In children’s fiction, effective chapter endings can make the difference between a book that’s eagerly devoured or languishes on the shelf. Crafting compelling cliffhangers is key to propelling young readers through your middle grade or YA novel. How do you end chapters in a way that kids can’t resist turning the page?
Look for plot pivots in rising action where tension is high. Moments before a big reveal, major confrontation, or action sequence lend themselves well to cliffhangers. Don’t end chapters in slower sections or when narrative momentum is dragging.
Stop the scene one beat before a big payoff. Cut away right after dropping a hint, ominous threat, or tease. Leave the main question unresolved and your young readers will be biting their nails.
Use cliffhangers sparingly to maximize their power. Place 2-4 at crucial points in your novel such as before the first plot point and the midpoint. Too many and young readers will get frustrated.
Vary cliffhanger types to keep readers guessing. Some can show the protagonist in peril, others can interrupt a mystery reveal. Shake up timing and placement to build uncertainty.
Amp up suspense in the sentences before your chapter break. Short, punchy wording quickens the pace and ratchets up tension. Leave young readers breathless.
End on a dramatic line of dialogue or an unanswered question. “A cold blade pressed against Nisha’s throat.” “What was the secret she couldn’t tell?” Open-ended suspense compels kids to keep going.
Chapter endings that shift POV can work well too. Give one character surprising news then cut away before revealing their reaction, maintaining the reveal.
Payoffs should land within the next 1-3 chapters so kids don’t forget cliffhanger details. Don’t keep them hanging too long or they may lose interest.
Leave your protagonist in a bind, but not constant peril. Give them occasional wins and relief from trauma so your book isn’t just an unrelenting crisis marathon.
Ground cliffhangers in character motives and choices to increase investment. Kids need to care about the people at the center of the uncertainty.
Seek feedback from real kids in your target age range. Ask them to identify their favorite chapter endings. Incorporate what intrigues them.
Explain unfamiliar concepts/words before cutting away. Kids can’t be hooked if they don’t understand your literary device or subject matter.
The ultimate goal is to make your young readers so eager to unravel the cliffhanger, they sneak the book everywhere to keep reading. Kid-friendly suspense galvanizes engagement. Use it wisely.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating characters that leap off the page and into the hearts and minds of . . .
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