Esther asked Jennifer A. Nielsen:

When you write, do you A) decide how you want your characters or B) let them present themselves to you and just write it all down? I feel as if you just wait until they tell you something, then you'll never get it done, but if you decide everything, it isn't true to their character,

Jennifer A. Nielsen Hi Esther! Understand first that every project is different. So there will always be variations in the process. However, in most instances I will start with the concept and setting, which will begin to define the characters for me. I definitely choose my characters, but what I'm listening for is their voice. If you know my books, then consider how Jaron, Nic, and Gerta each have their own voice. That has to come from a place deeper than what's written on a character chart. I find the voice by having conversations with them in my head and listening for their answers. When those answers come, I'm ready to write!

flag