Diving into Save the Cat – Chapter 7: Superheroes in Literature

In this episode of the Writer’s Retreat skill session for January 2026, the participants delve into Chapter 7 of Jessica Brody’s ‘Save the Cat Writes a Novel.’ The session covers the ‘Superhero’ genre, highlighting elements necessary for crafting a superhero story, including a hero with special powers, a nemesis, and a curse. The discussion includes a detailed beat analysis of ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,’ showcasing how it fits the superhero framework. The participants also touch upon other aspects, such as examples from different genres and a critique on the ideological and structural approaches of the book. A long tangent reveals critiques and comparison with the movie ‘What Women Want,’ underscoring themes of gender norms and narrative structure.