Scriptnotes
A Book About Screenwriting and Things That Are Interesting to Screenwriters
by John August
The Ultimate Guide to Writing a Great Screenplay and Building a Screenwriting Career. From the creators of the hit podcast Scriptnotes comes the definitive resource for aspiring screenwriters. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about crafting compelling scripts and launching your career in film and television.
About This Book
John August and Craig Mazin have decades of Hollywood experience. They know what it takes to write a successful script for the screen. Over the past twelve years, they've analyzed generation-defining movies on their popular podcast Scriptnotes. They've shared their wisdom and invited craft experts to discuss everything that makes a script shine. Now, in their first book, August and Mazin help readers begin, refine, and sell their own scripts. They draw on more than a thousand hours of Scriptnotes conversations and their own storied careers. This book is part writing class, part informational interview with the best creators in the business. This essential resource shares tips on: The Basics—including the rules of screenwriting and when to break them The Craft—including how to create compelling stories with captivating protagonists, worthy antagonists, and sound structure The Business—including how to pitch a script and the do's and don'ts of working collaboratively on projects This one-of-a-kind resource is perfect for screenwriters, film buffs, and anyone who enjoys analyzing iconic movies like Die Hard. It provides exclusive access to the screenwriting process and will inspire anyone ready to pen their own successful screenplay.
About the Author
John August
John August writes fun books for kids, like the Arlo Finch stories. He and his friend Craig Mazin made a book in 2025 called Scriptnotes: A Book about Screenwriting. It comes from their super popular podcast. John wrote movies you might know: Big Fish Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Frankenweenie Corpse Bride Aladdin (the 2019 one) and both Charlie’s Angels movies. In 2014, he made a cool tool called Writer Emergency Pack. It helps people write stories. Teachers use it in thousands of classrooms! It started on Kickstarter (where lots of people gave money to make it real) and now you can buy it on Amazon. John grew up in Boulder, Colorado. He is an Eagle Scout, so he knows how to tie any knot. He can show you!