So, what’s this here book thing about anyhow?

The biggest question I’ve received since I’ve told people about my book is what’s this book about?  Totally understandable.

The thing about writing a book jacket is that you are taking 300+ pages and trying to write a hook.

A hook, you say?

The second thing about writing a book jacket is that you are taking a concept that may not be world-shattering and hoping to get a discerning reader to use their valuable reading time on your book.

At the same time, are the same things that are interesting to me as the writer of a novel interesting to you as a reader?  I think that each of us look for different things in a book.  For me?  I want a touch of romance.  I like stories that explore friendship and family.  I love adventures and bad guys that are interesting.  I don’t mind a story I’ve read a bunch of times before–as long as when I sink into it–I like the character.

Off the top of my head, I can think of 4 retellings of Beauty and the Beast I’ve read (two by the same author!).  And, I’d buy another one tomorrow if it sounded interesting.  Doesn’t every epic fantasy have the same premise?  How many tortured, mopey vampires are we going to meet anyhow?

But you know what? I liked 3 of the 4 Beauty and the Beasts.

So, I’m willing to read yet another vampire novel, yet another mutant power story, yet another witch book because it’s ALL about the character for me.

That being said, I wonder if I can borrow your time and your brains to make my book jacket/ hook the best I can?  I am enclosing some statements about my book.  Would you reply to this post and let me know what you find interesting?  And, what ‘s the most interesting statement to you?

1)  Mina is the 4th of 8 children.

2)  The book begins on the first day of high school.

3)  She lives in a small town on the Oregon Coast.  This town is imaginary and nestled between Cannon Beach (a real town) and Astoria (also a real town).

4) Her mother’s family also lives in this town and that family is huge.  In fact, she has 7 cousins in her grade of school.

5)  Mina has imaginary friends.  They were part of her life when she was little, and they have never gone away.  She is pretty sure she is crazy, bonkers, certifiable, etc.

6)  Mina sees other weird things–not just her imaginary friends.

7)  Mina’s favorite sister, Sarah, is acting funny.

8)  Mina feels lost in her family.

9)  Mina has been bullied throughout middle school.  Due to a boundary issue, Mina spent middle school alone while her cousins and friends went to a different school, so high school will be the first time her family clearly realizes what Mina’s been going through.

10) Mina was friends with a nerdy kid in grade school.  Three years have passed, and Mina is the freak while Max is the popular one.  And yet…Max seems to be inexplicably drawn to Mina.

Thanks in advance for all your help!

PS, you can follow this blog by entering your email address to the right.

~Amanda

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