May 16, 2025 – M.C.V. EGAN ❧Defining Ways❧

by Margie Pignataro

Genre: Nonfiction Literary Theory, Writer’s Guide

A FREE ebook that introduces neurodiverse writers (and neurotypical) to plot structures beyond the commonly used hero’s Journey. These plots are emotionally accessible, highly creative, and more “traditional” than you’d expect.

Nontraditional Plot Structures for Neurodiverse Writers

by Margie Pignataro

Genre: Nonfiction Literary Theory, Writer’s Guide

Born from a rejected dissertation proposal and reworked over the course of 15 years into a compelling exploration of narrative, Nontraditional Plot Structures for Neurodiverse Writers challenges conventional storytelling norms. This free ebook delves into how nontraditional plot structures resonate with neurodiverse writers, offering creative frameworks that align with their artistic and intellectual strengths—traits often mislabeled as obstacles.

Through engaging diagrams and dozens of links to free resources, this book examines storytelling across diverse mediums, from Oedipus the King to Squid Game, spanning novels, poetry, visual arts, television, film, theater, and even commercials. The Mona Lisa and Little Red Riding Hood provide illustrated and textual examples of each plot structure. Whether you’re a writer seeking fresh approaches or an artist questioning traditional narratives, this guide provides valuable insights into storytelling beyond the expected.

This ebook lays the groundwork for a forthcoming second edition, arriving next year, which will expand upon these ideas with deeper textual analyses, practical exercises, and hands-on guidance to help you craft your own unique narratives.

**Get it completely FREE!!**

at SeizeTheCow.com or HERE

I have been writing with serious intent for thirty years. I’ve been published and produced multiple times. My education has focused on literary theory, theater history and criticism, as well as creative writing. I also sell my collage art in a Redbubble store.

I have been published as a playwright. I had articles about Shakespeare published, as well as blog pieces. I’ve self-published several novels and one book of poetry under the name Lady Ristretto. I have also worked as a freelance erotica writer with individual clients.

Website * Threads * Instagram * Bluesky * Amazon

Follow the tour HERE for special content and Enter to win a

$10 Amazon giftcard

ebook duo of Building Your Play & Ladders to Fire

– 1 winner each!

Building Your Play: Theory and Practice for the Beginning Playwright, David Rush.

https://a.co/d/hKSYXJb

Written by my late, great playwriting professor, this is essential reading for anyone who wants to write traditional fiction. Everything in this book I covered in two of my graduate seminars with David. Learn the rules of traditional writing so you can learn how to break them.

Ladders to Fire, Anaïs Nin

https://a.co/d/8aFN4vK

Anaïs Nin wrote novels which are pure nontraditional texts, to the point that they are difficult to consume for readers expecting conventional actions. Lacking goals, climaxes, and any kind of a Journey plot, her novels are psychological analyses of women characters and their relationships. In my ebook, I explore an excerpt of Ladders to Fire as having a Portrait plot structure.

David would loathe Nin’s work and Nin would chide David for his rigid devotion to structures. Reading them together gives a fantastic view of the differences of traditional and nontraditional writing.

a Rafflecopter giveaway