When it comes to starting a YA novel's plot, you can start small and build up. Start with a simple, everyday situation for the character, like getting ready for school. But then introduce an unexpected element, like a strange note in their locker. This allows the reader to get to know the character in a familiar setting first, and then be pulled into the mystery or adventure that is starting to unfold. You can also start with a conflict between characters, such as a feud between two groups at school, which can set the stage for a larger story of rivalry, friendship, and growth.
Begin with a problem or a goal. For example, the main character could be on a quest to find a missing friend in a dangerous city. This immediately gives the story direction.
Yes, starting with a conflict in the plot is a good way. It could be a character against another character, a character against society, or a character against nature. This conflict immediately creates tension and gives the story a direction.
A great way to start a YA novel is with a strong and engaging character. Let the reader immediately meet a protagonist they can root for or be intrigued by. For example, introduce a teen with a unique hobby or a big secret.
To engage the reader right from the start, start with a mystery. Drop a hint about something strange or unknown. For example, 'The letter arrived, but there was no name on the envelope, only a strange symbol.' This makes the reader want to know more.
One of the best ways is to start with a strong character. For example, introduce a young protagonist in a unique situation like Katniss Everdeen in 'The Hunger Games' who volunteers for her sister in the Reaping. This immediately grabs the reader's attention and makes them care about what will happen to the character.
Begin with an interesting character in a difficult situation. Say, a young wizard who wakes up one day to find his magic has vanished and he's in a land full of dark forces that he can no longer defend himself against. This hooks the reader as they want to know how the character will get out of the situation.
One of the best ways to start a novel is with a strong hook. For example, begin with an interesting dialogue that immediately grabs the reader's attention. Something like, 'I never thought I'd see the day when the sky turned green.' This kind of opening makes the reader wonder what's going on and compels them to keep reading.
A great way to start a crime novel is with a mysterious scene. For example, you could begin with a dead body being discovered in a strange place. It immediately grabs the reader's attention and makes them wonder what happened.
Beginning with a strange conversation can be a good start. For example, two people talking in code about something illegal. It makes the reader wonder what they're up to and what the crime will be.
No. It depends on the genre. For a mystery, starting with a strange occurrence like 'The body was found in the most unexpected place, a quiet library corner' works well. But for a romance, you might start with the meeting of two characters, 'Their eyes met across the crowded room, and in that instant, something sparked.'
Starting a novel with a strong character in an engaging situation can be very effective. Say you introduce a character on the run from something unknown. 'She sprinted down the alley, her heart pounding in her ears, not daring to look back.' It creates instant intrigue about the character and what they're fleeing from.