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15 June 2026

Posted by A Flynn

Engaging your Reader from the Very First Line

Summer 2026: Engaging your Reader from the Very First Line

In today's session we read examples of first lines of texts to see what elements hooked us in, what information was given and what questions were raised. You could try this now: pick few books from a book shelf and see what the opening lines are and how they function – how do they draw you in? What information do they give you in relation to setting (time and location), character, story genre or narrative voice?

Next, we used an exercise from 'Opening Lines that begin in the middle' in What If? Writing Exercises for Fiction Writers by Anne Bernays and Pamela Painter (pp 3 - 6) to practice writing a beginning that starts ‘in media res’ in mid-action, rather than rambling into the start of a story. We set a timer for 5 minutes and wrote 5 opening lines for imaginary stories. We then shared our favourite opening line and heard feedback on the effect it had on the group. Perhaps you could share some opening lines with people and see what impact your words have on the listener.

Next, we explored expanding on our favourite opening line, turning into a first paragraph. We experimented to see how we could take the action forward. We also asked: what other information do we want to reveal at this early stage? What might not be necessary to include now, but suitable to include later? Read your paragraph out loud to someone and see what questions and reflections they have.

You might then continue developing your piece in to a full first chapter. What other elements or characters will you introduce to the reader? What questions are raised? How might you end the last paragraph of your first chapter, in such a way that you reader feels compelled to read on? You might also flick through your favourite books to see how the writer writes the first chapter. Can you seen any commonalities or tools shared in how they end the first chapter? You could try applying your discoveries to your work. As writers, when we are reading, we’re also learning. Remember, as a reader, you are also someone who knows what hooks you in and keeps you turning the pages of a book – you might keep a note of what keeps you engaged as a reader, to weave that into your own writing. Have fun exploring, analysing examples and experimenting with creating engaging writing!

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