Books Quote by Sara Zarr
“When the reader and one narrator know something the other narrator does not, the opportunities for suspense and plot development and the shifting of reader sympathies get really interesting.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Secret History of the World by Mark Booth, 2015
Narrative tension arises when characters have unequal knowledge, creating suspense and shifting reader loyalty.
In simple terms: Unequal knowledge creates suspense and changes sympathy.
Key Takeaway
Use asymmetry to deepen plot.
Themes
suspense
plot
character
sympathy
knowledge
Mood
intriguing
thoughtful
Type
analytical
educational
When to use this quote
- mystery novels
- thrillers
- screenplays
- interactive fiction
- role‑playing games
Key Concepts
dramatic irony
narrative structure
reader response
Questions to Reflect On
- How does hidden information affect your engagement?
- What can reveal secrets without spoiling tension?
A Different Perspective
If all characters know everything, suspense disappears.
