Part I. Gathering the elements -- The nature of the paranormal -- Elements and elementals -- The paranormal at large -- Seeking the paranormal -- The paradox of cliches -- Part II. Summoning the characters -- Supernatural characters -- Magic and the superhero -- Keeping it real -- Part III. Casting the words -- Thinking big and small: arc, plot, and subplot -- Fight scenes and flashbacks: how to handle paranormal pacing -- Language and dialogue -- Paranormal polish -- The real challenges -- Part IV. Banishing the book -- The reality -- Destruction and creation