I learned once that there are 5 ways to start an introduction of any paper: a quote, a fact, a question, a blunt statement, or a story. My students don't ever stress about how to do intro's after we go over and practice these. (You are much wiser than the average middle schooler, but it is so nice to just throw something down and just write the intro!!)

Here's a few ideas:

• I hate Tess D-Urbiville!! I can't stand the way she . . . (list and explain the things you don't like about the character). Tragically, we are just the same. 
•  5:30 AM and the alarm is ringing. I am up and getting my running shoes on within five minutes. The cool air . . . (finish the "story"). No, this isn't a moment in ______'s day, it is actually a moment in mine . . . we are very similar.
• Have you ever wondered how people really see you? What they are thinking about when they see you? After reading, ________ and getting to know ______, I won't ever think those thoughts again. We are just alike.