605 Your First Page (ENGLISH)

If you’re trying to get agents and publishers interested in your book, nothing is more important than your first page. Swamped by submissions, with fewer staff than ever to read them, most agents and editors won’t read more than a page before deciding to read on or move on.The award-winning author of seven books of fiction, Howard Shrier’s career was launched at a similar workshop in 2005, when the first page of his debut novel, BUFFALO JUMP, was singled out by a publisher in attendance. That led directly to his signing with a top agent and his first two-book deal with Random House. In this workshop, he’ll draw on his experience to help you craft a first page that stands out and showcases all your strengths. With more than 15 years of experience as a top-ranked writing teacher, and training as a stage actor and improv artist, Howard is known for the energy, passion and enthusiasm he brings to every workshop.You’ll explore the first pages of the debut novels of some of the world’s most successful authors. You’ll dissect your own page, getting feedback from Howard and your peers, analyzing how well you start your story. You’ll cover such concepts as narrative voice, tone, time and place, sensibility, dialogue and more. You’ll emerge with a better first page than you started with, as well as the tools you need to keep those improvements going throughout your manuscript.

Instructor

Howard Shrier