Celebrate Nonfiction

Exploring the Joy of Nonfiction Reading and Writing

Behind the Books: Hooking Young Readers

I’m not sure where I
first heard the term “hook,” but it’s something I always think about when I
start a new book. The way I see it, the “hook” of a book or an article is the lens
through which an author decides to discuss his/her topic.

For
example, there are lots of books about insect life cycles, but What to Expect When You’re Expecting Larvae
stands out from the crowd because Bridget Heos plays off a classic book for
human parents.

When
a book has a really strong hook, it is often reflected in the title. Here are
some great examples: 

A Black Hole Is NOT a Hole by Carolyn Cinami DeCristofano

An Egg Is Quiet by Dianna Aston Hutts

The Extraordinary Mark Twain (According to Suzy) by
Barbara Kerley

No Monkeys, No Chocolate by Melissa Stewart

What to Expect When You’re Expecting Larvae by
Bridget Heos

 

Zombie Makers by Rebecca L. Johnson

These titles make you want
to read the book. They immediately tell readers that if they pick up the book,
they won’t be disappointed. The mission of the beginning of a book or article
with a strong hook is to quickly and clearly explain what the author’s lens is
and convince readers that it’s worth viewing the topic through that lens.

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