Best way to start an apocalypse story?

Show a character's denial at the start. Let's say the character hears rumors about a coming apocalypse but they laugh it off at first. They go about their day as normal, but little things keep happening that make them start to question their denial. This way, the reader gets to experience the character's emotional journey from the very beginning and it makes for an interesting start to the apocalypse story.

One great way to start a story is with an interesting character in an unusual situation. For example, 'There was a man who woke up one morning to find his house had disappeared overnight.' This immediately grabs the reader's attention and makes them wonder what will happen next.

Begin with a dialogue. For example, '“You can't be serious,” she said, her eyes wide with disbelief.' It makes the story feel immediate and alive. The reader is plunged right into the action and wants to know what the conversation is about.

One great way to start a story is with a captivating hook. It could be an interesting question, like 'Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live in a world without colors?' or a shocking statement such as 'The day the world ended, no one saw it coming.' This immediately grabs the reader's attention and makes them want to read more.

Out of nowhere.

Once upon a time.

One of the best ways to start a mystery story is with an intriguing event. For example, a strange disappearance. You can begin by describing the scene where a character vanishes without a trace. The suddenness and mystery of it will immediately hook the reader. It makes them wonder what happened and why, creating an instant sense of curiosity that will drive them to keep reading.

I don't think there is a universal best way. A good start for a historical fiction could be 'In the year 1812, as the war drums beat across the land...' which grounds the story in time and place. But for a contemporary coming - of - age story, you could start with a relatable teen moment like 'I was standing in the school hallway, my heart pounding as I waited for the results of the test.' Different stories require different beginnings to engage their intended audiences.

Beginning with a miscommunication can be really funny. Say something like 'I thought my friend said we were going to a 'zoo party', so I showed up in a full-on zebra costume, only to find out it was a 'juice party'. Everyone was just sipping on smoothies while I looked like I escaped from the safari.'

Starting with a vivid description can be the best way. Like, 'The dark, forbidding forest loomed ahead, its ancient trees reaching out like gnarled hands.' It sets the mood and draws the reader into the world you're creating.