Can I have a story inside a story (read description)?

Question

A girl, the main character, is told to read a book, which she does. It tells the backstory of the main villain, which his name is also the title of the book. The part about it being a backstory is unknown at the time, she thinks that it was just an ordinary storybook. I plan that it will begin on a new chapter. So the final sentence of he last chapter will be something like, "she picked up the book and read it". The story won't be too long, maybe 2-3 chapters. After the backstory part is finished, the story will continue from where it left off.
The backstory itself is a sad story and it is vital for the girl to know the main villain, his capabilities, his actions and why he acted like that (or else he might kill her easily).

Has this been done before, and can I do it? Or it will be too distracting for the audience, having a story in a story?

Insert Name Here · Accepted Answer

Of course.

For example, in A Song of Ice and Fire, the story is already heavy as it is without the help of the history of Westeros and the main events that happened in the past. The author uses side stories to unfold the rich history of the kingdom and other neighboring countries. For instance, the Year of the False Spring is told by Jojen to Bran while they were journeying through the forest, to pass the time.

Another example is how Voldemort's past is revealed through visiting memories of people involved. The history of Hogwarts is also revealed by Hermione through reading Hogwarts, A History. The story of the Hallows is revealed (again by Hermione) through reading the Tale of Beedle the Bard.

I'm pretty sure this happens in a lot of books.

Good luck.

John · Answer

I don't know if it has been done already but if it matters that much for the development of your character then yes, you should. 3 chapters is a reasonable length, 4 would be if you want the reader to get into the 2nd story too. If it were me, I would tell it like a long short story. 1st chapter would be about getting to know the characters and the world, 2nd chapter would be about understanding more about the situation and conflict or conflicts, 3rd chapter would be about how the villain handles the conflicts and how the romance (if there is any) is introduced and how it affects his life. 4th would lead to the conclusion and wraps up any unsolved conflicts.

Sunayna · Answer

You probably can. Just make sure it doesn't take over your actual story, or else the readers could lose track. Has it been done before? I think in 1001 Arabian Nights.

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Can I have a story inside a story (read description)?

3 Answers