Character Development

Currently Reading: Flavia's Secret, by Lindsay Townsend. I'm on Chapter 2, and hope to get back to it this afternoon.


This topic came up last night at Laptop Society. A new member has been struggling with different scenes in her character's life, and wanted input on where to go with the adventures.

In the beginning, the character was obviously only interested in having a good time, but as the story progressed, her relationships took on a deeper meaning. The question last night? "I need to decide where I want to go with this."

Our advice: "Show how these relationships have formed her into the woman she's becoming."

It called to mind an interview I read yesterday on the Moonlight Lace Mayhem blog, where the author mentioned the best advice she received was to dig deep into her characters and find their motivation, fears, strengths, etc. Sometimes our characters surprise us; we discover things we never dreamed we would ever consider about that character.

For example, one of my characters loves Dr. Pepper. Another one can't stand seafood. One of my stronger characters is afraid of spiders. So interview your characters; get to know them. And if you're writing an epic love story, show the personal growth. Everyone learns something from everyone they encounter, even if they aren't consciously aware of it.

Website News:
My designer and I have encountered a slight problem with the uploading, and until we get it ironed out, it says 'Under Construction'. I LOVE the new look, but until this glitch is overcome, I won't be able to share it just yet. If anyone can help with suggestions how to upload a Dreamweaver design onto Microsoft Office Live, I'd appreciate any input. Email me off loop at storimom2@aol.com

Freedom!
Hubby returned to work yesterday! Unfortunately, today is W's final day at Head Start. We had an end-of-the-year picnic at a local park, and Papa John's Pizza delivered lunch. The kids had a great time, and I snapped several good pictures of W and his best friend B. Found out B will attend the same elementary school as W next year, so I hope the teachers are ready for their antics!