Is it considered amateur to make up a town in a story you're writing?

Question

I've written a couple of stories, where I usually don't even state a city. I make it obvious that it's in the U.S, but that's it. But now, I realize I need to be more specific on a setting. I'm starting a new story that's a lot more serious, so I'd actually like to make it in a town, but I live in a small town myself, so I don't know how to put details about a town I've never been to. So would it be considered amateur, or "not-serious" to just make up a town?

Answer 1

No, actually a lot of authors do that.  Some will make-up a town but use characteristics of town that actually exists to the point where readers familiar with area will recognize it.  Personally I think it's better.  It frees you up a little so you don't have to get every little detail right.  That doesn't mean you can't draw inspiration from where you're at now.  

If you've ever seen the movie Big Mama's House the majority of the movie takes places in Cartersville, Ga.  Most people have never heard of it but I lived there for 13 years and when my sister and I watched the movie we laughed because what was on the screen wasn't even close to real life but it didn't take away from the story.  Don't know if that helps or even makes sense but I hope that it does on both counts.

Answer 2

no, authors make up towns all the time, even basing them on real ones.  its a good way to get creative w/ out boundries, or describe what you know w/out getting in trouble.

go for it! good luck!

Answer 3

No, why would it?

Making up a town I think would be harder and take more experience than providing acurate details of an already existing town.

Answer 4

no, authors do it all the time, but if all you know is a small town, i think you should make your fictional town a small town as well, that way you can make it as realistic as possible

Answer 5

Not at all. Alot of authors make there own town/community and always go back to the same town or community as the setting for every boo. I have always thought this was reaaly fascinating.