Hooking the reader
In a nutshell
As a writer, it is important that people will read what you have written, which means your audience should connect with the writing and be compelled to keep reading. In this summary, you will learn what to include in your writing so that your readers are engaged throughout the entire story.
The opening
The beginning of the story needs to catch the attention of a reader. A narrative hook works to engage the reader - just like how a fish is attracted to a worm on a hook when fishing. Asking questions is also a great way to keep the reader interested in the story because naturally, everyone wants to know the answer to a question.
Other ways to hook the reader
method | | Details | Example |
Using questions | | - Raising some unanswered questions will deliberately hook the reader.
- A writer might hide information that will be revealed later, so the only way the reader can find out is by reading on.
| Samantha opened her eyes slowly. As she got up from her bed she grunted. Her head had smashed through the ceiling. |
Creating atmosphere | | - Setting the scene and using unusual events straight away can also hook the reader.
| It was a dark, foggy morning, which is very unusual in the summer. |
Going straight to the conversation | | - Some writers choose to start their story in the middle of a dialogue, so the reader goes straight into a conversation and the reader is drawn into the dialogue.
| "Look at what Eddie gave me," Bobby yelled. |
Narrative voice | | - Addressing the reader directly by establishing a character or narrative voice will interest the reader, especially when the voice is direct.
- Characters are important in a story, so having a strong character voice will help the reader connect to the characters and become interested in their storyline.
| 'If they were to die, then they had better do it, and decrease the population.' A Christmas Carol |