Comments on: Prologues That Work

By: annastan

annastan — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 20:20:36 +0000

Very true! I find that especially in fantasy, prologues tend to be littered with names of characters and places that can get really overwhelming. Since we get them completely out of context, often it does nothing but confuse the reader. Short, sweet, and simple works for me!

By: Amitha

Amitha — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 18:59:33 +0000

I read the prologue for “Ice” and now I am intrigued to read the whole thing. I guess it worked!

I agree that the brevity of the prologue really helps pack that extra punch, but the other thing is — we aren’t introduced to too many characters (with too many strange names) at once. I hate it when books introduce several characters in the prologue that immediately disappear, only for them to reappear in some distant chapter later (or not at all).

By: annastan

annastan — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 13:44:52 +0000

I think you’re right, Andrea. I like that the prologue draws you in right away and lets you know that you’re in a place where fairy tales exist. It’s so exciting to find such a strong prologue!

By: Andrea Vlahakis

Andrea Vlahakis — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 13:22:11 +0000

I’m partial to prologues anyway, but I think the other reason the prologue from Ice works is the great hook. The first paragraph sucks you right in. Then the last paragraph seals it. Who can’t read on?

By: annastan

annastan — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 13:04:26 +0000

Hi Marie! I haven’t read Pierce’s book, but I’m curious to check it out. I’m adding it to my reading list.

By: Marie

Marie — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 05:06:59 +0000

One of my favorite books in the world, “Birth of the Firebringer” (by Meredith Ann Pierce) has a lovely prologue that sets up the world short and sweet. The best part is that it’s a mystery as to who’s dictating it…at least until the end. So. Dang. Lovely.

But that “Ice” prologue is great, too! Can’t wait to read it…