First impressions are important. You get one shot at hooking readers with your novel, script, or screenplay. The opening scene is crucial for getting your audience (including agents and editors) to emotionally invest in your characters and to be drawn into your story with curiosity and excitement. Let’s explore how to craft that unforgettable opening. Whether you’re starting a new story or revising a first draft, you’ll gain insights into how to create your best, most powerful beginning.

The workshop will be a supportive environment where you’ll get personal feedback. We’ll look at your opening scene and explore the ways it can be improved to captivate readers. We’ll also look at great first lines, the ways protagonists are introduced, and what’s necessary and unnecessary as you begin your story.

The workshop will be held at John’s house on the banks of the Eno River near downtown Hillsborough. A healthy lunch will be provided. $150 (11 students max).

To save your spot, contact John. Spots will fill quickly.