The Prologue is the traditional way to start a book.
Yes, some start with Chapter 1 instantly, but I prefer Prologues by far.
Like I mentioned in How To Write Scenes, format your prologue the same formation:
Starting point, middle section, end
This time, write the sentence you came up with in How To Write A First Sentence at the start.
Leave the Prologue short.
Don't mention too much, or don't mention anything at all, make the text gripping.
Yes, Prologues can also reach across many pages, but keep it short.
At least that is my suggestion, because I wouldn't want to read a whole chapter as a prologue.
The average length of a prologue is between 1500 to 2500 words long. As you can see, it is a little shorter than an actual chapter. And that is the golden rule of a healthy prologue length. - that is what Google said.
This is the scene that makes the reader want to continue.
And it is up to you to determine how much the reader should know in an instant.
Leave the last sentence as a cliffhanger.
Always.
No exceptions, because this will be the page the readers have to turn and you have to make them turn that page.
A prologue can look something like that:
-
In the deep woods of the enchanted forest, something lingers.
An old, ancient power is on the search for someone.
Claws scratch across the rough ground. A pair of glowing eyes focus on a girl with white hair and amber eyes.
Ready to strike.
Ready to be owned.
_
[from The Autumn Pearl (English translation)]
Wouldn't you want to continue reading that?
YOU ARE READING
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Non-FictionA blog for writers - whether you're writing a book/short story/novel etc., whether you are already experienced or are just getting started, this is for you. I share my own experience, upcoming projects, works, tutorials, guides and tips here. From t...
