MAD SCIENCE

Scientists find secret to writing

a best-selling novel!

Computer scientists have developed an algorithm which can predict with 84 per cent accuracy whether a book will be a commercial success -

 and the secret is to avoid cliches and excessive use of verbs

A technique called statistical stylometry,

which mathematically examines the use of words and grammar, was found to be “surprisingly effective”

in determining how popular a book would be.

The scientists grudgingly admit that external factors such as luck can also play a role.

There is also a thing called WRITABILITY:

There must be more than detailed world building, a great evil to fight, very high stakes, and memorable, flawed characters.

There used to be a history program on Sundays in the early days of TV:

YOU ARE THERE

It made history alive by putting a modern reporter at the seige of Troy or at the building of the pyramids or interviewing Christopher Columbus as he was sailing across the ocean that first time.

It is called IMMEDIACY -- as you read, the prose is so compelling that you are there with the main character, rooting her on.

What makes a novel great for you?

What was the last novel that swept you up into its magic world?