[Grammar] 'Is' and replacements

[Unregistered]

I have a hard time finding substitute words for 'is'. Are there any tricks or common words that easily replace? Here is an example of my sentence:

Absorbed with the connotation of potential wealth, Walter Lee Younger is driven to invest in a liquor store, even against Mama’s wishes.

 

[Barb_D]

If you want to write in the passive, as you have here, you'll have to use forms of "to be."

You can write the entire sentence. The idea of wealth drives him to...