: Re: What constitutes a 'hook?' I intuit that hooks are things that hook. (I'm quite astute in this way.) They can be good prose, relatable characters, rich settings. Books must start with a 'hook.'

The hook is the way the author addresses the reality of the modern audience, which has innumerable demands on its attention, and unlimited alternate sources of entertainment. Once upon a time, it was possible to slow-build your narrative. Now, if you don't grab people immediately, you've lost them.

I would have to disagree with Amadeus that you'll always get three or four pages from a reader. I'll give chapters and chapters to an author I know and respect, but any book that wants to "cold call" me must grab me quickly. I'm sure I've made snap judgements about a book in less than a page, and I'm also sure I'm not alone.

So what makes a good hook? It's something that promises the readers the book will be worth their time. Depending on the reader this might be a striking concept, a memorable voice, stunning prose, an action-packed situation, or a relatable character. It's whatever makes your book compelling, the only difference is that you have to demonstrate it quickly.

Load Full (0)

: I'm writing a thesis/novel. What should I pay attention to on a possible research trip? For my BA degree, I am required to complete a thesis project in the field of fiction writing, and I

@Kevin153

Load Full 2 Comments

: Should I use the real name or attempt to describe? I'm writing a story in a fantasy setting, where there are characters who dress with ancient Egyptian type clothing - such as haram pant and

@Kevin153

Load Full 6 Comments

: Am I changing POVs if I'm describing what two or more characters are sensing (touch, smell, sound, etc.)? Am I changing POVs if I'm describing what two or more characters are sensing (touch,

@Kevin153

Load Full 1 Comments

: In general --and of course, this varies widely for actual individuals --my own personal sense is that women tend to be more aware of, interested in, and concerned about a wide and constantly

: Re: What constitutes a 'hook?' I intuit that hooks are things that hook. (I'm quite astute in this way.) They can be good prose, relatable characters, rich settings. Books must start with a 'hook.'

More posts by @Kevin153

: I'm writing a thesis/novel. What should I pay attention to on a possible research trip? For my BA degree, I am required to complete a thesis project in the field of fiction writing, and I

: Should I use the real name or attempt to describe? I'm writing a story in a fantasy setting, where there are characters who dress with ancient Egyptian type clothing - such as haram pant and

: Am I changing POVs if I'm describing what two or more characters are sensing (touch, smell, sound, etc.)? Am I changing POVs if I'm describing what two or more characters are sensing (touch,

: In general --and of course, this varies widely for actual individuals --my own personal sense is that women tend to be more aware of, interested in, and concerned about a wide and constantly

Login to post a comment!

0 Comments

Back to top