The other day I was reading Nicole Zoltack's blog post containing a checklist for the First Five Pages. Now, I would never ask you to send five pages for posting--(you shouldn't as it would be considered published and might cause problems at a later time), but I thought we could use the checklist for the first 400 words of your WIP.
Here's the checklist (I've tweaked it a bit for a shorter section):
1. Is the page engaging?
2. Do you want to keep reading?
3. Is the main character likeable?
4. Is the scene set clearly enough to ground the reader?
5. Is the voice strong?
6. Is it passive/telling?
7. Is the pacing too slow, too fast, or just right?
8. Does the dialogue sound stilted?
If you would like to have these questions answered for your first 400 words, send them in to unicornbellsubmissions@gmail.com with First 400 in the subject line.
I'll post as many as I receive over the next few days.
13 comments:
Those are excellent questions to consider. Plus, Nicole is wonderful!
I would send mine in but I have a lot to add to my opening scene that I haven't added yet so it would kind of be counter-productive.
Just sent mine :) Thanks so much for all your help!
I've just sent mine off, though I've a feeling I already know some of the answers. It's always interesting to see what another's opinion is. ^_^
Got it and it's set to go live tomorrow.
Got it and it's set to go live tomorrow.
This is a good idea. I'll have to come up with 4 or 5 hundred words for you, of something new.
Cheers,
Torggil, a follower.
Thanks for doing this Charity :) Just sent mine over!
Oh sweet. Critiques are always so useful.
Does it count that my first page is being critiqued by mshatch and co next month? I'm always up for MORE critiques!!
Welcome to Unicorn Bell!
Got it, ready to post.
Send it if you want. Feedback is always good.
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