How would a 'trapped alien attacks family' novel typically start?

One example could be 'Alien Invasion: The Family's Struggle'. In this type of novel, the family might be trapped in their home when the alien attacks start. They have to use their wits and whatever resources they have at hand to survive.

In this novel, the alien might be a lost one from its fleet. It stumbles upon the cabin where the family lives. The family initially thinks it's just a strange animal or something. But when the attacks start, they realize it's an otherworldly creature. They could barricade themselves inside the cabin at first. Then they might try to find a way to communicate with the alien. If that fails, they would have to resort to more drastic measures to protect themselves like using fire or any weapons they might have in the cabin. It would be a story of survival against an unknown and powerful enemy.

The family members, of course. There could be a father who is brave and tries to protect everyone. A mother who is smart and helps come up with plans. And their children, perhaps a teenage son who is strong and can assist his father, and a younger daughter who might be the one to find a crucial clue to defeat the alien.

A novel often starts with an interesting hook or a captivating opening scene to draw the reader in. It could be a mystery, a dramatic event, or an introduction to an intriguing character.

Well, often novel westerns start with a scene that sets the tone of the wild west, maybe a cowboy riding into a dusty town or a confrontation at a ranch.

Typically, alien prey in science fiction can be shown in various ways. Some are made to look like defenseless animals from Earth but with a twist, such as glowing fur or the ability to fly in a vacuum. Others are presented as more intelligent than expected, which adds an ethical dimension to the idea of hunting them. They may live in complex societies or have advanced communication methods that the hunters either don't understand or choose to ignore.

Typically, alien races in science fiction are depicted in various ways. Some are humanoid with just minor physical differences like pointed ears or strange skin colors. For example, the Vulcans in 'Star Trek' are humanoid but have distinctively arched eyebrows and a strong sense of logic. Others can be completely non - humanoid, like the Goa'uld from 'Stargate' which are snake - like parasites that take over human hosts. They can also vary in their intelligence levels, from highly intelligent beings like the Time Lords in 'Doctor Who' to more primitive ones.

Novels often start with an attention-grabbing scene or a compelling introduction of the main character.

Usually, stories begin by setting the scene or introducing a problem or conflict that the characters will have to deal with. This creates intrigue and makes the reader want to know what happens next.

A story often starts by introducing the main character or setting the scene. It might start with a problem or a mystery that grabs the reader's attention.