Tips for Finding the Perfect Character for Your Story
- Feb 11
- 2 min read
By Diann Floyd Boehm
Children's Author and Radio Host
Creating memorable characters is one of the joys and challenges of writing picture books or children’s stories. There’s a wealth of information online, but sometimes a personal experience offers unique guidance. Here’s how one character was born—and how you can find inspiration for your own.
1. Start With Your Message:
Consider the lesson, skill, or message you want young readers to take away. Is it about courage, curiosity, kindness, or resilience? Having a clear takeaway ensures your story has heart and purpose.
2. Pick Your Messenger:
Reflect on what kind of character will deliver your theme best. Would an animal, child, robot, or even a car can make your message resonate? Sometimes, everyday encounters offer inspiration. For example, Boomer the Bunny came from noticing bunnies on a daily walk and then seeing a painting with a small bunny—children naturally connect with relatable and familiar creatures.
3. Choose Your Setting:
Decide where your story unfolds and why it matters. The setting shapes your character’s adventures; for Boomer, the paths and forest near his home set the stage for exploration and curiosity.
4. Develop Your Character:
Once you have chosen the type of character layer in traits. Is the character inexperience or wise, courageous or timid, skilled at something or someone who needs to improve? Pick unique quirks, a catchphrase, or a favorite object—these details make characters memorable.
Children relate to inquisitive personalities, so Boomer’s curiosity became his defining trait. Let your character’s style and speech reflect their personality and grow as you revise the story. Ask yourself: What makes them special? Summarize their essence in a sentence.
5. Bring Your Character to Life Through Story:
Start your draft knowing it will change. Whether you outline or write without an outline, focus on showing, not telling, your character’s personality in dialogue, actions, and reactions. Use interactive moments—like fill-in-the-blank questions or recall games—to engage young readers while developing comprehension and participation.
For instance, Boomer’s path home becomes an adventure in recall, giving children the joy of helping him find his way by remembering what he saw—a fun technique for building listening skills and memory.
6. Fine-Tune Vocabulary and Get Feedback:
Match your vocabulary to your target reader’s age. Tools like Pro-Writing Aid can help, but testing your draft with real children yields invaluable insight on clarity and engagement.
7. Collaborate with Your Illustrator:
Choosing an illustrator who understands your vision is critical for picture books. Discuss style—realistic or cartoonish—and make sure visual traits match your character’s personality.
8. Keep Growing as an Author:
Remember, your first draft is the beginning. Add layers with each revision—actions, dialogue, quirks, and changes. Ask for feedback, and don’t be afraid to let your character evolve as you shape your story.
Final Encouragement:
Every story matters, and every writer starts somewhere. Whether you’re crafting your first character or your tenth, know that your unique perspective will help children smile and learn. For support and encouragement, visit Diannfloydboehm.com—writers help writers, and someone is waiting to read your story.
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