Captain that Hook

You've heard it mentioned in interviews with published authors, during writing workshops, and most importantly in the writing guidelines of possible markets or agents. It's illusive, shiny, and completely necessary:

The Hook

But what the hell is it? In my opinion, the hook is not the first scene, but it also isn't necessarily the first line, either. It definitely incorporates the first line. Usually, I think of the hook as the first two or three sentences, perhaps the first paragraph if you stretch it.

By definition, the hook is the thing that catches the reader's attention. Much like the fishing apparatus, it is the curved, barbed object that latches onto the reader and won't let them go. If the hook is successful, the reader will be intrigued enough to stick with you for another twenty to thirty pages, to see what happens. The hook must not only be a piece of spectacular, concise writing, but it must also reveal something about the character or setting. Preferably, both. Is your character happy, depressed, confused, weary, or adrift? Convey that. Is your setting in line or in contrast with his emotions?

The hook often shocks or interests the reader by using unique language or imagery, but nothing so far out there that she can't relate.

I'm sure, if you're an avid reader, you've come across some great hooks. These are the passages that started the book on the right foot. The ones that pulled you in immediately and forced you to finish them. The best way to learn hooks, as with most writing, is to read the beginning sentences or paragraph of a novel. Did you like it? Are you intrigued? Do you want to read more? If so, why? What did the author do to make you want to read more? Keep a notebook with the best hooks you come across and why you believe they are so spectacular. Make sure you also write down the hooks you think are terrible and why they don't get your attention. This information is just as important because it teaches you what not to do.

You don't have to take an expensive class to learn about hooks and how to use them. But remember, the hook is a tiny object in the middle of a giant ocean. If you don't cast it correctly, you won't catch any fish. A few casts (tries) may be necessary before you get the correct hook for your story.

Also, remember that once you have the reader hooked, you have to follow up with a well-paced well-written story that is just as strong as your opening lines. If you don't do this, the reader will get bored and put your book down - and usually never pick it up again. Just like if you hook a fish but don't reel it in, the fish will figure out how to escape. Your reader will do the same. After the hook, your story needs to be just as powerful or it will all be for naught.


If you find some interesting hooks during your reading, or you remember some that intrigued you in the past, post them in the comments! I'll share my favorites, too.