Action is another way
to open a story, whether it’s a picture book, chapter book or YA novel. The official
term is in media res, Latin for “in
the midst of action.” Delving the reader into the exploits of the main
character establishes the stakes at risk and ups the tension. I used this style of opening in FORTY WINKS. A dragon
zoomed around the child’s room at night, waking him.
Opening a story with action places the reader in the middle of the scene as it is taking place.
It’s been used for centuries, as far back as the Roman poet Horace who stated
that an epic poem should not begin “from the egg” but should “snatch” the
listener “into the middle of things.” It kicks the story off in the middle of
the plot.
To
begin with action, something happens. The action may be near the beginning of
the story, or closer to the middle or ending. The writer then backtracks to introduce
the character and the situation.
Call
for Submissions for Young Writers:
The Louisville Review accepts accepts submissions of previously
unpublished poetry from students in grades K-12. Seeks writing that looks for
fresh ways to recreate scenes and feelings. Honest emotion and original imagery
are more important to a poem than rhyming and big topics—such as life,
moralizing, and other abstractions. Parental signature must accompany
submissions. Unsolicited
submissions of fiction, poetry, nonfiction, and drama year round. All work must
be previously unpublished. Reply time is 3-6 months. Simultaneous submissions
are accepted, but please notify us promptly via email if your work is accepted
elsewhere. All submissions are considered based on quality of writing above all
else.
Submissions guidelines at http://www.louisvillereview.org/submissions/
Call
for Submissions for Adult Writers:
East
of the Web. East
of the Web is keen to provide exposure for writers by offering them a place
where their work will be seen and read in a high quality, respected setting.
The site receives about half a million unique visitors per month, so successful
submissions are likely to be viewed by more readers than in almost any other
short story publication. In addition, the site receives attention from agents,
the press, film makers, schools, universities and other publishers.
Submissions guidelines at http://www.eastoftheweb.com/short-stories/Publishing.html
Nancy Kelly Allen has written 40+ children’s
books and a cookbook, SPIRIT OF KENTUCKY: BOURBON COOKBOOK.
Leave a message or check out my blog at www.nancykellyallen.com
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