Margot Kinberg had a nice post yesterday on character traits that are off-putting to readers.
She made a good point—as a reader, I’ll give up on a book that has characters that I can’t connect with or admire. Here are the traits that Margot listed for unlikeable characters:
Characters With No Redeeming Qualities
Characters Who Aren’t Authentic
Characters Who are “Flat” or Stereotyped
Margot got me thinking about traits that I do enjoy reading and writing. If I were to make a “help wanted” poster for characters, these are the types of people I’d be looking to employ:
They’re Everyman—but braver, nicer, and more pleasant to be around than we are.
They’re problem-solvers.
They’re growing…either in skills or in knowledge or in personality.
They overcome the odds.
They have some sense of humor (without being silly).
They’re a major part of the book’s action. They cause things to happen. They don’t sit on the sidelines.
They’re decisive and not wishy-washy.
They’re intelligent…or, if they’re not that intelligent (Forrest Gump) then they’re incredibly likeable and good-hearted.
They’re flawed. There’s nothing more unlikeable than reading about a character who is perfect.
They’re not too flawed. Or, if they’re totally unlikeable, (Ebenezer Scrooge) then they’re at least dynamic enough to experience a radical change of heart.
What’s on your “help wanted” list for characters?