Learn how to write the first pages of your novel or memoir in a way that will immediately capture reader, agent, and editor attention.
These days, readers and agents often won’t read past a book’s first page if it’s not grabbing their attention. This means your first page is probably the most important page of your entire manuscript — no pressure or anything! In this workshop, you’ll learn the things a first page should do to get and keep reader attention. We’ll study examples from recent bestselling and award-winning novels in various genres, breaking down how and why these first pages work so well. In addition we’ll do writing exercises and give constructive feedback on student first pages. By the end of the workshop, you will have the tools to write fabulous first pages and feel confident that your manuscript is starting in the right place, and in the right way. Students should have at least a first chapter (if not more) of a novel/memoir and be prepared to share the first few pages for critique. No meeting: July 5.
In-person class: This workshop will take place at The Writer’s Center, 4508 Walsh St, Bethesda MD.
In this workshop you’ll learn:
- Why first pages are so important.
- The basic elements of a strong first page, based on the type of book you’re writing.
- How to tell if your book is starting in the right place.
- Examples and additional resources to help you write fabulous first pages.
Time requirements
- In preparation for Classes 2-4, you will need to read student work and prepare feedback for each submission. ~1-2 hours/week.
Materials
- All reading materials will be provided.
Who should take this workshop?
- This workshop is designed for intermediate and advanced writers working on a novel/memoir they hope to one day publish, either traditionally or through self or hybrid publishing.
If you need an accommodation for this workshop, please contact us at access@writer.org. We will attempt to fulfill all requests, but advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility services.
