Berkley McGee

Berkley McGee asked Veronica Roth:

What are some good ways to start a book? No good ideas are coming to mind and I don’t really know what to do. Any advice?

Veronica Roth Start with the first scene you want to write. It may not be the beginning you will ultimately need, but that doesn't matter. Just pick a spot and start.

I always start my stories in the wrong place. I usually write 50-75 unnecessary pages at the beginning of a book so that I can feel my way into it. It annoys me that I do this, because it feels like a waste of time, but it's the only way that works for me. Only when I have a rough draft can I look back and see where the story really needs to begin. So my point is, you're not going to magically come up with the perfect beginning for a story-- you need to just tell the story as it comes to you, and worry about its starting place later.

More Answered Questions

Zoe

Zoe asked Veronica Roth:

How did you come up with the concept of Poster Girl? (And Chosen Ones if you're up to answer). I love how unique these stories are; they aren't the typical dystopian, but rather the story that takes place after the common dystopian storylines.

Chris Trites

Chris Trites asked Veronica Roth:

Hello, I want to say how much I enjoy your stories. I love that they're different and that you think outside the box. Thank you for writing them. My copy of Arch-Conspirator should be arriving in a few days and I am excited and a little nervous to continue with the story. Why Antigone? Have you always been a fan of Sophocles? Is there any of the other tragedies you would consider exploring (re-telling)? Thx.

A Goodreads user

A Goodreads user asked Veronica Roth:

Hello Veronica! I wanted to ask: In what order should I read the Divergent series? Four: A Divergent Collection is throwing me off. Should I read that in the middle of Divergent and Allegiant or after the entire trilogy? I just finished the first book and am excited to watch the movie soon. I loved the first one so much I gave it six stars. I could read it over and over and it'll still be one of my favorites.

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