Characterize: Introduction

You all know that I have a fierce love of strong characters. I've ranted about what I want in a fantasy heroine; I've rambled about how characters should embrace their sexuality; I've raved about the importance of characters who actually use their brains.

A strong character isn't necessarily one that is kick-ass or rules the world or is, as a person, strong at all. A strong character is one that pops off the page and seems as real to us as we are.

They're not Mary Sues. They're not shining perfect characters.

They can be characters that are torn between two people but focus on trying to save the world they love. They can be characters that run away from home because they see it as the only option for escaping an abusive relationship. They can be characters who who are just trying to survive until the winter of their 17th year.

Characterize is my little corner of WORD where we can talk about strong characters. What does it mean to read one? What are some of the best? How can you write one?

And don't worry, fair WORD readers. I am not the only one who will be talking about this. I wouldn't put you through weeks of my rambling about the same topic!

People who are swinging by to talk include, but are not limited to:

• Julie Kagawa, author of The Iron Fey series and The Immortal Rules
• Donna from Bites
• Sean Ferrell, the hilarious author of the creepy adult novel Numb
• Alexis from The Literature Lion
• Siobhan Vivian, author of The List and Not That Kind Of Girl
• Rachael from The Book Muncher
• Lisa Mantchev, author of the Theatre Illuminata series
• Janice from Janicu's Book Blog
• Suzanne Lazear, author of Innocent Darkness

And I'm lining up more as we speak.

What do YOU want to see talked about? Tell me in the comments and I'll make sure that it is discussed!

If you are a blogger or an author and would like to contribute to Characterize, shoot me an email!