters the course of history. Example: What if Archduke Franz Ferdinand survived the assassination attempt?
• Plausibility: Even in alternate realities, stories must maintain internal consistency and logical consequences stemming from the POD.
• Exploration of Consequences: Focus on the ripple effects of the POD on various aspects of society and individual lives.
• Compelling Narrative: Engage the reader with interesting characters, conflicts, and a captivating storyline.
• Thought-Provoking Themes: Explore universal themes through the lens of an altered reality, prompting reflection on our own world.

Why Write a “What If” Series?

Writing a series allows for greater exploration and depth. A single novel might not be enough to fully explore the implications of a significant POD. A series lets you:

• Develop a rich and detailed alternate world: Show its evolution over time.
• Explore multiple perspectives: Examine how different characters and factions are affected by the altered reality.
• Address complex themes: Delve deeper into political, social, and ethical issues.
• Build a dedicated readership: Keep readers engaged and invested in your world and characters.
• Increased creative freedom: Explore different facets of your alternate history with each installment.

Brainstorming “What If” Ideas

The most crucial step is identifying a compelling “What If” scenario. A strong POD will spark numerous possibilities and provide ample material for a series.

Finding Your Point of Divergence

Consider these sources for inspiration:

• Historical Events: Explore pivotal moments in history where a different outcome could have drastically altered the world. Example: What if the South won the American Civil War?
• Scientific Discoveries: Imagine a world where a crucial scientific breakthrough happened earlier (or later) than in our timeline. Example: What if cold fusion was discovered in the 1950s?
• Technological Advancements: Explore the implications of advanced technology developing in a different historical context. Example: What if the internet was invented in the Victorian era?
• Political Decisions: Consider the consequences of different political choices made by key figures. Example: What if the United States never entered World War II?
• Social Movements: What if a social movement had achieved its goals sooner or failed entirely? Example: What if women gained the right to vote in the 18th century?

Evaluating Your Idea

Once you have a potential POD, ask yourself these questions:

• Is it original? While similar ideas might exist, strive for a fresh perspective or a unique angle.
• Is it plausible? Can you create a believable chain of events leading from the POD to the alternate reality?
• Is it engaging? Does the scenario spark your imagination and offer compelling storytelling potential?
• Is it sustainable for a series? Does the POD have enough far-reaching consequences to fuel multiple books?
• What are the immediate consequences? Brainstorm the short-term effects of your POD.
• What are the long-term consequences? Think about how the world will look decades, or even centuries, later.

Example Brainstorming Session: What If the Library of Alexandria Never Burned?

Let’s consider the “What If” scenario: What if the Library of Alexandria never burned down?

1. Immediate Consequences: Preservation of vast amounts of ancient knowledge, potentially accelerating scientific and technological progress.
2. Long-Term Consequences: A world significantly more advanced in certain fields, with a deeper understanding of history and philosophy. Possible ramifications include:
• Advanced medicine and sanitation leading to increased lifespans.
• Early development of technologies based on ancient blueprints.
• A world religion deeply influenced by philosophical texts lost in our timeline.
• Potentially stifled creativity due to an over-reliance on ancient knowledge.
3. Potential Story Arcs: Conflicts over access to and control of the Library’s knowledge. Discoveries of lost technologies. The impact of ancient philosophies on modern society.

Building Your Alternate World

Creating a believable and engaging alternate world is crucial for the success of your “What If” series. Focus on the details and ensure consistency.

Developing the Timeline

Construct a detailed timeline from the POD to the present day of your story. Outline key events, technological advancements, political shifts, and social changes. This timeline will serve as your world’s history and ensure consistency throughout the series.

Consider using a spreadsheet or mind-mapping software to organize your timeline. Include specific dates, key figures, and brief descriptions of significant events.

Worldbuilding Elements

Pay attention to these essential elements when crafting your alternate world:

• Politics and Governance: How are countries organized? What are the dominant ideologies? How does the POD affect international relations?
• Technology: What technologies have developed differently? Are there advancements we lack, or technologies that never emerged?
• Society and Culture: How has society evolved? What are the prevailing values, beliefs, and customs? How has the POD impacted social structures and norms?
• Economy: How does the altered history affect trade, industry, and economic systems? Are there new resources or economic powers?
• Geography: While the physical geography might remain largely unchanged, consider how political borders and resource distribution might differ. Climate change might also be accelerated or mitigated depending on the POD.
• Military: How has warfare evolved? What are the dominant military technologies and strategies? Are there new types of weapons or conflicts?

Show, Don’t Tell

Instead of simply stating facts about your alternate world, weave them into the narrative through character interactions, descriptions, and events. Example: Instead of saying “airships are the primary mode of transportation,” show a character commuting on a bustling airship route. This creates a more immersive and engaging experience for the reader.

Creating Compelling Characters

Even in the most fascinating alternate world, compelling characters are essential to drive the story. They are the lens through which readers experience the altered reality.

Characters Shaped by the Alternate World

Consider how the POD and the resulting alternate world have shaped your characters’ lives, beliefs, and motivations. Are they products of the new society, rebels against it, or caught somewhere in between?

• Backstories: Develop detailed backstories that reflect the character’s upbringing and experiences in the alternate world.
• Motivations: What are their goals and desires? How do these motivations align with or conflict with the world around them?
• Flaws: Give your characters flaws and weaknesses to make them relatable and believable.
• Relationships: How do their relationships with other characters reflect the social dynamics of the alternate world?

Character Arcs

Plan character arcs that span the entire series. How will your characters change and evolve as they navigate the challenges and opportunities of the alternate world? Consider these arc types:

• Redemption Arc: A character overcomes their flaws and makes amends for past mistakes.
• Fall from Grace Arc: A character experiences a decline in status or morality.
• Discovery Arc: A character uncovers hidden truths about themselves or the world around them.
• Empowerment Arc: A character gains strength and overcomes adversity to achieve their goals.

Plotting Your “What If” Series

A well-structured plot is essential for keeping readers engaged throughout your series. Plan the overall arc and individual storylines for each book.

The Overall Series Arc

Determine the overarching conflict or theme that will drive the entire series. This could be a global conflict, a social revolution, or a quest for knowledge.

Consider using a story bible to track key plot points, character arcs, and worldbuilding details across the entire series. This will help maintain consistency and prevent plot holes.

Individual Book Plots

Each book in the series should have its own self-contained plot with a clear beginning, middle, and end. However, it should also contribute to the overall series arc.

• Introduce a new conflict or challenge.
• Develop existing characters and introduce new ones.
• Reveal new aspects of the alternate world.
• Leave the reader wanting more at the end of each book.

Pacing and Structure

Vary the pacing of your story to keep readers engaged. Alternate between action-packed scenes, character-driven moments, and worldbuilding exposition.

Consider using a classic story structure like the three-act structure or the hero’s journey to guide your plotting.

Tips for Writing Speculative Fiction

Beyond the specific elements of “What If” stories, here are some general tips for write speculative fiction:

• Research: Thorough research is crucial for creating a believable and engaging alternate world. Study history, science, and technology relevant to your POD.
• Consistency: Maintain internal consistency within your world. Establish rules and adhere to them.
• Show, Don’t Tell: Immerse the reader in your world through vivid descriptions, character interactions, and compelling events.
• Explore Themes: Use your alternate world to explore universal themes such as power, freedom, morality, and the human condition.
• Originality: Strive for originality in your ideas and execution. Offer a fresh perspective on familiar tropes and themes.
• Revision: Revise your work thoroughly. Seek feedback from beta readers and editors.

Remember that write speculative fiction is a journey. Enjoy the process and let your imagination soar.

Conclusion

Creating a “What If” story series is a challenging but rewarding endeavor. By carefully considering your point of divergence, building a believable alternate world, developing compelling characters, and crafting a well-structured plot, you can create a series that will captivate readers and leave them pondering the possibilities. Embrace the power of speculative fiction to explore alternate realities and delve into the profound questions that shape our understanding of the world.

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