First Chapter Strategies that make Readers OBSESSED

Summary

This video offers nine key strategies for writing an engaging first chapter in a novel. It emphasizes the importance of including multiple types of conflict, starting with a firm decision, setting the mood, and grounding large events in personal experiences. It also discusses the value of introducing a compelling theme, worldbuilding, and mystery early on. By focusing on these elements, writers can create a captivating opening that draws readers in and sets the tone for the rest of the book. Examples from notable novels illustrate how these techniques can be effectively applied.

Takeaways

• 😀 Include all three levels of conflict: public, internal, and conflict with others. These add depth and engagement to your first chapter, as demonstrated in *Station Eleven* by Emily St. John Mandel.
• 😀 Start with a decision to build immediate tension. For example, *The Underground Railroad* by Colson Whitehead opens with a decision that hints at the story's central conflict: will the character escape slavery or not?
• 😀 Use language to create mood from the very first sentence. In *The Road* by Cormac McCarthy, the bleakness and danger are conveyed through dark, oppressive imagery, setting the tone for the entire novel.
• 😀 Nail the theme early. *Bel Canto* by Ann Patchett starts with a kiss, immediately hinting at the love theme that will be explored throughout the story.
• 😀 Start with world-building, but introduce it gradually. In *Never Let Me Go* by Kazuo Ishiguro, the world of clones is slowly revealed, maintaining intrigue without overwhelming the reader with exposition.
• 😀 Start quickly with a bang. In *Blindness* by José Saramago, the second paragraph introduces a character going blind, immediately pulling the reader into the action.
• 😀 Start with a mystery to captivate readers. *My Brilliant Friend* by Elena Ferrante begins with a mysterious phone call, establishing a compelling question that propels the narrative forward.
• 😀 Ground large, global events in personal experiences. In *The Leftovers* by Tom Perrotta, the massive disappearance of people is filtered through the personal experience of Laura Garvey, making the story relatable.
• 😀 Offer someone to root for right from the start. In *Slumdog Millionaire* by Vikas Swarup, the protagonist is immediately portrayed as sympathetic, making readers cheer for him through his struggles.
• 😀 Don't feel pressured to include everything in the first chapter. Instead, focus on a few key elements that set up the rest of the book and generate curiosity. More can be revealed gradually over time.

Q & A

Why is it important to include all three levels of conflict in the first chapter?

Including all three levels of conflict—public, internal, and interpersonal—adds complexity to the story and engages readers on multiple emotional levels. It helps establish a strong narrative foundation that attracts the reader’s attention by addressing various stakes from the outset.

What is the advantage of starting a book with a pivotal decision?

Starting with a pivotal decision sets the tone for the rest of the book, creating immediate tension. It also establishes the central theme and gives the reader a sense of direction, keeping them intrigued about the outcome of the decision.

How does mood affect the first chapter of a novel?

Mood is crucial for establishing the tone of the novel. By using specific language, imagery, and atmosphere, authors can shape how readers feel about the story right from the beginning, creating an emotional connection or a sense of anticipation.

What does starting a book with the theme accomplish?

Starting with the theme sets the expectations for the reader. It immediately conveys the core message or focus of the book, helping the reader understand the central concept and what the narrative will explore.

What role does world-building play in the first chapter?

World-building in the first chapter introduces readers to the setting and the rules of the world. However, it should be done subtly, offering just enough information to spark curiosity, and gradually revealing more details throughout the book.

What is the benefit of starting the book with action or a fast-paced event?

Starting with action or a significant event grabs the reader’s attention immediately. It sets a dynamic pace and makes it clear that the story will involve high stakes, quickly drawing the reader into the plot.

How does beginning with a mystery help the first chapter?

Opening with a mystery hooks readers by presenting an unanswered question or situation that sparks curiosity. This creates immediate intrigue, motivating readers to continue to find out more about the mystery and how it will unfold.

What does 'grounding the public in the personal' mean in terms of storytelling?

Grounding the public in the personal means using the experiences and perspective of an individual to illustrate a larger, global event. This approach makes broad themes or societal issues relatable and emotional by showing how they affect a single character.

Why is it important to offer a character for readers to root for in the first chapter?

Introducing a character the reader can empathize with or root for establishes an emotional connection early in the story. It creates investment in the character's journey and makes readers eager to follow their struggles and triumphs.

How can the opening of *Slumdog Millionaire* effectively engage readers?

The opening of *Slumdog Millionaire* introduces the main character, Jamal, as a smart, likable, and relatable underdog. His struggles, including being wrongfully arrested and tortured, immediately generate sympathy, making readers want to see him succeed.