This series has been great. Thanks. For many of the ideas you described, if they were made into movies, they would appeal to me as a viewer. However, not many of them appeal to me as things I would want to write--perhaps because they don't seem to have themes or characters that resonate with me. Is it that I'm too particular and should pursue any viable story concept? Alternatively, how does use news stories to generate concepts that will resonate more with an individual writer?

boobkworm, you raise a really important point and this is a writer MUST resonate / connect with a story concept or DON'T write it! As to how to generate story concepts which are more aligned with your personal interests, I would think some of that would come naturally. News items which spark to your attention would more likely catch your attention in the first place if something about them connected with you. Another thing: Why shape the material in such a way that it DOES resonate with you? Do some self-reflection and determine what types of stories you like, narrative elements you find yourself pulled toward. Then take a news item and see if you imbue it with those elements so the story makes a connection with you. Hope that helps!

Yes, that does help. Thank you!