"Give me a really good first line,
something I can sink my teeth into, that just pulls me in and makes me want to read more. For me, a really great first line raises a question in my mind, or, better yet, two or three, where I just have to read the book to find out.
A good first line gives me context about the story and lays a roadmap for where we're going."
Jennifer March Soloway
Senior Agent at the Andrea Brown Literary Agency
During an interview on the Writers with Wrinkles podcast
August 2024
Welcome! I'm so glad you stopped by.
I hope you find this collection of picture book first lines inspiring and motivational.
If you'd like your book included in a future collection, click here.
Elements of a great first line
introduces the main character and their problem (bonus points if the character is particularly unusual)
makes the reader wonder something
sets the tone for the story
starts in the middle of the action
hints at a universal theme
uses unique formatting
sets the scene of the story
hints at how the story will end
engages the reader
engages multiple senses
surprises the reader
makes the reader laugh
establishes a rhythm that pulls the reader into the story
employs poetic devices
references a beloved classic
hints at an unusual premise
introduces the concept
references something with universal appeal
uses a play on words
makes the reader feel something
hints at the main character's goal
Garbage Gulls
words by Dorson Plourde, art by Isabella Fassler
Published by Kids Can Press
First line: We know all corners of The Sea, but we've never been to the beach.
Elements used: surprises the reader, references something with universal appeal, and makes the reader feel something
Read Dorson's first line revision journey here.
Touch the Sky
Words by Stephanie V.W. Lucianovic, art by Chris Park
Published by Carolrhoda Books
First line: Vern went to the park practically every day.
Elements used: references something with universal appeal
This Book Is Full of Holes
Words by Nora NIckum, art by Robert Meganck
Published by Peachtree Atlanta
First line: What is a hole?
Elements used: engages the reader and makes the reader wonder something?
Pretty Ugly
Words by David Sedaris, art by Ian Folconer
Published by TOON
First line (over three spreads): When she was good, Anna Van Ogre…stomped on the flowers…threw dirt into the house…and talked with her mouth full.
Elements used: surprises the reader
All That Grows
By Jack Wong
Published by Groundwood Books
First line: Magnolias smell like lemon cake.
Elements used: engages multiple senses, surprises the reader and hints at an unusual premise
Emergency Quarters
Words by Carlos Matias, art by Gracey Zhang
Published by Katherine Tegen Books
First line: It’s a Monday full of firsts for Ernesto.
Elements used: makes the reader wonder something, references a universal theme, and introduces the main character
Zandi's Song
Words by Zandile Ndhlovu, art by Katlego Keokgale
Published by amazoncrossingkids
First line: Zandi was always thinking about the ocean.
Elements used: references something with universal appeal
Zuni and the Memory Jar
Words by Aisha Saeed, art by Neha Rawat
Published by Kokila
First line: When Mama comes home from her errands, she pulls out a clear glass jar.
Elements used: makes the reader wonder something
Peggy, the Always Sorry Pigeon
Words by Wendy Meddour, art by Carmen Saldana
Published by little bee books
First line: Peggy was perched on a bus stop when three scruffy pigeons flew by.
Elements used: engages multiple senses, establishes a unique setting, and employs poetic devices
The Prickletrims Go Wild
By Marie Dorleans
Published by Floris Books
First line: The Prickletrim family had a lovely garden.
Elements used: makes the reader laugh