Write a first page that grabs the attention of readers and agents!
These days, readers and agents often won’t read past the first page of a book if it’s not grabbing their attention. This means your first page is the most important page of your entire manuscript — no pressure or anything!
In this workshop, we will look at four things a first page should do to get and keep reader attention. We will study examples from recent bestselling and award-winning novels in various genres, breaking down how and why these first pages work so well. We will then give constructive feedback to student first pages. By the end of the workshop, students will have the tools to write fabulous first pages and feel confident that their manuscript grabs a reader’s attention from the very beginning. Students should have at least a first chapter (if not more) of a manuscript or work-in-progress and be prepared to share the first few pages for critique.
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.
- Examine the four elements of a strong first page.
- Learn how to tell if your book is starting in the right place.
- Study examples and find additional resources to help you write fabulous first pages.
Time requirements
- In preparation for Sessions 2 and 3, you will need to read student pages and prepare feedback for each submission. Approximately 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.
