THE POWER OF VERBS Without verbs, where would a story go? Nowhere. Characters, animals, and nature can't be or do anything without a verb. Characters can't laugh, animals can't attack, and trees can't sway in the breeze. Verbs provide excitement, drive the narrative and paint vivid pictures. Why say she looked, if she can gawk, spy, or examine? The familiar choice offers vague action, where the stronger selection gives action and expression. The right verb choice can show your reader the character's state of mind, mood, as well as physical characteristics. Inside this book, you'll find stronger choices listed in alphabetical order for everyday verbs such as enter, walk, ran, took, etc. This quick reference will help you use more descriptive choices to convey better images in the reader's mind.