Writing fiction for any age group begins with good character development, especially of the protagonist. After all, the main character is at the heart of a story’s conflict and responsible for moving the plot along. But when it comes to writing novels for teens, strong protagonists go a step further: They give readers a reason to turn the pages.
So how do writers of teen fiction create protagonists who will please their audience? By giving readers what they want – a main character worth caring about. And there are several criteria that will do just that. Here are the marks of a strong protagonist in a novel for teens or young adults:
Familiarity and Uniqueness – a Must When Writing for Teens
The best protagonists in teen fiction are the ones whom readers find both familiar and unusual. Teens should be able to see some of themselves in a protagonist, or at least know someone like the protagonist. But strong protagonists in novels for teens also possess something unique and quirky about them (which should be highlighted to keep the character interesting).
Fitting Traits and Skills – So Protagonists Can Accomplish Goals
Whatever the main character is trying to accomplish or fix in a novel for teens or young adults, he or she must have the ability to make it possible. If, for example, the protagonist is a gymnast trying to overcome her fear of competition, that character must have (or potentially have) the skills of a gymnast along with the determination to succeed (whether or not she does).
Age – It Matters in Novels for Teens
Strong protagonists in novels for teens are at an age similar to that of the reader. Teens don’t want their hero or heroine to be a little kid or a grown adult, nor do they want to be confused about the age of the main character (so make it clear early on how old the protagonist is). Main characters who are slightly older than the targeted reader make the strongest protagonists.
A Strong Voice – Makes a Strong Main Character
Teens will connect more with protagonists who have a strong voice than those who don’t. Characters whose word choices, style, tone, and thought processes are distinct and consistent allow readers to get better acquainted with them. To create a strong voice, writers must consider a number of factors in the character’s profile, like background and history, age, gender, and place of residence.
A Combination of Good and Bad – Adds Credibility to Teen Fiction
A main character who is all good won’t be believable. That’s why it’s important to give protagonists some faults. Of course, protagonists (unless they are villains) should possess more good qualities than bad, but certain flaws, like self doubt, jealousy, or physical disabilities, will make the character more appealing and real.
When it comes to character development in teen fiction, the most important thing for writers to remember is to create a main character who is interesting and memorable for the reader. Knowing the marks of a strong protagonist will help accomplish that goal.
Looking for examples of novels for teens with strong protagonists? See Characters, Themes in Sara Dessen’s Books for Teens Lure Readers.
Sources:
- Wyndham, Lee. Writing for Children & Teenagers. Cincinnati: Writer’s Digest Books, 1989.
- Smith, James V., Jr. Fiction Writer’s Brainstormer. Cincinnati: Writer’s Digest Books, 2000.
Susie Yakowicz - Susie Yakowicz is a Minnesota freelance writer whose work has appeared in dozens of publications for children and adults.
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