The First Page Challenge
If you’re wondering whether your first page is pulling readers in, this is where to find out.
Submit your first page for critique.
Take the next step toward a stronger opening.
The First Page Challenge is for writers who want clear, constructive insight into what their opening page is doing for the reader. Selected submissions may be featured in a public critique designed to show what is working, what may be getting in the way, and how a page can become stronger.
Submission is free. Not all entries will be selected for critique or feature.
How It Works
Step 1
Submit your first page
Paste your first page into the form along with a few basic details about the work.
Step 2
Pages are reviewed for possible selection
Some submissions may be chosen for public critique as part of the video series.
Step 3
Learn what your opening is doing
Selected critiques are designed to help writers see more clearly what draws readers in and what may be holding a page back.
Before You Submit
Have this ready:
- Your name
- Your email address
- Title of the work
- Genre
- Optional chapter name
- Your first page pasted into the form
Please keep in mind:
- Submission does not guarantee critique, selection, or response
- Selected pages may be read and critiqued publicly
- You must own the rights to the material you submit
- Published or unpublished work may be submitted
Who This Is For
A good fit for writers who:
- Want to know whether their first page is truly connecting
- Are open to clear, constructive feedback
- Want stronger insight into the reader’s experience
- Are comfortable with the possibility of public critique if selected
May not be the right fit if:
- You only want private feedback
- You are not comfortable granting permission for possible public critique
- You want guaranteed selection or guaranteed review
- You do not own the rights to the material being submitted
Why Writers Submit
A strong story can still lose momentum if the first page does not create clarity, tension, or curiosity.
This challenge gives writers a chance to step back and see their opening through a reader-focused lens. The goal is not harshness. The goal is honest, useful feedback that helps the writing become stronger.
By Submitting, You Confirm
You are the original author of the work, or you have full rights to submit it, whether the work is published or unpublished.
You understand that submission does not guarantee selection, critique, feature, or response.
If selected, you grant permission for the submitted excerpt to be publicly read, displayed, and critiqued in video, written, or promotional formats connected to The First Page Challenge.
You retain copyright to your original work. This permission applies only to the submitted excerpt and its use in connection with the challenge.
Submission Form
When you’re ready, open the form and paste in your first page.
Using pasted text keeps the process simple and avoids the need for file uploads.
Not quite ready to submit?
You can still follow the challenge, watch critiques, and learn from the pages that are selected.