by Diana Murray
Picture books are as varied as the potions in a witch’s cupboard. Some are spicy and bubbly, while others are mellow and sweet. So which kinds of stories are editors and agents clamoring for? Well, their tastes are just as varied. But one thing that seems to be on everyone’s wish list is this: character-driven stories. A few examples include FANCY NANCY by Jane O’Connor, LLAMA LLAMA RED PAJAMA by Anna Dewdney, PINKALICIOUS by Elizabeth Kann, RUSSELL THE SHEEP by Rob Scotton, SKIPPYJON JONES by Judy Schachner, PETE THE CAT by Eric Litwin, LADYBUG GIRL by David Soman and Jacky Davis, MAX AND RUBY by Rosemary Wells, and SCAREDY SQUIRREL by Mélanie Watt. As you can see, character-driven books have great series potential and overall marketing potential. When readers fall in love with a character, they want to read more about him/her, and it’s fun to visualize what other sorts of situations the character may get into.
This doesn’t mean that character-driven stories are the only kinds that sell or do well in the marketplace. Nor does it mean that writers should focus primarily on pleasing editors or following trends. The best writing comes from the heart! But with that in mind, if you want to explore the possibilities of a character-driven story, here is one quick and easy recipe for brewing up a strong concept. Two ingredients are all you need!
- Personality Trait
- Conflicting Goal
I recommend you start off with a list of your own personality traits. This will make it easy for you to feel an emotional connection with (and understanding of) the trait.
My list might look something like this:
- introverted
- joker
- nerdy
- perfectionist
- quiet
- creative
- analytical
- messy
- quirky
- worrier
Pick one trait (or several, if you’re feeling bold!). Next, choose a goal. Not just any goal, but specifically a goal that is in opposition to the trait you selected. When I wrote GRIMELDA, THE VERY MESSY WITCH, I chose the trait of being “messy” and made the goal “to find an item the character desperately wants/needs.” Or let’s say, for example, I choose “quiet”, then perhaps the goal would be to sing on stage, or speak out against something, or win an international yodeling contest. Sprinkle the goal in with your trait and–POOF! Instant conflict. And the conflict is intrinsically related to the essence of the main character. Adding conflict to a story is one way of encouraging readers to keep turning the pages. They’ll want to find out what happens next! Now, how will your character attempt to reach that goal or face that problem in his/her own unique way?
Feel that story bubbling to life? Now all you have to do is write (and revise, and revise) the rest. Of course, that’s the hard part. But a little inspiration magic can go a long way!
Diana Murray is the author of several forthcoming picture books including, CITY SHAPES (Little, Brown, Spring 2016), NED THE KNITTING PIRATE: A SALTY YARN (Roaring Brook Press, Winter 2016), and GRIMELDA, THE VERY MESSY WITCH, plus a sequel (Katherine Tegen Books/HarperCollins, Summer 2016, 2017). Diana is the recipient of two SCBWI Magazine Merit Awards (2013 and 2014) and an Honor (2013) for poetry. She also won the 2010 SCBWI Barbara Karlin Work-In-Progress Grant for a picture book text. Diana is represented by Brianne Johnson at Writers House. She was raised in New York City and currently lives in a nearby suburb with her husband, two very messy children, and a goldfish named Pickle. Diana’s character GRIMELDA was brewed up during the first official PiBoIdMo, back in 2009! You can read more about that experience here.
For more information and news, you can visit DianaMurray.com or follow Diana on twitter: @DianaMWrites.
Diana is giving away a picture book critique!
This prize will be given away at the conclusion of PiBoIdMo. You are eligible for this prize if:
- You have registered for PiBoIdMo.
- You have commented ONCE ONLY on today’s post.
- You have completed the PiBoIdMo challenge. (You will have to sign the PiBoIdMo Pledge at the end of the event.)
Good luck, everyone!
515 comments
Comments feed for this article
November 22, 2014 at 6:58 am
tanyakonerman
Great way to look at character. I especially like the idea of adding another personality trait to my main character.
November 22, 2014 at 7:20 am
CJ Lucas
Thank you so much for this great tip for getting the character/story. I just had an “aha!” moment. So clever. Thank you.
November 22, 2014 at 7:26 am
Bradley D. Cooper
Great post Diana! I agree you shouldn’t follow trends to write a Character-Driven story, but it would also be nice to try one since my stories tend to be more journey focused. This seems like a simple yet effective method.
November 22, 2014 at 7:36 am
momslifeponderings
Thanks, Diana! You put it into very simple, manageable terms- personality trait and conflicting goal. Got it.
Great post!
Dana Edwards
November 22, 2014 at 7:45 am
Kim Chaffee
I love the advice to think of your own personality traits in order to feel more connected to the character! Thanks!
November 22, 2014 at 7:47 am
Laurie Theurer
Magical inspiration… thank you!
November 22, 2014 at 7:52 am
Aimee Isaac
This definitely gives me something to work on today! Thank you!
November 22, 2014 at 7:53 am
Dee Knabb
Wonderful ideas to create magic. Love this.
November 22, 2014 at 7:57 am
Sharon Giltrow
Thanks Dianne definitely going to give this a try
November 22, 2014 at 8:00 am
billiesgirl
I’m off to make my lists right now! Thanks for the inspiration!
November 22, 2014 at 8:01 am
lindamartinandersen
Diana,
I found your suggestions helpful to a WIP that needs more conflict. I’ll keep this in mind when revising one more time. Thanks! Wishing you all the best with your writing career.
November 22, 2014 at 8:06 am
thestoryladyva
Very helpful, especially thinking about our own personality traits. Thank you!
November 22, 2014 at 8:08 am
Poppy Wrote
Another nice post!
November 22, 2014 at 8:18 am
Debra Daugherty
Conflict and personality. Got it! Thanks!
November 22, 2014 at 8:23 am
Margaret Flint Suter
Pick a personality trait, cover it in conflict, stir it with a big stick and see what magic bubbles up, I can hear the hissing of the pot as I speak…thanks Diana!
November 22, 2014 at 8:29 am
jodimckay
Thanks for the insight into building a strong character driven book Diana!
November 22, 2014 at 8:31 am
Debbie Austin
The wheels are turning! Thanks, Diana.
November 22, 2014 at 8:35 am
Laura K Zimmermann
Thanks for the great advice!
November 22, 2014 at 8:40 am
Annie Cronin Romano
Amazing post, Diana! Thank you for sharing some of your character driven PB strategies. So helpful!
November 22, 2014 at 8:44 am
Carrie Finison
Thanks for sharing your recipe for success, Diana! I can’t wait to see Grimelda in print!
November 22, 2014 at 10:10 am
Diana Murray
Thanks, Carrie! 🙂 Grant-buddy high five!
November 22, 2014 at 8:45 am
hmmmmm
Boy, you made that sound easy.
Thanks!
November 22, 2014 at 8:52 am
lindaschueler
What a great recipe! Thanks so much.
November 22, 2014 at 8:53 am
Sheri Dillard
Great post! Thanks, Diana! (And I’m looking forward to reading your picture books!) 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 10:09 am
Diana Murray
Thanks, Sheri! *waves*
November 22, 2014 at 8:55 am
vickireinhardt2014
What great inspiration! I’m off to make my list. =)
November 22, 2014 at 8:57 am
lmconnors
Lisa Connors
I find character development difficult in 500 words. Thanks for the reminder and ‘formula’ of how important it is to really know their personality.
November 22, 2014 at 8:57 am
Pj McIlvaine
A weak character goal or a tepid internal/external problem makes for a blah story. The more conflict/obstacle, the better.
November 22, 2014 at 9:01 am
Michele Prestininzi
Thanks, Diana. You make it sound so simple! Time to make some lists:)
November 22, 2014 at 9:02 am
The Styling Librarian
Fantastic resource, thank you… so helpful and inspiring, using now.
November 22, 2014 at 9:02 am
msmo1958
‘Great advice . This is a keeper
November 22, 2014 at 9:08 am
Jeanine Potter
What could be better than starting the day with a great AHA moment! Thank you so very much for the magical sprinkle of inspiration!
November 22, 2014 at 9:15 am
Cindy C.
Thanks Diana, I needed that advice today. Reaching the doldrums point of PBIM. Now, I’m fueled up and ready to go!
November 22, 2014 at 9:28 am
Freckled Daisy Creations
I love characters! Great Saturday task! Challenge accepted .
November 22, 2014 at 9:29 am
Freckled Daisy Creations
I love characters! Great Saturday task! Challenge accepted .
My post deal said I said this already-perhaps a repeating character is in my future.
November 22, 2014 at 10:08 am
Diana Murray
Lol! A character-driven story that begs for repeat readings!
November 22, 2014 at 9:31 am
Lenora Riegel
I’m filling my cupboard! Thanks!
November 22, 2014 at 9:33 am
Sarah Skolfield
Thanks for sharing this inspiring advice. I have a character in mind that has cropped up several times this month. Now I have some concrete direction to help me develop my thoughts.
November 22, 2014 at 9:34 am
DaNeil
Super advice – thank you Diana. I love how the conflict flows from the character’s trait and therefore isn’t forced.
November 22, 2014 at 9:35 am
artsfusionmethod
A knitting pirate! I’m giggling before I even read the book! What cleverness! Thanks for sharing!
November 22, 2014 at 10:12 am
Diana Murray
Thanks! 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 9:41 am
Michael Karg
I love your clever artwork! Thanks for the inspiration, Diana!
November 22, 2014 at 10:13 am
Diana Murray
Thanks, Michael. I haven’t drawn in years. It was so fun!
November 22, 2014 at 9:42 am
Joyce Tucker
Thanks Diana! I love the idea of choosing a trait! Mmmm, maybe mischievous.
November 22, 2014 at 9:42 am
Valarie giogas
So true that editors/agents want character driven stories. Can’t wait to try your approach. Thx.
November 22, 2014 at 9:45 am
Sherri Rivers
Great post, writing friend. A simple, but effective way of getting a story started that will produce something magical.
November 22, 2014 at 10:14 am
Diana Murray
Thanks, Sherri! 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 9:47 am
Louann Brown
Working on my list of personality traits….great idea. Thanks!
November 22, 2014 at 9:47 am
thislittlebirdie
Terrific inspiration!
November 22, 2014 at 9:49 am
Joseph Miller
Great suggestions!
November 22, 2014 at 9:49 am
Genevieve Petrillo
Sounds like a pretty simple recipe. Trait. Conflicting goal. It’s the first time I understood how these character driven creations come to be! I can’t wait to try it.
November 22, 2014 at 9:49 am
Erin Bellingham
What a great way to break down a character driven story! Time to brainstorm! 😊
November 22, 2014 at 9:49 am
pathaap
Love your ideas! Thanks for the inspiration.
November 22, 2014 at 9:52 am
angelapenadahle
Great reminder! Character driven books are so much fun.
November 22, 2014 at 9:54 am
Susan Halko
Aha! What a simple way to get started. Thanks, Diana!
November 22, 2014 at 9:56 am
Lynn
Diana, this is such a helpful post for me! Before I was even up for the day an idea came to mind and I had a lot of the story thought out before even out of bed. Of course, it needs loads of tweaking and work, but then I read your post. It works so well with my idea for today … I think I may have something here once I get the story filled out.
Thank you!
– Lynn A. Davidson
November 22, 2014 at 10:15 am
Diana Murray
Hooray! That’s great! Happy writing.
November 22, 2014 at 9:56 am
Betsy Devany
Awesome advice, Diana! Thank you so much for this wonderful post.
November 22, 2014 at 9:59 am
marcimcadam
Thanks, Diana. I think it’s that conflicting goal that offers the character an opportunity to grow, and characters are so much more interesting when they grow. Love it!
November 22, 2014 at 10:00 am
Juliana Lee
Wonderful advice. I think back to the stories I love best and they all have great characters!
November 22, 2014 at 10:00 am
ManjuBeth
Thank you, Diana! I agree that character driven PBs top agent/editor wish lists.
November 22, 2014 at 10:00 am
M Lapointe Malchik (@imartytweet)
Ned the Knitting Pirate:A Salty Yarn??? I LOVE that title! Can’t wait to meet Ned! Will there be any of his knitting patterns included? Thank you Diana for this approach to developing a character-driven story with the acknowledgement that editors vary in what it is they like. I have enjoyed so many dynamic duo picture books that I hope to write one of my own one day. Your projects and your success are inspiring to hear about. I wish you the best in continuing to get your work into the hands of those who will love it to pieces.
November 22, 2014 at 10:17 am
Diana Murray
Thanks for the kind words!
November 22, 2014 at 10:05 am
Daryl Gottier
Thanks for your suggestions. Time to create some characters!
November 22, 2014 at 10:09 am
Barbara Cairns
Thanks for a great post that has me thinking of all kinds of fun characters. Let’s hope at least one of them shows off his/her little personality inside the covers of a book one day!
November 22, 2014 at 10:10 am
Nina Johnson
This is great advice and just what I need. Thank you. I feel happy in my life just about all the time so finding crisis and conflict for my character is difficult for me. This little article is a gem.
November 22, 2014 at 10:16 am
rgstones
Thank you for this! I love posts that trigger ideas and this one has my brain going 100 miles per hour.
November 22, 2014 at 10:19 am
Christie
Lovely advice, Diana. I think it would be wonderful to concoct a long list of personality traits from which to draw inspiration for my characters.
November 22, 2014 at 10:19 am
Christy Mihaly
Hi and thanks for these thoughts. I’m writing mostly nonfiction, and realizing that the character/conflict technique works in nonfiction too — at least for biographies. The excitement in the story often comes from the person’s goal being difficult to achieve because of his/her character flaws. Or at least, I’d say, bringing out the person’s character is an important part of writing an engaging biography. Thanks for the thought-provoking post.
November 22, 2014 at 11:44 am
Diana Murray
Interesting! I hadn’t thought about applying this concept to nonfiction. Thanks!
November 22, 2014 at 10:21 am
storyfairy
Oh, wow, this sounds like a great way to create characters! 🙂 -Lily Stejskal
November 22, 2014 at 10:25 am
rmcg14
Love this! I never thought of it this way before. I’m ready to make my lists of traits. 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 10:26 am
Linda Ford
Love the way you put character traits into use to create a story.
November 22, 2014 at 10:34 am
Kimberly Cowger
Great advice! Just like in Susanna Hill’s Making Picture Book Magic Course (which I highly recommend if you’re looking for an expanded explanation of this great post!).
November 22, 2014 at 11:46 am
Diana Murray
Thanks for the recommendation, Kimberly! I love Susanna! Lots of great stuff on her blog.
November 22, 2014 at 10:34 am
Sue Heavenrich
Diana- I love your list of ingredients! Especially the illustration with the jars of quirks and worry warts… my shelf would have a dusty tin of teen angst.
November 22, 2014 at 11:47 am
Diana Murray
Ha ha! My teen angst is tucked away in the corner of the cupboard and I don’t like to revisit it. LOL.
November 22, 2014 at 10:35 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Great post – and I love the name “Pickle” for your goldfish! Imagine Pickle is an interesting character too.
November 22, 2014 at 11:51 am
Diana Murray
Thanks, Cathy! My daughter named him. My husband jokes that his full name is “Dill Pickleodeon”. You wouldn’t believe how much personality a goldfish can have. 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 10:36 am
csheer18
Thanks so much for hands-on exercise for diving into creating a character-driven story. It certainly seems to be a mantra among many publishers and editors today that this is key to the manuscripts they are seeking across a variety of genres. Maybe I’ll get my grandkids involved in the brainstorming ideas with me…
November 22, 2014 at 10:37 am
Jacqueline
This is great–it gave me today’s idea! And I have a feeling it will yield a few more before the day is out. Thanks!
November 22, 2014 at 10:38 am
Tina Cho
Fun post, Diana! Thanks for your recipe for a character-driven book. Congrats on all your forthcoming pbs!
November 22, 2014 at 11:52 am
Diana Murray
Thanks, Tina! 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 10:40 am
Nancy Furstinger
What a fantastic idea of making a list of personality traits–I’m on it!
November 22, 2014 at 10:44 am
Sydney O'Neill
Oh, I like this, giving the character a trait that is in opposition to my own and a goal that I can personally relate to. Thank you!
November 22, 2014 at 10:44 am
Rick Starkey
Great post. I think I try to add all the spice before starting with those two main ingredients. This will help me remember.
Thanks.
November 22, 2014 at 10:49 am
Mindy
Great “formula” for writing character driven stories. Thanks for sharing!
November 22, 2014 at 10:53 am
Christine Michaela Sharpe
This was a great suggestion: to use your own character traits! Love that
November 22, 2014 at 10:53 am
Lori Dubbin
Thank you, Diana, for an amazing formula that’s is key to giving a story a great start. Congratulations on all your awesome books coming out. Can’t wait to read about Grimelda, the Very Messy Witch and Ned, the Knitting Pirate!!!
November 22, 2014 at 11:54 am
Diana Murray
Thanks so much, Lori!
November 22, 2014 at 10:54 am
kathalsey
Oh, Diana, I’d love to win a PB crit from you! The is a recipe for successful character and conflict. I have a strong character right now w/a conflict, but not sure it is in opposition…gonna see what i can do to sprinkle in more traits. This is a very useful post.
November 22, 2014 at 11:54 am
Diana Murray
Glad you find it useful!
November 22, 2014 at 10:58 am
beckylevine
I love this idea. Thanks for a great post!
November 22, 2014 at 10:59 am
Jennette Mutolo
I love that this post is on a Saturday! The kids can lounge around while I create, create, create! Thank you Diana 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 11:55 am
Diana Murray
Happy Saturday! 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 10:59 am
Hayley B
Cooking up creativity! Thanks, Diana!
November 22, 2014 at 11:01 am
Patricia Saunders
Thanks Diana :>) great tip!
November 22, 2014 at 11:04 am
Mary Warth
Thank you Diana for a great way to break down conflict. I instantly connected to the approach. Maybe because I too resemble your list !! I’m grabbing my notebook right now.
November 22, 2014 at 11:06 am
Jan Milusich
I have the character. I have the conflict, now to revise, revise, revise. Thanks for the focused suggestion.
November 22, 2014 at 11:10 am
Debbie Wagenbach
Your post was very helpful today as I am revising a character driven (I hope) picture book at this very moment. Thank you!
November 22, 2014 at 11:13 am
marylouisealucurto
Thank You for the Picture Book Recipe For Success!
November 22, 2014 at 11:22 am
Therese Nagi
Thank you so much for the helpful suggestions.
November 22, 2014 at 11:26 am
Nancy Colle
What would our stories be without conflict? = (Super boring)
Thanks for posting;)
November 22, 2014 at 11:27 am
Amanda Smith
Thank you for a great post, Diana. i’m going to start my list right now.
November 22, 2014 at 11:29 am
Jennifer Sommer
Thanks for such a clear example describing personality trait vs. conflicting goal. I got it!
November 22, 2014 at 11:30 am
marciecolleen
What a wonderful boiling down of what makes a character worth driving many books. Thank you!
November 22, 2014 at 11:35 am
Pat
I have a few character-driven PBs brewing on my computer and in my head but I’ve been struggling to get them just right. Thanks for the inspiration, Diana!
November 22, 2014 at 11:38 am
rowenarae
This is great, Diana! Thanks for the ideas and congrats on your books!
November 22, 2014 at 11:57 am
Diana Murray
Thank you, rowenarae!
November 22, 2014 at 11:38 am
LovableLobo
Thanks for the bewitching recipe, Diana!
November 22, 2014 at 11:40 am
Doreen E. Lepore
Great advice – thanks!
November 22, 2014 at 11:42 am
Katy D
Thanks for your post! And I have to say that I love that your fish’s name is Pickle. 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 11:59 am
Diana Murray
Thanks, Katy! I’ll tell my daughter. When she got a bit older, she wanted to change his/her name to “Silvermist”. LOL. But then we all decided to stick with Pickle.
November 22, 2014 at 11:43 am
Jodi Moore
Now where did I put that eye of newt? 😉 *cackles* Love this – thanks for the inspiration! 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 12:00 pm
Diana Murray
Thanks for stopping by, Jodi! *cackles back*
November 22, 2014 at 11:44 am
Susan Cabael
…and POOF! Instant conflict. Thanks for the magical formula.
November 22, 2014 at 11:52 am
Teresa Daffern
Thanks – most inspiring and helpful!
November 22, 2014 at 11:54 am
danielledufayet
Great and simple advice. Thanks!
November 22, 2014 at 11:55 am
dsi1nyu
I love the simplicity of this! What a great and nonthreatening way to explore story writing for writers of all ages!
November 22, 2014 at 11:57 am
Aidan Cassie
It is a great day for this springboard to jump from… thanks.
November 22, 2014 at 11:58 am
Lori Alexander
Thanks, Dianna! This is just the reminder I needed as I work on a new character-driven PB.
November 22, 2014 at 12:01 pm
Diana Murray
Hi, Lori! *waves* Good luck with your WIP.
November 22, 2014 at 11:59 am
Deirdre Sheridan Englehart
I love your recipe.. what fun!
November 22, 2014 at 11:59 am
sherry alexander
Thank you for your post. Character and goal is something to research a bit more for me.
November 22, 2014 at 12:00 pm
angelapadron
Poof! Instant conflict just came to my mind. Thanks so much for the advice!
November 22, 2014 at 12:04 pm
Rita Allmon
Thanks Diana for sharing with us. This is a great formula to play around with as we are seeking ideas!
November 22, 2014 at 12:06 pm
Beth Gallagher
Fantastic post! Thanks for the inspiration. 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 12:07 pm
cantsing1
Hmmmm. Now to look back at a few characters and measure degree of conflict with personality . . . Thanks!
November 22, 2014 at 12:12 pm
Sally R. Flannery
Thanks, Diana! Hahaha – authentically figuring out my own personality traits is a funny exercise!
November 22, 2014 at 12:13 pm
Janny J Johnson
I’m going to review this idea with one of the PiBoIdMo ideas from last year!
November 22, 2014 at 12:17 pm
katmaz2012
Your post has me going back to my previous PiBoIdMo lists and charting some traits. Thank you for the “assignment”. I am going to enjoy this.
November 22, 2014 at 12:25 pm
JEN Garrett
This post helped me in an unexpected way. The “messy” witch’s goal WASN’T to clean her room. It was to find something she wants. I need to remember to go past the obvious and reach for the interesting.
November 22, 2014 at 12:28 pm
Janie Reinart
I agree the best writing comes from the heart! Thank you for the great post.
November 22, 2014 at 12:29 pm
loriannlevyholm
Not sure my personality traits would be good for a picture book! Thank you for the wonderful post.
November 22, 2014 at 12:30 pm
Judy Cox
Very useful post! I have several character driven books (two series) but I’ve never stopped to break down what makes it work. Thanks!
November 22, 2014 at 12:35 pm
Margaret Greanias
Thanks for the great advice. I haven’t used this technique yet during PiBoIdMo so I sure I’ll get some great ideas from it today.
November 22, 2014 at 12:36 pm
Lauren Soloy
Oh, I do feel a story bubbling up! Or, perhaps a little more insight into a story that was not quite bubbling yet 🙂 Thanks!
November 22, 2014 at 12:37 pm
Robyn Campbell
Excellent! Wonderful words. I love how you show about how to get ideas. I never thought of doing that. I will now!
November 22, 2014 at 12:39 pm
Sallye O'Rourke
taping this ingredient list to my computer so I can follow this simple recipe!
November 22, 2014 at 12:39 pm
Cassandra Federman
Bookmarked this post!
November 22, 2014 at 12:39 pm
bilinguazo
Great Advice! Thanks!
November 22, 2014 at 12:41 pm
Lindsay Bonilla
Great advice! Thanks for giving us such a practical way to approach character driven stories!!
November 22, 2014 at 12:42 pm
vijikc
Hi Diana! This piece was so helpful! Thank you so much.
November 22, 2014 at 4:36 pm
Diana Murray
Hi, Viji! *waves* I’m so glad!
November 22, 2014 at 12:44 pm
Vicki Wilke
Had an idea brewing and plugged it in to your suggestion – can’t wait to develop it!!! Thank you Diana!
November 22, 2014 at 12:45 pm
Nancy Armo
Will love cooking up a story with these “new” ingredients!
November 22, 2014 at 12:50 pm
Sharon Nix Jones
Thank you for the recipe!
November 22, 2014 at 12:52 pm
cartwomey
One of my favorite posts yet! Thanks for sharing your winning formula!
November 22, 2014 at 12:53 pm
Pam Miller
Diana, You made it seem easy with two ingredients. Thanks for the great idea.
November 22, 2014 at 12:54 pm
Carol Nelson
What a great way to generate ideas. Thanks!
November 22, 2014 at 12:54 pm
Anne Lei-Yeung So
I enjoy the little personality jars that you can sprinkle.
November 22, 2014 at 12:55 pm
zebrakitchens
Thanks. This is a very timely post for me. This year I’m concentrating on two areas of PB writing, character and conflict.
Lynn
November 22, 2014 at 12:57 pm
GretchenMclellan
Diana–I can’t wait to try your formula, using myself! We have a nearly identical list, minus the nerdy and I’d like to be a joker. Maybe that will be my character’s goal…hmmm. LOVE your illustrations and can’t wait to share your books with my students. (By day I’m a reading specialist at an elementary school–what a great job!!!) Thanks for a juicy post!!! This is my first PiBoIdMo and I’m so grateful I joined.
November 22, 2014 at 1:04 pm
jngallaher
I love the idea of listing character traits that you yourself possess. It seems like a great way to connect with your character and make that trait genuine.
November 22, 2014 at 1:04 pm
Rosie Taylor
Such timely tips, Diana. I just wrote a picture book ms from one of my PiBo ideas this month. I know it needs more, and I see how using the personality trait plus a conflicting goal is really going to help me!!! Thanks so much! Can’t wait to see your new books! Congratulations!
November 22, 2014 at 4:41 pm
Diana Murray
Thanks, Rosie! Yay! Good luck with your new ms.
November 22, 2014 at 1:06 pm
Carrie Charley Brown
This is great, Diana! Not only can it be used to start a new idea, but I think I’ll go back and analyze all of my manuscripts now to see if they hit the character mark in this way. Thanks!
November 22, 2014 at 1:13 pm
Theresa Love
Nice idea generator! Thanks for adding to my creation station 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 1:14 pm
teresarobeson
What a simple but effective-sounding way to create great little stories! Thanks for this super handy tip, Diana!
November 22, 2014 at 1:18 pm
Cathy Breisacher
This is a great idea that I’m going to try today. I already printed the post. Thank you!
November 22, 2014 at 1:21 pm
Joanne Sher
Oh, Diana – this is so very, VERY incredibly helpful – and simple! Ideas are pop, pop, popping! Thanks so much!
November 22, 2014 at 4:42 pm
Diana Murray
Ooh! I love the sound of inspiration! 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 1:23 pm
SevenAcreSky
Great brew, Diana, for spelling out the character within the dilemmas of their need. Thanks for the insight.
November 22, 2014 at 1:24 pm
gweddle
Combining incompatible character traits and goals is a great suggestion! Thank you!
November 22, 2014 at 1:29 pm
Beth Blee
Diana, thanks for your formula. I plan to use it. Ned the Knitting Pirate and The Salty Yarn sound interesting. Thanks for your time and encouragement.
November 22, 2014 at 4:43 pm
Diana Murray
Thanks, Beth!
November 22, 2014 at 1:31 pm
Jill Tuckman
This was a very helpful post. Thank you so much!
November 22, 2014 at 1:35 pm
Claire Vita
Great! I like the idea of relating conflict to the essence of the character. Just like life. Thanks!
November 22, 2014 at 1:38 pm
bevbaird
What a great post. Love the advice>
November 22, 2014 at 1:39 pm
Bonnie
I haven’t really dived into characters with my story ideas but this definitely gives me ideas to get started. Thank you for a very helpful post.
November 22, 2014 at 1:43 pm
Heidi Yates
This is a great way to think about creating a character-driven story. Thank you Diana! 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 1:44 pm
ssuehler
Diana, this is fun! Since I am home alone today, I can talk to my dogs. We are coming up with some interesting characters and plots. . Need an idea? Ask an animal!
November 22, 2014 at 4:45 pm
Diana Murray
Ha ha! We recently got a bearded dragon. I’m pretty sure she has some good ideas, too. 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 1:49 pm
Elizabeth
I’m currently taking your advice: creating a character that shares a personality trait of my own! Thanks!
November 22, 2014 at 2:02 pm
gabisnyder
Diana, thanks for this recipe for creating the inspiration for a character-driven PB. Making the goal in direct opposition with the trait is a genius idea!
November 22, 2014 at 2:04 pm
Jim Chaize
Such a simple approach. I think your post will help me generate a few ideas. Thanks Diana.
November 22, 2014 at 2:11 pm
Sandie Sing
Diana, your advice and tips are amazing!!! Of all the writers’ great shares in this project, I believe your advice and format has inspired and empowered me the most. This one was my favorite PiBoIdMo Day interview shares. Thank you Diana Murray for writing these wonderful tips. You have simplified the character driven story components. I have my thirty ideas already. Now, I have to apply them! Thank you, thank you, Diana! You have empowered my pea brain and I will revisit my characters again. Thank you, thank you Tara Lazar for hosting this project. It empowers all of us!
November 22, 2014 at 4:48 pm
Diana Murray
Thanks, Sandie! I find your enthusiasm empowering! YAY! 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 2:12 pm
viviankirkfield
Diana…thank you for generously sharing your recipe…many cooks will not. 😉 😉 I love your simple formula to create a not-so-simple great picture book story – I’m off to bake my picture book cake. 😉
November 22, 2014 at 2:19 pm
Janine Johns
Thank you so much for a fabulous post. This is just what I needed today! I can’t wait to read your books.
November 22, 2014 at 4:53 pm
Diana Murray
Thanks, Janine!
November 22, 2014 at 2:23 pm
l8k8
thanks for the tips. I will see if I can put them to use while thinking up a picture book idea today.
November 22, 2014 at 2:34 pm
Carol Jones
Personality trait + conflicting goal = story idea: what a great formula!
November 22, 2014 at 2:36 pm
Shena Ashcraft
You’re so clever, Diana, to help us focus our conflict around our character’s personality traits! Thanks for the tip! I’ve already sent a few writer friends your way to read the great advice!
November 22, 2014 at 4:54 pm
Diana Murray
Thanks so much, Shena!
November 22, 2014 at 2:36 pm
Cat Clerkin
Thanks Diana for the inspiration magic!
November 22, 2014 at 2:45 pm
Nicole Popel
This is EXACTLY what I needed to read today. Thanks for breaking it down in little bites!
November 22, 2014 at 2:45 pm
Aunt Alice
I can’t wait to see Ned the Knitting Pirate. It sounds like a fun book!
November 22, 2014 at 4:56 pm
Diana Murray
Thanks, Aunt Alice! I’m really looking forward to the release. Such a long process!
November 22, 2014 at 2:47 pm
Julene Kinser
Thank you, Diana!
November 22, 2014 at 2:47 pm
Deb Dunn
I’m always looking for more tips on character driven books, so thank you for your simple yet good recipe!
November 22, 2014 at 2:48 pm
bluerabbit
This is terrific advice, and so good to read it. It’s something I did early on in this particular challenge, though I didn’t formulate it this clearly. Thanks! It’s a keeper.
November 22, 2014 at 2:51 pm
furfilled
Thanks for the timely advice.
November 22, 2014 at 2:51 pm
Lynn Alpert
You make it sound so easy! Thanks for the great post!
November 22, 2014 at 2:51 pm
Christine Kornylak
Thanks for the timely advice
November 22, 2014 at 2:58 pm
Sandy Perlic
Wow – it seems so simple when you put it that way! Thanks for the insight.
November 22, 2014 at 2:59 pm
julie rowan zoch
Sweet post, Diana! Just gave me my first idea for the day! Thanks!
November 22, 2014 at 4:56 pm
Diana Murray
Hi, Julie! I’m so glad! 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 3:02 pm
Jessica Maria
So far none of my manuscripts is character driven, and I know it’s something I need to tackle. Great post!
November 22, 2014 at 3:06 pm
Suzanne Dameron
Diana,
Just what the doctor ordered. Prescription for today, a dose of character for my characters. Thanks for a great remedy.
November 22, 2014 at 3:07 pm
Jabeen
That was great advice, thank you so much. I feel more of a focus after reading your post, so helpful!
November 22, 2014 at 3:08 pm
Pat Miller
I’m inspired to try. Thanks for the deceptively easy way to surprise a story.
November 22, 2014 at 4:58 pm
Diana Murray
Thanks for stopping by, Pat! 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 3:10 pm
kckass
Well that doesn’t sound so bad now does it. Two ingredients – personality traits and conflicting goals. I think I can handle that!
November 22, 2014 at 3:23 pm
Lori Mozdzierz
Before reading your post, Dianna, I was so stuck on a current revision. From the bottom of my writerly heart, thank you for the perfect ingredient for my brew!
November 22, 2014 at 5:00 pm
Diana Murray
I’m so, so glad it helped get you unstuck! Happy writing.
November 22, 2014 at 3:25 pm
Patricia Toht
This gives me some ideas of how to add depth to a character I’ve dreamed up, as well as adding more conflict — thanks, Diana!
November 22, 2014 at 3:32 pm
Ellen Sirianni
Great Advice! Congratulations on your picture books. Can’t wait to read them.
November 22, 2014 at 5:01 pm
Diana Murray
Thanks, Ellen!
November 22, 2014 at 3:36 pm
Jenna Woloshyn
You make it sound so easy.
November 22, 2014 at 3:44 pm
deborahholtwilliams
Great post! Seems like character driven stories would be good candidates for a series, and who doesn’t want to sell a series!
November 22, 2014 at 3:46 pm
Carolyn Rohrbaugh
Sometimes we over look the obvious. Thanks for the good advice.
November 22, 2014 at 3:47 pm
Marty McCormick
Great tip that I definitely will try. Thanks, Diana, and congrats on all your upcoming books. You’ve been busy 🙂 Marty McCormick
November 22, 2014 at 5:02 pm
Diana Murray
Thanks, Marty! Always busy. 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 3:53 pm
Cat
Thank you Diana, your post has helped me to develop one of my new characters 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 3:55 pm
Kara Stewart
Great suggestions! Thank you.
November 22, 2014 at 4:08 pm
Romelle Broas
Thanks, Diane. I’ve been wanting to learn how to write a great character driven story. This is a great start.
November 22, 2014 at 4:09 pm
Mary Jane
Diana – Thanks for this inspiring post about story character development.
November 22, 2014 at 4:19 pm
Heather Pierce Stigall
I love a two ingredient recipe! thanks for the great tips!
November 22, 2014 at 4:23 pm
Mary McClellan
Great post! Sounds so easy. Love the word play of the knitting pirate…a salty yarn. Anxious to read that and Grimelda. Liked The Grumpy Hiker. 🙂 Now, what socks are you wearing today?
November 22, 2014 at 5:04 pm
Diana Murray
Ha ha! Thanks, Mary. My socks are a bit scratchy and droopy today. But aside from that, I’m afraid they’re a bit plain. 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 4:26 pm
Rebecca Colby
Fantastic tip, Diana! I hadn’t thought of looking at my own traits as a way of establishing an emotional connection with my character. Thanks for a great post!
November 22, 2014 at 4:27 pm
kpbock
Great ideas here! I love posts that give me something to do right away 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 4:27 pm
Zainab
I LOVE your post! Thanks so much for the tidbit Diana. I’m going to have to lay my traits out on the table. I hope I win a critique from you!
November 22, 2014 at 4:27 pm
Franziska
Great advice! Thank you!
November 22, 2014 at 4:30 pm
Susie Sawyer
This is a great recipe for creating a character-driven story, Diana! Thank you! 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 5:06 pm
Diana Murray
Thanks for stopping by, Susie! *waves*
November 22, 2014 at 4:38 pm
heather Steffens
Excellent advice.
November 22, 2014 at 4:50 pm
Isabelle Barth
Thanks Diana. Yes, you have to mix up your ingredients to get a “perfect” story. Choosing them well would help to have something everybody might like. I like you advice.
November 22, 2014 at 5:01 pm
Lauri Fortino
Thank you for showing us how to create a great character driven story in a very easy to follow formula! Congratulations on and best wishes for your upcoming books!
November 22, 2014 at 8:33 pm
Diana Murray
Thanks, Lauri!
November 22, 2014 at 5:12 pm
Lacey Gunter
Thanks for making it on simple terms. Great advice.
November 22, 2014 at 5:14 pm
Ann K
Thank you for this very fun way of brewing inspiration!
November 22, 2014 at 5:15 pm
Doris Stone
Thank you, Diana for the great advice. I can’t wait to try some of your suggestions!
November 22, 2014 at 5:16 pm
Buffy Silverman
Your creative and analytical traits sure came through in this post–thanks for the great tips!
November 22, 2014 at 8:34 pm
Diana Murray
Hi, Buffy! Thanks so much for stopping by. 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 5:20 pm
Mary Constantino
I can feel the inspiration magic! Now on to revise!!!
November 22, 2014 at 5:25 pm
Maria Oka
Fabulous formula for character driven picture books! I’m getting my list going now…
November 22, 2014 at 5:26 pm
Cindy S
Good tips. Thanks for sharing.
November 22, 2014 at 5:34 pm
tpierce
Awesome post, Diana. I love this simple formula for creating instant conflict. Thank you!
November 22, 2014 at 5:36 pm
laura516
Sounds like a fun exercise. I’ll give it a try!
November 22, 2014 at 5:36 pm
Stephan Stuecklin
And I thought this post would be about coffee… Thanks for sharing a simple but effective springboard!
November 22, 2014 at 8:36 pm
Diana Murray
Ha ha! I’m actually a tea drinker. But yes, some perfectly brewed tea (or coffee) does help the inspiration process.
November 22, 2014 at 5:43 pm
Nancy Ramsey
Great advice! Looking forward to reading your books! Congratulations!
November 22, 2014 at 8:36 pm
Diana Murray
Thank you, Nancy!
November 22, 2014 at 5:59 pm
Kaye Baillie
I read this post late last night and don’t think I commented, but now I want to say that I love this method of creating a story idea. Thanks, Diana.
November 22, 2014 at 6:09 pm
Melanie Ellsworth
Thanks, Diana. It’ll be fun to brew up some ideas today using your “formula.”
November 22, 2014 at 6:09 pm
mona861
Love this post…thanks, Diana!
November 22, 2014 at 6:29 pm
Marcy P.
I think that was the best post I’ve ever read on character development. I think that was even better than the workshops I’ve gone to on it (Sorry to anyone whose workshops I’ve gone to or posts I’ve read… they were great, they really were) but I love how boiled down this is. Thank you!
November 22, 2014 at 6:39 pm
Michelle O'Hara Levin
Agreed, Marcy. This was really distilled and really good.
November 22, 2014 at 8:43 pm
Diana Murray
Thanks, Michelle!
November 22, 2014 at 8:42 pm
Diana Murray
Wow, thanks! That’s nice to hear. And here I was worried that it was too short! That’s the problem with worry warts. 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 6:39 pm
Michelle O'Hara Levin
A recipe for a good starting point. THANK YOU.
November 22, 2014 at 6:41 pm
Meghan Daniels
Great advice. I already take much of my inspiration from real life, so starting with my own traits should be pretty easy. Thanks!
November 22, 2014 at 7:02 pm
Sherry Walz
Thanks for the great advice, Diana. For me, creating conflict in my stories is a challenge. This will help.
November 22, 2014 at 7:02 pm
Jon Blauvelt
Thanks for sharing!
November 22, 2014 at 7:02 pm
daynesislendesign
Love the post! Thanks
November 22, 2014 at 7:04 pm
Anne Bromley
Thank you, Diana, for this “formula” which I will definitely use to create my next picture book draft. It would be a real time saver!
November 22, 2014 at 7:05 pm
Amy Houts
Such practical advice! I’m going to try it tonight. Thanks.
November 22, 2014 at 7:31 pm
Christine M. Irvin
I love your ideas. Like Lynn Alpert says, you make it sound so easy!!
November 22, 2014 at 7:45 pm
dani duck
Characters are so important in stories. Glad that you made it the focus today. Love your post!
November 22, 2014 at 7:58 pm
Anita Banks
Thank you for the post, great idea!
November 22, 2014 at 8:06 pm
mariagianferrari
A great idea! Thanks for sharing it–time to pair up some some. Thanks, Diana!
November 22, 2014 at 8:07 pm
Ashley Bankhead
Thank you, thank you for this post. I loved reading about character driven picture books. Your formula was fantastic. It was fun to read and think about. Your books sound funny, and I definitely need to read them when they come out thank you for taking the time to share with us. I appreciate it.
November 22, 2014 at 8:45 pm
Diana Murray
Thanks so much, Ashley!
November 22, 2014 at 8:14 pm
Stephen S. Martin
Never thought of approaching it that way. Thanx for the hint. Gotta try it.
November 22, 2014 at 8:14 pm
jeanjames
Strong character, interesting conflict…great advice!!
November 22, 2014 at 8:15 pm
Maria Marshall
Thank you so very much. this was the most perfect way to distill, stew, and bottle the essence of character. You make it so deceptively simple, yet complexly easy. I am off to gather my most unusual canning jars (especially my grandmother’s colored ones), label them with traits, and see what obstacles I can cook up! Perfect Saturday inspiration! 🙂
Ohh, I can’t wait to find your Knitting Pirate book!
November 22, 2014 at 8:47 pm
Diana Murray
Thanks, Maria! Your grandmother’s canning jars sound perfect. And I love your coining of the phrase “complexly easy”. 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 8:21 pm
Debra Shumaker
What another great post. Thanks so much!
November 22, 2014 at 8:26 pm
Jill Siegel
I love character-driven stories! Thanks for your really helpful advice! I will try your ‘recipe’ out. 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 8:27 pm
ajschildrensbooks
Great tips! Thank you, Diana!
November 22, 2014 at 8:33 pm
Anna Totten
I have some work to do on some less than stellar characters. Helpful actions to take.
November 22, 2014 at 8:35 pm
Julie Murphy
Great advice, Diana. Thank you.
November 22, 2014 at 8:38 pm
Jenifer McNamara
Nice post. Everyone can use a little magic to help their writing along.
November 22, 2014 at 8:43 pm
Donna L Martin
What an awesome way to create story ideas! Thanks, Diana, for this great post!
November 22, 2014 at 8:43 pm
becki wilson
love it! Thank you!
November 22, 2014 at 8:45 pm
Janet Smart
Yes! I love amazing characters, too.
November 22, 2014 at 8:46 pm
Dianne
This was spellbinding! Thanks for all the great tips.
November 22, 2014 at 8:47 pm
Cindy Greene
Great post – fabulous advice. Thanks.
November 22, 2014 at 8:54 pm
laurazarrin
I like this very ‘simple’ recipe for character driven stories. The opposing goal idea is really helpful, thanks!
November 22, 2014 at 8:54 pm
Lorraine Donohue Bonzelet
Thanks for the advice. Love this post.
November 22, 2014 at 8:57 pm
shiela fuller
Thank you, Diana, for honing in on some specific ways to create character driven picture books.
November 22, 2014 at 8:58 pm
Diana Murray
Thank you SO much to everyone for the wonderful comments! And thanks once again to the fabulous Tara Lazar! I’ve always loved PiBoIdMo. I love the opportunity to stop and analyze and think about process. Plus, it’s great to push yourself beyond the obvious (as someone else here said). Coming up with 30 ideas in a short period of time forces us to reach deeper. Anyway, thanks again!
November 22, 2014 at 9:03 pm
Kelley Nebosky
Super advice for developing two essentials of the story– character and conflict– and what a great way to connect them! Thanks for the very helpful post!
November 22, 2014 at 9:11 pm
Karen Lawler
I really must get back to the character traits… I use to preach that to my students and I had gotten away from it myself! Thanks for the reminder. 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 9:16 pm
Hélène Sabourin
Finding a conflict can be difficult. I will try your method. Thank you for sharing. Looking forward to see your books
November 22, 2014 at 9:17 pm
danielle hammelef
Great advice for idea generation. Thank you for the inspiration.
November 22, 2014 at 9:34 pm
Tracy Molitors
A perfect recipe. Thanks, Diana!
November 22, 2014 at 9:45 pm
Virginia Law Manning
Great advice! A simple solution! I think my problem has been making it too complicated! Thank you so much!
November 22, 2014 at 9:51 pm
Amy Smith
I hate making character trait lists – but I LOVED your unique approach to it, and that it seems totally manageable. Gonna give this a try!
November 22, 2014 at 9:53 pm
Jarm Del Boccio
You make it sound so easy, Diana! I will put your tip to use very soon. Thanks so much for your most helpful post.
November 22, 2014 at 10:12 pm
Amelia Gossman
Fantastic post! Thanks For your insightful advice.
November 22, 2014 at 10:19 pm
Ashley Bohmer
Ahh…yes, trait V.S. Goal.–Gotta love it! 😉
November 22, 2014 at 10:34 pm
Cindy Clemens
Thanks for a great post. Sometimes we get caught up in details and miss the main ingredients. Fingers crossed I win your critique!!
November 22, 2014 at 10:36 pm
Laura Bellina
Thanks! Great post!
November 22, 2014 at 10:37 pm
seschipper
Super suggestions!!!!! 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 10:42 pm
jshaklan
I absolutely LOVE this post! Thanks so much for great, helpful advice. I would fee; beyond thrilled and lucky to receive a critique from you!
November 22, 2014 at 10:42 pm
Erin O'Brien
Wonderful advice!
November 22, 2014 at 10:59 pm
Ann Bentley
Thanks for the great advice.
November 22, 2014 at 11:13 pm
Nina Haines
Thanks! I’m going to implement this method.
November 22, 2014 at 11:15 pm
Ali Pichardo
Diana, your post was wonderful! I could picture the witch stiring her potion. I look forward to reading Ned the Knitting Pirate: A Salty Yarn to my grandsons. That is the best picture book title ever!
November 23, 2014 at 9:52 am
Diana Murray
Thanks, Ali! 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 11:33 pm
Tracy
Fantastic post and I love the graphic: “Worry Warts” and “mild” Quirk. Some great tips here ~ I’ll definitely be trying them.
November 23, 2014 at 9:59 am
Diana Murray
Thanks, Tracy! I was worried that the “mild” might not be legible. 🙂
November 22, 2014 at 11:47 pm
Penny Parker Klostermann
Thanks so much for sharing your magical brew, Diana! I’ll be cooking up several batches to fill in my idea list. I’m a few behind and I think this formula might be just the ticket. Bubble! Bubble!
November 23, 2014 at 9:56 am
Diana Murray
Hi, Penny! Ooh, I know you’ll brew up something good!
November 22, 2014 at 11:53 pm
cravevsworld
Helpful advice. Thank you!
November 23, 2014 at 12:18 am
Stephanie Geckle (@SPGeckle)
Great advice. Thank you! It’s made me take another look at an old manuscript I was having trouble with. I think it was just missing a key ingredient!
November 23, 2014 at 12:18 am
Zach Ratcliffe
Thank you for this!
November 23, 2014 at 12:21 am
AlenaT
This is great. I can rally use this with a few of my old stories.
November 23, 2014 at 12:31 am
hethfeth
Great suggestions for developing conflict. Thank you for this post!
November 23, 2014 at 12:32 am
Patricia Conway
I like how you chose a personal trait and developed it in a character. That’s something I want to do. Great idea!
November 23, 2014 at 12:32 am
sardyhar
What an interesting recipe for character and conflict creation. Loved the accompanying illustration. Thanks, Diana!
November 23, 2014 at 9:58 am
Diana Murray
Thanks, sardyhar!
November 23, 2014 at 12:49 am
Celeste Elbert
Great ingredient list! Thank you.
November 23, 2014 at 12:52 am
Naana Kyereboah
Thanks Diana for the great tips on creating character and conflict.
November 23, 2014 at 12:54 am
donnacangelosi
Thanks so much for sharing your magic potion for character and conflict development, Diana!
November 23, 2014 at 1:11 am
Tom Barrett
neat method. will have to try it to get my list caught up!
November 23, 2014 at 2:23 am
Deborah Patz
An inspirational brew!
November 23, 2014 at 2:46 am
Kathryn Cunningham
Thanks for this- I have trouble with character driven stories for some reason, and this was very helpful for me.
November 23, 2014 at 2:52 am
Laurie L Young
Very cool. I am inspired and want to take a nap. I mean, write a new story!
November 23, 2014 at 10:33 pm
Diana Murray
Ha ha! 🙂 I actually find that napping is great way to generate ideas or solve problems. So maybe you can have your nap and, er, write your story, too!
November 23, 2014 at 3:18 am
Tina Hoggatt
Thank you of this inspiring post on your process and experience with PiBoIdMo’s brand of goodness. Very useful tips. Hurrah!
November 23, 2014 at 6:55 am
Suzanne kaufman
Great post.
November 23, 2014 at 7:53 am
Claire O'Brien
What a fantastic technique! Character-driven stories always elude me, thanks.
November 23, 2014 at 8:46 am
ducks33
Great tip, thank you for the inspiration on personality trait and conflicting goal. Lots of potential!
November 23, 2014 at 8:55 am
Rebekah Hoeft
Adding this to my bag of tricks to get unstuck! Thanks!
November 23, 2014 at 9:09 am
Heather Thurmeier
Such simple advice but really clicked with me. Thanks!
November 23, 2014 at 9:41 am
Karen Brueggeman
Wonderful insight and great inspiration. Thank-you.
November 23, 2014 at 9:47 am
Elle Kwan
Wow! Perfect for day 23 when my ideas well is starting to run dry… thanks
November 23, 2014 at 9:58 am
Donna Rossman
Thank you Diana for such an inspirational post! Looking forward to your Twitter posts as well! 🙂
November 23, 2014 at 10:23 am
thelogonauts
Thanks so much for sharing, and a great reminder!
November 23, 2014 at 11:00 am
Lauri Meyers
I find it very strange that those 10 personality traits describe me too – made me do a double-take! Excellent post – a simple formula which is easier said than done (my brainstorming thus far was poo.)
November 23, 2014 at 10:37 pm
Diana Murray
Lauri, how funny! We must be kindred spirits! 🙂 I bet inspiration will hit you when you least expect it.
November 23, 2014 at 11:09 am
Anna Levin
Thank you Diana for the clear, non-messy:) tips! You offer an inspiring recipe for character and conflict development:)
November 23, 2014 at 11:28 am
Karen
Awesome ideas, thanks!
November 23, 2014 at 11:37 am
Zach Roush
thanks for the opportunity!
November 23, 2014 at 11:44 am
tanjabauerle
Thank you for your pointers. Can’t wait to get back to writing. 🙂
November 23, 2014 at 11:53 am
Patricia A Miller
I have a manuscript which needed this post. I need to find “what the character wants/needs” to create more tension in the story. Thanks for your post!
November 23, 2014 at 12:34 pm
MickiGinsberg
Thanks for your inventive approach. I can’t wait to use it!
November 23, 2014 at 12:49 pm
Heather Kelso
Thank you for the idea of picking a trait and a conflicting goal. I am listing out traits now to help with a main character, perfect timing. Congratulations on your upcoming PB releases!
November 23, 2014 at 10:39 pm
Diana Murray
Thanks, Heather!
November 23, 2014 at 1:05 pm
Elizabeth Brown
Great post! Thank you!
November 23, 2014 at 1:18 pm
Dorothy Wiese
I love your story, and I share some of your character traits. You make me feel good! Thanks.
November 23, 2014 at 1:21 pm
Lisa Ventrella
The ideas are running low. Thank you for a new way to look for them.
November 23, 2014 at 1:23 pm
Jessica Miller-Nims
That really does make finding the goal/conflict a thousand times easier.
November 23, 2014 at 1:28 pm
Rachel H
What a great tip! Simple brainstorming idea, wish I’d thought of it. 🙂 This will get me going today, thanks!
November 23, 2014 at 1:55 pm
Sandy Powell
What a great idea to create a memorable character. Thank you!
November 23, 2014 at 2:25 pm
Prairie Garden Girl
Diana: Thank you for sharing a recipe and list of ingredients for a character driven story. ~Suzy Leopold
November 23, 2014 at 2:38 pm
Lisa Robinson
Thanks for the recipe!
November 23, 2014 at 2:40 pm
Sharon L. Barry
A character who’s memorable–and conflicted. Got it.
November 23, 2014 at 2:59 pm
erikammon
I love the recipe! I need to go through my MSs and my PiBoIdMo ideas and see if there’s an underlying trait I may have missed that I need to bring out more.
November 23, 2014 at 3:12 pm
Linda Tripp
Great recipe! Now to get cookin’.
November 23, 2014 at 3:30 pm
Natasha
I’d love to win a critique. Sounds as if you have lots of magic to share Diana.
November 23, 2014 at 3:33 pm
Sheri Rad
Nice to have ideas today to stimulate thought and with different characteristics to choose from it is helpful.
Thanks Diana.
November 23, 2014 at 3:41 pm
bangersnmashdesign
Wow, I never thought about a story in such a simple way. That gives me so many ideas. Many thanks Diana!
November 23, 2014 at 3:44 pm
kathydoherty1
Diana, I read and reread your post, studying every word. Thank you!
November 23, 2014 at 4:06 pm
Meridth Gimbel
I can definitely see how this can help make an interesting and conflicting plot. Thanks for the advice!
November 23, 2014 at 4:13 pm
Deb Beauchamp
That’s a great idea for generating ideas. So fun to brainstorm up a list with those guidelines. Thanks!
November 23, 2014 at 4:26 pm
jdewdropsofink
The witches cupboard is a great analogy. I think I might have to draw up some potions. 🙂
November 23, 2014 at 4:38 pm
hgudgin
looking forward to finding conflict not involving my teenage boys!
November 23, 2014 at 5:06 pm
Dawn Young
An introverted joker? That’s quite a combination 🙂 I’m right there with you on the nerdy 😉
Great post and impressive list of awards and honors! Congrats on all your success! Excited to read your books and meet your cast of characters.
November 23, 2014 at 10:43 pm
Diana Murray
Thanks, Dawn! LOL. Happy to meet a fellow nerd. 🙂
November 23, 2014 at 5:16 pm
Elizabeth Saba
Thank you for this information. Easy recipe and congratulations on your soon to be published books!
November 23, 2014 at 10:46 pm
Diana Murray
Thanks for the congrats, Elizabeth!
November 23, 2014 at 6:08 pm
Pauline Johnson
Wow, that’s quite a recipe! I’m a lousy cook but maybe I can let this simmer. Your prompts are terrific and just when I was lagging in energy, I’m feeling some fresh ideas here. Thanks for this!
November 23, 2014 at 10:47 pm
Diana Murray
Cool beans! I’m so glad.
November 23, 2014 at 6:43 pm
kirsticall
Thanks for the great post!
November 23, 2014 at 6:50 pm
Elizabeth Davis
Great idea! It’s helping me develop my ideas from this month!
November 23, 2014 at 8:01 pm
Tarryn Lean (@TarrynLean)
Thank you for the inspiration
November 23, 2014 at 8:08 pm
Julie Durr
This is definitely something that I need to work on-building characters. Thank you!
November 23, 2014 at 8:11 pm
Joan Kassmann
Baby steps to build on. Thank you!
November 23, 2014 at 8:19 pm
Jennifer Huls
This helps with the thinking process, and gets some ideas brewing
Than you!
November 23, 2014 at 8:49 pm
D Goodman
Very helpful! Thank you!
November 23, 2014 at 8:54 pm
writeknit
Love the post and the tip of listing traits to bring life to a character. Thanks for sharing!
November 23, 2014 at 9:33 pm
Jenny Blum
Thanks for this practical advice. So far my stories are too sweet, not enough conflict, I’m sure this will help.
November 23, 2014 at 9:33 pm
nicolezoltack
Great post!
November 23, 2014 at 9:39 pm
Mark A. Bentz
Your post is very helpful, thank you
November 23, 2014 at 10:21 pm
Karen Calloway
This is such a helpful post!
November 23, 2014 at 10:33 pm
Mishka Jaeger
Thank you! This is very good advice. I have a problem with conflict. 🙂
November 23, 2014 at 11:00 pm
Quinn Cole
I’ve seen character driven stories for years and loved them. Thanks for the reminder that they are still important even in today’s shifting market.
November 23, 2014 at 11:19 pm
cindyjohnson2013
This is so helpful! Thank you!!!!
November 23, 2014 at 11:28 pm
Sheila Hausbeck
So helpful!
November 24, 2014 at 12:07 am
writersideup
Diana, this was the clearest explanation I’ve ever read on what is “character-driven.” I always took it as simply a story focusing on a character and his/her growth, etc. rather than the plot. Not that the character itself has series potential in this way. Thanks!
December 4, 2014 at 10:50 am
Diana Murray
I’m glad if it helped!
November 24, 2014 at 12:28 am
Kira Kia Fruit Nims
Bubble bubble toil and trouble..now your character is ready to rumble. 🙂
December 4, 2014 at 10:51 am
Diana Murray
On the double!
November 24, 2014 at 1:09 am
Yvonne Mes
Thanks, I love your practical advice!
November 24, 2014 at 1:15 am
Sharon Giltrow
what a great recipe so easy to follow 😉 thanks for the very helpful post
November 24, 2014 at 2:23 am
Keila Dawson
Juicy post. Can’t wait to try the exercise you shared. Merci!
November 24, 2014 at 2:49 am
csschwarz
What a great exercise–joining opposing traits and goals! Thanks for the inspiration!
November 24, 2014 at 8:27 am
Shel LeDrew
Procrastinator …who wants to write a book!!!!
Instant conflict!
November 24, 2014 at 12:40 pm
Diana Murray
Ha ha! Good one, Shel. Personally, I only procrastinate when it comes to cleaning. 😀
November 24, 2014 at 8:37 am
Andrea
I love it when just taking a couple of words can build into a story! Thanks for your suggestions.
November 24, 2014 at 9:03 am
shannon anderson
Helpful advice! Simple, but so powerful. Thanks for sharing. 🙂
November 24, 2014 at 9:27 am
Nadine Gamble
Whipping up conflict in my brain! Now to get it on paper. Thanks for the inspiration!
November 24, 2014 at 9:27 am
jenswan90
Good advice! I try to do the same thing.
November 24, 2014 at 9:28 am
Maria J Cuesta
Thank you for the post! Great exercise!!! Thank you!!!!
November 24, 2014 at 10:30 am
katiemillsgiorgio
I appreciate this exercise…thanks for sharing!
November 24, 2014 at 11:30 am
Kelly Vavala
A little Magical Inspiration is exactly what you delivered!! I love how you made it sound so simple! Trait + Goal=Instant conflict! love it! Thank you for sharing your time with us and giving away such an opportunity to have a book critiqued!!
November 24, 2014 at 11:59 am
Karen A
Great insight 🙂 Thanks!
November 24, 2014 at 12:09 pm
Sandi Lawson
Your post will be very helpful. Thank you!
November 24, 2014 at 12:34 pm
Michelle Church
Great advice! I love the list idea!
Thank you
November 24, 2014 at 12:57 pm
saputnam
Terrific post! Thank you for the pointers on writing character-driven stories, especially thinking about our own personality traits and using them to connect more easily to those of your characters
November 24, 2014 at 1:11 pm
Lauren Greenberg
Great writing prompts. Thank you!
November 24, 2014 at 1:39 pm
kdveiten
Wonderful post! Thanks so much!
November 24, 2014 at 3:09 pm
kateywrites
So nice to meet another quirky, messy, nerdy perfectionist – and to have so many great ideas for brainstorming character-driven pieces. Thanks for a great post.
November 24, 2014 at 3:47 pm
rdvanhorn
This is just what I needed to hear, Diana!
November 24, 2014 at 3:47 pm
schriscoe
Awesome post Dianna! Love the list exercises!
December 4, 2014 at 10:56 am
Diana Murray
Hi, Sharon! Thanks!
November 24, 2014 at 5:01 pm
Janet Halfmann
Thanks so much for your tips for writing character-driven stories.
November 24, 2014 at 5:05 pm
Joan Waites
Can’t wait to try this exorcize! Thank you 🙂
November 24, 2014 at 5:29 pm
Hannah Holt
Love it! *sprinkles more conflict in story* Thanks, Diana!
December 4, 2014 at 10:56 am
Diana Murray
Hi Hannah! Glad you found some conflict sprinkles.
November 24, 2014 at 5:36 pm
Matt Tesoriero
Opposites do attract!
November 24, 2014 at 5:39 pm
Jennifer Rumberger
Thanks for today’s idea inspiration!
November 24, 2014 at 6:08 pm
Elizabeth Metz
I’m so used to hearing about the desire for “character-driven books,” but I was never quite sure what that looked like in a picture book. Thanks for the insight AND inspiration all wrapped up in one, Diana!
November 24, 2014 at 8:06 pm
shirley johnson
Great ideas! Thanks for sharing.
November 24, 2014 at 8:11 pm
Laurie J. Edwards
Great idea! Thanks so much!
November 24, 2014 at 10:53 pm
Mary Zychowicz
These are great tips. So simple to think about! Thanks for sharing.
November 24, 2014 at 11:07 pm
goodfish78
What a simple, helpful tip for developing a more character-driven story. Thanks!
November 25, 2014 at 12:40 am
klmcmorranmaus
Personality trait and conflicting goal. Got it. I will try it. Thank you for sharing.
November 25, 2014 at 12:50 am
Jamie Deenihan
Excellent post Diana! Making a list of your own character traits is great advice. So much easier to make your writing feel authentic and genuine. Congrats on your continued success!
November 25, 2014 at 12:50 am
Carrie O'Neill
Great recipe!
November 25, 2014 at 9:14 am
Michelle Heidenrich Barnes
Great advice, Diana– I like how your mind works (and also your great writing, of course)! I also love that little shelf of personality trait potions. 🙂
December 4, 2014 at 10:57 am
Diana Murray
Thanks, Michelle! 🙂 Appreciate you stopping by.
November 25, 2014 at 11:38 am
kmshelley
Brilliant idea. Thanks for the great post Diana!
November 25, 2014 at 12:00 pm
melinda beavers
Wonderful post—thanks for sharing!
November 25, 2014 at 1:08 pm
Tracey M. Cox
Thanks for the mixture of advice. Need to make some of my own characters more spicy. 🙂
November 25, 2014 at 4:06 pm
Priya
Great post. Thanks for sharing
November 25, 2014 at 4:33 pm
Barbara Cairns
You were really “cooking” Diana with that recipe! Thanks!
November 25, 2014 at 8:05 pm
teresa m.i. schaefer (@TMISchaefer)
Not a great cook, but love this recipe.
November 26, 2014 at 3:42 am
calisue
loved the recipe for conflict
November 26, 2014 at 5:48 am
Gloria Amescua
This is such a great idea! I love it and am going to use it!
November 26, 2014 at 8:32 am
Sarah Maynard (@SarahDMaynard)
Great post! Thank you for the ingredient list. 🙂
November 26, 2014 at 9:12 am
Mary Worley
Such a useful way to make sure the conflict is internal and external. Brilliant!
November 26, 2014 at 9:27 am
Kathy Cornell Berman
Thanks for a fantastic post. It already helped me with a missing ingredient in one of my stories. This is a keeper.
November 26, 2014 at 10:53 am
Maria Bostian
Thanks for the post. It got me thinking about some older manuscripts I have. I think I need to work on the conflict some more plus revise and revise!
November 26, 2014 at 11:21 am
tphumiruk
I always have trouble with finding conflict!! This post was very helpful, thank you!
November 26, 2014 at 12:17 pm
BLAHM
This month I have come up with three different ideas that might suit the same female character (based on my daughter of course), so this is advice is perfectly timed and amazingly helpful. Thank you Diana!
November 26, 2014 at 6:25 pm
Darshana
Great post! Thanks for the useful tip, will be trying it out now. I have the hardest time with character-driven picture books.
December 4, 2014 at 10:58 am
Diana Murray
Hi Darshana! Glad you found it useful. 🙂
November 26, 2014 at 6:47 pm
Anne-Marie Strohman
Thanks for the advice. I love coming up with character and voice, but I need to work on conflict.
November 26, 2014 at 8:32 pm
pearlz
Great advice, especially to write from the heart whatever the trends.
November 26, 2014 at 10:26 pm
Dawn
Great recipe!
November 27, 2014 at 2:51 am
wendymyersart
That’s great, Diana. Very helpful. Thank you for your post!
November 27, 2014 at 9:11 am
Frances Brown
Thank you Diana, great advice and ideas. I’ve printed out your post to keep in mind your recommendations. Cross digits! 🙂
November 27, 2014 at 12:59 pm
meg3450
I forget the conflict element often. Thank for the reminder. I am working on some ideas right now based on that concept.
November 27, 2014 at 4:52 pm
melsul09
What an excellent post. I love when you said to write down our traits, it worked. Thank you for your advice.
November 27, 2014 at 9:09 pm
Marge Gower
Mix and match, I love it. Thanks for the novel approach.
November 28, 2014 at 12:28 am
stephseclecticinterests
I focus on picture book ideas for the very young, but you’ve made the idea of introducing the idea of conflict so accessible. Thanks so much!
November 28, 2014 at 3:18 am
Nancy Kotkin
Tying the main personality trait with the main conflict is a recipe for success. Definitely something to keep in mind. Thanks for a good post.
November 28, 2014 at 7:40 am
artistadonna
thank you!
November 28, 2014 at 10:17 am
Loni Edwards (@LoniEdwards)
This post really helped me today to figure out a couple of ideas I had. I’m going to print this post out for a future reminder. Thank you!
November 28, 2014 at 3:51 pm
KASteed
This is a great idea. Thank you!
November 28, 2014 at 5:56 pm
LL
toddlers trying to pet cats is the first thing that comes to mind….
November 28, 2014 at 9:14 pm
Amanda Hopper
I love the idea of coming up with a personality trait, or two, before searching for the goal. Thanks!
November 28, 2014 at 9:49 pm
Kelly Hochbein
Thank you, Diana, for the very do-able advice! This is a fantastic recipe that I plan to follow immediately. Love it!
November 29, 2014 at 2:46 am
Mindy Alyse Weiss
Thanks for this awesome post, Diana! I’m still playing around with personality traits and goals, and can’t wait to see the stories they inspire. 🙂
December 4, 2014 at 11:00 am
Diana Murray
Hi Mindy! Thanks for stopping by. Happy writing!
November 29, 2014 at 8:47 am
Holly Ruppel
Thanks for the great advice, Diana! I’m looking forward to reading about Grimelda!
November 29, 2014 at 10:31 am
Taurean J. Watkins
I love books where I can really identify with a character or characters. I’m especially impressed with picture books where characters who don’t audibly speak still get their points across, since dialogue is so important to me as a writer, not having a character speak would be a BIG challenge for me.
One of my PiBoIdMo ideas should be about a character who doesn’t speak…
November 29, 2014 at 10:48 am
Jill Tadros (@PopTheWall)
Great advice! Thanks!
November 29, 2014 at 11:17 am
topangamaria
GREAT recipe for INSTANT conflict = BRILLIANT!!!
November 29, 2014 at 12:33 pm
Lill Pluta
Thank you for that! This helps with some of my ideas which right now are little more than a concept of a character.
December 4, 2014 at 11:03 am
Diana Murray
Hi, Lill! So glad you found it helpful. 🙂
November 29, 2014 at 4:12 pm
natalie15
I loved doing this. Thank you for the tip!
November 29, 2014 at 4:19 pm
Wendy Greenley
Trying this today. The holiday stupor will be shaken!
November 29, 2014 at 4:30 pm
Jennifer Ali
It’s nice to know that many writers face the same challenges and devise ways to break the story development down to its roots.
November 29, 2014 at 11:02 pm
Sue Rankin
Thank you for helping me rethink how to approach a character I’d placed on the back-burner, Diana. She’s been there too long! This will also help with a current set of characters currently in development who’ve been a bit stubborn!
November 29, 2014 at 11:38 pm
Kathryn Ault Noble
Wow, that was a meaty post! So many great ideas, thanks!
November 30, 2014 at 12:36 am
Eric Adler
Thanks for the post.
November 30, 2014 at 1:06 am
Caroline Lee Webster (@uncoverthepearl)
Thanks for breaking this approach down into such clear, approachable steps. I look forward to trying this method out.
November 30, 2014 at 1:32 am
majanecka
Loved the idea of starting off with your own personality traits and seeing where that leads you.
December 4, 2014 at 11:05 am
Diana Murray
Hi majanecka! Thanks!
November 30, 2014 at 2:29 am
lmquraishi
I especially appreciate the list of character-driven PB successes! Some new mentor texts in that list to study…
November 30, 2014 at 10:08 am
angeladegroot8
Simple but effective – I like your recipe.
November 30, 2014 at 12:47 pm
anniebailey7
Great advice!
November 30, 2014 at 3:27 pm
lisakwillard
Thank you for a great way to create conflict! Looking forward to reading your books!
November 30, 2014 at 4:20 pm
John Strong
This is fantastic advice! It has already helped me to expand an existing idea. Thank you! 🙂
November 30, 2014 at 5:47 pm
Andi
Thanks for a fab post! a : )
November 30, 2014 at 6:45 pm
Heather Hatch
Something you said here, helped. Today. Thank you.
November 30, 2014 at 7:57 pm
Jason Perkins
Great post! very helpful with what I am working on.
November 30, 2014 at 8:57 pm
ammwrite3
This blog post directly relates to what I’m teaching my 4th graders with their realistic fiction stories–thanks!
December 4, 2014 at 11:06 am
Diana Murray
Cool! I have a daughter in 4th grade.
November 30, 2014 at 9:00 pm
littledbl
Helpful. Thank you.
November 30, 2014 at 9:35 pm
carolmunrojww
Oooooh. Personality trait + conflicting goal. This is a tattoo-worthy tip. Thanks!
November 30, 2014 at 9:35 pm
Didi Wood
Great post, and I love your illustration. 🙂
November 30, 2014 at 9:42 pm
Nini Engel
Yes. I very much like the personality trait plus conflicting goal idea. Nice!
November 30, 2014 at 10:23 pm
Colleen Kelley
I love it when someone can reduce something that seems so complicated to something I can carry around in my head and use. Thanks for this great tool.
November 30, 2014 at 11:41 pm
bookseedstudio
dear diana,
fun! fun!
eager for the ned the knitting pirate salty yarn & each one, to swim along.
brava! about being another PiBoIDMo success story – luv this month’s track record that you helped compile.
appreciations.
~ j a n annino
December 1, 2014 at 12:46 am
Caroline
Love this kind of picture book structure to create the plot from this kind of oppositional conflict. Thanks for sharing your idea with us!
December 4, 2014 at 11:08 am
Diana Murray
Hi Caroline! Thanks for coming by.
December 1, 2014 at 1:01 am
Tanya Finestone
I keep coming back to this post.
So simple, yet so clever. Thank you Diana.
December 1, 2014 at 1:14 am
Kelly Parker
After looking over your list, I just wanted to ask…. Were you really writing that list about me? man… amazing and a GREAT idea! Thanks!
December 4, 2014 at 11:10 am
Diana Murray
Ha ha! I never realized how many nerdy, messy, quiet perfectionists were out there. 🙂
December 1, 2014 at 6:34 am
Jessica @ Play Trains!
I love how you made this concept so clear!
December 1, 2014 at 9:09 pm
Pia Garneau
Thanks for this post!
December 2, 2014 at 12:29 pm
Wanda Collins Johnson
This is simply great and simple to remember. I think that it will become a piece of advice that I return to again and again. Thanks!
December 2, 2014 at 2:19 pm
Emily Goldstein
Thank you!
December 2, 2014 at 2:43 pm
Daniela Weil
a good recipe, thank you
December 3, 2014 at 8:34 pm
Brian Humek
Great tips on looking at our own personality traits first. Thanks Diana.
December 4, 2014 at 9:30 am
Rachel Anderson
Write! And revise and revise. That is the process!
December 4, 2014 at 1:31 pm
Amelia Shearer
This was exactly the push I needed to get back into the life of a character driving one of my PiBoIdMo ideas from last year.
December 5, 2014 at 6:16 pm
Kelly Russell Jaques
Been thinking a lot about the character driven story, thanks very much for the post!
December 24, 2014 at 7:02 am
Nat Keller
Thanks for the advice on refining a character driven story!!
October 27, 2015 at 9:13 am
Damon Dean, SevenAcreSky
Loved your post Diana! Great work tips on character content.
October 27, 2015 at 2:36 pm
Sherry Fellores
Great way to come up with new and interesting characters!
November 1, 2015 at 11:24 pm
Ali Earle Pichardo
Thank you Diana for talking about character driven stories. I have a few I was wondering if I should submit to agents. Now I know it’s a good idea.
November 3, 2015 at 4:27 pm
artsyandi
I filled an entire page in my journal with notes from this blog. Thank you for delivering such an inspiring post yet again. 🙂
January 16, 2021 at 12:52 pm
lynjekowsky
I have a great character, but don’t know his story yet. Thank you for this post.
January 16, 2021 at 2:23 pm
chaunceyelephant
Thanks for the insights! Congrats on your success
January 19, 2021 at 9:06 pm
Laurel Goodluck
Wow, give me a structure and example and my ideas flow. Thank you for the inspiration. Congrats on your success!
January 31, 2021 at 2:12 pm
Virginia Rinkel
Love this insight!