Character Naming Techniques

Some characters are just naturally likeable. Take Tris Prior from Divergent for example, her name is very cunning and it just draws you in to Tris. Of course, Tris is a nickname for Beatrice.

But that's the point! Great character names are usually unique nicknames we find interesting. Some names are more attractive and alluring than others, but some are also fun and outgoing. You can usually tell how a character is like from their name, unless you're reading a book about a goth girl named Sunshine.

Nicknames can be great sometimes! Like Genevieve can be Jen or Gen, and Cassandra can be Sandy or something.

But not all nicknames will work out perfectly. Take Evelyn for example. Evie? Lyn? Nah… doesn't sound right. But Will for William? Quite original, will do.

Well, how about last names? Surnames can be vitally important, since you'll have to find one that fits your character's first name. If you're writing a fantasy or sci-fi novel, you won't have to worry as much. Often sci-fi, fantasy, or sometimes even dystopian stories have characters with extremely rare, unique, or even made-up last names. This will show your inner creativity through the words that you write!

So… all you have to do now is to avoid something. That is, you have to avoid commonly used names. NEVER use the surname Smith unless absolutely necessary or as a temporary surname. Naming you're character Bobby Smith will scream "newbie writer!" Even amateurs could do better than that! Be creative and don't be afraid to think outside the box.

What makes a good character name anyways? For a fantasy novel, you might use a name like Sunset Dawn or something. Perfectly fine, but don't you think you could change it up a bit? What about Sunset Moon, or Dawn Sunset? Be unique in all things important to your story and draw inspiration from others. Remember, you can't be a writer if you're not a reader.

In conclusion, names are what make your characters besides their personality and appearance. If your reader doesn't like a character's name, they might as well give up on the character himself! Remember to always use your creativity and let it shine in your writing.

- Ashlyn, Aspiring Author of Today

The Selection: Book Review

Author: Kiera Cass

Rating: 4 Stars ****

Plot Summary: In a future where the country of Illéa is divided into eight castes, America Singer is a Five. She and her family work as artists for a living with very little money. But when America has the opportunity to become one of the Selected, she chooses to do so over her boyfriend Aspen. When her name is picked, America is taken to the palace along with thirty-four other girls to try and win Prince Maxon's favor. But competition is fierce and her relationship with the Prince is complicated. But at the same time, constant attacks from rebels from other countries are invading the palace, and America is dying to know why.

The Selection is and will always be a spectacular addition to your bookshelves. America Singer is the next Katniss Everdeen in a totally different, yet still future world. A romantic and suspenseful story that will keep you up all night. The castes are an excellent part of the magnificent world Kiera Cass has managed to create, with One being royalty and Eight being homeless. The cover itself is indeed captivating, which is one reason I chose to pick it up XD.

America Singer is a perfect example of what it is like to be unique in a situation where everyone is going for the same thing. While there is conflict, there is confusion for America. Who she will love and how everything is going to work out.

Overall, this was an enjoyable read. I don't want to be too nice with this, though. As there are some issues with it, at least, in my opinion.

First of all, the world-building for Illéa is… well… complicated and confusing. I enjoyed the suspense and all, but there was still some pieces I couldn't piece together even at the end of the book. For instance, "how are the people put into the castes?" It said something about the people of Illéa's ancestors, but what about there ancestors? I understand that this might be revealed in the second book, The Elite, but still, there is just some parts that aren't very clear to me.

Another part that annoys me is when a character dumps America just because he felt guilty for a totally stupid reason! And then he makes a comeback that annoys me so much! What I was thinking when I read it: "Oh, you are so much better than that, America!"

But still, can't wait to go and pick up the second book in the series! The Elite by Kiera Cass. (Picture below,)

So, yeah. It's worth reading. Wouldn't be your first choice of world-building, though. I have mixed feelings about it, but a lot more on the "I like it!" side of things. I suggest searching for it in your local public library like I did. Warning: this may keep you up until morning if you read at night.

- Ashlyn, Aspiring Author of Today

Writer's Spark: Childhood Hopes

Some of you may wonder what drew me into writing. Well, you have to give some credit to my favorite books, authors, and anything that inspires me. But whenever I think of something incredible, interesting, or inspiring, I have to put it on paper. So here's the deal: it started first grade.

I suck at remembering anything, but this was my Writer's Spark, and I'll never forget it.

It was a rainy day, and everyone was either sulking inside or playing card games carelessly. I was thinking about a book I had read not too long ago. Then I sparked an idea. It was a silly story, now that I get back to it. Something about a girl who wanted to go to the park and it was raining. (Picked up some inspiration from outside the window.) So I took out my drawing book and my pencil.

Typically, my story, as a first grader, only lasted about a page. Sure, the words were squiggly and they were all over the place, but I was proud of my work. The teacher was sitting at her desk and I finally gathered up my courage to go and show her.

She was impressed. Not just "impressed," but fascinated. Astonished, even. She immediately ordered me to read it out loud to the class. I can still feel their little eyes on me…

So I did. I read it out loud to them. Some were interested, others just wanted to go back to playing. But I was proud.

That day, everything changed. At home, I began writing ultimately lame stories that showed no passion, inspiration, or that I had talent. So for second grade, my ability to write creatively faded away, and I ignored it…

Until fourth grade. Actually, I was kind of failing to write anything decent in third grade.

Forth grade. The best year ever. My teacher was as strict as strict can be, though. Plus, I got on her nerves often. But I liked her. Whenever she read books to us, her voice seemed to take me to the story itself. Everything that a character said was enhanced by her voice. She even gave us book recommendations.

Then, we had a writing assignment. I knew exactly what to write, but didn't know how to write it. I just sat there in my seat. Staring at the walls and thinking. Did I forget to mention I'm a slacker at times?

I suddenly totally didn't care about my assignment and began writing everything inside my head. It felt awesome. Like unleashing your inner thoughts through a pencil onto paper.

When the due date came, I handed my assignment in confidently. Later, my teacher said she would share three assignments that had excellent quality. I knew it wouldn't be me so I sat back and relaxed.

"And this one is by Ashlyn," I suddenly heard her say.

I couldn't believe it. Everyone stared at me like they did in first grade as my jaw dropped open. Sure enough, she read out my assignment. It was good, now that I had heard it out loud.

Later that year, we had a public speaking contest. Two students would be chosen from each fourth grade class to participate in the final rounds. I wrote something enjoyable, humorous, and satisfying. A day from the perspective of my beloved (now dead) budgie named Snowy.

The class loved it. My teacher loved it. I thought it was good enough to make it to the finals. But it wasn't. That depressing day was one I'll never forget. I cried and cried, tear after tear.

I thought I couldn't write anymore. That I had lost my talent, again.

But in fifth grade, everything changed. This year the public speaking contest required fifth graders to enter too. Unfortunately, I can't seem to remember what my topic was this time -_-.

But nevertheless, the class loved it. In fact, it was better than last year. I made it into the finals and got so close to winning. Although I didn't win first prize, I still have a medal sitting in my display case.

Now, writing is a part of me.

I live to write.

_______________________________

So… how was it? I might have a contest for Writer's Spark stories, which will be when you tell your story of how you came to know writing. Or, I might just open up some guest posting slots for people. If you are interested, use the contact form on the side or email me at authorashlynshore@gmail.com

If you are interested in a guest post, please ensure your post is at least 700 words and under 5,000 words. You may also tweet questions to me at @Ashlyn_Shore

Tell me your thoughts and if I should have a contest!

- Ashlyn, Aspiring Author of Today

How to Write an Enjoyable Story

The Hunger Games Trilogy didn't just become world-wide famous best-sellers out of luck. Every best-seller has its own reason to be a best-seller. There are a few qualities that make it enjoyable, otherwise, good enough so the reader won't stuff it back into the bookshelf.

For unpublished adventure authors, character growth is key. After your protagonist had a long, meaningful journey, he or she's probably learned a lot. When he or she get's home and everything is back to normal, how will their behavior change? What is different about them? How did the lessons they learn change themselves?

There is much, much more to character, but I will discuss it on a separate time. Now, let's talk about the plot. There are way, way, way too many wizard/witch/magic stories today. So unless your ideas can outshine Harry Potter times ten, throw your wizard story manuscript into the trash. You have to make your plot interesting. Very interesting, that is. The moment a reader decides that the plot is boring, so will your other readers. Add in unusual characters and give them space to interact with one another. Combine fantasy with crime, creating a thoroughly interesting plot.

And most importantly, stick to your story. Your shy character shouldn't be jumping around and shouting at something in public. And if your theme is fantasy, you're not going to add in high-tech robots who decide to kill everyone. Stay on topic. This is what kids are learning these days. Stay on topic. Don't get sidetracked.

Always be ready to cut something out. Kill off some characters. Prim was killed in The Hunger Games, how did Katniss handle that? How will certain character deaths impact other characters? Try changing a bit of your protagonist's personality. How will they react to things then? I recommend free-writing with your protagonist. Put them in a totally un-related situation and see what they will do.

Ask others to read your manuscript and rate it. If they enjoy it, so will others, probably. It is a good idea to befriend other writers, bookworms, and authors. Share your ideas with them and see what they think.

Make your reader cry his or her heart out. Add in unexpected character deaths in important characters. Read Bridge to Terabithia to see why this is a good idea. (Warning: Tears will come.)

And lastly, never say your work is perfect. NOTHING is perfect in this world. Every good book isn't perfect, it's as good as the author can make it. Make your story so close to perfect that people will consider it perfect.

Make your story enjoyable.

- Ashlyn, Aspiring Author of Today

The Key to Dialogue (Part 1)

Why is dialogue so important anyway? Well, for starters, without dialogue, you might as well have a super ultra-boring story that publishers would burn to shreds.

Dialogue is when two or more characters interact with one another by talking to each other. Usually when I'm writing a story, I often "enhance" the dialogue of a character. That is, make it sound more interesting, realistic, or more fitting to the character's personality. When you enhance dialogue (usually in your second draft,) it is important to stick to the personality of your character.

Dialogue can sound different in some characters than in others. You might have a character who speaks in an accent and therefore, the text, (aka the dialogue) sounds different. He or she may often make grammar mistakes, pause to think about what words to say to describe something, etc. 

I know this is kind of short, but don't worry! I divided this post into three parts since I am rather busy these days with other things.

- Ashlyn, Aspiring Author of Today

Brovko's Amazing Journey Book Review

Plot Summary: Life is good for Brovko, a big shaggy sheep dog living in Ukraine with his master Andrei and his master's family.

But then Andrei and his family move to the new country of Canada, and they leave Brovko behind!

Brovko tries to get along with his new family, but his heart isn't in it. It soon becomes clear what he has to do- go and find the boy he loves. Against all odds, he sets out to do just that, even though Andrei is two continents and the Atlantic Ocean away! How on earth is the sheepdog going to do it?

Note: The summary was found from the back of the book.

Ratings: 4 Stars ****

The first time I spotted this book sitting at the shelf at the very bottom at the bookstore, I just knew I had to buy it! It surprised me though, I was even on the verge of tears more than once. Brovko is one determined and independent dog, alright. The kind of dog anyone would want to have. Although it did get a bit confusing near the end, the ending was satisfying and heart-warming to me.

What I loved most was that in the end, Brovko finally achieved his goal and met again with some old friends. The cover of the book is quite captivating itself. This book wasn't in my local library either so I suggest you buy it. After all, take my advice, it's worth it!

- Ashlyn, Aspiring Author of Today

3 Mistakes Writers Make

Hey everyone! Sorry for not being so active in my blog for the past couple of days! I have finally started writing a novel I've been very enthusiastic about and so I've been devoting most of my time to it. But still, I have my responsibilities as a blogger, and so I've written this article to share with you guys! Enjoy!

We, as writers, all share the same dream. No matter what genre we write in, how old we are, or how we write, we all dream of becoming world-known international best-selling authors. But sometimes we get so caught up in our work to realize how many mistakes we have made. I have put together a short list of the five mistakes every writer is bound to make. So before you decide to send your work to a literary agent or publisher of some kind, review this comprehensive list carefully first.

3. Editing before finishing. Do NOT ever edit your work before finishing the entire thing! That is, if you are writing your first draft, finish your first draft and THEN edit. Actually, you'd be smart if you'd actually consider revising it before editing.

2. Creating "brave and daring, strong-willed characters". We have enough Katniss Everdeens and Tris Priors and publishers aren't going to accept such characters like those anymore. Make your characters fearful of something, have them cling to a certain item they have obtained in their childhood or something. Give them strong weaknesses or abnormal phobias. Destroy them. And as the story progresses, have character growth and have them learn new lessons about life that will come in handy later on.

1. Thinking that their work is excellent. This could possibly be one of the worst things possible. Your work is terrible, no offense, just not ready to be published. That's why you have your second, third, fourth, and so on, drafts to write. Thinking that your work is excellent could result in zero editing at all. Not good.

Enjoy? Please comment, rate, and review! If you would like to guest post, please use the contact form or email me at authorashlynshore@gmail.com

- Ashlyn, Aspiring Author of Today