January 8, 2020 7:00 am
Picture this: you’re at a midtown restaurant and you see two people having an animated conversation about books. You know this is a favorite lunch spot for publishing folk, so you guess (correctly), you’re witnessing one of those fabled agent/editor lunches. No, there are no empty martini glasses rolling across the table—you can just tell from the way one diner is animatedly talking about a new manuscript she’s working on. As she describes the plot, you find yourself pulled in—you’re intrigued by the details, maybe a few of them even make you smile. And just when you think “hey that’s a pretty clever idea,” the speaker presents another twist, another layer of tension of complication, and before you know it, you’re thinking “I’ve got to read this!”
We typically think about agents pitching projects to editors, and it’s true that as an agent I’m presenting new stories and manuscripts to my editor colleagues all the time. But oftentimes, at lunches like the one described above, the person raving about the wonderful new book they’ve acquired is just as likely to be the editor. And that’s great! As an agent, I want to know what my editors are excited about. What are they working on that’s inspiring them? What new book are they dying to share with the world?
I wish aspiring writers could hear how editors talk about their books at lunches and in-person meetings like these. I think it would be such an education for authors looking to generate compelling and commercial ideas of their own. On the one hand, editors speak from a place of pure, genuine enthusiasm—these are the books they’ve already fallen in love with, offered on, bought, reread a dozen times, and thought about for hours on end. At the same time, editors are often able to speak about their current titles with a kind of focus and precision that many struggling pitch-writers could learn from. Not only does the editor know her book inside out, she’s also a) had it pitched to her (by the author’s agent), and b) has had to pitch it herself—to her team, her publisher, her sales and marketing departments.
Firstly, editors often start with a compelling detail (usually with a smile on their face as they recall a favorite image or concept): “So, she’s a roller-derby all-star,” or, “His best friend is his hairless cat.” Instantly there’s something different or unusual to pull you in, snag your interest.
Secondly, there’s a layer of conflict (another opportunity for a unique detail): “She’s got to save her mom’s holistic pottery center” or “He’s finding first love against the backdrop of the Challenger shuttle disaster.”
This is often where most author pitches begin and end— with the set up and the basic conflict. But editors often go further in their off-the-cuff (or sometimes very polished) descriptions. There’s almost always a third layer, the thing that happens as the story unfolds: “She meets her idol who turns out to be her enemy,” or “He gets expelled for something his brother did.” Etc. etc.
The point is, you’ll notice that published books often have interesting details and “hooks” stacked on top of each other. There are multiple ins to the story, multiple elements that can potentially pull in a reader. If the roller-derby bit didn’t catch your attention, the holistic pottery center or star-crossed lovers might.
And my reaction is almost always, “Oh wow that’s cool. Hey that’s even cooler! And THAT happens too!?”
When building your story world, first, get creative and specific with your details. Instead of your main character working at a generic restaurant, why not have your hero be an entertainer at an off-brand Discovery Zone who has to dress as a giant frog (how embarrassing!).
Next, see if it’s possible to layer your “hooks,” giving your manuscript multiple points of interest for the reader browsing their local bookstore. One way to do this is by combining pre-existing ideas. That romcom about the typewriter repairman? Why not blend it with the detective story you’ve been toying with? Now you’ve got a mystery-rom-com about a typewriter repairman who falls in love with the prime suspect against the backdrop of the space race. Layered concepts equals more points of interest, more complexity, and more intrigue.
It can be tricky to stand out in the crowded market, but building in eccentric and memorable details, as well as combining story-concepts, can help your work rise above the static. Writing well is essential, the base line, but it’s only the start. Take the idea you began with and add your own layers of complexity. Tweak the details and embellish the conflicts, and the next time an editor is gushing about their favorite new manuscript over dim sum or lattes, that book might be yours.
John Cusick is a VP and literary agent with Folio Literary Management, representing a diverse list of award winners and New York Times bestsellers. His focus is middle grade, young adult, and crossover fiction. He is also the author of the YA novels Girl Parts and Cherry Money Baby (Candlewick Press), and the forthcoming middle-grade Dimension Why: How to Save the Universe Without Really Trying (HarperCollins). He tweets at @johnmcusick and discusses the craft and business of writing on YouTube at youtube.com/c/AgentBrainWriterBrain. His submission guidelines are available on Publishers Marketplace.
John Cusick will be one of the Storystorm Grand Prizes.
No, we’re not wrapping him in a bow and shipping him to you.
At the end of Storystorm, if you’ve completed the challenge and have at least 30 ideas, you can sign the Storystorm Pledge. If you have registered and signed the pledge, you will go into a random drawing for a Grand Prize. An agent will review your best 5 ideas and give you feedback regarding which ideas would be best to pursue as manuscripts.
So, no need to comment below today…but if you would like to, Storystorm loves feedback!
Posted by Tara Lazar
Categories: STORYSTORM 2020
Tags: John M. Cusick, Literary Agents
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I love the idea of adding ‘eccentric and memorable details’ to a story!
Thank you John :o)
By Catherine on January 8, 2020 at 7:09 am
The stories I love are just what you describe … layer ideas and surprise me. Thanks for your post!
Gail Hartman
By thecrowsmap on January 8, 2020 at 7:13 am
John, you “hooked” me! That was a fantastic post. Even though it was aimed at slightly older (MG) authors, it had so many relevant points for PB writers. And it’s always fun (and useful!) to hear a viewpoint from the “agent side” of the publishing world. Thank you.
By jodieparachini on January 8, 2020 at 7:15 am
Hearing from both sides of the table gives me additional ways to view my writing. Thank you for the visual concept of layers. It will help to add more flavors and textures to my work.
By Gail Atherley on January 8, 2020 at 11:09 am
John, Thanks for sharing the agent / editor viewpoint with us. Even for my picture books which don’t have so many layers, it will help me with pitching.
By authoryvonafast on January 8, 2020 at 7:22 am
Eccentric is my middle name. This has been a fun, useful and inspiring post! Thanks, John!
By Rebecca on January 8, 2020 at 7:26 am
Thank you! On to another day of writing ideas!
By jeanne cherney on January 8, 2020 at 7:26 am
Excellent info to have. Thank you.
By Johnell DeWitt on January 8, 2020 at 7:27 am
That would be fun to have lunch w/an editor or to be a little birdie eavesdropping! Thanks for the tip to combine and add layers to our story ideas!
By tinamcho on January 8, 2020 at 7:27 am
Wow! Perfect timing and great guidance just as I’m considering the layers of characters, conflicts and resolutions in my most inspired story to date. Thanks so much, John. And thanks Tara for including this perspective so early on!
By Suzanne Lewis on January 8, 2020 at 7:30 am
What enthusiasm! What insight! Many thanks for sharing!
By Meli Glickman on January 8, 2020 at 7:37 am
John! Great advice! I’m going to use it on my new MG graphic novel idea and my new YA novel idea. Now, let’s see what picture book ideas I can come up with today. waHAhahaha! Thank you!!! layers… layers… ins…hooks…LET’S GO!
By Sarah Hetu-Radny on January 8, 2020 at 7:41 am
Great post, John! Love the layers and hooks!
By Kelly Jaques on January 8, 2020 at 7:41 am
I appreciate the enthusiasm and insight especially on layering, I often struggle to find a way to make others fall in love with a character or situation I find marvelous! I am sold, so now how about you?
By 58chilihed13 on January 8, 2020 at 7:43 am
Very interesting. Thank you for sharing this perspective. Time to go layer on some ideas.
By teacherwriteracker on January 8, 2020 at 7:46 am
This is the first time I have heard anyone suggest using more than one hook, at least in so many words. Thanks for the discussion about layering!
By M.R. Street on January 8, 2020 at 7:47 am
Thanks for sharing! This was a fun read. 🙂
By Joy Pitcairn on January 8, 2020 at 7:48 am
Layering … why does it make me think of a splendiferous sponge cake? Thanks for sharing.
By Joan Longstaff on January 8, 2020 at 7:51 am
Advice from John Cusick is always salient, and this article did not disappoint.
By Patricia Alcaro on January 8, 2020 at 7:53 am
This post really appeals to my imagination! Thanks, John!
By Kathi Morrison-Taylor on January 8, 2020 at 7:54 am
Love this. I’ve had editors tell me about new books they’re excited about, and it IS an education for a writer.
By Laura Purdie Salas on January 8, 2020 at 7:56 am
Eccentric and memorable details! Love it, thank you John
By Artelle Lenthall on January 8, 2020 at 8:02 am
Thank you for sharing this agent and editor perspective! So helpful!
By Andrea Mack on January 8, 2020 at 8:16 am
Thanks for the tips! Based on an earlier Storystorm post, I’ve been going back to previous ideas and trying to combine some to see where they go. Fun!
By rosecappelli on January 8, 2020 at 8:03 am
Thank you for the peek into the editor’s mind.
By Robin Perkins on January 18, 2020 at 3:53 am
It’s always interesting to hear things from an industry professional’s perspective.
By Lauri Fortino on January 8, 2020 at 8:08 am
It certainly is! It’s always great to have a new perspective.
By michelemeleen on January 8, 2020 at 8:16 am
Love the idea of layering hooks. Thanks!
By hannahhudsonwrites on January 8, 2020 at 8:12 am
Love the image of publishing pros gushing over books! Thanks for sharing.
By Marianne Knowles on January 8, 2020 at 8:12 am
Great ideas about the importance of layering a story and placing hooks in it to draw the reader in.
Thank You
By Kathryn on January 8, 2020 at 8:16 am
Interesting and useful information. Thank you for sharing your insights!
By Jennifer Weisse on January 8, 2020 at 8:20 am
Thank you for your insight. I live in a very small town and will likely never encounter an editor and agent enthralled in a lively book conversation.
By lmconnors on January 8, 2020 at 8:23 am
Todays nugget- write stories with multiple hooks! Thanks for the post John!
By Lisa L Furness on January 8, 2020 at 8:24 am
It’s all in the details and twists. Plus good writing Thanks for sharing how to enliven stories.
By Carole Calladine on January 8, 2020 at 8:32 am
Oh, to be in a restaurant to overhear this! Thanks for the inside info. It’s really helpful and very much like what we know, but NEED to hear again and again until getting it right.
By Linda Mitchell on January 8, 2020 at 8:33 am
Great to get an inside look. Thank you for your advice.
By Darlene Koppel on January 8, 2020 at 8:40 am
John, having taken your workshops and heard you as a speaker, I’m fortunate to have gained invaluable knowledge through you, and it’s no surprise that you would know eXACTly how to distill this basic, but often trying aspect of writing and pitching down to the points that make it crystal clear. Thank you!
By writersideup on January 8, 2020 at 8:45 am
Wonderful insight and this week I’ve been inspired to expand my StoryStorm list beyond picture books, so this helps me put some new ideas into clearer focus.
By authorlaurablog on January 8, 2020 at 8:47 am
Tara, thank you for including the “behind the scenes” peek. I personally would love to see more, as insights like John’s help me in the editing process even as the words hit the paper. Cheers!
By hmkingman on January 8, 2020 at 8:51 am
John, I love how much energy and enthusiasm you have, such brilliant advice about taking different ideas from different manuscripts and juxaposing them together, a genius idea!
By stacey miller on January 8, 2020 at 8:53 am
My mother lives in midtown. I’ll have to ask if she’s ever heard a similar conversation. Thanks for setting the scene.
By Amy Houts on January 8, 2020 at 8:53 am
This is a post I will read again and again, to capture all of the layers of advice. Very rich. Thank you so much!
By Jennifer Phillips on January 8, 2020 at 8:54 am
Enthusiasm is always good. Definitely your writing needs to be engaging and captures attention. Great advice.
By Thelia Hutchinson on January 8, 2020 at 8:55 am
Enthusiasm is always good. Definitely your writing needs to be engaging and captures attention. Great advice. Thank you.
By Thelia Hutchinson on January 8, 2020 at 8:56 am
I love the idea of layering and the way you describe it here is perfect. Thank you for sharing! “Tweak the details and embellish the conflicts” ❤️
By heatherbell37 on January 8, 2020 at 8:57 am
I always think I put too much detail and too many layers in, now I realise I’m on the right track. Thanks!
By Franny G on January 8, 2020 at 8:57 am
Good reminder! Also good to see how concrete facts relay the story more vividly than a lot of description.
By Kathy Erskine on January 8, 2020 at 8:58 am
Its great to hear from a different point of view regarding the process of how a story gets viewed. I loved this post- thank you!
By Nat Keller on January 8, 2020 at 8:59 am
Quirky lenses on…may a fun day begin! Thank you for the inspiration.
By Lori Sheroan on January 8, 2020 at 9:03 am
The idea of layering is a good one for me to keep in mind. If I have written ordinary characters or setting, ok. In revisions, I can come up with ways to make them unique. Thanks, John!
By Jane Heitman Healy on January 8, 2020 at 9:11 am
Bookmarking this as a pitch reference guide!
By Joni Nemeth on January 8, 2020 at 9:12 am
Thank you for the post—it’s great information!
By Lauren Barbieri on January 8, 2020 at 9:16 am
Excellent brainstorming idea. I’m going to start looking at which of my StoryStorm ideas might layer well together. The power of three!
By Jennifer Kay on January 8, 2020 at 9:16 am
I cannot wait for an editor to be gushing over my manuscript! Thanks for the sage advice!
By Colleen Owen Murphy on January 8, 2020 at 9:18 am
Thanks, John, for this expert’s tip on layering hooks, details, and conflict. Great advice!
By Dee Knabb on January 8, 2020 at 9:20 am
Layers of hooks! Great idea. 😉
By gayleckrause on January 8, 2020 at 9:21 am
Great post, John, but I must ask–do typewriter repairmen (or women) still exist? 🙂
By yangmommy on January 8, 2020 at 9:25 am
I love this post, the idea is excellent but adding examples to show how to do it is the other layer we needed. I will be looking at all my manuscripts differently from now on.
By asiqueira1307 on January 8, 2020 at 9:26 am
A very helpful perspective on pitching. Thanks for sharing!
By suzannepoulterharris on January 8, 2020 at 9:26 am
Thank you, John, for your fly-on-the-wall advice. I shall revisit this post again and again. Layer, layer layer was my big takeaway among all this great advice! Be happy today, everyone!
By Robin Jordan on January 8, 2020 at 9:28 am
Layers & details – great ideas to improve any manuscript.
By ptnozell on January 8, 2020 at 9:30 am
Stacking hooks is a fabulous way to make a story more marketable and interesting. Great post, John, that has me thinking.
By Kathy Halsey on January 8, 2020 at 9:30 am
Great advice. I’m off to tweak and embellish.
By Sally Lotz on January 8, 2020 at 9:31 am
You drew us in from the get-go. Thanks for reminding us about the need to “rise above the static”, John.
By Cathy L. Murphy on January 8, 2020 at 9:31 am
Very interesting post. Thank you!
By Gregory E Bray on January 8, 2020 at 9:32 am
These are all great points to keep in mind. Adding layers of complexity is not something I’ve really practiced well in my writing. Writing note to self right now to take notice!
By tanyakonerman on January 8, 2020 at 9:32 am
Thank you, John! Now I’m curious where the children’s editors eat lunch!
By VIRGINIA L MANNING on January 8, 2020 at 9:37 am
Thanks for sharing that perspective…good to keep in mind!
By Deb Sullivan on January 8, 2020 at 9:43 am
This is fantastic…what a great way to show us how important those details are.
By beckylevine on January 8, 2020 at 9:46 am
My between the lines take away is the peek into what it feels like to work with someone who is excited about your project. Fun and informative read. Thanks!
By Shirley fadden on January 8, 2020 at 9:50 am
Thanks for this interview. It has my wheels turning on how to add more interesting layers with stories I’m working on.
By Joanna Rowland on January 8, 2020 at 9:55 am
Great advice. Thanks!
By Tina H on January 8, 2020 at 9:58 am
I appreciate your insightful perspective and useful advice!
By Robin Brett Wechsler on January 8, 2020 at 9:59 am
Thanks for a window into the agent/editor world. Time to look at my layers and details.
By Daryl Gottier on January 8, 2020 at 9:59 am
This post just gave me a thought about rewriting a story that begins with the endnof current versions. Wondering if I have been trying to force the story into a shoe too small. No cutting of my toes to make it work, when it’s done, it will fit like a glass slipper.
By Sarah Tobias on January 8, 2020 at 9:59 am
As I began reading this post I immediately opened a word document to create a John M Cusick Checklist. Multiple hooks, multiple layers, combine multiple ideas—create a Princess and Pea worthy stack. Reading this felt like watching Netflix! Thank you, John and kudos, Tara, for these grand prize posts. Everybody wins!
By Marty lapointe-malchik on January 8, 2020 at 10:00 am
Use layering for cooking, fashion, writing…the sky’s the limit! Thanks for an eye-opening post!
By Susan on January 8, 2020 at 10:01 am
Very interesting post. Thanks so much!
By Linda Staszak on January 8, 2020 at 10:03 am
Love all the agent/editor inside scoop I can get! Thanks John!
By Polly Sena Renner on January 8, 2020 at 10:05 am
Time to tweak and embellish! Inspiring challenge and great tips.
By Cathy Ballou Mealey on January 8, 2020 at 10:08 am
Very helpful post. Thanks!
By Debra Kempf Shumaker on January 8, 2020 at 10:08 am
Fantastic post, John. You’ve given me a lot of helpful information to think about, especially layering and combining preexisting ideas. Thanks for that!
By pathaap on January 8, 2020 at 10:09 am
Thanks for your post.
By colleen kosinski on January 8, 2020 at 10:16 am
This statement is money. “Oh wow that’s cool. Hey that’s even cooler! And THAT happens too!?” Thank you, John!
By Liz Ski Healey on January 8, 2020 at 10:17 am
Mash-up of two story ideas, multiple hooks…great post!
By 8catpaws on January 8, 2020 at 10:20 am
I love envisioning an editor talking about one of my stories. It’s all about those layers. Thanks for the post!
By Megan Whitaker on January 8, 2020 at 10:24 am
Thanks so much for your post.
By Daniele Arndt on January 8, 2020 at 10:27 am
Tara, what a wonderful prize! John’s post is quite informative, and many of us do concentrate on that primary conflict and let it go at that. The complication is important in picture books as well as middle-grade and up. I’m going back to look at some of my “bright ideas” to see if they could use such additional layers. Thank you!
By writeremmcbride on January 8, 2020 at 10:28 am
I want to go to that restaurant for lunch! I’ll have what they’re having, with some listening tea and lurking pie for dessert. 🙂
By Lori Dubbin on January 8, 2020 at 10:32 am
This sounds so exciting! It is how I talk about my characters to people now if I could only get it all down on paper and say what I mean and really mean what I say! Thank you for the inspiration found in this wonderful post!
By Kelly Vavala on January 8, 2020 at 10:34 am
Love reading this type of advice from agents! Thanks
By Laurie on January 8, 2020 at 10:38 am
Love this super-helpful description of how to think about multiple hooks and layers! The tip about adding specific, eccentric details is my new mantra. Thank you, John!
By clairebobrow on January 8, 2020 at 10:41 am
Layering hooks…how fun to try this with all those ideas that have not yet found a home! What would happen if I mashed up my five best wannabes? Thanks
By Laura Rackham on January 8, 2020 at 10:45 am
This was an insider view of how the business works along with the great pointers of what to do for your project. Thank you for the peek.
By Bru Benson on January 8, 2020 at 10:46 am
Great perspective! Thanks for sharing.
By Janice Woods on January 8, 2020 at 10:46 am
Each time you added a layer, I definitely became more intrigued and invested. Thank you for your insight as a writer, agent and working with editors. Great post!
By Aimee on January 8, 2020 at 10:47 am
Insight from agents and editors is helpful when planning plots and submission wording.
By Sheri Radovich on January 8, 2020 at 10:48 am
John, you have given me a whole page of useful information. I love the advice to build your story world to attract multiple readers.
Thank you so much!
By Krista Harrington on January 8, 2020 at 10:50 am
Thank you! You have such an exciting career!
By Anita Banks on January 8, 2020 at 10:52 am
Such an exciting read, John! Love hearing your thoughts and ideas! I still remember the advice you gave me on 15 minutes with an expert and in fact, past some of it on to a cp just recently. Thanks for being such a helpful, encouraging part of the Writing Community
By Kaitlyn Leann Sanchez on January 8, 2020 at 10:54 am
So fun to peek into the agent/editor world! Great tips for writing and pitching. Thank you!
By Hollie Wolverton on January 8, 2020 at 10:54 am
This is good to know. Thanks
By Sharon Langley on January 8, 2020 at 10:54 am
Wow! Thank you for this perspective. I love your advice of adding specific details and layers to a manuscript. It’s so easy to get caught up in the plot that filling in the details can become generic. This definitely has me rethinking some ideas.
By Eileen Mayo on January 8, 2020 at 10:56 am
So impressed with John. Love to have him review my ideas, even if his focus isn’t picture books.
By Marsha Diane Arnold on January 8, 2020 at 11:00 am
Will definitely look for ways to add more layers in my pb manuscripts!
By Michelle Ramirez on January 8, 2020 at 11:00 am
Thank you!
By Midge Ballou Smith on January 8, 2020 at 11:05 am
This was insightful. I’ll definitely think like an editor in pitching my book in a query. Thanks for sharing.
By nrompella on January 8, 2020 at 11:06 am
I will check the links. Thank you
By Hélène Sabourin on January 8, 2020 at 11:09 am
Such useful information to draw from! Thank you!
By donnacangelosi on January 8, 2020 at 11:11 am
A hook; another hook – and yet another! great way to think about how to share our story ideas.
By Sue Heavenrich on January 8, 2020 at 11:14 am
Thank you for this post. This shows me that I need to practice my pitch and get my query down.
By Catherine Crosby on January 8, 2020 at 11:15 am
Time to add layers of complexity through multiple hooks.
Thank you, John.
Suzy Leopold
By Prairie Garden Girl on January 8, 2020 at 11:16 am
Oh, please wrap John Cusick up and send him to me. I want my own personal muse to get me through the rough patches of writing.
By debobrienbookscom on January 8, 2020 at 11:16 am
Off to write a story about an elephant/ scientist/ astronaut/ baker who launches a bakery on the moon only to realize he misses baking for his hungry & supportive friends & family back home.
Thanks for reminding us to bait our hooks with layers, John.
By Andria Rosenbaum on January 8, 2020 at 11:23 am
That was a really interesting (and helpful!) way at looking at things. Thanks, John!
By paulinetso on January 8, 2020 at 11:24 am
I love thinking about how an editor might pitch an idea and using that knowledge to come up with great details and layers–thank you!
By Jolene Ballard Gutiérrez on January 8, 2020 at 11:26 am
Great idea! They all sound like books I’d want to read.
By Linda Schueler on January 8, 2020 at 11:29 am
Big challenge- multiple hooks, layering, all in brief text of a PB. We can do this!
By Natasha Garnett on January 8, 2020 at 11:29 am
This is so insightful! Thank you, John, for sharing your “inside” information. 🙂
By danielledufayet on January 8, 2020 at 11:30 am
Great advice, John! So helpful, thanks!
By Kim Larson on January 8, 2020 at 11:31 am
What a fascinating post, full of information we all need to know.
By June Sengpiehl on January 8, 2020 at 11:34 am
Thank you very much for the help and insight. What a TON of information in one post!
By Paula Puckett on January 8, 2020 at 11:37 am
Very interesting post! Thanks, John!
By Linda KulpTrout on January 8, 2020 at 11:38 am
This can be difficult to see in your own work. In my first book, I saw the story I was telling, it was others who saw the layers and interesting points that I hadn’t “intended’. It wasn’t that I didn’t put them in the story, they were just part of the story and experience and was not so “new” to me.
We can get very intimate with our work and it is often best to let someone else give their view on it, not just your critique group who has read it for the Nth revision, but someone new who can give you honest feedback.
By matthewlasley on January 8, 2020 at 11:40 am
Sometimes, a single sentence or idea is all that’s needed to inspire. Yes, John Cusick’s entire post is chock full of greatness, but the sentence that stopped me is this one. “Oh wow, that’s cool. Hey, that’s even cooler! And THAT happens too!?” From here on out, I’m going to work to make these reactions possible in my stories. Many thanks.
By Leslie Leibhardt Goodman - Writer on January 8, 2020 at 11:41 am
This was great! Coming up with situations is the easy part for me. It’s the details that drive the plot I struggle with. I’m going to start collecting details. Thanks, John!
By karammitchell on January 8, 2020 at 11:42 am
I like this different perspective!
By jenabenton on January 8, 2020 at 11:45 am
Thank you, John for the insight into your world. I am always working on the idea of layers, thank you for the encouragement.
By TerriMichels on January 8, 2020 at 11:48 am
Loved the hook details layering technique (sound almost like a crochet term!). Thanks!
By Susan Wroble on January 8, 2020 at 11:48 am
Wow. Lots to think about here! Thank you for your post, John.
By Mary Jane on January 8, 2020 at 11:49 am
John, Thanks for your post. Though it’s more aimed at MG+ manuscripts, PBs can also build on the plot and complications in a story.
By Sherry Smith on January 8, 2020 at 11:49 am
Than you John for an insight into your world.
By TerriMichels on January 8, 2020 at 11:50 am
Fantastic advice, John. There is a lot here to think about.
By David McMullin on January 8, 2020 at 11:51 am
Thank you for the writing tips, John. It is good to hear the perspective from the agent’s point-of-view.
By Suzanne Alexander on January 8, 2020 at 11:54 am
I love the idea of layering and blending story ideas! it would be a great way to fit in that one idea that’s too good to give up on but doesn’t quite fit anywhere.
By kyavorski on January 8, 2020 at 11:55 am
Great suggestions! Now it’s application time. Thanks, John!
By Angie on January 8, 2020 at 11:58 am
Thank you, John, for an intriguing look at the agent and editor process.
By judyrubin13 on January 8, 2020 at 11:59 am
Great post! Thank you.
By vgraboski61gmailcom on January 8, 2020 at 12:00 pm
Great advice and good to hear the perspective of agents and editors. Thank you John
By Jayy on January 8, 2020 at 12:02 pm
Thank you for breaking down the interesting perspective! Helpful advice!
By Cortney Benvenuto on January 8, 2020 at 12:04 pm
Wow, quite the challenge for PBs. Thanks!
By Poupette Smith on January 8, 2020 at 12:08 pm
Thank you, John, for sharing what an agent/editor lunch is like, and for the post on layering hooks. It’s nice to hear from an agent’s viewpoint.
By Debra Daugherty on January 8, 2020 at 12:08 pm
As in fashion so in story telling; layers add interest.
By Kaylynn Johnsen on January 8, 2020 at 12:09 pm
Great ideas! Thanks, John.
By Susan Johnston Taylor on January 8, 2020 at 12:16 pm
I can’t resist commenting – what an awesome post. I love the concept of stacked hooks, and look forward to making sure I can articulate them about my stories – or get revising!
By Cinzia V. on January 8, 2020 at 12:16 pm
Very enlightening. Thank you!
By kdid54 on January 8, 2020 at 12:20 pm
Great insight! Thanks so much, John.
By Matt Forrest Esenwine on January 8, 2020 at 12:25 pm
Oh, John. You disappoint me again and again…because you don’t rep PB writers. 😉 Your posts/webinars/videos are always insightful. Thanks.
By carolmunrojww on January 8, 2020 at 12:26 pm
Thanks for the look inside the editor/agent’s excitement about new ideas/projects AND for the encouragement to push our creative boundaries. 🙂
By Jennifer Hunt on January 8, 2020 at 12:27 pm
Thanks for sharing your insights!
By Heather Rowley on January 8, 2020 at 12:29 pm
I am caught up in imagining the agent/editor lunch. What a fun Netflix series that would make! Thank you for the energizing post.
By Laura N. Clement on January 8, 2020 at 12:30 pm
Took plenty of notes today! Great info. Thanks!
By Marty Bellis on January 8, 2020 at 12:31 pm
Great ideas! Thank you for the advice, John.
By Heidi Yates on January 8, 2020 at 12:38 pm
Thank you for the advice to layer our hooks! My creative juices will be churning today.
By Heather Stigall on January 8, 2020 at 12:43 pm
Thank you👏 I have an idea❤️
By EmmieRWerner on January 8, 2020 at 12:46 pm
Excellent stuff, John Cusick, I took notes. 🙂
By Cathy C. Hall on January 8, 2020 at 12:49 pm
Thank you for the inspiring post!
By Doreen E. Lepore on January 8, 2020 at 12:50 pm
THANK YOU JOHN! Sorry for yelling, but as someone in the query trenches, I needed this post. I’m always pitching books (my own unpublished manuscripts, and others’ published books) and yet when I sit down to query the book I just had my local librarian itching to shelf as soon as it’s published, it sounds like I’m pitching those bland-spined encyclopedias gathering dust in back. (“Great sleep-inducing work! Read it and learn stuff!”)
OK, I might be exaggerating a little (hey, I’m a writer, what’dya expect?) But now, thanks to your post, I can approach the query from a new perspective. so THANK YOU!
By JEN Garrett on January 8, 2020 at 12:51 pm
What a great post. So many nuggets of good information. Thank you so much!
By Shirley on January 8, 2020 at 12:52 pm
Loved these ideas and to hear what editors really say! Fabulous information! Thanks so much!
By Sue Reichard on January 8, 2020 at 12:56 pm
Thank you for sharing. It’s fascinating to get a glimpse into an agents mindset and process.
By SpeechVine on January 8, 2020 at 12:56 pm
Thank you! It’s great to get an agent’s perspective.
By Sara Matson on January 8, 2020 at 1:01 pm
I appreciate all the great tips to being a better writer…thank you
By saintamovin on January 8, 2020 at 1:03 pm
John this post came at a great time for me. I’ve been working on adding heart to one of my manuscripts that I love but that has giving me a run for my money. I was debating about whether or not an additional layer served the plot, and this post really helped me to see my options in a new light. Thank you for the insight!
By Melissa Richardson on January 8, 2020 at 1:04 pm
Thanks, John! I’m now writing a story about a hairless cat who enjoys holistic pottery but hates her generic restaurant day job. When she wins the roller derby, she quits her job, writes a best-selling memoir and then falls in love with the typewriter-repair dog 😉
By kirstenpendreigh on January 8, 2020 at 1:10 pm
I wonder if John echoes Disney’s Jasmine, “I am not a prize to be won!” Just kidding. What a lovely opportunity. Thank-you both. This is amazingly useful advice on layering your ideas as well as pitch-writing. Very grateful!
By Joanne Roberts on January 8, 2020 at 1:10 pm
Such a cool post about intertwining layers of hooks! And wondering which ones the editor and agent were discussing.
By Nancy Furstinger on January 8, 2020 at 1:13 pm
Interesting post. Thanks for sharing.
By Cathy Ogren on January 8, 2020 at 1:22 pm
Love your perspective and the idea of layering hooks. Thanks so much
By bevbaird on January 8, 2020 at 1:23 pm
I loved reading about what agents & editors look for. Such good advice especially about layering hooks!
By Alice Fulgione on January 8, 2020 at 1:28 pm
Great tips to think about. Thanks
By Abigail Marble on January 8, 2020 at 1:48 pm
A great reminder to look at this from the marketing perspective!
By Charlotte Offsay on January 8, 2020 at 1:49 pm
This was an excellent post. I’d love to hear more like this, from the editor’s perspective. Thanks for sharing this with us!
By Heather Thurmeier on January 8, 2020 at 1:52 pm
When I saw this snippet of advice on Twitter the first time, I had an “aha” moment. And now this expanded explanation on Storystorm is everything! I love thinking about multiple hooks and layering them to provide multiple points of interest. Thanks, John, for sharing!
By Aimee Satterlee on January 8, 2020 at 2:04 pm
What great ideas I had coming from your post, thank you!
By Joan Swanson on January 8, 2020 at 2:06 pm
Layer your “hooks” + killer details…yes!! I’m sharing this with my CPs…thank you!
By Teresa Robeson on January 8, 2020 at 2:16 pm
Thank you, John. Very inspiring and motivating.
By sareenmclay on January 8, 2020 at 2:25 pm
This was quite interesting! I loved hearing another facet of the process. Thank you!
By Karen Greenwald on January 8, 2020 at 2:38 pm
It’s always a treat to hear John’s perspective on writing and publishing so many thanks to both John and Tara!
By kimpfenn on January 8, 2020 at 2:39 pm
Great tips–thank you!
By Buffy Silverman on January 8, 2020 at 2:42 pm
Thanks John, I’m in the middle of a rewrite and think I could use a few layers. I’d love to have an editor excited about my manuscript.
By Dayne Sislen, Children's Book Illustrator on January 8, 2020 at 2:49 pm
“published books often have interesting details and “hooks” stacked on top of each other. There are multiple ins to the story, multiple elements that can potentially pull in a reader.” I love this idea of connecting with readers on a variety of topics and details. It can produce a whole range of keyword interests that appeal to many people in different and surprising ways. I’m not very familiar with westerns, for example, but set one in a theatre or ghost town and it would definitely get my attention!
By jenniemacdonald on January 8, 2020 at 2:55 pm
Great insights into the publishing world. Thank you, John!
By kathrynjeanhagen on January 8, 2020 at 2:57 pm
Great post and what an amazing grand prize too!
By drawingablank6 on January 8, 2020 at 3:01 pm
Thank you for this post! I love the idea of adding complexity and multiple hooks to our stories. I also loved to hear you talk about editors and how much they love the books they work on. Thanks for sharing.
By Ashley Bankhead on January 8, 2020 at 3:07 pm
This is incredibly insightful. Thank you so much!
By Jess Townes on January 8, 2020 at 3:10 pm
Thanks a new formula to think about when writing!
By Susan Drew on January 8, 2020 at 3:13 pm
Thanks for the peek at an editor/agent lunch! Love the idea of layering hooks- a great way to use more Storystorm ideas!
By Lisa Billa on January 8, 2020 at 3:17 pm
This is great and fits well with my after-the-Storystorm strategy. At the end of the month, I take all my ideas and categorize them into lists – character ideas, plot ideas, setting ideas, etc. Then, when I’m stuck on a story I look for another layer in these lists. Sometimes, it actually works! Thanks for the post.
By Cindy Williams Schrauben on January 8, 2020 at 3:17 pm
John, this was excellent. Thanks for the concrete examples of layered hooks. Very inspirational for new ideas and revisions/queries of WIP.
By Maria Marshall on January 8, 2020 at 3:24 pm
Time to think about layering hooks. Interesting tip!
By Rona Shirdan on January 8, 2020 at 3:29 pm
Good ideas here for my MG WIP 😀
By Heather Gallagher on January 8, 2020 at 3:31 pm
Thanks for the behind the scene look at what an editor loves. It was so insightful along with the 3rd layer of a pitch.
By bookfish1 on January 8, 2020 at 3:35 pm
I love this so much! I need to go back and layer upon layer to my manuscripts! I got all kinds of ideas as I was reading today. Thank you!
By Patti Richards, Children's Author on January 8, 2020 at 3:36 pm
oh to be a fly on the wall at an editor-agent lunch!
By aidantalkin on January 8, 2020 at 3:44 pm
This is great insider tips. I need to revisit my pitches and make sure they include all three layers. Thanks!
By Carol Gwin Nelson on January 8, 2020 at 3:44 pm
Hmm, kind of like using a net instead of a pole to give your “manuscript multiple points of interest for the reader browsing their local bookstore.” Great advice, John. Thank you.
By LeeAnn Rizzuti on January 8, 2020 at 3:45 pm
Thanks for the great ideas from John.
By Sharon Solomon on January 8, 2020 at 3:46 pm
Thanks for the inside scoop John BUT this is truly a GRAND prize Tara.
By Elizabeth W Saba on January 8, 2020 at 3:55 pm
Thanks for sharing. It’s so much fun to play around with ideas and create a mash-up!
By Jane Baskwill on January 8, 2020 at 4:01 pm
I am actually working on a pitch for a one-on-one pitch session coming up so this post was perfect timing. Thank you!
By Rebecca Herzog on January 8, 2020 at 4:02 pm
Thanks John. Layers and details for the win!
By Janie Reinart on January 8, 2020 at 4:03 pm
Some great tips for creating our pitch, blurb and query time. Thank you for sharing. 🙂
By angelcat2014 on January 8, 2020 at 4:16 pm
Great perspective!
You had me at – his hairless cat…
By charlestrevino on January 8, 2020 at 4:19 pm
I gained a lot when a similar message was posted on Twitter. Thanks for the additional details today John. Off to layer up!
By jenfierjasinski on January 8, 2020 at 4:27 pm
Great insight on how to make a story really stand out, especially, “Build in eccentric and memorable details…”
By jenwritespbs on January 8, 2020 at 4:41 pm
Good idea, why ordinary when you can be extraordinary
By Priya Gopal on January 8, 2020 at 4:41 pm
Thank you for sharing, John. It would be amazing to hear those conversations, and what a confidence boost if that book was your own!
I love your ideas about getting specific in the details, too.
By Rebekah Lowell on January 8, 2020 at 4:44 pm
Thanks for the tips. Great ideas for making our story stand out.
By Deb Buschman (@DebBuschman) on January 8, 2020 at 4:50 pm
Very helpful ideas about using multiple hooks and layering them. And it was inspiring to “eavesdrop” on a editor at lunch.. Thank you for giving us the benefit of your first hand experience and expertise.
By Carolyne Ruck on January 8, 2020 at 4:58 pm
Thanks John! I appreciate your perspective.
By Mary Warth on January 8, 2020 at 5:04 pm
“Layering your hooks,” eh? That’s an image that’s been stuck in my head all day.
By Laura Jean Watters on January 8, 2020 at 5:12 pm
This advice was so good. I am already bubbling with ideas. Thank you!
By SUSAN M CONTRERAS on January 8, 2020 at 5:23 pm
Solid advice to take an idea you already have and figure out how to make it more memorable. Thank you!
By Susanne Whitehouse on January 8, 2020 at 5:31 pm
Thanks, John, for your inside look at what excites agents, editors, AND folks reading a good book. Stacked hooks makes so much sense. One element may not pull a reader in, but the other will. A genius way to expand our audience for a single book!
By Joannie Duris on January 8, 2020 at 5:34 pm
Layers and hooks, layers and hooks. A primer on writing bestselling books!
By Jilanne Hoffmann on January 8, 2020 at 5:35 pm
Layering up! I get it, like a 7 layer dip😊, each layer is yummy.
By Linda Whalen on January 8, 2020 at 5:38 pm
This post launched my PB, MG, YA, and adult-writing brain into hyper-drive.Thank you!
By LaurenKerstein on January 8, 2020 at 5:40 pm
What an amazing opportunity! Thank you Tara and John Cusick for making this possible! The entire month just got even more exciting!
By ingridboydston on January 8, 2020 at 5:43 pm
Multiple genre books are interesting, but don’t they sometimes get lost due to the bookstores not knowing where to catalog them? Each genre has its own sub-genre, but mixing in too many genres might lose some readers. At least, I’ve heard this from other agents/editors.
By Chelle Martin on January 8, 2020 at 5:46 pm
Great food for thought. Thanks for the opportunity!
By Gayle Veitenheimer on January 8, 2020 at 5:47 pm
Thanks for the examples of how exactly to layer concepts. Very useful!
By Juliana Lee on January 8, 2020 at 5:50 pm
Great ideas John. Now I know why my latest ms isn’t singing, yet.
By Louann Brown on January 8, 2020 at 5:58 pm
Thanks for your insight!
By Ashley Congdon (@AshleyCCongdon) on January 8, 2020 at 6:09 pm
Thanks for giving an insider’s view on how to layer hooks. Very helpful post, John.
By Amy Newbold on January 8, 2020 at 6:15 pm
Love this post! Thank you for the insight.
By Karin Larson on January 8, 2020 at 6:24 pm
This was really helpful and practical and imaginative all at the same time!
By Wendy Pierman Mitzel on January 8, 2020 at 6:34 pm
Thank you for sharing your insights and suggestions!
By Jennifer Blanck on January 8, 2020 at 6:39 pm
Eccentric, memorable and combining. Three things I will take away from this. Thanks.
By steveheron on January 8, 2020 at 6:46 pm
Great look at hooks!
By Sara A on January 8, 2020 at 7:13 pm
I’d love some examples of how this philosophy can be applied to writing picture books, since we are typically encouraged to streamline as much as possible.
By Janet Frenck Sheets on January 8, 2020 at 7:18 pm
Great post! I love people-watching in restaurants and imagining they are talking about something I’ve written! John, let’s have nachos–I know a great Tex-Mex place 🙂
By jcobooks on January 8, 2020 at 7:26 pm
Thank you, John for this post which has many of us look at our WIPs in a new way!
By Lori Mozdzierz on January 8, 2020 at 7:35 pm
No doubt about it. Adding layers to a WIP takes time and hard work but is definitely worth it. In the end, the story will be more interesting and meaningful in the end and also more marketable.
By Linda Hofke on January 8, 2020 at 7:38 pm
John, Thanks for sharing your layers of knowledge.
By Manju B. Howard (@ManjuBeth) on January 8, 2020 at 7:38 pm
Super helpful ideas! Thanks so much!! 🙂
By JillDanaBooks on January 8, 2020 at 7:40 pm
Thank you, John, for the layered look behind the scenes. Solid gold!
By chardixon47 on January 8, 2020 at 7:41 pm
I appreciate these concepts of layering. Before reading this post, I thought I was just throwing new ideas at the story, but if I pull them in properly they make for a deeper more satisfying tale. Thanks, John!
By tiffanydickinson on January 8, 2020 at 7:42 pm
This is a great point… “If the roller-derby bit didn’t catch your attention, the holistic pottery center or star-crossed lovers might.”
By Michelle Lord on January 8, 2020 at 7:43 pm
I like the idea of several hooks for a story – I need to incorporate that into my picture book manuscripts.
By cbcole on January 8, 2020 at 7:50 pm
Great advice, John, for standing out in today’s market! Thank you.
By Arlene Schenker on January 8, 2020 at 7:55 pm
This was a great post and interesting perspective. Thanks a lot. Really useful!
By Maria J Cuesta on January 8, 2020 at 7:59 pm
Winter is a great time to be thinking about layers – what job does each do, what is revealed when you peel one away.
By Angela H. Dale on January 8, 2020 at 8:20 pm
I love the concept of combining two pre-existing ideas! You’ve given us so much to think about–thanks!
By Julie Reich on January 8, 2020 at 8:26 pm
All great info, thanks. You got me more excited, the more I read.
By Nancy Riley on January 8, 2020 at 8:37 pm
Thanks for a great post! Off to tweak some ideas!
By Jenn on January 8, 2020 at 8:48 pm
Oh, this helps a lot! Change a location or two, twist in an interesting character/ character flaw and voila! Layers 🙂 Thanks, John!
By Erik Ammon on January 8, 2020 at 8:51 pm
That’s a good idea! I’ll have to give it a try.
By Janet Smart on January 8, 2020 at 8:52 pm
I enjoyed reading this post! Great ideas for my stories!
Thank you!
By Mark Ceilley on January 8, 2020 at 8:58 pm
Hi! Could you elaborate more on the “multiple ins to the story”? Thanks!
By KASteed on January 8, 2020 at 9:04 pm
Oh, to be a fly in the soup of that restaurant, so that I could hear that conversation! 🙂 Thanks so much, John!! And on behalf of the authors you work with, thank you for your sincere enthusiasm!
By Susie Sawyer on January 8, 2020 at 9:11 pm
THanks for this. Always good to remember to mash up story ideas- time to go back and see what shake out!
By ryanrobertsauthor on January 8, 2020 at 9:25 pm
Layer the hooks, make strong page turns. Great advice!
By Angela Padron on January 8, 2020 at 9:31 pm
JOHN: THANK YOU for the INSPIRING post! It is SO HELPFUL to have the POV of someone who works in a different area of the book business.
By Natalie Lynn Tanner on January 8, 2020 at 9:33 pm
Great advice. Thanks, John!
By Becky Shillington on January 8, 2020 at 9:41 pm
Great advice, thank you! Lots to think about.
By Kimberly Marcus on January 8, 2020 at 9:55 pm
Highlighting an editor’s approach to presenting their favourite books is such a great way of reminding writers about essential story elements and ways of presenting their work – thank you!
By Susan Macartney on January 8, 2020 at 9:59 pm
I do like all this detail with intriguing hooks here, and there, and before you know it, you will be able to form that story. Thanks for all this info to think on.
By Virginia Rinkel on January 8, 2020 at 10:02 pm
I hope to find some potential layers during these 30 days. Great post!
By brittanypomales on January 8, 2020 at 10:10 pm
Man, this advice is classic John Cusick: it makes me want to go write! I could use some more examples of layered PB’s, though, to really make use of this approach.
By Cedar Pruitt on January 8, 2020 at 10:17 pm
Love the suggestion of layered interests. Thank you.
By DaNeil Olson on January 8, 2020 at 10:20 pm
Thank you for this great advice. I really appreciate it!
By Abby Wooldridge on January 8, 2020 at 10:23 pm
I love hearing about how editors and agents talk about our books, its so refreshing. I also loved the advice here- I had seen this thread on Twitter recently and bookmarked it. It’s gold.
By Lydia Lukidis on January 8, 2020 at 10:27 pm
John, you’ve got my brain spinning with inspiration.
Thanks for your post!
By megcason1 on January 8, 2020 at 10:35 pm
Almost like playing PB writing madlibs. Love it.
By Lindsay Ellis on January 8, 2020 at 10:37 pm
Thanks so much for the encouragement. Seemingly random things when brought together can create such a fun and unique story. I think it’s just a matter of making the right connections.
By candicewolff on January 8, 2020 at 10:48 pm
What a useful post! I’m going to reread this a few times and think deeply about my stories and all their hooks. Thank you!
By Sandy Perlic on January 8, 2020 at 10:58 pm
Thanks for helpful information from the other side. Time to get to work!
By susanzonca on January 8, 2020 at 10:59 pm
I’ve heard lots of advice on hooks, and nothing has been more clear than John’s description today!
By Michele Ziemke on January 8, 2020 at 11:02 pm
Very helpful advice! It’s great hearing from someone who’s so well-versed in the industry.
By ruthwilson48 on January 8, 2020 at 11:11 pm
So interesting! Thanks for the sneak peek into agent/editor interactions. And what a brilliant idea to layer hooks, drawing the reader in deeper & deeper… wow!
By Leigh Therriault on January 8, 2020 at 11:14 pm
Thanks for the post! Great read. Very helpful.
By Sylvia Mary Grech on January 8, 2020 at 11:19 pm
love the idea of multiple layers. I was under the impression that less was more, but I like the idea that more can be interesting…. a new hook!
By Shaunda K Wenger on January 8, 2020 at 11:32 pm
Sounds like this could be complicated, but worth a try.
By Jennifer Spillane on January 8, 2020 at 11:33 pm
Great post ! It was so interesting to view our craft from this perspective! Thanks John and of course Tara!! 🙂
By seschipper on January 8, 2020 at 11:38 pm
Very helpful. Thank you for the insight John.
By Laura W. on January 8, 2020 at 11:46 pm
Thanks for sharing John! It would indeed be great to hear all those conservations!
By jbbower on January 8, 2020 at 11:48 pm
Oh to be a fly on a wall on such an occasion. And thank you for such good advice to “…layer your “hooks,” giving your manuscript multiple points of interest for the reader.”
By Keila Dawson on January 9, 2020 at 12:13 am
Love the third layer!
By Stephanie Austin on January 9, 2020 at 12:15 am
Love this! Thank you for writing this post. I’m thinking through some of my stories right now to see where I can add layers and hooks.
By Terrie Hellard-Brown on January 9, 2020 at 12:39 am
Thanks, John, for the tips on how to make our manuscripts more exciting and more apt to attract an agent and/or editor. Great post!
By betlw on January 9, 2020 at 12:49 am
Thank you for the inside scoop about the lunches between editors and agents. It was wonderful to hear about their passion for their projects.
By Amanda Malek-Ahmadi on January 9, 2020 at 12:55 am
Thank you, John, for the tips. Love eccentric and your examples of layers and hooks 🙂
By lahewson on January 9, 2020 at 12:59 am
This is definitely one of the most helpful posts so far this year. I love hearing other’s stories when they layer one good hook/twist on top of another too! We (writers) should often aim for the same “wow” reactions from our own MS.
By Juliann Caveny on January 9, 2020 at 1:47 am
❤️
By laurimacey on January 9, 2020 at 1:48 am
Coincidentally I just finished watching last night’s Mixed-ish which featured a budding romance with the Challenger explosion as the backdrop!
By Rachel S. Hobbs Gunn on January 9, 2020 at 1:58 am
You had me at the Challenger romance. Thanks!
By Michelle Kashinsky on January 9, 2020 at 2:04 am
Of course you are right. Now if I can just remember to always do it.
By Michele Helsel on January 9, 2020 at 2:24 am
Hmmm, now I’m thinking of how I can add some hook-y layers to an old YA I’d like to pull out of the dusty drawer.
By Jocelyn Rish on January 9, 2020 at 2:49 am
Great ideas on improving my pitches and the stories behind them. Thank you!
By Marcia Berneger on January 9, 2020 at 3:27 am
What crazy intriguing ideas. Mr. Cusick has some great insight.
By percyandcat on January 9, 2020 at 4:40 am
What crazy intriguing ideas. Mr. Cusick has great insight and would be an asset to any writer.
By percyandcat on January 9, 2020 at 4:43 am
Thank you for the interesting article!
By Leah on January 9, 2020 at 5:27 am
This comes at the perfect time for me as I’m plotting my next MG. Thank you, John, for your wisdom and insight about layering hooks. Much appreciated!
By Judy Bryan on January 9, 2020 at 7:14 am
Thank you for the practical suggestions.
By Freda Lewkowicz on January 9, 2020 at 7:14 am
Love this. Thanks. The devil in the eccentric, appealing details. Hope, one day you’ll be discussing my next story over some steamed bao, shu mai and fung jeow!
By Jen Kraar on January 9, 2020 at 7:53 am
What a cool grand prize!
By kaleegwarjanski on January 9, 2020 at 8:18 am
Awesome grand prize – fingers crossed! Thanks, John, for the info and tips.
By Angela De Groot on January 9, 2020 at 8:35 am
Adding unique layers is the goal. Thanks for the suggestions John.
By Kathy Cornell Berman on January 9, 2020 at 9:22 am
Layered Hooks Make Better Books
By phaeacrede on January 9, 2020 at 9:28 am
Looking forward to layerings some ideas together from some of 2020’s est all thanks to this great post!
By Maria Bostian on January 9, 2020 at 9:29 am
Thanks for making me think about adding suspense and complexity to my stories, to keep the reader hooked. 😊 I will try to see how I can include these elements. Thanks!
By Mariana Rios on January 9, 2020 at 9:31 am
Sounds like a great prize! 🤞🏽
By Mita on January 9, 2020 at 9:33 am
Thanks for including specific examples as you extol the value of specificity in pitching. Very helpful!
By Melanie Ellsworth on January 9, 2020 at 10:28 am
Ohhhhhh my! There is so much good information in here. I’m excited to go back to some of my finished works to see what I can add.
By shannonlhall on January 9, 2020 at 10:35 am
Such great suggestions. I’m going to go back and add details and layers to my manuscripts.
By claireannette1 on January 9, 2020 at 10:36 am
I learned so much when I recently attended a booksellers convention and listened to the sales reps pitch their lists to the booksellers. It was much the same as you describe here, and very instructive. Thanks much for the insider’s perspective.
By Dawn Prochovnic on January 9, 2020 at 10:49 am
Love “And THAT happens too!?” Great post. Thank you!
By Dawn Young on January 9, 2020 at 10:54 am
Standing out in a crowded market is what concerns me the most but I know there is room for my ideas too.
By tdjw on January 9, 2020 at 11:11 am
Love the suggestion of combining and layering plot ideas!
By Becky Ross Michael on January 9, 2020 at 11:18 am
Great suggestions for all genres!
By Rebecca Thill (@rkthill) on January 9, 2020 at 11:31 am
Interesting, thanks
By Kathy Mazurowski on January 9, 2020 at 11:36 am
Thanks for the insights into making a manuscript stand out.
By Elizabeth Duncan on January 9, 2020 at 12:05 pm
“Layered concepts equals more points of interest, more complexity, and more intrigue.
It can be tricky to stand out in the crowded market, but building in eccentric and memorable details, as well as combining story-concepts, can help your work rise above the static. Writing well is essential, the base line, but it’s only the start. Take the idea you began with and add your own layers of complexity. Tweak the details and embellish the conflicts, and the next time an editor is gushing about their favorite new manuscript over dim sum or lattes, that book might be yours.”
May it be so!
By Lane Mathis Arnold on January 9, 2020 at 12:32 pm
I would love to see one of these editor conversations illustrated like a graphic novel! Thanks for your insight!
By Jenny Read Stout on January 9, 2020 at 1:09 pm
Thank you for this insight! I need to think about layered hooks as I start the revision process.
By Carrie Williford (@carrietimes) on January 9, 2020 at 1:31 pm
Love the reminder to create multiple points of interest.
By rgstones on January 9, 2020 at 1:40 pm
OMG! This is an amazing post! It’s worth a whole writers’ conference.
By bluerabbit on January 9, 2020 at 1:52 pm
OOH, this sounds like great advice. Now I just have to be careful to make it “clean” and not confusing.
By Dina Ticas on January 9, 2020 at 2:27 pm
How fun to weave three different hooks into a story that is fun to read. Thanks for the great advice.
By writeknit on January 9, 2020 at 2:48 pm
Interesting, John
By Susan Twiggs on January 9, 2020 at 3:12 pm
Interesting post. Fun to think about agents and editors being excited about our work.
By Liz Steinglass on January 9, 2020 at 3:20 pm
This is great. It really helps to hear the kinds of stories that might get an editor excited.
By Teresa Traver on January 9, 2020 at 3:31 pm
Loved your exhilarating article filled with fabulous detailed examples! I am now hooked into following your writing and advice, John Cusick. Thank you for inspiring me.
By Judy Abelove Shemtob on January 9, 2020 at 4:00 pm
Love the description of layering your hooks to give different points of interest to attract a broader range of readers. Thanks John.
By Catherine Morgans on January 9, 2020 at 4:09 pm
Thank you for this nugget Mr. Cusick! “Layered concepts equals more points of interest, more complexity, and more intrigue.” I’ll have to add these hook concepts to my pitches.
By Nadia Salomon on January 9, 2020 at 4:20 pm
Thanks for your great ideas, John!
By mginsberg10 on January 9, 2020 at 4:45 pm
What a fantastic post!
By Elle on January 9, 2020 at 5:48 pm
I always enjoy the many different tips we get through the Storystorm month. Thanks for adding your layer.
By teresa.mi.schaefer on January 9, 2020 at 6:23 pm
Love the idea of multiple pull-ins to a story. Thanks!
By Susan Latta on January 9, 2020 at 6:35 pm
John, Thanks for reminding me to layer my hooks and be looking for unique ways to make the story sing!
By Writer on the run on January 9, 2020 at 6:50 pm
Thanks for another great post!
By MaryAnn Cortez on January 9, 2020 at 7:13 pm
Great advice! I will definitely work on details and interesting layers.
By Bettie Boswell on January 9, 2020 at 7:25 pm
Thank you,John. Layering hooks is a fine description.
By Nancy Ferguson on January 9, 2020 at 7:37 pm
Thanks for that detail, John. I’m going to apply those ideas to my mss.
By kmajor2013 on January 9, 2020 at 7:45 pm
Not only is this a great process for analyzing story ideas, but stories already in progress. This will even help when I’m critiquing. Thank you!
By LenoraBiemans (@BiemansLenora) on January 9, 2020 at 8:49 pm
Adding the exciting details to my stories is wonderful to hear! I needed to be jolted into action and you did it for me!!! Thank You. 🙂
By Karen Lawler on January 9, 2020 at 9:11 pm
Great post, John!! Thank you for sharing with us the agent/editor viewpoint. I love the idea of adding multiple layers to our stories and can think of 2 chapter books that I will be revamping with this in mind
By saputnam on January 9, 2020 at 9:50 pm
Storystorm loves feedback!
By Susan Eyerman on January 9, 2020 at 10:34 pm
John, not that I wish a fly to be present and listening in during any of your lunch meetings, however, if by chance you happen to notice one with a messy hair cut lurking near your water glass… please don’t squish me.
By Jacque Duffy on January 9, 2020 at 11:46 pm
Love the agent perspective. Great to see what turns a manuscript from good to great!
By sharongiltrow on January 10, 2020 at 12:23 am
Appreciate the detailed insight on how to.
By topangamaria on January 10, 2020 at 12:32 am
The description of how an editor talks about a story in layers reminds me of how my second graders convince a friend to read a book they’ve just finished! First the hook, then the cool things in the next layers – great tips to remember for my own writing! Thank you!
By Susan Apps-Bodilly on January 10, 2020 at 12:49 am
I wish there could be a podcast episode of these editor conversations.
By Susan Cabael on January 10, 2020 at 1:28 am
Love your advice John, combining our treasured ideas could be something memorable and unique.
By Gaby Lagos on January 10, 2020 at 2:00 am
Thank you, John, for the post about building layers I get just as excited about stories and books as those two people in the restaurant!
By kathydoherty1 on January 10, 2020 at 8:41 am
Thank you for your insight! Very helpful!
By Della Ross Ferreri on January 10, 2020 at 9:12 am
This is a great insight for any genre, but I’ll keep it close as a reminder for when I finally resume work on my novel. Thanks!
By Joana Pastro on January 10, 2020 at 9:17 am
I think I got an idea 🙂
By Brittanny Handiboe on January 10, 2020 at 9:53 am
Thanks for this helpful post!
By alisongoldberg on January 10, 2020 at 10:03 am
Thanks, John. So helpful.
By Judy Palermo on January 10, 2020 at 10:09 am
Thanks for your tips on layering concepts to reel a reader in!
By Jane Dippold on January 10, 2020 at 10:19 am
Great post! Thank you!
By Elizabeth Brown on January 10, 2020 at 10:28 am
It is my dream that an editor will talk that animatedly and with that much love about my manuscript.
By Mary Jo Wagner on January 10, 2020 at 11:54 am
I really enjoyed this! Thanks!
By KRISTINA COOPER CASTILLO on January 10, 2020 at 11:59 am
WOW! John clearly explains how the multi-layers of storytelling create the “I’ve-Gotta-Read-This” attitude. We ALL WANT THAT from editors! Thank you!
By marshaelyn on January 10, 2020 at 1:02 pm
Layers like a cake or onion on a cake? Interesting idea. Now to figure out how to try it!
By rindabeach on January 10, 2020 at 1:33 pm
Love your perspective. Thanks for sharing.
By jeanjames926 on January 10, 2020 at 2:33 pm
I HAD to comment!! After this post, my mind is combining my StoryStorm 2020 stories! One Moose on the Loose searches for Some Bunny to Love and ends up on a hill, alone but exHILarated, as he enjoys his own homemade PBJ!
By Laurel Ranveig Abell on January 10, 2020 at 2:53 pm
Intriguing insight! I had more fun with my brainstorming today 🙂
By Nicole Loos Miller on January 10, 2020 at 3:06 pm
Thank you for the insider look into editors and the ideas into hooking our readers.
By Helen Lysicatos on January 10, 2020 at 3:28 pm
LOVED this — so enlightening. Thank you so very much for sharing!
By Lynne Marie on January 10, 2020 at 4:19 pm
Thanks for this insider perspective, John! Wish I could be a fly on the wall at one of those lunches. 🙂
By adavis6385 on January 10, 2020 at 6:34 pm
What a fun post! Thanks, John!
By Ashley Pierson on January 10, 2020 at 10:06 pm
If we could be a napkin at those lunches listening to everything that is said between the editors and agents, we would learn so much. Even better… a trash can listening to what is said about manuscripts in the slush pile!
By Dee Leone on January 10, 2020 at 10:14 pm
Need to make these ideas into a checklist to relook at my manuscripts and revise. A lot to reflect on. Thank you
By Zoraida Rivera on January 10, 2020 at 10:29 pm
I love this!! It’s such a real example of layers and hooks. Thanks, John!
By Kaye Baillie on January 10, 2020 at 11:03 pm
Thanks for the insider look on what catches attention and makes a story better. Helpful and interesting post, John!
By susan schade on January 10, 2020 at 11:41 pm
This is SO on point. One of my hang-ups is weaving in hooks and layers beyond the main thread. Much to think on and apply!
By Brenda Whitehead on January 11, 2020 at 8:25 am
Thank you so much for the insight. There’s a whole world out there we don’t know about.
By Kellie on January 11, 2020 at 8:25 am
This is great information and very practical I’m going to do some exercises with this today. Thank you for your insider view.
By makz5650 on January 11, 2020 at 10:00 am
Fun and enlightening indeed. Nice to hear about “the other side”
By Stephen S. Martin on January 11, 2020 at 11:38 am
Your enthusiasm is contagious! Thank you!
By jshaklan on January 11, 2020 at 12:09 pm
Many thanks. Wish you did pb’s. I love your energy and the direction you sent me in!
By cantsing1 on January 11, 2020 at 12:39 pm
Great information! You’ve revved up my engine. Thanks!
By Jill M Proctor on January 11, 2020 at 1:54 pm
Appreciated this point of view and got me thinking about all those hooks. Thanks!
By Brinton Culp on January 11, 2020 at 2:05 pm
Thank you for giving us a behind-the-scenes view of those lunches we sometimes see in movies. I like the suggestion of multiple entry points to stand out in a crowded market.
By Stella Gardener on January 11, 2020 at 6:55 pm
I have trouble adding complexity- thank you for all the advice!
By Emily on January 11, 2020 at 7:03 pm
So good I had to read it twice! Thank you!
By ingridboydston on January 11, 2020 at 8:12 pm
Thank you for sharing your insider’s perspective and offering great advice, John.
By Lucretia Schafroth on January 11, 2020 at 10:32 pm
I would love to be a fly on the wall near THAT table…;-)
Donna L Martin
Story Catcher Publishing
By storycatcherpublishing on January 11, 2020 at 11:31 pm
Wow, great advice! Multiple interest points of entry, and layered and intertwined hooks! A formula I’ll remember…
By Damon Dean, SevenAcreSky on January 11, 2020 at 11:32 pm
Some great advice. The pitch is so important. I always try and write the elevator pitch first.
By kateperidot on January 12, 2020 at 4:49 am
Great advice, thanks so much!
By JC on January 12, 2020 at 10:28 am
How exciting. This is even MORE incentive to squeeze out some good ideas. Also, I am going to try and write some of them as pitches so I can see if they have legs. Thank you!
By Becky H on January 12, 2020 at 11:56 am
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Your post sparked an idea for an old manuscript!
By julielacombeauthor on January 12, 2020 at 1:20 pm
Love the insight and noting “building in eccentric and memorable details, as well as combining story-concepts.” These are helping with existing manuscripts as well as new ideas. Thanks!
By Christine Fleming McIsaac on January 12, 2020 at 1:39 pm
Thanks so much for your insight! Love the multiple-hook advice.
By Pamela Haskin on January 12, 2020 at 1:55 pm
Great info! Thanks!
By Vanessa Hancock (@HancockVanessa) on January 12, 2020 at 2:53 pm
Great info, thank you!
By wangliarron on January 12, 2020 at 3:49 pm
Thanks for all the great info! This post was packed!
By Tracy Hora on January 12, 2020 at 6:29 pm
Thanks for the insight!
By Lynn Alpert on January 12, 2020 at 8:46 pm
This is grand-prize level advice — thank you for sharing!
By Benji Rearick on January 13, 2020 at 12:18 am
Thank you for the insight – layers of complexity, and embellishing conflicts
By Naana on January 13, 2020 at 12:27 am
Thanks for the great post! Terrific advice!
By Joan Maher on January 13, 2020 at 7:18 am
Oh, the pressure! Now I need a martini.
By Lucky Jo Boscarino on January 13, 2020 at 9:43 am
Love layering ideas! Thanks so much for your insight and tips!
By Kim Wilson on January 13, 2020 at 9:57 am
My intuition tells me that I need to pay close attention to this post on layers and complexity. Thank you, John!!
By deniseaengle on January 13, 2020 at 1:29 pm
Great advice about layering complexity and specific details!
By Viviane Elbee on January 13, 2020 at 3:54 pm
Love this post!
By Bronte Colbert on January 13, 2020 at 5:28 pm
This is very insightful!
By meghandwrites on January 13, 2020 at 5:43 pm
Thank you for this exceptional advice!
By Suwin Chan on January 13, 2020 at 5:59 pm
Thank you, John! Loved this: Take the idea you began with and add your own layers of complexity. Tweak the details and embellish the conflicts…
By Dea Brayden on January 13, 2020 at 6:35 pm
Thanks, John! This was a very motivational and inspirational piece for me. I hadn’t stopped to consider the excitement felt by editors and agents to work on our beloved projects.
By Kari Gonzalez on January 15, 2020 at 12:21 am
It’s always great to get these insights from an agent (and writer!). I attended your workshop on pacing at WIK in Birmingham and refer to my notes when I’m working on a new plot. Thanks!
By melissamiles1 on January 15, 2020 at 9:27 am
I love layers of complexity, that’s what makes a picture book so re-readable. I hadn’t thought of your multiple hooks idea. I’m going to try that. Thanks!
By Jud Ward on January 15, 2020 at 12:22 pm
Great tips on layering, and a good reminder to strive to be an expert on your own book in order to hook an editor who’ll want to invest that same knowledge and excitement in representing your work to their team and the world.
By Lisa L. Owens (@LisaLOwens) on January 15, 2020 at 3:05 pm
I am intrigued by the idea of combining pre-existing ideas and excited to look at my existing drafts to see how I can add layers. Thanks for the tips!
By Anne Appert on January 15, 2020 at 5:46 pm
I love the idea of combining pre-existing ideas. I’ll have to take a look at my list and see if I can do this. I’m also excited to look at my existing manuscripts to see what layers I can add. Thanks for the tips!
By Anne Appert on January 15, 2020 at 5:47 pm
Thanks for giving us an inside view.
By Janet Halfmann on January 15, 2020 at 8:57 pm
Thanks for a glimpse into “editor talk!” And thanks for your comments about layers.
By Penny Parker Klostermann on January 16, 2020 at 2:42 pm
Love the idea of combining story elements. The more unique, the better. Thanks for the post.
By dlapmandi on January 16, 2020 at 2:59 pm
Thanks for the tips, John! Really got me thinking about layers to a story I’ve been working on for some time… 🙂
By Rene` Diane Aube ~ Children's Author on January 16, 2020 at 4:12 pm
Your idea of combining pre-existing ideas in layering a story has me rethinking some of my manuscripts. Thank you for sharing ideas from an agent and editor perspective.
By Susan Orton on January 16, 2020 at 7:22 pm
I like the idea of combining plots, to give a story layers! Thank you!
By denarose on January 17, 2020 at 9:36 pm
Thank you for the peek into the Editor’s mind.
By Robin Perkins on January 18, 2020 at 3:57 am
layers – this is what I need to work on. thank you!
By Shar on January 18, 2020 at 1:41 pm
I saw John’s Twitter thread about this topic a while ago, and appreciated seeing the longer version of it!
By Stephanie Lau on January 18, 2020 at 8:56 pm
Really enjoyed reading this post. It’s spot on and really what makes a story break through. Thanks John!
By bgonsar on January 18, 2020 at 10:45 pm
I so love to hear from agents and editors, as they are such magical species! Thanks so much for the insight and inspiration. 😊
By Beth Gallagher on January 19, 2020 at 9:13 am
This post is gold! When the student is ready, the teacher appears. Thanks John and Tara. “)
By Wendy Greenley on January 19, 2020 at 3:31 pm
Thanks for sharing. It’s always interesting to hear the agent/editor side of things.
By shirley301 on January 19, 2020 at 8:35 pm
Loved hearing from the perspective of the editor
By Rachel on January 20, 2020 at 1:08 am
Hmmmmm . . . it’s interesting to hear from an agent what an editor’s perspective often is!
By Mary York on January 20, 2020 at 5:30 pm
This is really interesting and helpful. I wish I could be a fly on the wall!
By Kelly Conroy on January 21, 2020 at 10:37 am
This is great food for thought when coming up with layers and hooks!
By Lisa Tolin (@lisatolin) on January 22, 2020 at 3:11 pm
What a great way to describe this! Thank you for the insights.
By Christine Pinto on January 24, 2020 at 12:23 am
Great post! Thanks for sharing!
By Sheri Dillard on January 24, 2020 at 12:12 pm
Thanks, John! Love the ideas you shared. Would love to be a fly on the wall to listen in on an agent/editor meeting. 🙂
By imagination4lf on January 24, 2020 at 1:01 pm
Love this look at hooks (and the sneak peek at an editor-agent lunch)!
By Amanda Sincavage on January 24, 2020 at 7:20 pm
Great story building techniques and pitch ideas. Thanks for sharing!
By Terri Sabol on January 25, 2020 at 5:15 pm
Great post. I feel like I was at that lunch. Now I want to hear more about that typewriter repairman ….
By Sue Thoms on January 25, 2020 at 5:37 pm
What an interesting lunch conversation and oh, to be a fly on the wall listening. Only problem, flies get swatted and wouldn’t be able to relay your suggestions! Thanks for a great post!
By anneiversonbellsouthnet on January 28, 2020 at 11:21 am
John, great info! I love the visual of an agent and editor having a love fest at lunch over a book! Gets me in the “feels”!!!
Thanks for StoryStorming with us!
By Lucy Staugler on January 29, 2020 at 3:31 pm
OMG blending the stories is a great idea! I’ve had some stories that I’ve done this with, but not enough. I will definitely keep this in mind when I go through all my old Storystorm ideas! Thanks John!
By Dani Duck on January 31, 2020 at 12:44 am
Thanks so much for this inspirational post. You pulled me right in. I’ll get to work adding layers and imagining an editor gushing over my book!
By LJ Laniewski on January 31, 2020 at 3:58 pm
Thanks for the story building tips!
By kmshelley on January 31, 2020 at 8:54 pm
Nice post.
By storyfairy on February 1, 2020 at 3:13 pm
Great advice, John.
By CindyC on February 5, 2020 at 10:55 pm