The First Five Pages Book Review

It can be said that a good book hooks the reader in early on in the story and does not let go until the final page.

Noah Lukeman’s 2000 book, The First Five Pages: The Writers Guide To Staying Out Of The Rejection Pile is about just that. It is a guide to writing a novel that will grab the reader quickly and force them to continue reading.

W. Somerset Maugham said the following about writing:

There are three rules for writing. Unfortunately no one knows what they are.

While this is true to a certain extent, I believe books like Mr. Lukeman’s and many others provide guidance to all writers, regardless of their experience.

I liked this book very much. Writing, like any art, requires not just talent, but hard work and a little elbow grease. What I liked about this book is that the advice is very practical and can be applied to all writers.

I recommend it.

 

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The Plot Thickens Book Review

A good plot is the key to any story. But developing that plot is not as easy as it may seem.

Noah Lukeman’s 2003 book, The Plot Thickens: 8 Ways To Bring Fiction To Life is a writer’s practical guide to creating and building up the plot.

Mr. Lukeman starts the first two chapters of book with writing exorcizes. He asks the writer questions about the characters inner and outer life. He then follows up with chapters that speak of creating suspense within the story and following the characters on their journey.

What I liked about this book is that the advice is practical. Regardless of the skill level or experience of the writer, we all could all use a little help every now and then.

I recommend it.