Hooked from the start:Crafting a captivating first page
Not sure where your story should actually begin?Worried you’re front-loading too much backstory?This is for you.
- Can’t make it live? Register anyway and we’ll send you the replay.
Unlock the secrets of an irresistible first page
A practical, high-energy class on writing first pages that pull readers in. We’ll explore:
- The essential elements your first page must include to grab and hold a reader’s attention.
- Common pitfalls to avoid that can turn readers away, including too much backstory up front.
- Techniques to introduce your narrator, establish time and place, set the tone, and hint at the story to come.
- How to demonstrate your writing prowess in the crucial opening lines.
Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting, this class will empower you to write a compelling first page that grabs your reader’s attention.
The First Page Challenge
I’ll read the first page of several anonymous manuscripts, some from published books and some from unpublished works. Together we’ll analyze what grabs our attention and what doesn’t.
- Spark insightful discussion about what makes a first page effective or ineffective.
- Sharpen your critical eye for your own work.
- See practical examples of successful and less successful techniques.
RegisterSave your seat with the form above.
Send your pageYou’ll get an email with instructions for submitting your first page.
Listen inPages are drawn by lottery and read anonymously during the class.
Writers who’ve been in the room
in their own words
Want to increase the odds your page gets chosen?
Last time, over 100 people sent in pages and we only had time to read 15. We’re expecting even more this time, so pages are chosen by lottery.
Every writer gets one ticket for registering. You get another ticket every time someone registers and writes your name in “How did you hear about this event?”
Meet April Dávila
Award-winning author, speaker, and writing coach
April Dávila is an award-winning author, speaker, and writing coach. Her debut novel, 142 Ostriches, was called a “vivid, uplifting debut” by Publishers Weekly and won the WILLA Award for Women Writing the West. Her first nonfiction book, Sit Write Here: 6 Mindfulness Practices to Help You Write More and Suffer Less, is out now. Her blog was named one of Writer’s Digest’s Best 101 Websites for Writers, and she has spoken at the Writer’s Digest Novel Writing Conference.
Make your first page unforgettable
Save your seat, then watch your inbox for how to submit your page.
Can’t make it live? Register and we’ll send the replay.