Story Easter Eggs

Something unique and special I love about books is finding the hidden hints authors weave in about the their muses, favorite people, or personally important things. Incorporating “Easter eggs” into your novel can create additional creative layers in your storytelling. Sometimes those allusions are really only for you and your inner circle, but for those in the know, it can be a great surprise to come across. If you’re wondering what types of Easter eggs you can include, here are a few:

Hint to other works- Writers do this a lot out of admiration and sometimes inspiration. They’ll have their characters read their favorite books, or quote their favorite authors. Sometimes the allusions are more subtle, like using the same character name, or having the character wear the same ionic piece of clothing.

Hint to previous works– For authors with several book babies in the world, they might also have secret references to their other novels. Maybe the characters share a favorite band or they have a certain “type” when dating. It could even be something as simple and cool as visiting the same town or shared symbolism.

Hint to writing friends- This always gives me a giggle! These Easter Eggs can be harder to locate, but can be something akin to a naming reference or the character having the same favorite pizza topping as a friend. Maybe the author’s friend always uses a specific phrase and so the character does as well. Finding these personal touches warms my heart x)

Family Hints- Much like referencing friends, the family mentions tend to center about names or personality types. As writers we all draw from experience and reality when crafting our worlds so it’s no surprise a lot of these people seep into our writing.

Pop culture hints-  These aren’t always hints, per se, but I like coming across them anyway. Any fandom geekery gives me a squee, but it can be even more exciting to come across these in spec fic where such hints need to be expertly incorporated as to not draw away from the imaginary world but also keep readers from the real world engaged.

When friends books are published, first, I majorly fangirl, then I read in search of these Easter Eggs. Every book is like a treasure hunt when you think about! I love finding mentions of other writers, or books, tv, or movies they found significant. Although reading books by people I’m not close with can prove more difficult in searching for their hidden hints, sometimes that challenge can make the discoveries even more exciting! And it’s everywhere. Every writer does this in some way, whether they’re intentional hints or accidental hints–they’re there. Go pick up a book, any book, and search through for the stories hidden underneath.