Advice Needed

[Mince]

I am trying to write a book.

In the book, very stupid things happen that progressively become stranger and stranger. There is a very logical reason for them all happening that makes perfect sense, but the reason is not explained until very far into the book.

To make sure the reader understands that there is going to be a payoff, and everything is going to be explained to his or her perfect satisfaction, I thought that one of the characters could have a sceptical, Sherlock-Holmes mind that slowly considers the possibilities of what is happening until there is only one possibility left, unlikely though it is.

Do you think making the reader wait past half way in the book before revealing the reason for the strangeness is asking too much, and do you think if the events are kept humorous enough and real enough, it won't really matter?

[Tarquin Thunderthighs lll]

Yes.

Is it going to be a graphic novel, using your new cartooning skills?

[Roger Kettle]

Mince, I think you've already given yourself the answer. As long as the book is entertaining/amusing enough, the reader will happily wait until the solutions are revealed. That, of course, is THE problem---writing an entertaining/amusing book! Anyway, don't give up and good luck!

[Diane CBPFC]

You should ask both the people who are going to read the book and see what they think.

[The Peepmaster]

Mince, I think you've already given yourself the answer. As long as the book is entertaining/amusing enough, the reader will happily wait until the solutions are revealed. That, of course, is THE problem---writing an entertaining/amusing book! Anyway, don't give up and good luck!

Wise words. I can only add, "Don't forget to hold the pen the right way round"...

[Mince]

Mince, I think you've already given yourself the answer. As long as the book is entertaining/amusing enough, the reader will happily wait until the solutions are revealed.

That, of course, is THE problem---writing an entertaining/amusing book! Anyway, don't give up and good luck!