Writing to Grab the Reader

Historical novelist and creative nonfiction author Jessica McCann answers two questions from aspiring writers in this four-minute video.

  1. How do you write an opening line that will grab readers?
  2. There are so many entertainment options out there today. Do you think it’s getting harder to catch the attention of readers?

3 thoughts on “Writing to Grab the Reader

  1. Ann Weisgarber

    Jessica, great advice even for those of us who have been in the business of writing for a while. Boy oh boy, that first chapter is the hardest to write as the pressure to hook readers increases.

  2. After years of writing, editing, and publishing, I think one of the most important things a writer can do is create a strong opening sentence. This is your opportunity to catch the reader’s attention and keep it. When you title your story, you’re not only communicating the subject matter at hand, but you’re also setting the tone for the entire piece. Make sure your title is catchy, attention-grabbing, and reflects the content of your article or book.

Leave a Reply to Jessica McCannCancel reply