*The first pages are the #1 key to acceptance or rejection of manuscripts--most agents and editors claim to make their decision on a manuscript after the very first page, which means that no writer can afford to have a weak story beginning
*The first and only fiction-writing book that focuses exclusively on beginnings--no other book on the market addresses story beginnings in a comprehensive manner
Agents and editors agree: Improper story beginnings are the single biggest barrier to publication. Why? If a novel or short story has a bad beginning, then no one will keep reading. It's just that simple. Hooked provides readers with a detailed understanding of what a beginning must include (setup, backstory, the inciting incident, etc.); instruction on how to successfully develop the story problem; tips on how to correct common beginning mistakes; exclusive insider advice from agents, acquiring book editors, and literary journal editors; and much more.
Customer Reviews
Average Customer Review
Great advice!, October 28, 2008
By
Angelia (New Jersey)
I always have a multitude of ideas, but I have yet to be good at knowing how to write that story effectively so that the readers and the editors are, well, "hooked". Like many aspiring writers, I have read many writing books. There are a ton of writing books out there that focus on tapping into your creativity, and while I love those books, too, this book is exactly what I was looking for. Les delves deep into the anatomy of a story, helping me immensely with putting my ideas on paper. Great book, and a good read!
A big help, July 26, 2008
By
armando lopezIt's not only for improving the beginning of ones story but also reveals structure. This is a top notch book.
Beginnings, July 24, 2008
By
Mr. David J. Enever (Sydney/Wollongong Australia)
This is a great little book. It's a small format and there was less to it than I expected. However, what there is, is great. The simple message, is hammered home - if you don't get the beginning right what chance the rest? The book is written with an easy, almost conversational, style but for me that's a plus. A final section in which editors and publishers give their views on what makes for a good beginning is instructional. If you're serious about your writing and want to be published (don't we all!) I would highly recommend this volume.
Fantastic Writing Resource, June 28, 2008
By
Kathleen Gunovick (Seattle, WA USA)
Even though I've only read the first 60 or so pages I really feel that this is one of the best books on writing in the market today. I'm well...hooked!
There are a lot of books out there on the writing craft, but none that explain the crucial difference between surface problems and story worthy problems in as much intricate detail as this one does.
I agree with the author that the writing classes of today are stuck way in the past, putting too much emphasis on description and characterization. Those are good things to learn, of course, but don't help you craft a novel that will occupy modern readers for a few hours of their time-- and compete with the kids crying, the dishes that need to be done, or the meeting you have to be at tomorrow.
This book has a witty style that makes it a joy to read.
Must Have, June 1, 2008
By
Amber Scott DayneI'm a junkie for writing books. From the library, from friends, I borrow, read and return. This one, though, will not leave my shelf. I covet it. Part of me doesn't want to recommend it to my fellow writers for the sole selfish hope that I will have an edge on them. But that's bad karma. The reason I love this book isn't just all the small epiphanies it helped me have as a writer, but also because it is just plain fun to read. Les Edgerton has a knack for making you feel like a confidante, a friend by the fire. You lean in and nod, listening, learning. It's a definite must have for any aspiring bestseller.
