How Do Authors Write Iconic Characters? (Part: 1)

 Happy, almost weekend y'all!

This week were diving into a question I'm sure everyone has asked themselves. 

So take a seat, and enjoy!

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Thousands of people around the world are connected by the singular fact that they would know what characters I'm referring to, with just their last names: Potter. Everdeen. Swan. Carter. Jackson. Bennet. Shirley. Sorrengail. Conklin.

These characters, with (mostly) ordinary surnames are embedded in pop-culture and the childhoods of many generations.

Which bring us to the question I've long harbored:

"How do Authors write iconic characters?"

To answer this I've divided my thoughts and research into 5 topics, 3 of which we will discuss in  the next part:

1. Names

2. Suspension of belief

3. Originality vs. Authenticity, 

4. Creating stakes

5. Patience

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What's In A Name?

A protagonist's name is a lot like a first handshake with the reader. 

Just like a handshake, it can be hard to get a characters name just right.

You, as the Author, have to strike a balance between a fitting name, and an overly aggressive symbolic one. 

All while determining if it pairs well with their love interest and doesn't become a tongue twister when their titles are added in front of it.

Tips for choosing strong names:

1. Say it out loud — If it feels awkward to say three times fast, your reader will trip over it too.

2. Check for unintended meanings — Look up translations or slang in other languages so your character’s name doesn’t accidentally mean “mildew” somewhere.

3. Consider the genre — A dystopian hero named Margaret Thompson might feel flat; a contemporary rom-com lead named Xyrrthyl Moonfire will probably feel out of place.

4. Vary first-letter sounds — Avoid giving multiple main characters names starting with the same letter unless there’s a plot reason (it’s easy to confuse Clara, Claire, and Cleo).

5. Match tone to character arc — If your protagonist starts mild but grows fierce, you can subtly foreshadow it with a name that has sharper sounds or strong associations.

6. Baby name websites are a good starting place because most give wide overviews of a names popularity, historical figures who share it, common demographics and more.

A good name can do a lot:

• Signal personality (Harper feels different from Hermione).

• Hint at heritage or time period (Elizabeth Bennet vs. Starr Carter).

• Plant subconscious expectations (Sirius Black already feels mysterious before you learn he can turn into a dog).

Think about it:

If I say Atticus Finch, Voldemort, or Katniss Everdeen, you instantly picture their world, their vibe, and even their values. You might not remember every plot detail, but that name? It’s cemented.

Then again a bad name can do even worse:

"General Killgrove" as the name of a murderous tyrant will make you lose credit among readers.

(And even if you have a solid plot, beautiful prose, and interesting world, readers wont be able to appreciate it.)

While a name like "Scarlett Obsidian Nyx" for a chosen one archetype, will likely make readers feel isolated from a character and stunt the emotional connection I discuss in the next segment.

Ultimately, a name is a promise. It tells the reader, This is the kind of person you’re about to meet. And if you keep that promise through their actions, voice, and choices, the name will linger long after the book is closed.

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Reading is believing... sometimes. 

Something I've learned is that it's less important to have a "believable" character than having a character who is fleshed out enough for readers to "believe in."

In case I lost anyone there, let me explain. 

Most Fantasy/Dystopian/Sci-fi protagonist aren't believable, aka realistic. 

But people keep coming back because:

A. Escapism.

 

and

B. The character has enough heart and soul to make them want to root for their success.

That 'emotional truth' is how characters make their way into our hearts, even when our minds separate them from reality.

When we read good books, our brains actually release oxytocin, the "bonding hormone" that promotes connection and empathy.

The science behind this is amazing when you think about it.

As a post from the "Writers In The Storm" blog so aptly put it,  “Your character can do almost anything—as long as you give them believable and credible motivations. Readers go along with what they understand…”

What many people don't realize is that reading is a conversation between the Author and reader. Throughout a text authors leave clues, cues, and messages for readers to interpret. 

This interpretation of tone, themes, and world, creates the experience that paint characters as iconic in the minds of readers.

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I hope you found something helpful in today's blog and I look forward to diving further into this topic in the following weeks.

Happy reading and writing!

- Nadia

What To Write Wednesday: 8/6/2025

A strong opening can make or break a story, so that is what this weeks prompt will be based on.

Part 1: Write a prologue (150-300 words) that is a letter written by a character who knows their about to die. 

Part 2. The first letter of every sentence when put together in order needs to spell a message.

(If you have ever done an acrostic poem, that is essentially the concept.)

Example: 

You yearn to embrace the sun, but are scared to breach the safety of soil.

Only when the perfect conditions arrive will you arise from slumber and sprout.

Under the watchful eye of the world you unfurl your leaves and learn to dance in the breeze.

Growing pains paint the summer sky.

Rejoice in the rain, knowing nothing lasts forever.

On the horizon the promise of petals bloom.

Why are you scared to bear fruit?

Girl don’t you know you are priceless?

Imagine a being that comes back stronger every winter; and sweeter every harvest.

Remember, that's you.

Little seeds buried deep deep under doubt, it’s time to show the world what they've been missing.

For a chance at being featured on our blog, email your take of the prompt to: storybridgteens@gmail.com

Happy reading and writing,

- Nadia

What it Actually Takes To Land An Agent: An interview with Shaina A. Cordas

This week, we're highlighting a rising name in the literary world: Shaina A. Cordas. A "middle grade and young adult fantasy author dedicated to whimsy and adventure." 

Abigail had the pleasure of interviewing Cordas, to learn about her journey as a professional writer: From muses, to manuscripts, favorite snacks and more, get comfy  and enjoy a behind the scenes look at how to turn storytelling into a successful career.

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Abigail: "What’s the first story or piece you remember writing that made you think: “I want to do this seriously?"

Shaina: "It was actually someone else’s work that made me want to write—Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard!" "I remember reading it back in 2019 and, for the first time, seeing the pieces of the story and how they fit together. It was a lightbulb moment where I thought that if I could see the pieces, maybe I could figure out how to make my own."

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How To Get Inspired to Write

 People often ask me, “Hey, nyx!! Where do you get your inspiration from?” as if I’m going to say something poetic like, “Oh, I was walking through a lavender field at dawn when a phoenix flew by and whispered a plot twist in my ear.”

No. Absolutely not.

Let me take you on a wild, honest, slightly embarrassing journey of how I actually get inspired to write. Spoiler: It involves spiraling, snacks, and a suspicious number of dramatic inner monologues.

1. The Ritual of Avoidance

Inspiration usually begins with me not writing. I do everything except writing:

• Rearranging my desk (again).

• Googling “how to write a novel in 10 minutes.”

• Making a snack that suddenly takes two hours and includes a homemade sauce.

• Watching a YouTube video titled “Why You’ll Never Be a Good Writer” just to feel something.

At this point, I tell myself I'm "gathering energy" or "letting the story simmer." In reality, I’m just avoiding writing like it owes me money.

2. The Sacred Scrolls (a.k.a. Notes App)

Suddenly, at the most inconvenient time—shower, traffic, 3:47 a.m.—a line, a scene, or a feral dialogue exchange appears in my brain. I whisper, “Wait...that’s good,” like I’ve just invented the wheel.

I reach for my Notes app like it's a lifeline and type something that, hours later, makes absolutely no sense:

“she’s not a villain, she’s the explosion before the apology. Also: ducks????”

Brilliant.

3. Conversations With Fictional People

Nothing gets the creativity flowing like me arguing with my own characters in the shower.

Me: “Why would you betray her? She trusted you!”
Character: “I never asked to be born.”

I’m pacing. I’m acting out scenes like I’m auditioning for a soap opera. My shampoo bottle knows too much. But hey, if I cry in the mirror because of a fake breakup between imaginary people—guess what? That scene’s going in the book.

4. The Pinterest Spiral

I tell myself I’ll just open Pinterest for “inspiration.” An hour later, I have:

• 47 pictures of moody castles

• 12 enemies-to-lovers quotes

• An entire board titled “Vibes✨”

• And zero new words written

But I feel inspired. That counts for something, right?

5. Reading Something Amazing and Getting Jealous

There is no greater motivator than reading someone else's beautiful, heartbreaking, soul-punching writing and screaming internally, “Why can’t I write like this???”

So I open a blank document, fueled by a weird cocktail of envy, admiration, and pure spite.

The result? 3,000 words of chaotic brilliance or an outline that looks like a grocery list. Either way, I’m back in the game, babe.

6. Music That Ruins My Life (In a Good Way)

A single lyric can send me spiraling into an entire story arc. I’ll be completely normal and then BAM—some singer croons something like “She loved me in war, but forgot me in peace,” and I’m sobbing, crafting a seven-book series.

Thanks to playlists, I now associate emotional breakdowns with Spotify Premium. No regrets.

7. Sheer Emotional Breakdown

Inspiration also comes from crying at 1 a.m. about literally anything:

• I miss a person who doesn’t exist.

• I imagined a beautiful love that lives only in chapter 14.

• My character just made a life-altering decision, and I am not okay.

People ask if I’m emotionally stable. No. But I am productive.

8. That One Quote That Haunts You

You know the one. You read it and something inside you snaps.

“You don't need a blade. I would bleed if only you asked.”

Next thing I know, I’m sitting cross-legged on the floor, writing like I’ve been possessed by a Victorian poet with abandonment issues.

9. Deadlines, Panic, and the Threat of Disappointment

Finally, if all else fails, nothing inspires quite like panic. A looming deadline. A promise you made to yourself. That one friend who keeps asking “How’s the book coming along?” with innocent eyes and evil intentions.

Cue the coffee, the playlist, the two-day writing binge, and the temporary belief that you are, in fact, a literary genius.

Until you reread it the next morning.

Final Thoughts (and Snacks)

Inspiration isn’t always pretty. Sometimes it’s a whispered thought at midnight. Sometimes it’s envy, chaos, or a mental breakdown dressed as productivity.

But you know what? That’s okay.

If it makes you write—even if it starts with ducks in the Notes app, it counts.

So next time someone asks me, “Where do you get your inspiration from?” I’ll smile mysteriously and say, “From living.”

(But we both know it’s 60% panic, 30% Pinterest, and 10% emotional instability.)

Soo keep writing, no matter how messy or chaotic it is, because in the end it's what makes those words YOU.

By-Nyx❤

What To Write Wednesday: 7/30/2025

In honor of  National Ice Cream Month-(Yes, it's a real thing 😁)- this weeks prompt is:

What to Write Wednesday: 23/07/25

 Hello everybody!

This week's writing prompt is open to interpretation. You could turn these lines into a sci-fi flash fiction story, or think about the meaning more deeply for a journal-entry type piece. or, you could even write a poem! so here it is... 

Not so long ago I outgrew my wings, and now I'm searching for a new pair. 

 

Good luck! remember to send us your responses at storybridgeteens@gmail.com if you want to be considered for next week's feature! 

Writing Motivation #1

 In honour of one of our bloggers turning 15, here are 15 motivational quotes to start your day off sprinting (writing sprints).

1. "You do not have to be fire to burn. You only need to be awake." - Unknown

2. "Discipline is choosing between what you want now and what you want most." - Attributed to Abraham Lincoln, and Psychotherapist Augusta F. Kantra.

3. "Success is not final, failure is not fatal; it's the courage to continue that counts." - Winston Churchill

4. "Everyone has a story, a writer is the only one brave enough to tell it." - Abigail

5. "You have so many extraordinary gifts; how can you expect to lead an ordinary life?" - Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

Poetry

Words are like water. They can be anything, mean anything—and yet they shape everything. They are all around us. 

Poetry, like any other style of writing, is the gathering of words onto a page, into a breath. Yet unlike an essay, or a story, poetry is formless, limitless. Poetry, at the very least, will make you blink; a powerful poem will make you want to cry, or laugh. Poetry is life changing, thought-provoking, and -–perhaps most importantly—beautiful, and unique. 

Why should you read poetry? It can be quiet. A breath of peace in a loud, busy world; a small moment of magic in the everyday. It can also be loud, an intriguing wake-up call, a cry for action, something that needs to be heard. Poetry is inspiring. And it can be healing—not just to read, but to write.

Why should you write poetry? Because words are magical. Because in writing, you discover parts of yourself you never knew existed. Because in the act of creation, you find release, understanding, and connection. Sometimes poetry is a truth just for you, and sometimes the world needs it. It is the expression of life, a way to make sense of the world.

Poetry isn’t just a bunch of rhyming words. There are ever so many ways to write poetry, outside of the rhyme schemes and stanzas we learn about in school. Of course, formal poems like this can be incredible, but there’s more to life than perfect, conformed writing. Free verse is the poetry that has no rules or form—for some, like breathing, or journaling, it can be a way of expressing themselves. It is not conformed in any way, as it doesn't rhyme, and the lines and stanzas can be of any length. Other, more structured styles of poetry include sonnets, limericks, and traditional or cultural poems such as haikus.   

I hope that to those of you who understand poetry this was a reminder to connect, again, with a poem or two; and for those of you who are newer here, I hope that this has opened your eyes to a new way of reading and writing poetry. Whoever you are, may poetry guide you through the darkest—and the brightest—parts of your life.

What To Write Wednesday: 070/8/2025

 Happy hump day everyone!

Shout-out to Nyx, for coming up with this weeks "What To Write Wednesday!" Make sure to leave a nice comment if you enjoyed it. 😊

The prompt is a bit of a two 'parter': Write a fantasy flash fiction (500 - 1000 words) that incorporates the line: "The world around me came into focus, the sky was..."

Remember to challenge your normal creative process, and most importantly, have fun!

To get a chance to be highlighted on the blog page, submit your take on the prompt to: storybridgeteens@gmail.com.

If you like this kind of content, or are looking for more personalized review of your WIP, considering becoming apart of the StoryBridge community:

Writers fill out the form here

Beta-readers fill out the form here

If you’re interested in joining the team, fill out the form here

Shalom!

- Nadia

Beta reading #2: How to have a successful beta-reader/writer relationship: Building bridges

Preface: 

Before I get into this weeks content, the StoryBridge team wants to congratulate you all for being here!

Why? Because it's no easy task to trust others with your creativity or be tactful and truthful in your reviews. 

Yet you've decided to try, and that's half the battle. Which is why I've decided to make a simple, step-by-step guide on getting the most of your beta-reader/writer pairing. The analogy I'll be using is inspired by our namesake, hence: "Building bridges."

Step 1: Know your foundation

"The whole point of a beta reader is to get into the nitty-gritty subjects—deeper than just "what did you like and what didn't you like?" 

Writes Abigail in part 1 of this series: 
https://storybridgeteens.blogspot.com/2025/05/beta-reading-as-teenager-1.html

The reason many beta-readers struggle getting past this basic question is because they don't have an answer. 

It sounds silly, but it's near impossible to deeply engage with literature without self-awareness. 

So, while your waiting to receive your pairing, ask yourself these questions:

What do I value in stories?

    Outside perspective is one of the most valuable things beta-readers can offer. Which is why it's key to recognize the biases you bring to a WIP, and learn how to communicate accordingly. Think about the books that have stayed with you long after finishing them. Was it because of how relatable the characters were? Or that the world was so immersive you forget your own troubles for a while? No matter what it is, the young author you are working with is aiming to make the same lasting effect, and it's your job to help steer them.

What kind of reader am I? (Analytical, emotional, etc)

    Are you the kind of person who always notices plot holes? Or do you focus on vibes? Do you have story "turn offs?"  For example, a certain trope you dislike, pacing technique or description style? Whatever your reading process and 'icks' looks like, understanding them will help to avoid being offensive or seen as "lack luster" in your reviews.

Bonus tip: If you're feeling extra reflective, ask yourself: “Am I open to reading stories that don’t match my usual taste?”

Growth as a beta-reader means learning when to lean into your preferences—and when to step outside them. Not every WIP will feel like your dream read, but practicing curiosity and care anyway builds your feedback muscles like nothing else.

Here is a fun breakdown of more types of readers if your interested: https://arapahoelibraries.org/blogs/post/what-type-of-reader-are-you/

Step 2: Create your dream team

Once you've completed your self-reflection and been paired with a writer, it's time to start working.

"But how do two strangers who might have totally different personalities learn how to collaborate online?" 

I'm glad you asked! While showing respect is a no brainer, establishing rapport with someone takes more than manners. 

It requires: 

• Time

    You're probably not going to click with someone after your first discussion.

It's okay to feel shy or hesitant, and verbalizing those feelings might even help writers relate to you. So be patient and remember great partnerships don't grow overnight.

• Genuine enthusiasm

Think about a time where you had to share something personal. Maybe it was a reflective group project, therapy session, or school talent show. No matter the scenario, I'm sure encouragement, and friendly faces would have made you more comfortable.

• Clear Feedback

While communicating with a young writer, remember that they are sharing something very personal that is often shunned in todays society: Imagination, and  creativity. So find something positive to share about their work every time you communicate. Now, there's no need to lie about something, but sometimes it can be hard to express how a piece of literature makes you feel. So here are some "plug in" phrases to use when your stuck on giving compliments.

1. "Your use of (figurative language device) during (conversation/scene) really elevates this chapter."
2. "I like how instead of (trope/cliché) you bring your own spin to (genre/archetype)"
3.     2.  This (stand-out line/dialogue) - stuck out to me because of (uniqueness, voice, foreshadowing etc.)
4.     3. (Character name) adds lots of (humor, contrasting perspective, relatability) to the story.

• Making mistakes

Online communication can be tricky due to a lack of verbal and body language cues. And this factor doubles when communicating with someone new. 

With that said, know that mistakes are not only human, but necessary. 

None of us likes accidentally offending or being offended, but once we have those moments. we can work on digging deeper into our relationships. Understanding the other person's boundaries and sensitivities is key to a positive relationship. 

As the cartoon teacher Ms. Frizzle says: "Take chances, make mistakes, and get messy!"

Step 3: Design a blueprint

It's almost time to get into the reason were all here: supporting the next generation of authors! 

But just like construction workers, if you and your partner aren't in agreement on how your partnership (bridge) should look, it will crumble.

To avoid this, one of your first conversations should be making a game plan. Some things you'll need to discuss are:

• How many minutes/hours a week your willing to put toward collaborating. Are you planning to check in once a week? Send edits chapter-by-chapter? Do you both want deadlines, or are you keeping things flexible? Even a casual partnership works best with clear expectations.

• Ask: “What pace works for your schedule right now?” or “Would it help if I reminded you about your goals midweek?”

• What platforms for editing and communicating you will use. (On the sign up form you have the option to let StoryBridge set this up for you.)

• Talk about the tone you’re both comfortable with when giving/receiving feedback. Some writers love blunt critique. Others need a bit of cushion first. There’s no right or wrong—it’s just about clarity.
• You might ask: “Would you like detailed edits or general impressions first?” or “How do you like feedback phrased?”

• Any objectives/goals. Is most of your time together dedicated to: Finalizing a draft, Revising a  specific scene, Encouragement to meet daily word count, Plot brainstorming, Proofreading, etc.

• Discuss any sensitive subjects. The StoryBridge team will do their best to make sure beta-readers/writers are content compatible, but we make mistakes. Having this conversation will ensure if either party is uncomfortable with certain topics or discussions we can quickly make new matches.

Step 4: Always bring your hard hat

Even with all the planning and good intentions in the world, bumps in the bridge are bound to happen.

That’s why it’s essential to approach beta reading with a growth mindset. For yourself and for the writer you’re working with.

So, what does this look like?

• Be honest, not harsh. Constructive criticism should build, not break. Even tough feedback can come from a place of kindness.

• Don’t assume the worst. If your partner forgets a deadline or a message comes off wrong, pause before reacting. Most misunderstandings come from miscommunication, not malice.

• Ask questions, don’t just give answers. Sometimes the best feedback comes from curiosity. Try:
  “What’s your vision for this scene?”
  “Would you be open to trying ____ instead?”
  “What emotion are you hoping readers feel here?”

• Set boundaries, and respect theirs. Burnout doesn’t help anyone. Life happens. Communicate honestly if you're overwhelmed or need a break, and encourage your partner to do the same.

Bridges built strong can still flex with the wind. Don’t be afraid of challenges—they’re part of what makes the bond real.

Step 5: Celebrate the view

By this point, you've done a lot of work. Self-reflection, interpersonal communication, new collaborations, and maybe even cried over a chapter or two. That’s worth celebrating.

So before you start the next round of edits or tackle the next section of a story, take a moment to appreciate what you and your partner have created: A relationship built on shared creativity and mutual growth.

Some ways to “celebrate the view”:

• Send a quick note of encouragement after a tough draft.

• Share a favorite line or scene back to the writer, like a mirror.

• Ask to beta for future projects.

• Thank your partner. It matters more than you think.

Beta reading isn’t just about helping a story shine. It’s about lifting each other up in the process.

Thanks for reading!

Here at StoryBridge, we believe stories change the world. But not just the ones on the page. The story between you and your fellow young writer matters just as much.

You’ve taken the leap, decided to help someone shape their voice, and maybe even learned more about your own in the process. 

So whether you're a first-time beta or a seasoned feedback wizard, know this:

You’re not just crossing a bridge, you’re helping build one.

Keep creating. Keep connecting. Keep showing up.

If there's something I missed that you'd like to see explored in another part, leave a comment below.

Until next time, shalom!

- Nadia

What to Write Wednesday: 02/07/2025

 Today's prompt was chosen by Nadia so please show some support to her in the comments! 

What to Write Wednesday: 25/06/2025

 This is my last WTWW...

Everything you need to know about Character Profiles as a teen writer

 Before we take a deep dive into today's topic I would like to congratulate you for taking the first big step in writing your dream book. Planning. If you haven't seen the first part of this series go check it out here.

What are character profiles?

I think of character profiles as IDs or Passports that grants your chosen character permission into your writing world. Without it they are simply trespassers that are taking up brain space. I know it is fun  daydreaming about the handsome siren that will appear in book two, but sometimes your creativity is needed for your present project.

Character Mistakes You’re Probably Making as a Teen Writer

Besides the actual writing and plot of your book, the characters are arguably the most important part. And yet, it’s often the part that most teens (and beginner writers) get wrong. But the flaws in the characters themselves don’t begin with the writing — they start when the characters are still just ideas.

Mistake 1: Too Much Tragedy

Also known as the tragic backstory.

Thanks to BookTok and Bookstagram, there’s been a rise in characters with abusive pasts or dark, traumatic histories. And as heart-wrenching as these are, your book should not feel like an episode of America’s Got Talent. The “winners” — the reader’s favorite characters — shouldn’t be shaped by something so heavy if it doesn’t truly belong to them.

The average background for the average character. This is some people's unfortuanate reality so don't just have it as a trope

As a teen, I get the appeal of these characters.
Morrigan Crow, Keefe Sencen... the list goes on and on.

What they all have in common is this:

• Their pasts genuinely shape who they are, and that directly affects the plot.

• Their backstories follow one of the hardest rules for teen writers — the dreaded “show, don’t tell.”

Take Keefe. His emotional abuse by his father is shown through small moments — a line here, an interaction there. It builds slowly, making the later twists hurt even more.

Or Morrigan. We see how her family treats her. It’s woven through the story, and we understand the impact it has as the series progresses.

These things aren’t just explained in a few flashbacks or tossed in for drama. They’re not costumes that can be put on or taken off. These characters carry their tragedies like tattoos — permanent, defining, and real.

And — most importantly — not every character in their world is like this. Usually (with some exceptions), only a small handful have these painful backstories.

So please, I beg you, teen writer to teen writer:
Don’t give every one of your creations a sob story.
Because eventually, your readers’ tear ducts will dry up. And when that happens, you’ll have nothing left to give.

So now that we’ve (hopefully) toned down the tragedy, let’s move on to the second point.