30_questionstoaskcharactersWhen I get stuck part way through a book, I’ve found two things to get me back on track.

1. Pick up any of James Scott Bell’s writing reference books. Start reading. Give it a page or two and inspiration will strike.

2. Start asking my characters questions. Often I get stuck because I just don’t know enough about my characters. If I don’t have enough material to work with, a book gets weak, I get bored. Boredom leads to distraction.

Here’s a list of 30 questions I ask my characters. Call it a Character Interview if you will.

  1. What did you do yesterday?
  2. Tell me one of your fondest memories.
  3. Tell me one of your saddest/scariest memories.
  4. Tell me one of your most vivid childhood memories.
  5. What is it you fear most? Why?
  6. What is it you want the most?
  7. Who are the most influential people in your life, and why?
  8. How do you feel about your mother? Your father? Other members of your family?
  9. Are you superstitious? Do you read your horoscope?
  10. What were some of the defining moments in your life?
  11. Do you believe in favorites? If so, what’s your favorite number? Color? Holiday? Season?
  12. What tragedies or disappointments have you endured thus far?
  13. What could you not live without? What is your greatest weakness?
  14. What are your strengths?
  15. What do you like the most/least about your appearance?
  16. What is your home like?
  17. How would you describe your appearance?
  18. Do you care about what other people think about you?
  19. Whose opinion do you value?
  20. How do you view authority? Religion? Politics?
  21. Describe your ideal ‘mate’.
  22. How have your relationships progressed in the past?
  23. Do you have any pets?
  24. What was your biggest heartbreak?
  25. What gestures do you use?
  26. What speech patterns do you use? Do you swear? Are you self conscious about how you speak?
  27. Who are your friends?
  28. Who are your biggest enemies?
  29. What is the biggest chip on your shoulder?
  30. How do you feel about technology?

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