Why your story should always have a Hook

In this blog we’re going to cover two elements of “the hook.” We’re going to cover why you should begin your story with a hook — a gripping moment, the inciting incident — and also why, when you’re beginning to form the basis of a new story, you should think long and hard about its hook before you do anything else.

What is a hook?

Imagine a big ole fishing hook, heading towards your reader, digging in, and tugging. Once they’re on the hook, they’re not getting off. They’re hooked. We’ve all felt it. When you begin a new book and it instantly grips you, you know you’re at the start of a fantastic journey.

A hook is a literary technique to start your story off with a bang and keep your reader’s attention.

It’s so important that your story starts at the right point. Attention span is precious. Now we have Netflix, YouTube, social media, Podcasts, and a hundred other things our reader might be doing instead of reading. If we don’t treat their attention span with respect, they’ll never get hooked on your story. 

So where should your story start?

A typical story arc goes as follows: life is normal for your protagonist, and then SOMETHING happens. This something — the inciting incident — is what turns your protagonist’s life upside down and sets them on their journey.

Think of your favourite films, the first episode of your favourite TV show, and of course, the opening few pages of your favourite books.

In a crime novel, the hook is usually the introduction of the first victim. In a romance novel, you’re going to want to have your characters meet as soon as humanly possible! In a horror novel, it’s likely going to be the first encounter with the Big Bad.

The quicker we can get to this point, the better. In fact some stories begin here in the very first line. Throwing your reader into the action can be a brilliant way to keep them hooked.

What happens if you don’t start with a hook?

If you don’t give your reader any reason to invest in your story, they’re going to put your story down. This goes ten-fold for a younger audience. They have a million-and-one things vying for their attention. It is only fair to your reader that you set the stage as quickly as possible for them so they know exactly what they’re in for. 

There is a fine line between being impactful and rushing though. You’ll find the sweet spot with practice and by studying books that you love personally.