Hooks and Bios

 

Welcome! I'm Robin Currie, January Author for Mighty Kid Lit                                                                                                                                                       Hooks and Bios 

While you are working on character and plot and dialog, begin to think of the other important writing you will do once the last comma is perfect. Time to convince an agent or editor that this is the book in which to invest thousands of dollars!

Hooks

The hook is the first sentence of the write up, often in bold face type. Your book’s hook should say: “I’ve GOT to read this NOW!” 

Hook 1
 Drop a famous name or familiar title: based on the scientific findings of XX, author of YY

Hook 2
Mention a familiar theme: family, bullying, self-confidence, imagination

Hook 3
Tell us about the characters: who they are and why we should care

Hook 4
Crack out the buzz words: empower, community, SEL, funny
 

Bios

Bios should be as short as possible to convey the real you and why you should write the book. Your bios should say “This person is one I want to know better!” 

Who wants to know?  When self-introducing to anyone or a group, select the parts of life that are most relevant to the listener/s. Naturalist, biographer, agent, teacher. Where can you and the other person relate?

 

How will you tell them? Are you live on a panel or in an elevator or adding identifying remarks to an article Use 1^st person in real time.; 3^rd person in writing.

 

Be ready for anything! Develop four different bios on yourself. Regrettably, unless the facts are critical to the book or speech, most people do not want to hear about the grandchildren or summer vacation.

1. 30-50 words long for print

2. 75-100 words long for print

3. list of 5 items considered primary accomplishments 

4. 3 sentences about a personal incident relevant to the group

 

Keep these on a card or phone for the next time someone says, "Tell me about yourself."