We writers think our readers have more patience than they do. When most readers first peruse your book in the bookstore or glance at your story, they don’t read further than the first paragraph or two before deciding if they want to continue reading. And as a publisher, I can tell you that if you give me a great opening paragraph or two, you have hooked me into reading further and giving you a chance to win me over.

Obviously, what applies to the first paragraph has relevance to every paragraph, particularly the first paragraph of each chapter of a longer work. But a close analysis of that first introduction to your story world will suggest–and set a standard for–the paragraphs to follow.

In this seminar, we will look at 20 first paragraphs that have zing and examine the strategies that produced the energy that draws readers into the stories that follow, then look at our own first paragraphs and make them dynamic.

Please note: This class or event is hybrid. Some attendees will be in-person and some will attend online. There may be a limited number of in-person seats available. If you are participating online (using Zoom or a similar live platform), students or attendees should have a stable internet connection. Class participants: you should have a computer or device with a webcam and microphone; and your Zoom link will be automatically sent to you after you register. Check your spam box if you don't see it.