OPENINGS THAT HOOK READERS

"When people used to tell me my writing was 'lyrical' I thought that was a good thing. But editors weren't buying my stuff. I took this course on openings and found out why. Now I know when and where to use the lyrical, and when to jump right out and grab the attention of readers and editors. It works."

"I've been told and have read numerous articles about the importance of an opening hook, yet was still in the dark about what made something a hook. I was so frustrated with the opening of my novel that I finally left it and moved on to following chapters - but it haunted me every time I sat down to write. It made me doubt my ability (and I hate that). Then I took your class. Opening hooks are suddenly clear to me. Now I'm so excited about working on my opening again. I know what's needed and I know I will 'hook" my readers. All writers should take this class: a renewal jolt for the experienced writer and a godsend for the novice. The handouts were easy to follow. All keepers...I'll review them often."

"I love this...and your book (I'm still reading it)...excellent. You've made me aware of things around me. You've opened my eyes to the point that I will have to get a tape recorder to be able to record it all. Not only do I see the landscape but the surroundings are much more interesting, not to mention the people in airports, restaurants...Fantastic... "

"Great class. After reading your lesson, I realized how info.-heavy beginnings really turn me off. That's why I can never read much science fiction. Those beginnings bore me. And yet, I'm guilty of the same tendency to get info.-happy at the beginning. Thanks! "

"I learned a lot about openings. I especially liked your real-life examples from other writers, to show how it's done."

"I really liked the course and found it extremely helpful. I now feel confident to forge ahead (actually go back to) the opening of my novel, which I was stuck on. The exercises were very good. "

"I'm very satisfied with this course and with your excellent feedback. The best and maybe the only way to learn is by examples, and your method of using examples and explaining so well why it is the way it is- is superb. I will return soon for more courses."

"This was my first online course for anything. Bless you for making it fun and extremely enlightening.
Especially liked: having to do the exercises since it really stuck in my memory. I can now almost effortlessly list off the opening types.
Also liked: not having to show up online at a particular time. I thought, at first, that that was something that I wanted, but my work/holiday/stress schedule went haywire in the 3rd week.
Also liked: how you BLOCKed and emphasized the various sections for clarity. It took what at first seemed confusing and made me feel confident that we were "on track" even if I wasn't sure where we were heading initially. Thanks again.
(Note: I keep looking at the course catalog and I keep considering your other courses as well.)"

"I've enjoyed this class and have learned a lot from the exercises and your other materials. I love how you have shown me that a story doesn't have to start at the beginning. Also, there are different ways to hook the reader. I find value in taking courses like this, because ultimately they should help me become a more effective creative writer."

Thought for the day: The E-mail of the species is more deadly than the mail.