Where Should Chapter One Begin?
“Let’s start at the very beginning. That’s a very good place to start.” … or is it?
When we are thinking about how to start our book, it’s possible that Chapter One isn’t necessarily the beginning of the story. Instead, think of this chapter as being the beginning of the reader’s journey. Imagine arriving at a movie 45 minutes early and watching people park their cars before the actual story starts. You need to start right at the moment that matters. Consider the first meaningful turning point in your experience, the major point of tension, or even the first moment that someone listening to you would ask what happens next.
Maybe they don’t need all the background first. For example, you might not need to begin with childhood if the problem doesn’t happen until decades later, or spend a lot of time explaining instead of engaging your reader.
Three Ways to Create a Strong Opening
Once you know that key moment to begin with, you need to create a hook that will get them interested in reading more. This will be a little different depending on what kind of book you are writing but here are three strong ways to open your book.
#1. Tell a story. This allows you to draw the reader emotionally into your book with a compelling moment from your life or an experience.
#2. Name the problem. Outline the struggle that your readers are dealing with. That way, they know that you understand what they are facing and know that this book is going to tackle it.
#3. Give them the promise. Paint a picture of what is possible to give your readers hope and motivation to continue. This is especially helpful if they can see themselves in the “after” experience from reading your book.
Use the first chapter to create the draw into the pages. Give your readers an unanswered question that keeps readers turning the pages as they try to find out what happens next, how the author got into this situation, and if the problem can really be solved.
Questions to Help You Find Your Starting Point
Try answering these questions to get a clearer idea of how to start your book.
If you are writing a memoir:
What moment changed everything?
Where does the real journey begin?
For self-help:
What problem is your reader desperate to solve?
What transformation are they hoping for?
Once you can answer these questions, compare that to the chapter one you’ve already written or have been thinking about. Is it a match or do you need to make a shift?
Your Beginning Doesn't Have to Be Perfect - It Has to Be Meaningful
If you're struggling to find the right place to begin, sometimes a fresh set of eyes and an outside perspective can quickly identify a stronger starting point. Connect with me for a quick consultation so we can get you started on your book.
Your writing coach,
Jenny Mouse.