For the last couple of weeks, I’ve been
discussing the surprising amount of time it can take to write a STEM picture
book. Staying the course requires patience and passion. For me, passionate
nonfiction starts with a question. It also needs to have a personal connection.
(Scroll down for a full discussion of these characteristics.)
Today I’m going to talk briefly about the
third characteristic of passionate nonfiction—an irresistible hook. Simply put,
if there’s no hook, there’s no book.
third characteristic of passionate nonfiction—an irresistible hook. Simply put,
if there’s no hook, there’s no book.
Let’s look at three book covers:
These titles have a strong hook that’s obvious
even in their titles. When kids read them, they immediately become curious and
start asking questions. Those questions intrigue readers and propel them though
the book until, ultimately, their curiosity is satisfied.
even in their titles. When kids read them, they immediately become curious and
start asking questions. Those questions intrigue readers and propel them though
the book until, ultimately, their curiosity is satisfied.
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4 Responses
Melissa, I think this is the hardest element for new nonfiction writers. The hook is what sets expository literature apart from traditional nonfiction, yet it's the hardest to nail down. I'd love to see more posts on this topic, as I'm maintaining a list of resources for new writers, and expository resources are scarce.
I agree. The hook is a major challenge. As you'll see as this series continues, the interplay between the hook, text structure, format, and voice are really at the heart of a great STEM picture book.
I have lots of expository writing resources on my website. Here's one that focuses on the relationship between hook and text structure: https://www.melissa-stewart.com/timeline_aardvark/timeline_aardvark.html
This is the mantra I use when I work with new writers. Of course, your saying is more catchy. I may have to use that from now on (and give you credit, of course). But this is absolutely correct! Another fabulous post, Melissa