It’s now Day 15, another 15 days to go. Last night, I made it to 30,028, just past 30,000 words. I’m three-fifth towards my goal. At this rate, I should reach 50,000 before Thanksgiving.

The tip for today.

15. Stop procrastinating and write that first sentence already. When you are a beginner writer, you stare at that computer and don’t know how to start. You find all kinds of excuses not to proceed. I know the route. I had problem typing that first sentence too. I spent so many hours writing and rewriting the first sentence. All writers’ guides say you have to capture your reader with that first sentence. It’s easier said than done. I can remember how many times, I write that first sentence, only to be deleted later on. I must have written it at least twenty times. Your first sentence must capture the attention of the reader. If it does not, the reader will stop reading. It has to answer the 5 Ws – who, what, when, where and why.

My book recommendation for today is Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier. Ms. Du Maurier’s first sentence is unforgettable. “Last night, I dreamt I went to Manderley again . . .”