Firstly, I apologize for that two-month break, fellow creatives. Blondie broke her leg a couple of days after my August podcast, and it’s been a whirlwind of doctor and therapist visits since then. Now that we’re finally finding a new rhythm with school and recovery, I can return to my library’s New Release shelf to see what’s happening! And Blondie helped me pick this one, too. 😊 “Hey, Mom, isn’t that like the James Bond movie Skyfall?”
As writers, we hear all the time that we’ve got to hook readers in just the first few pages or else. We’ve got to hook agents in the first few pages or else.
Whether you’re looking to get published or just hoping to hook your reader, first impressions are vital. Compelling opening scenes are the key to catching an agent or editor’s attention, and are crucial for keeping your reader engaged.
JEFF GERKE, THE FIRST FIFTY PAGES
Well then, let’s study those first few pages in other people’s stories, shall we?
Today I snagged from the New Release shelf:
(Honestly, I can’t help but wonder if the font for the title was made to look like the Bond film title on purpose. ANYWAY.)
The opening pages of Kraus’ work are quite compelling. I was admittedly skeptical when I saw Gillian Flynn’s generic “Astoundingly great” blurb on the front cover—what does that even mean?!
The first two brief chapters not only introduce us to protagonist Jay, but also his conflict with his family, his difficult relationship with his father, and the path to redemption he feels he must take in order to come to terms with his father’s death. That’s a hell of a lot to pack in just a few pages, but Kraus succeeds while also providing a unique rhythm of prose, the long, contemplative thoughts punctuated with brief lines of intense sensory detail. It’s a rhythm I’m willing to listen to for a while, and if you’re looking for a unique read about a teen’s journey into the waters to combat his grief, then Whalefall is certainly worth a look.
No matter what the season brings, keep reading!
Read on, share on, and write on, my friends!
Jean Lee's World 
I really enjoyed listening to your examination of this one, especially as I didn’t have a strong idea of what it was about until I read your blog:)). So sorry to hear about Blondie – it sounds brutal and I’m glad she’s now on the mend and hope you have a chance for a fairly boring bout of family life. I’m wishing for a boring life – but that isn’t happening to me, either!! Take care, Jean.x
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Yes, of course, with Long Covid, having a boring spell would be awesome! For Blondie, we’re doing our best to find a normal. She is finally getting back to the piano, so we definitely making strides. Now it’s a matter of Biff and Bash finding their ways…. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
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It’s never boring with children around, is it:). We are now looking after our two teenage grandsons – so our lives are a lot livelier, too!
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AHA! I knew it! Just make sure those adventures don’t turn into MISadventures, lol. xxxxxxx
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I’m sorry about Blondie. I’m glad to hear she’s on the mend.
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Thank you! One plus is that she’s been listening to a lot of music and doodling for lots of stories lately. 🙂
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You’re welcome.
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Oh dear, bummer about Blondie breaking her leg. Hope it is mending well.
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Yes, thank you! She is mending now, on her 3rd brace and finally able to put more weight on that leg. Stairs are no longer a source of panic. Thank you for your support! xxxxxxxx
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Poor Blondie, hope she managed to keep herself entertained. Hawklad just said that he hoped she created loads of comics. I must admit just the title and the book design grabbed me immediately. Hopefully you can get some time for yourself now xxxxxxx
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She’s been doing a LOT of doodling and brainstorming, to be sure–tell Hawklad she says hello! But getting her to settle on a single project is a challenge unless it’s Dungeons and Dragons. 🙂 Did you and Hawklad see that movie? It’s one of Blondie’s favorites now! xxxxx
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We did, he loved it. Reminded him of the mythical stories he loved hearing when he was younger. Yes Blondie would love it, I bet it inspired her wonderful imagination. xxxxxx
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She’s always finding new sources of imagination, to be sure! xxxxxxxxxxx
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