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Writing children’s literature is easy. After all, the audience isn’t as nitpicky about book characters as their young adult counterparts. They also aren’t fond of complicated ideas and languages like how adults do. With children’s books, authors don’t have to be anywhere near Shakespeare or J.K. Rowling when writing.
Wrong.
Children’s books may seem like a peaceful walk in the park at a distance. But in a closer look, its process is as chaotic and complex as writing any adult novel. Surely, authors don’t have to be the second Shakespeare, but they can’t be anybody with a pen and paper. Because although children’s books are shorter and simpler, this doesn’t make them any easier to write.
The Complex World of Children’s Books
Childhood is when people are most curious, so much so it can become quite obnoxious. But as they’re curious, they can also be conscientious about their interests. Children aren’t stupid readers. Instead, they’re picky about what they’re interested in. Children’s books must have exciting characters following a compelling story told engagingly.
But what are children genuinely interested in?
Between adorable animals, lively people, and a good adventure, their interests can be highly varied. Children may like simplicity. But they can also have high ideals, especially for the book characters that catch their attention.
They want to read about diverse and clever characters that emulate their dreams and carry their own goals. These don’t have to look like them, given that not every children’s book is written with human characters. But they must embody children’s charm, bravery, and extraordinary appeal.
So, how should authors start creating their next children’s book characters?
Capturing the Perfect Book Characters
The magic in children’s books begins the moment children connect with their characters. Hence, authors must choose the perfect characters to carry out their adventures.
But the question is, how do authors choose?
Go Beyond Appearance
Children may want to read about a beautiful girl finding true love’s kiss. But they also want their protagonist to be with a heart of gold. Children’s books aren’t solely to sharpen the audience’s imagination. It’s also an essential material to instill values, molding kinder children.
Children’s book characters must be smart, courageous, and strong but never perfect. These can be the epitome of how children must be, yet reminding them they don’t have to be faultless to be loved. As early as childhood, it’s already crucial for children to be exposed to book characters that openly show weakness and vulnerability. This will help them realize they can be strong and still cry.
Give Them Ambition
Whether it’s a superhero wanting to save humanity or a simple girl wishing to be the best designer, book characters must have ambition. This defines the goal they’re working on achieving throughout the story – the core of why their reason exists. Once they reach these ambitions, it can be an empowering experience for children, encouraging them to have their own.
In Piper Finds Her Special, a therapy dog book by Alison Keenan, the protagonist’s primary goal is discovering her special purpose in life. The story follows a dog, a character undeniably different from its audience. Children may not relate to it appearance-wise. But they can still connect to the character’s search for a purpose.
Now, a Challenge to Overcome
Children will bond with characters with the same goal, those who will overcome any challenge. Book characters who brave through distressing and tricky moments have the power to catch children’s hearts. Whether it’s about bullying or juggling loads of homework and activities, authors must prepare a relatable and resolvable conflict.
When children read about these conflicts and how characters get through them, it’ll strengthen their self-belief. That character overcame the same problem I’m experiencing now; I will surely get through this too. While fictional, book characters are often the best role models children can look lean on for moral support. They can look back on these figures and feel at ease in life, remembering they aren’t alone as they face their problems.
