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Fiction Writing Made Easy

#105: First Chapter Analysis: Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

Aug 22, 2023
In this podcast, the hosts analyze the first chapter of 'Lessons in Chemistry' by Bonnie Garmus using the '5 Commandments of Storytelling' from The Story Grid. They discuss the effectiveness of the opening scene, value shift in character development, decision-making, and the turning point in the story. They also explore the importance of meaningful change, scene structure, and eliminating unnecessary dialogue.
25:22

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Starting a book with a prologue in disguise can effectively capture readers' curiosity and interest.
  • The first chapter effectively introduces the main character, establishes her depressed state, and sets up expectations regarding her breaking point and conflicting desires.

Deep dives

The Hook: Prologue in Disguise

The podcast episode begins with a discussion about the effectiveness of starting a book with a prologue in disguise. The prologue in this particular book sets the tone, establishes the narrative voice, and raises questions about the main character, Elizabeth Zott. It also introduces the central question of the story, which is what will make Elizabeth break from her permanently depressed state. The podcast hosts highlight the trend of using prologues in disguise and the effectiveness of capturing readers' curiosity and interest.

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