CornerScribe

How Real are Your Characters?

I think one of the toughest things for writers to manage is making characters “real.” Some writers are very good at it, and others, well, aren’t.

Real people have real problems

If a character has a perfect life, then your character probably isn’t coming off as real to your readers. People have problems with money, relationships, jobs, friends, landlords, etc. If your character doesn’t have a problem, they you do.

Are all your characters your age?

While your character may have friends her own age, are there other people in the book who are older or younger? How many people do you know who don’t have people of all ages in their close circle of friends and family?

Are your characters one race, religion, etc.?

Think about your own friends, family, coworkers, etc. Are they all the same race? Are they all the same faith? Are any disabled? Are any poor, homeless, struggling? Many of the interesting things that happen to us happen because of our different backgrounds and beliefs. Don’t miss out on that in your books.

Do your characters seem too familiar?

It’s sometimes difficult to avoid stereotyping characters. Think about your character and ask some questions.

• Is the character predictable? Will your readers be able to guess what he’ll do next?
• Have you read another book or story with a character that’s very similar?
• Are there jokes that mock characters like yours (think nagging mother-in-law, etc.)
• Is your character’s story “typical” (think alcoholic homeless man)

I have some character creation worksheets available for download to help you map out your characters.