Talking With Readers
One thing I've loved about my new job is talking books with one of my co-workers. She's a big reader who ranges from literary to all things Harlequin. The perspective of someone who reads but doesn't write is fresh for me. Now another co-worker started reading a book and was telling me how mad she was at a male character over how he treated the heroine.
The depth of her immersion in the story was inspiring for me because last week she'd mentioned that the story was confusing at times due to an abundance of characters.
Yet that didn't stop her from rooting for the heroine.
How do I make a story like that? One that, despite its weaknesses, ensares a reader to the end?
There are lots of rules on how to do it, but sometimes I think it comes down to voice.
What was the last book you read that put you in tears or made you mad at a character? Any insight on how the writer did it? Do you talk books with nonwriters?
The depth of her immersion in the story was inspiring for me because last week she'd mentioned that the story was confusing at times due to an abundance of characters.
Yet that didn't stop her from rooting for the heroine.
How do I make a story like that? One that, despite its weaknesses, ensares a reader to the end?
There are lots of rules on how to do it, but sometimes I think it comes down to voice.
What was the last book you read that put you in tears or made you mad at a character? Any insight on how the writer did it? Do you talk books with nonwriters?
Comments
Having non-writers as beta readers is very helpful.
I just finished Chevy Stevens' newest book, Never Knowing. It is a compelling mystery, but I never quite liked the narrator. I found her to be a bit whiny and dumb. The mystery itself, and the tension, was enough to get me to finish the story.
Great, insightful post.
But your post reminded me of some great advice to writers I read recently, "Make your readers cry so your heroine doesn't have to."
And cry, hmmm. I almost cried at the beginning of These is My Words.
~ Wendy
I'm quick to tear up at times while reading. I had social anger at the injustice in The Help. That's another book on my keeper shelf.
LOL Deb, me too! And interesting thoughts about the narrator.
Sandra, that sounds like good advice. A crying heroine doesn't go over so well, I think. I know I have trouble writing mine crying. It always feels awkward.
Wendy, never heard of that, but LOL at you getting mad!
Lisa, I want to read both of those books!
One of them said, "I don't like it when the female MC whines the whole book about something. Even if it's something serious. I want her to move on."
I agree. I'll stick with a main character as long as she doesn't boo hoo the entire time.
I'll follow a character I detest, as long as they're interesting (I can detest and still be interested) and doing things I can relate to emotionally.
And I recently quit reading a book midstream because the characters were insipid. Sigh.
Yes, I talk books with non-writers. It's interesting to discover how they think and what they enjoy.
I'll be your non-writing voracious reader anytime! I think I missed my calling as an editor - I only get to do it for my son's English papers, LOL.
I have finished many books in tears, and also, with a slam down on the desk.
Loree, I used to force myself to read through hoping it would be a jewel in the end but lately...*sigh*...they've been duds and I can't bring myself to do it anymore.
Keli, it's wonderful! I really look forward to it.
Aly, I'll talk books with you anytime! In middle school I read I Never Promised You a Rose Garden, which I think dealt with schizophrenia. I really loved it. I'll have to check out Center. Thank you so much for popping by. I love hearing from you. :-)
Anita suggested I swing by your blog as you have stolen the lion's share of her heart. I'm glad I did. I like it here :)
Since I've got a recommendation pending for the last book that provided a strong emotional reaction, I won't mention it here.
I'll put up with all sorts of difficulties if the story grabs me. (I hasten to add the above-referenced story was well written.)
Blessings,
Susan :)