Main character energy

Who is your story about and why does it matter?

When Naomi has her editorial hat on and reads another writer’s manuscript, whether it’s a 500 word picture book, or a 60,000 word teen thriller, she always asks the same question:

Who is the story about?

Main character energy doesn’t mean always having big, bold characters, rather it means having a well rounded, 3D character who the reader can get to know inside out.

The reader needs to care about the central character so that they will want to read on and find out what happens to them.

The main character’s journey whether it’s emotional or physical, is often what drives the plot and story forwards.

So, whether you’re writing picture books, middle grade, graphic novels or YA, here are three questions we ask all the writers we work with about their main character.

Answering them will help you develop your characters, make your story stronger and ultimately help the ending feel more satisfying too.