How to get your first page just right.

The first page of your book or story has to get it right. John Gardner, the great writing teacher, said it takes only five words of a really well-written novel to plunge the reader into the fictional world. I absolutely agree with him. Your readers will know from the first line whether they’re in good hands or not. Agents and editors will know that quickly, too. Most writers realize the importance of a strong opening. That’s why I see so many writers posting “first lines” and “first pages” in various online writing groups, hoping for feedback. And I’m here to tell you that very few are on the right track. I see tons of description, plenty of overwrought emotion, streams of words, words, and more words. You know what I don’t see? The beginning of a story. Today I want to talk about first pages. What should we put on them? What should we leave out? ➡️ And what is it about a well-done opening that gives a reader (or an agent, or an editor) that near-instant rush of engagement that says, yes! This writer knows what she’s doing. We are in good hands. That’s our topic today. Join me live on YouTube at 1 PM Pacific to participate and ask questions. ---- Did you hear? The Path of the Storyteller program is welcoming new students right now! If you’re ready to hop in to the training, community, and mentorship you’ve heard so much about, now is the perfect time. Click here to learn more: https://www.pathofthestoryteller.com