How to Create Believable Characters
You could say that writing middle-grade characters was inevitable. Not because of my kids or my roles as a Girl Scout leader, classroom volunteer, and substitute teacher, but because I’ve never really grown up! Besides that, I write authentic characters by using my sight, ears, and my magical WAND:
W: Words – What words do kids use? How do they use them?
A: Action – How do they carry themselves, respond, and react?
N: Natural – Are their words and actions natural and authentic? If not, why?
D: Dress—How are they dressed? Note hair styles, accessories, tattoos, and other physical traits.
Observation remains the most important task in creating believable characters. Do you agree?
