So, you're captivated by the world of How to Train Your Dragon and dreaming of crafting your own stories in that fantastical universe? That's fantastic! But where do you even begin? This guide offers beginner-friendly ideas to channel your inner Cressida Cowell and start your own dragon-riding adventure.
Understanding Cressida Cowell's Style
Before diving into your own creations, understanding what makes Cressida Cowell's writing unique is crucial. Her books aren't just about dragons; they're about:
- Humour: Cowell masterfully blends action and adventure with witty dialogue and hilarious situations. Think about incorporating unexpected humour into your own stories.
- Relatable Characters: Hiccup, Astrid, and the other Vikings are flawed and relatable, despite their extraordinary circumstances. Focus on creating characters with strengths and weaknesses.
- World-Building: The world of Berk and the surrounding islands is richly detailed. Pay attention to the environment, culture, and mythology of your own dragon world.
- Unique Dragon Designs: Cowell's dragons aren't just fire-breathing lizards; they're diverse creatures with unique personalities and abilities. Let your creativity run wild when designing your dragons!
Starter Ideas for Your Dragon Stories
Feeling inspired? Here are some entry points for your own How to Train Your Dragon inspired tales:
1. A New Dragon Breed:
Imagine a completely new dragon breed, unlike any seen in Cowell's books. What are its unique characteristics? Its habitat? Its abilities? Develop a short story around this new dragon and its interaction with a Viking.
2. A Forgotten Viking Legend:
Explore the hidden history of Berk. What forgotten legends or myths could you weave into your story? Perhaps a tale of a legendary dragon rider or a forgotten battle against a powerful dragon species.
3. A Dragon's Point of View:
Try writing a story from the perspective of a dragon. What are its thoughts and feelings? How does it perceive humans? This is a fantastic way to explore the dragon side of the story and develop unique perspectives.
4. A Different Island, Different Challenges:
Cowell's books focus on Berk, but what about other islands in the archipelago? What are their unique cultures and challenges? Create a story set on a new island, introducing new challenges for your dragon riders.
5. A Spin-Off Story:
Focus on a secondary character from the original books. Explore their backstory, their adventures, or their relationships with other characters. What are their unique struggles and triumphs?
Tips for Success:
- Start Small: Don't try to write a novel on your first attempt. Begin with a short story or a scene to develop your ideas.
- Read Widely: Read other fantasy books and explore different writing styles. This will help you refine your own.
- Research Dragons: Explore different mythological representations of dragons to inspire your own creations.
- Embrace Your Creativity: Don't be afraid to experiment and let your imagination soar!
By focusing on these starter ideas and embracing your creativity, you can begin your own journey into the world of dragon riding, just like Cressida Cowell. Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and let your passion for dragons guide you!
