IT'S EASY TO STIR THE MIND,
BUT IT DOESN'T WORK IF YOU DON'T
STIR THE HEART.
(Harlan Coben)
This explains the reason why I put down a book: I don't care. I don't care about the characters. The plot can be twisty and intriguing and complex but if I don't care - somehow, someway - about the people who are on that wild ride, then none if it matters to me.
I started a book the other day by a pretty popular author. It was a mystery/thriller with an interesting plot. I read about 25 pages or so, then put the book down. I couldn't get behind the characters. I was supposed to like them. I wanted to like them. But I didn't. They felt stereotypical and flat and...forced. I'm not saying I have to like all the characters - or even the protagonist. I've read a handful of books where I didn't care for the main character but there was still something about that person that made me want to see what happened to them, made me want to see how it all turned out.
I want characters who are so real, it's as if every time I look up from the page, they've just left the room. Today, this week, in general - let's write those stories, let's write those books.
You make a really good point here. I have gone back over favorite books to try and discern what they do to make me 'love' the characters. It is an art and a gift when this comes together.
ReplyDeleteI absolutely agree, Sally!
ReplyDeleteAnother great quote, and your point is well-made. I just returned Boneshaker to the library because it was due, but I didn't renew it because I honestly didn't care what happened to the characters. =[
ReplyDeleteIt's such a let-down when that happens, Milo. it's even worse when it's a book you've had a "hold request" on forever and you finally get it and...nothing.
ReplyDelete