How to Start a book??

Question

I would like to write book about someone's life. The things that happen in this person's life are still considered taboo by alot of people. Yet, alot of people can relate.

How do you begin a book like that?? With a event in present time and then flashback to tell the story?? I have the story. Just need a little guidance in how to tell it. So people will want to read it.

Thanks!

Answer 1

You ask a perfectly good and logical question. Here is the answer: JUST WRITE. Sit down with a pen and pad, or at your keyboard, and just put down words and sentences. Get it all out of your head and onto paper, THEN worry about the details.

I know that sounds really silly, but here's the thing...there is something in your head called the internal editor who is telling you that you can't write, can't spell, don't know grammar, have no sense of form, or whatever. You have to shut the editor up to be able to write anything. So, write. Write everything that comes into your mind, even your grocery list. When you are good and finished, then you may go back with a red pencil and take out all the crap and stupid stuff. What's left is your book....ta-daaaa!

Answer 2

Just write. Everyone approaches tasks differently. I love to write, but I can stand starting at the beginning and working my way to the end, mainly because I usually don't know where the characters are going to end up.
Obviously you do know what's all going to happen and where these characters are going to end up, so my suggestion would treat this story like a series of short stories. Write about each major event in your characters life and when that is all done, then you can worry about the chronology.
I personally always start writing about one main event in my character's life and then work outwards from there like a ripple effect on a pond.

Good Luck!!!

Answer 3

Well, you may start by giving the reader a general view of the person's life, but not directly. It shall be in a sort of "suspense" mode. This will make the readers interested in...

You can make in this two sense: or as a biography book (which is factual) or a tale or short tale book (which is ficctional based on real stories).

The way you choose it depends on what you want to achieve, what feeling you want to create in your reader, what are the effects you are looking for.

But, before starting your writings, bring up in short texts (summaries) all or almost all the stories you are about to register. This will help you a lot. You'll see.

Ok. Good luck!


ie - b r a z i l

Answer 4

I have just completed my second novel...neither have yet to be submitted for publication...but I have aspirations.

I would suggest you start with an introduction which will take you to the plot of the story. Use no names, or anything that will reveal too much. But if it is gripping enough...it will intrigue the reader from the beginning.

You could also start each chapter with a year...skipping around a bit...always more interesting to have to piece it all together.

Good luck, and enjoy the process!

Answer 5

You need to start with a hook to interest the reader, hopefully the first paragraph if not the first sentance. Here is the first sentance from my novel I'm working on:

The odd procession made its way across the police station. At its center, a shapely medium-framed brunette, about five-six, her hands bound behind her with two sets of handcuffs, shuffled forward owing to the leg irons, her clothes stained with the blood of others. Two SWAT officers preceded her, dressed in black with bullet-proof vests and kevlar helmets, walking backwards, shotguns held ready, the nozzles scant inches from her face. Behind her another two SWAT officers followed, their shotguns covering her back. Two uniformed officers flanked each side, handguns drawn, fingers twitching just over the triggers. All eight men sweated profusely.

Answer 6

would suggest you start with an introduction which will take you to the plot of the story. Use no names, or anything that will reveal too much.

Answer 7

I think the second sentence of your question is a dandy way to start.

Answer 8

many authors start by keeping a diary to create awarness of your surroundings and also to get used to express your vision...