What Agents and Editors are Looking for in First Pages
Writing your query is the first step to grabbing the agents’ attention, however, many writers are not aware that agents sometimes go directly to the first pages to see if the writing is something to have a closer look at. Join agent Katie Shea Boutillier to discuss in detail what we are looking for when we approach your first pages.
Katie will provide a step-by-step demonstration of the importance of strong first pages, focusing on voice, tone, mood, setting, urgency, pace, description, dialogue, and a natural approach to your characters. Your ultimate goal is to make sure your readers (agents, editors, and beyond) are into your work immediately. Katie will guide you, utilizing her knowledge and experience, on what makes impressive first pages to readers.
If you want more online education, see the full list of WDU courses here.
Writer’s Digest November/December 2023 Cover Reveal!
Writer’s Digest
What does it take to make readers laugh? It’s not quite as simple as telling an amusing story to your friends at a dinner party. What makes the people who know you laugh might not be the same thing that will make readers laugh. And that’s doubly true when it comes to making child readers laugh. But the November/December 2023 issue of Writer’s Digest has you covered.
Writing Short Stories From Beginning to End (Intensive Workshop)
Short stories are meant to transport a reader to a different place over the course of a single sitting. How do you create that mood and tone by building a structure for characters and story that will resonate with audiences? How do you generate ideas to turn almost any idea or concept into a short story?
Bryan Young has published dozens of short stories in anthologies, magazines, and other places and continues to write one a month. Through his course, he’ll guide you through generating ideas, common short story structures, and instructions on sticking the landing of your short story. He’ll also answer your questions to better prepare you for the world of writing short stories—start to finish—that sell.
Writing the Science Fiction & Fantasy Novel
Do you daydream about distant worlds and mythical creatures? If so, take this six-week course and transform your ideas into creative science fiction and fantasy novels. You’ll discover the essential elements of fictional worlds, how to write a science fiction novel with intriguing characters and plot, and write up to 2,500 words for your science fiction or fantasy story.
Catch Up on “Writer’s Digest Presents” Episodes Now!
In this interview, editor-in-chief Amy Jones and content editor Michael Woodson sit down with Rob to discuss his newest novel, The Paradox Hotel, why combining genres means you get to break all the rules, and more.
Subscribe to Our Newsletter!
Subscribe to Writer’s Digest emails and get free writing tips, publishing insights, and expert writing advice delivered straight to your email inbox.
Click here to subscribe.