How To Create a Memorable Main Character in Children’s Fiction

Every story must have a main character. This character is vital. This character will ultimately be the hero of the story. Here are some things you should know about creating a memorable main character in children's fiction.

1. Read Children's Fiction. It's always a good idea to read children's fiction before you start writing it. As you do, jot down whom the main character is. What are some traits that this main character has? What is the problem the main character resolves? Think of ten stories for children and see if you can name all the main characters in each story. Chances are you can because there was something special about that character that you could relate to. Do you know who the main character is in these stories?
   • Where the Wild Things Are, by Maurice Sendak
   • Because of Winn Dixie, by Kate DiCamillo
   • Charlotte's Web, by E.B. White
   • Wringer, by Jerry Spinelli
   • The Giver, by Lois Lowry
   • Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch, by Eileen Spinelli
   • The Cat Ate My Gymsuit, by Paula Danziger
   • Just Like a Baby, by Rebecca Bond
   • The Falling Flowers, by Jennifer Reed
   • The Door in the Wall, by Marguerite De Angeli

   If you don't, why not pick up a book and read it? Focus on the main character!

2. Create One Main Character. This might sound obvious, but often when writers are just starting out, they will have more than one main character. Actually, the problem is that not one character stands out as being more important. If you see a picture of a boy and a girl and are asked to write a story about them, don't give equal time to each character. Choose one who will be your main character and write from the perspective of that character only. This means you will tell the story from the main character's point of view and no one else's in the story. We should not hear or read the thoughts of other characters. You can show what they are thinking by having them talk or through their behavior. Remember, if the main character doesn't see or hear it, neither should your readers. This is called switching the viewpoint and it should be avoided.
3. Describe your Main Character. Do you know what your main character looks like? How he acts? What motivates him? If not, you need to make a list or write a short paragraph. Describe his physical features. Then write a short paragraph or list that describes his inner being - his feelings. You want to know everything you can about your main character, as this is another way you make him real to readers. If you don't know your main character well, how will your readers relate to him?
4. Give Your Main Character a Problem. What good is a story without a conflict? It's not really a story unless the main character has a conflict. What is the problem of your story? If your main character is six years old, he is not going to have the problem of a ten-year-old. Keep the conflict relevant to the age of your main character. This will keep it real.

   No matter what, always have your main character resolve the problem. Do not have a parent or other adult, another child, a dog or a situation resolve the problem or conflict of the story. Readers relate to the main character and want to see him as the hero in the end. He should resolve the problem.

Whether you write a short story or a novel for children, the main character has to stand out in some way. Work hard on creating a main character and your story will be memorable in the hearts of children for ages to come!