Paragraph Numero Uno

So now that NaNoWriMo is finished for another year, I'm back to working on revisions for The Pixiehunter. I'm giving chapter one a pass-through, because it's one of the chapters that I'm just not sure about. It's almost spot-on, but...well, it's the first paragraph.

First paragraphs are hard, and everybody seems to have their own rules. You're not supposed to start with dialogue, they say, or somebody waking up from a deep sleep (or any sleep at all). They tell you to always put your main character's name in the first sentence, or they tell you not to. Somebody gives one "rule," somebody else gives one that contradicts it. It kind of sucks. Which is why I ignore all the rules and do what I want.

Still. The first paragraph of The Pixiehunter breaks one of the major "rules," and I'm kind of worried that, even though I feel it's done well, others might think it's sloppy. It's bugging me. I can't really think of another way to do it, though, so I'm trying not to worry too much. I've been told it's good and it sets the story off on the right foot, so I suppose if readers like it, it's fine the way it is.

Why are first paragraphs so difficult? Because it's the first thing people will read. They tell you it has to be grabbing and interesting and exciting. It has to make a random guy in the bookstore want to take it home (me, though, I read a random paragraph in the middle of the book).

So, yes. First paragraphs. Hate 'em, love 'em, they're always a pain in the ass. Do you guys have any sort of "rules" you follow for paragraph numero uno?

Hope you all have a fantastic Friday. :)

--J.