Flora and Fauna in a fantasy - How much is too...

This year I think I'm doing a fantasy. (I have two novels - one a fantasy, one a suspense that are hounding me to be written.) This would be my first fantasy with my comfort zone being the mystery genre.

I have a plotline here - it's still pretty loose, and I'm in the early phases of world building. My questions is how much is too much for one novel when it comes to flora and fauna?

I was discussing my plot vaguely with a friend two days ago and listed the creature count that I currently have. He replied that he'd be surprised if I could pull it off.

My current count:

One plant
One insect species
Eight creatures with all but three needed

The plot requires that five of these creatures be in the plot. The other three were there just to establish setting in a passerby sort of manner. Some of these creatures we will only see once or twice, some more. Plus there's always the possibility of new species nosing their way into the plot.

So, how much is too much? Also, if there's any tips or resources you have for a first timer I'd be oh, so grateful! Thanks in advance! (I have the Orsen Scott Card Sci Fi and Fantasy writing book as well as the Fantasy Writer's Companion and a host of sites here to aid me in world building and creature work.)

Comments: 12

A. F. Stewart Aug 9, 2008, 2:10pm EDT

My advice, don't worry too much about it at this stage. You will most likely add quite a few things that are not necessary, flora and fauna included, in the first draft of your novel. You will be doing extensive edits and can remove and rewrite anything that seems out of place.

That said, just make sure the descriptive passages suggest an atmosphere, without distracting from the main story. Remember you only need to create the illusion of a full and vibrant world; you don't need a to give the reader a guided tour.

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René Allen Aug 9, 2008, 2:20pm EDT

How interesting Jen ~ I'm curious to know more about the flora and fauna . . . can you explain that please to everyone here. I may be the only one out of sync on this, but I have a desire to KNOW ~ {smiles} . . .

This is going to be in our NEXT EDITION of JAVA BEAN NEWS! . . .

Your Friend,
Rene
Artistic Minds®

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Steph-in-NE ..... Aug 9, 2008, 3:17pm EDT

write just write,, go with the floo

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flit . Aug 9, 2008, 4:00pm EDT

I think Steph-in-NE's advice is very good.... get writing!

You'll know when you need more or less whatever...

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Amanda "middle of nowhere" C. Aug 9, 2008, 8:17pm EDT

Start with the ones you absolutely need and add the extras later.

Of course, remember I've never read a fantasy.

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Holli G. Aug 9, 2008, 8:20pm EDT

Good luck!

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Elaine S. Aug 9, 2008, 9:36pm EDT

Good Luck

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necee t. Aug 10, 2008, 10:04pm EDT

good luck...

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Linda G. Aug 11, 2008, 3:26pm EDT

Never count, just tell your story. That is sage advice I once recieved from an editor and I have used is successfully over the years.

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Cyndie G. Aug 11, 2008, 6:48pm EDT

Write, write, write. As you turn the pages out, your world will take shape. Your characters and plot will unfold. After you have finished, THEN go back and edit. Some of the first chapters may not flow as well as the last chapters. You will notice it. If you continue to edit as you write, the project may be a forever work in process. Let your imagination soar. Originality and freshness are much needed in the fantasy market. Good for you!!!!

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