JoWhittemore #MGlitchat is ON like Donkey Kong! (please don't un-follow me for that) Tonight, I'm co-hosting with the lovely @KDuBayGillis -7:00 PM Sep 8th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @elliefalcone cool characters... those zombies. #MGlitchat -7:00 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KDuBayGillis @elliefalcone We won't hold it against you. (My 3 yo is still awake, so I know what you're going through!) #mglitchat -7:00 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari Hi all! Super excited to join you all again. :) #mglitchat -7:01 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @AnshaKotyk *snicker* Yes, zombies can be so cold. :S #mglitchat -7:01 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari @elliefalcone Oh no! Alarming! #mglitchat -7:01 PM Sep 8th, 2011
timothypower67 F. Scott Fitzgerald was a notorious bad speller. And look how far he got! #MGlitchat -7:01 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone I'm glad you guys understand my zombie problem. #MGlitchat -7:01 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KateMilford @JoWhittemore @KDuBayGillis Evening, folks! #mglitchat -7:01 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KDuBayGillis @JoWhittemore Hello #mglitchat peeps! -7:01 PM Sep 8th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @DanyelleLeafty bwhahaha #mglitchat -7:02 PM Sep 8th, 2011
earthwards Hey everybody! *starts scooping out ice cream* #mglitchat -7:02 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore Tonight, our topic is the craft-y "Getting into character". So let's start by talking about WHAT MAKES A COMPELLING CHARACTER? #mglitchat -7:02 PM Sep 8th, 2011
michaelascotto Tuning out the world, tuning in to #mglitchat -7:02 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @AnshaKotyk Well, the zombies and I are on the same page tonight. We are both in search of brrrraaaiinnnssss. #mglitchat -7:02 PM Sep 8th, 2011
timothypower67 Strong personality=compelling character. #MGlitchat -7:02 PM Sep 8th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @DanyelleLeafty You're killing me. ahhahahaha! #mglitchat -7:02 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty A compelling character? One whose skin I can slip under and experience the story. #mglitchat -7:03 PM Sep 8th, 2011
PippaBayliss What makes a compelling character? Personality Plus :) #mglitchat -7:03 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone @JoWhittemore I rather like characters who are down to earth. #MGlitchat -7:03 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari A compelling character is dimensional - like an onion with multiple layers - so much more beneath surface #mglitchat -7:03 PM Sep 8th, 2011
Jenny_Lundquist Zombies are compelling characters :0) #MGlitchat -7:03 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @AnshaKotyk Thank goodness for zombies, then. O:) #mglitchat -7:03 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @jmaschari: A compelling character is dimensional - like an onion with multiple layers - so much more beneath surface #mglitchat -7:03 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore For me, I need to know there are flaws in the characters, imperfections to relate to. They need humanity (even if not human) #mglitchat -7:03 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @JoWhittemore Especially if they're not human. (For me, anyway. :D) #mglitchat -7:03 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone Lots of layers. Ditto to who said that already. #MGlitchat -7:04 PM Sep 8th, 2011
coachhays64 Quote teenage son used in a school essay. “He who trims himself to suit everyone will soon whittle himself away.”-Raymond Hull. #mglitchat -7:04 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari Voice and personality are essential - I have to be able to connect to character on some level #mglitchat -7:04 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KDuBayGillis Just read a lovely WriteOnCon blog post on MG and the agent said MG characters have to have HEART. I loved that. #mglitchat -7:04 PM Sep 8th, 2011
Jenny_Lundquist I need to understand the character's motivations even if I don't agree with them #MGlitchat -7:04 PM Sep 8th, 2011
earthwards To start character, I always try to think of what motivates them, then give them a 'hook' quality/trait based on that.. #mglitchat -7:04 PM Sep 8th, 2011
SarvenazTash On the other hand, I like even my villains to be layered and have motivation for their villainy. #MGLitChat -7:04 PM Sep 8th, 2011
timothypower67 I love super opinionated characters who have their beliefs tested. #MGlitchat -7:04 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @earthwards: To start character, I always try to think of what motivates them, then give them a 'hook' quality/trait based on that.. #mglitchat -7:04 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari @KDuBayGillis YES! totally agree with this - Heart is key #mglitchat -7:04 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @jmaschari Yes, complexity is oh so very important. It's what keeps editors/agents from saying "The character lacked depth" #mglitchat -7:04 PM Sep 8th, 2011
VonnaCarter Getting into the character's head early; no time to wait for worldbuilding #MGlitchat -7:05 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone RT @coachhays64: Quote teenage son used in a school essay. “He who trims himself to suit everyone will soon whittle himself away.”-Raymond Hull. #mglitchat -7:05 PM Sep 8th, 2011
michaelascotto Imperfection + strong desires always hook me #mglitchat -7:05 PM Sep 8th, 2011
Jenny_Lundquist In MG I also need a really strong voice #MGlitchat -7:05 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KateMilford My favorite characters are the ones that manage to surprise me. #mglitchat -7:05 PM Sep 8th, 2011
literaticat @JoWhittemore I want to join this chat but I have nothing useful to add. Can I just sit in the corner & crack jokes? #mglitchat -7:05 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes I'm here and catching up #mglitchat ! -7:05 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @earthwards Motivations are an awesome place to start understanding the character. #mglitchat #charactersarepeopletoo :D -7:05 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @SarvenazTash Well, yes, I agree both good AND evil must appeal to us in some way. #mglitchat -7:05 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura @literaticat I support joke cracking. #mglitchat -7:05 PM Sep 8th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @literaticat we started with Zomies! #mglitchat -7:05 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @JenniferCEstes Yay! Glad to see you. :D #mglitchat -7:05 PM Sep 8th, 2011
earthwards I also try to think of the first thing that someone might notice about them, then the thing they would only find out over time #mglitchat -7:05 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone On the flipside, I hate snotty characters. #MGlitchat -7:05 PM Sep 8th, 2011
spajonas there are way too many good chats going on on the same night! #figlitchat #mglitchat -7:06 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @literaticat You may, m'lady! You may also comment/correct, as needed. #mglitchat -7:06 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari I really connect with a character who uses humor in some form - humor is important even in more serious books #mglitchat -7:06 PM Sep 8th, 2011
earthwards @DanyelleLeafty It sounds bizarre, but I totally try to psychoanalyze them so I can figure out what makes them tick :P #mglitchat -7:06 PM Sep 8th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @elliefalcone Oh I like snotty, then the comeuppance. #MGlitchat -7:06 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @literaticat You can join me in the corner. I have nothing to add, either. #listeningtoallthesmartpeople #MGlitchat -7:06 PM Sep 8th, 2011
Jenny_Lundquist @elliefalcone I like a tiny bit of snottiness #MGlitchat -7:06 PM Sep 8th, 2011
timothypower67 @elliefalcone Me too, but I love it when they have their comeuppance! #MGlitchat -7:06 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KateMilford @literaticat That sounds like a substantive contribution to me. #mglitchat -7:06 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari Character needs to be realistic - the dialogue sometimes makes it or breaks it for me #mglitchat -7:06 PM Sep 8th, 2011
SarvenazTash @jmaschari Totally agree re: humor. #MGLitChat -7:06 PM Sep 8th, 2011
BA_Watson Here and reading all the snappy character stuff! #mglitchat -7:06 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KDuBayGillis @Jenny_Lundquist My agent is HUGE on hammering this. I anticipate this note whenever she reviews anything. Clear motivation. #mglitchat -7:06 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @elliefalcone Some characters are snotty by nature (hehe!). But if you add a REASON behind it, it's more tolerable. #mglitchat -7:07 PM Sep 8th, 2011
deegarretson I like to have my MC misjudge some secondary characters, then discover more layers, sort of like real life people! #mglitchat -7:07 PM Sep 8th, 2011
timothypower67 Haha! Comeuppance...JINX. #MGlitchat -7:07 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes @elissacruz @literaticat Well, I'm trying to figure out how to use TweetDeck, so I probably won't be able to add either #mglitchat -7:07 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @earthwards Not bizarre. Definitely important for the author to understand their inner workings. :D #mglitchat -7:07 PM Sep 8th, 2011
michaelascotto @jmaschari Absolutely -- darkness becomes numbing without levity #mglitchat -7:07 PM Sep 8th, 2011
librarykelly Finally back to Twitter and at #MGlitchat! Yeah! I like multi-layer characters, too. What others could there be? -7:07 PM Sep 8th, 2011
AnshaKotyk I need to learn some pointers on bringing the depth to the page. It's all in my head, just need to realize it on paper. #mglitchat -7:07 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone All in favor of snotty characters getting their comeuppance say, Aye! #MGlitchat -7:07 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @deegarretson Good point. Secondary characters need to be just as fleshed out and real. #mglitchat -7:07 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari Character also needs to be consistent - needs to be reason for actions and for change #mglitchat -7:07 PM Sep 8th, 2011
Jenny_Lundquist @KDuBayGillis @Jenny_Lundquist Who is your agent? #MGlitchat -7:08 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @elliefalcone Aye! #mglitchat -7:08 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura RT @jmaschari: Character also needs to be consistent - needs to be reason for actions and for change #mglitchat -7:08 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KDuBayGillis @elliefalcone Agree with the snot factor. Also realizing that my MC is a downer. That's a flaw that won't hook readers. #mglitchat -7:08 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari @michaelascotto That's why I totally love The Emerald Atlas - darkness but a great balance of humor too #mglitchat -7:08 PM Sep 8th, 2011
earthwards @DanyelleLeafty @deegarretson Definitely - I think it can be easy to forget about the secondaries as you move forward. Good tip! #mglitchat -7:08 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz So, how do you add depth to a character? #MGlitchat -7:08 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone Do you guys ever hate some of characters as you're writing them? #MGlitchat -7:08 PM Sep 8th, 2011
WaldenPondPress Hey everyone! Sorry to be a late to the party :) #mglitchat -7:08 PM Sep 8th, 2011
deegarretson @DanyelleLeafty I especially hate the mean kids who never show any redeeming qualities or any reason for them to be so mean #mglitchat -7:09 PM Sep 8th, 2011
timothypower67 When writing characters I discover much about them through their reactions. An unexpected reaction is golden. #MGlitchat -7:09 PM Sep 8th, 2011
BA_Watson I like characters who lie and aren't used to it. #mglitchat -7:09 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore Important character points: complexity, humanity, motivation, consistency, reality, and at least a slight bit of wit to them. #mglitchat -7:09 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @earthwards @deegarretson Secondaries can add so many dimensions the MC can't do alone. #hugssecondaries #mglitchat -7:09 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @timothypower67: When writing characters I discover much about them through their reactions. An unexpected reaction is golden. #MGlitchat -7:09 PM Sep 8th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @timothypower67 It's a choice word. ;) #MGlitchat -7:09 PM Sep 8th, 2011
SarvenazTash I do character sketches: I feel like if I know where someone came from, I can figure out where they're going. #MGLitChat -7:09 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @WaldenPondPress Better late than never! Welcome! #MGlitchat -7:09 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @deegarretson @DanyelleLeafty That's a badly written character! #mglitchat -7:09 PM Sep 8th, 2011
Jenny_Lundquist @elissacruz I add depth by doing a TON of free writing journal keeping with my characters #MGlitchat -7:09 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari @elissacruz I always look at the emotional goal and the action goal of a character to create depth - how are their actions (1/2) #mglitchat -7:09 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @deegarretson Exactly! Nothing more than cardboard stereotype. If a character's bad, needs to be a good reason. #mglitchat -7:09 PM Sep 8th, 2011
SCBWISOCALLA RT @JoWhittemore: Tonight, our topic is the craft-y "Getting into character". So let's start by talking about WHAT MAKES A COMPELLING CHARACTER? #mglitchat -7:10 PM Sep 8th, 2011
WaldenPondPress I always love to see a character who sometimes has conflicting feelings - not everything is cut and dry #mglitchat -7:10 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone @KDuBayGillis I got feedback that my MC was not only a snot, but a downer. *sigh* #MGlitchat -7:10 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KateMilford @elliefalcone I have the opposite problem. When I'm writing I fall in love with all of the characters, even the villains. #mglitchat -7:10 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KDuBayGillis @BA_Watson ooooh, that's a good one! character has to decide if lying is a good fit. #mglitchat -7:10 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari @elissacruz ...guided by their emotions - how will they change outwardly and inwardly (2/2) #mglitchat -7:10 PM Sep 8th, 2011
Jenny_Lundquist @SarvenazTash When you say character sketch, do you mean one of those worksheets? I stink at those. #MGlitchat -7:10 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @WaldenPondPress Yes! More like life, and more complex that way. #mglitchat -7:10 PM Sep 8th, 2011
timothypower67 I love the unexpected when it comes to characters. MCs written "by the book" are such a snooze. #MGlitchat -7:10 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @WaldenPondPress Yes, a little light with the dark, and vice versa. #mglitchat -7:10 PM Sep 8th, 2011
LiteraryAsylum @WaldenPondPress I think some writers mistake clever word use and snarky dialogue as voice. Do you agree? #mglitchat -7:10 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @JoWhittemore: Important character points: complexity, humanity, motivation, consistency, reality, and at least a slight bit of wit to them. #mglitchat -7:10 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura @DanyelleLeafty And they can't be 100% evil. Many times the 'bad guy' thinks his/her actions will improve their lot #mglitchat -7:10 PM Sep 8th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @WaldenPondPress I try to add conflicting feelings to my characters as often as I can... I like the play of tension. #mglitchat -7:11 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura YES RT @LiteraryAsylum: @WaldenPondPress I think some writers mistake clever word use and snarky dialogue as voice. Do you agree? #mglitchat -7:11 PM Sep 8th, 2011
justkeepreading I agree 100%!!!! RT @jmaschari: Character also needs to be consistent - needs to be reason for actions and for change #mglitchat -7:11 PM Sep 8th, 2011
SarvenazTash @Jenny_Lundquist Not a worksheet. Just a free write where I figure out their history, hobbies, etc. #MGLitChat -7:11 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KateMilford @LiteraryAsylum @WaldenPondPress Two words: Dawson's Creek. #mglitchat -7:11 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @tamiveldura Yep. The villain is the hero of his/her own story. Important to convey this to reader. #mglitchat -7:11 PM Sep 8th, 2011
librarykelly @jmaschari Agreed! #MGlitchat -7:11 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KDuBayGillis @elliefalcone Yikes! Which flaw are you revising out? #mglitchat -7:11 PM Sep 8th, 2011
PippaBayliss @KateMilford @elliefalcone lol, my kids lurve my villains, hate the MC, but they are, um, my kids so wot can I say ... #mglitchat -7:11 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone @LiteraryAsylum It seems like an easy mistake to make. #MGlitchat -7:11 PM Sep 8th, 2011
Jenny_Lundquist Ditto! RT @AnshaKotyk: @WaldenPondPress I try to add conflicting feelings to my characters... I like the play of tension. #MGlitchat -7:12 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura RT @DanyelleLeafty: Yep. The villain is the hero of his/her own story. Important to convey this to reader. #mglitchat -7:12 PM Sep 8th, 2011
WaldenPondPress RT @timothypower67: When writing characters I discover much about them through their reactions. An unexpected reaction is golden. #mglitchat -7:12 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone @KDuBayGillis Both. I like him a little more now. #MGlitchat -7:12 PM Sep 8th, 2011
librarykelly @elliefalcone Aye! #MGlitchat -7:12 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @PippaBayliss Sounds like an awesome villain! :D @KateMilford @elliefalcone #mglitchat -7:12 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari I hate stock characters - I need to be able to feel that THIS particular character only exists in this story. #mglitchat -7:12 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore Compelling characters also have quirks (not necessarily flaws) that reveal a bit of backstory and give them a past. #mglitchat -7:12 PM Sep 8th, 2011
Jenny_Lundquist @SarvenazTash Got it! That sounds similar to what I do. Long live the free write! #MGlitchat -7:12 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KateMilford @PippaBayliss two of my beta readers (9yo) wanted more from my current villain, who is evil incarnate, because they thought (1/2) #mglitchat -7:12 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @jmaschari: I hate stock characters - I need to be able to feel that THIS particular character only exists in this story. #mglitchat -7:12 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz Next question: How are MG characters different from characters in PB or YA? Or are they? #MGlitchat -7:12 PM Sep 8th, 2011
SarvenazTash @Jenny_Lundquist The character sketches are where I look when I'm stuck with plot. #MGLitChat -7:12 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes @JoWhittemore Yes! Quirks are excellent! #mglitchat -7:12 PM Sep 8th, 2011
WaldenPondPress @timothypower67 - Yes! The unexpected is so important - helps add depth and allows for growth #mglitchat -7:13 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura @jmaschari and that only THIS particular character could possibly be the hero of this story. #mglitchat -7:13 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone RT @jmaschari: I hate stock characters - I need to be able to feel that THIS particular character only exists in this story. #MGlitchat -7:13 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @tamiveldura: @jmaschari and that only THIS particular character could possibly be the hero of this story. #mglitchat -7:13 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KateMilford @pippabayliss They thought he seemed like a "really nice guy" under it all. So much for my horrific bad guy. #mglitchat -7:13 PM Sep 8th, 2011
librarykelly @BA_Watson Yes! #MGlitchat -7:13 PM Sep 8th, 2011
AnshaKotyk Great question! RT @elissacruz: Next question: How are MG characters different from characters in PB or YA? Or are they? #MGlitchat -7:13 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore For example, you can have a character that collects glass soda bottles because that was what he and his dad used to drink. #mglitchat -7:13 PM Sep 8th, 2011
deegarretson @elliefalcone a tricky balance, I was surprised a few reviewers said MC in my 1st book whined at start, he sounded normal to me! #mglitchat -7:13 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari @tamiveldura YES! #mglitchat -7:13 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KDuBayGillis @JoWhittemore What are some quirks you've used/read? #mglitchat -7:13 PM Sep 8th, 2011
SarvenazTash I don't think MG characters are any different than PB and YA characters except for their age. #MGLitChat -7:13 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes Aargh! I can't keep up! So much awesome! #mglitchat -7:13 PM Sep 8th, 2011
PippaBayliss @WaldenPondPress complexity and believability and a good sense of humor - like any kid that you love spending time with #mglitchat -7:14 PM Sep 8th, 2011
katyaczaja #mglitchat -7:14 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura @AnshaKotyk I think PB characters are generally younger and solving a simple question (are you my mother?) #MGlitchat -7:14 PM Sep 8th, 2011
coachhays64 Completely agree! @timothypower67 I love the unexpected when it comes to characters. MCs written "by the book" are such a snooze. #MGlitchat -7:14 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @PippaBayliss: @WaldenPondPress complexity and believability and a good sense of humor - like any kid that you love spending time with #mglitchat -7:14 PM Sep 8th, 2011
Jenny_Lundquist @AnshaKotyk @elissacruz For me it's all about voice with MG characters. Less so with PB or YA #MGlitchat -7:14 PM Sep 8th, 2011
timothypower67 Ha! I guess authors should keep their characters on a leash but not too short of one. #MGlitchat -7:14 PM Sep 8th, 2011
WaldenPondPress @Jenny_Lundquist @AnshaKotyk - Great way to put it - tension is critical #mglitchat -7:14 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @JenniferCEstes That's how we roll. #awesomenessgalore #MGlitchat -7:14 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari @SarvenazTash And with that, I think comes the development that a character can experience #mglitchat -7:14 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone @deegarretson It's so hard to be objective when you're that close. #MGlitchat -7:14 PM Sep 8th, 2011
earthwards @elissacruz I think I mentioned this last week, but the main thing I try to keep in mind with MG is the sense of wonder/openness #mglitchat -7:14 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura @AnshaKotyk whereas YA characters are mid puberty and their questions are likewise more complex. #MGlitchat -7:14 PM Sep 8th, 2011
LaurelSnyder Oooooh, character night. My favorite current obsession. #mglitchat -7:15 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty I think the voice and stage of development (esp. mentally and emotionally) are the differences between MG and YA. #mglitchat -7:15 PM Sep 8th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @Jenny_Lundquist MG characters for me, have to deal with that bridge between childhood and adulthood and how they become adults. #MGlitchat -7:15 PM Sep 8th, 2011
kurtisscaletta #mglitchat I think it's OK for characters to be inconsistent... kids experiment, are always changing. So can their characters. -7:15 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KDuBayGillis @JoWhittemore You beat me to the punch...good example. My MC collects vintage Broadway posters...#mglitchat -7:15 PM Sep 8th, 2011
PippaBayliss sometimes if you make them too realistic, they stink. I love eccentric with heart, and a touch of wicked daring #mglitchat -7:15 PM Sep 8th, 2011
librarykelly @elliefalcone @kdubaygillis Huh. I got feedback that my MC was snotty. But I wrote her that way, so it felt kinda good. #MGlitchat -7:15 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty Also, how they approach solving the problem and how they see the problem in the first place. #mglitchat -7:15 PM Sep 8th, 2011
Jenny_Lundquist RT @earthwards: @elissacruz the main thing I try to keep in mind with MG is the sense of wonder/openness #MGlitchat -7:15 PM Sep 8th, 2011
AnshaKotyk RT @DanyelleLeafty: Also, how they approach solving the problem and how they see the problem in the first place. #mglitchat -7:15 PM Sep 8th, 2011
LiteraryAsylum @KateMilford @WaldenPondPress Let's throw Gilmore Girls in the pot too! #MGlitchat -7:15 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KDuBayGillis @LaurelSnyder Hi! Happy you are here. Was thinking of Penny tonight. #mglitchat -7:15 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari @earthwards @elissacruz I love this - I still think in MG that there is a sense that anything is possible #mglitchat -7:15 PM Sep 8th, 2011
kurtisscaletta #mglitchat Of course it's all how it's done but kids that age are inconsistent, more mature one day, stepping backward the next. -7:16 PM Sep 8th, 2011
LaurelSnyder @kurtisscaletta I agree completely. Inconsistent is human. #mglitchat -7:16 PM Sep 8th, 2011
Jenny_Lundquist @AnshaKotyk I love how they walk that tension from childhood to adult--good point #MGlitchat -7:16 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone @librarykelly Yeah. I kinda wrote him that way too but I think I went a tad overboard. #MGlitchat -7:16 PM Sep 8th, 2011
SarvenazTash Very true. RT @jmaschari: @SarvenazTash And with that, I think comes the development that a character can experience #mglitchat -7:16 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura Agreed. RT @Jenny_Lundquist: @AnshaKotyk I love how they walk that tension from childhood to adult--good point #MGlitchat -7:16 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes @DanyelleLeafty Yes. MG = getting out into the world and getting dirty. PB = getting into the backyard and getting dirty. #mglitchat -7:16 PM Sep 8th, 2011
timothypower67 MG characters are not too embarrassed to be enthusiastic about the things they like. YA tends to hide behind on a public face. #MGlitchat -7:16 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @JenniferCEstes: @DanyelleLeafty Yes. MG = getting out into the world and getting dirty. PB = getting into the backyard and getting dirty. #mglitchat -7:16 PM Sep 8th, 2011
kurtisscaletta #mglitchat I guess I'm saying strategic inconsistencies are OK and add verisimilitude! -7:16 PM Sep 8th, 2011
WaldenPondPress @LiteraryAsylum - Good to see you! Yes, I agree - those things may actually inhibit a character's true voice #mglitchat -7:16 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari @kurtisscaletta I definitely think it is in how its done - I think it has to be in character and there needs to be set up #mglitchat -7:16 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @JenniferCEstes Excellent observation! :D #mglitchat -7:16 PM Sep 8th, 2011
1KellieM #WIPFTW you guys are my idols! Should I join AQC chat or twitter #mglitchat or write? #decisionsdecisions! -7:16 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @KDuBayGillis Quirks can also be based on fears. In FPFO, I had a character keep a fire extinguisher because she'd been in a fire #mglitchat -7:17 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura RT @timothypower67: MG are not embarrassed to be enthusiastic about the things they like. YA tends to hide behind a public face. #MGlitchat -7:17 PM Sep 8th, 2011
ca_london All characters are driven by motivations. Wants are different for different ages and tactics change, but desire creates character #MGlitchat -7:17 PM Sep 8th, 2011
kurtisscaletta #mglitchat I like the question about MG characters vs PB and YA. Hard to answer in 140 characters. -7:17 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari @timothypower67 Yes! I love this. #mglitchat -7:17 PM Sep 8th, 2011
BA_Watson I'm happy that MG characters don't need the love interest thing. #mglitchat -7:17 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone @JenniferCEstes That's cute. I like that. PB = getting into the backyard and getting dirty. #MGlitchat -7:17 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes @kurtisscaletta Extra bonus points for using "verisimilitude" in #mglitchat -7:17 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KDuBayGillis @DanyelleLeafty Trying to change the world. I remember my goals at that age: raise money for LIVE AID w/a neighborhood bakesale. #mglitchat -7:17 PM Sep 8th, 2011
LaurelSnyder I think, often, MG characters are staring out at the world, as through a window. YA characters often stare at their reflections. #mglitchat -7:17 PM Sep 8th, 2011
ca_london agree with @LaurelSnyder @kurtisscaletta Inconsistency is human. Also, consistency can get dull! #mglitchat -7:17 PM Sep 8th, 2011
WaldenPondPress @PippaBayliss - I agree, that's pretty much it in a nutshell :) #mglitchat -7:17 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KevinTCraig Agreed. Love quirks. RT @JenniferCEstes @JoWhittemore Yes! Quirks are excellent! #mglitchat -7:18 PM Sep 8th, 2011
earthwards @JoWhittemore That's a great point - quirks coming from negative circs, etc, not just habits and whatnot :) #mglitchat -7:18 PM Sep 8th, 2011
Jenny_Lundquist Arrggh! The first Thursday I'm avail and my son has come in crying and asking for "special time" signing off. Sorry! #MGlitchat -7:18 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura @KDuBayGillis I had a lemonade stand instead of a bake sale, but YES #mglitchat -7:18 PM Sep 8th, 2011
librarykelly @deegarretson @elliefalcone I think has to do with the kinds of kids people are around. Just my opinion. #MGlitchat -7:18 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @kurtisscaletta Thanks. I'm trying to throw out questions that might help keep the conversation interesting. #amIsucceeding? #MGlitchat -7:18 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KateMilford @LaurelSnyder That is a stellar observation. #mglitchat -7:18 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KDuBayGillis RT @ca_london: All characters are driven by motivations. Wants are different for different ages and tactics change, but desire creates character #MGlitchat -7:18 PM Sep 8th, 2011
WaldenPondPress RT @LaurelSnyder: I think, often, MG characters are staring out at the world, as through a window. YA characters often stare at their reflections. #mglitchat -7:18 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura @elissacruz very much so. #amIsucceeding #MGlitchat -7:18 PM Sep 8th, 2011
SarvenazTash Me too! RT @BA_Watson: I'm happy that MG characters don't need the love interest thing. #mglitchat -7:18 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @KDuBayGillis Definitely--and very good example. :D #mglitchat -7:18 PM Sep 8th, 2011
SarahDarerLitt RT @LaurelSnyder: I think MG characters are staring at world through a window. YA characters often stare at their reflections. #mglitchat -7:18 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone Now there's a word I haven't heard since Theatre History class. RT @kurtisscaletta: #mglitchat verisimilitude! #MGlitchat -7:18 PM Sep 8th, 2011
LaurelSnyder And I think PB characters, we are often on the other side entirely, staring at the characters through the window. #mglitchat -7:18 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @elissacruz Yep! #youaremyhero #mglitchat -7:18 PM Sep 8th, 2011
timothypower67 @tamiveldura Thanks for the RT edit! :) #MGlitchat -7:18 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KDuBayGillis RT @timothypower67: MG characters are not too embarrassed to be enthusiastic about the things they like. YA tends to hide behind on a public face. #MGlitchat -7:19 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore PB characters seem more self-centric, focused on how world revolves around them. MG expands to start taking others into account. #mglitchat -7:19 PM Sep 8th, 2011
PippaBayliss @BA_Watson Amen to the absence of love interest, tho kids making fools of themselves over crushes is fun in tween lit #mglitchat -7:19 PM Sep 8th, 2011
kurtisscaletta #mglitchat I tend to have characters do little "grown-up" things for the first time -- drink coffee, make dinner, etc. -7:19 PM Sep 8th, 2011
WaldenPondPress @LaurelSnyder - I LOVE that - what a beautiful way to put it. #mglitchat -7:19 PM Sep 8th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @Jenny_Lundquist see you next week! #MGlitchat -7:19 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura @timothypower67 lol, not enough characters to include your name otherwise :D #MGlitchat -7:19 PM Sep 8th, 2011
ca_london RT @LaurelSnyder: I think, often, MG characters are staring out at the world, as through a window. YA characters often stare at their reflections. #mglitchat -7:19 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KDuBayGillis RT @LaurelSnyder: And I think PB characters, we are often on the other side entirely, staring at the characters through the window. #mglitchat -7:20 PM Sep 8th, 2011
LaurelSnyder But obviously, these sorts of explanations are limited. SOme PB characters are interior. SOme YA books are outward looking. #mglitchat -7:20 PM Sep 8th, 2011
SarahDarerLitt RT @timothypower67: MG characters not too embarrassed to be enthusiastic abt things they like. YA hides behind on a public face. #mglitchat -7:20 PM Sep 8th, 2011
Sarah_Skilton If I'm rooting for characters to achieve their goals, that makes them compelling to me. #MGlitchat -7:20 PM Sep 8th, 2011
kurtisscaletta #mglitchat I think there is a way secondary adult characters are usually done in MG... offbeat neighbors, supportive artsy teachers, etc. -7:20 PM Sep 8th, 2011
PippaBayliss Oooo, PROFOUND! RT @LaurelSnyder: ...MG characters are staring out at the world, ... YA ... stare at their reflections. #mglitchat -7:20 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KevinTCraig Excellent RT @LaurelSnyder I think MG characters r staring out @ world, as through window-YA characters stare @ their reflections #mglitchat -7:20 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KDuBayGillis @elissacruz I think @JoWhittemore has some up her sleeve, too! #mglitchat #loveteamwork -7:20 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @KevinTCraig: Excellent RT @LaurelSnyder I think MG characters r staring out @ world, as through window-YA characters stare @ their reflections #mglitchat -7:21 PM Sep 8th, 2011
LaurelSnyder I also think the more inward looking a MG character is, the more it edges up to YA. Like with Jacob Have I Loved or Dicey. #mglitchat -7:21 PM Sep 8th, 2011
librarykelly @elliefalcone I might read yours and think he's a typical kid. Snotty is subjective. #MGlitchat -7:21 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @kurtisscaletta Is that good? Or do you think we need "normal" adults, too? #MGlitchat -7:21 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari @Sarah_Skilton Yes, I love this - I love rooting for characters in a book so this resonates with me #mglitchat -7:21 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @KDuBayGillis @elissacruz Yep! The anal-retentive in me has an itinerary. :-) #mglitchat -7:21 PM Sep 8th, 2011
timothypower67 MG never looks in the mirror, YA is obsessed with the chin zit. :) #MGlitchat -7:21 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura RT @timothypower67: MG never looks in the mirror, YA is obsessed with the chin zit. :) #MGlitchat -7:22 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone Believability. I want to believe the story problem means the world to the MC. I want to feel his/her angst, feel their struggle. #MGlitchat -7:22 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KateMilford @kurtisscaletta I do like when secondary characters feel real. I love writing the families of my protagonists. #mglitchat -7:22 PM Sep 8th, 2011
LaurelSnyder @kurtisscaletta Yes, this. Though so often they are background, setting. A LOT of middle grades paint secondary characters flat. #mglitchat -7:22 PM Sep 8th, 2011
PippaBayliss @KateMilford @pippabayliss :) #mglitchat -7:22 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes *applause* RT @tamiveldura: RT @timothypower67: MG never looks in the mirror, YA is obsessed with the chin zit. :) #MGlitchat -7:22 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @KDuBayGillis @elissacruz @JoWhittemore Oh, good! #Iwillshutupnow #GoJo #MGlitchat -7:22 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @tamiveldura: RT @timothypower67: MG never looks in the mirror, YA is obsessed with the chin zit. :) #MGlitchat -7:22 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura @elliefalcone Yes, if I don't believe the MC is invested in the problem, I'm not in the story. #MGlitchat -7:22 PM Sep 8th, 2011
ca_london @timothypower67 very well put #mglitchat -7:22 PM Sep 8th, 2011
librarykelly RT @ca_london: All characters are driven by motivations. Wants are different for different ages and tactics change, but desire creates character #MGlitchat -7:22 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone @librarykelly That's one thing I learned from this edit. It's so subjective and not all character resonate with every reader. #MGlitchat -7:22 PM Sep 8th, 2011
Sarah_Skilton "No love interest" sounds like it would be a relief not to worry about sometimes! @SarvenazTash @BA_Watson #mglitchat -7:22 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore Our next big question (which some of you are answering already)...How do we write/create these compelling characters? #mglitchat -7:22 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari RT @elliefalcone: Believability. I want to believe the story problem means the world to the MC.... #mglitchat -7:23 PM Sep 8th, 2011
SarahDarerLitt RT @timothypower67: MG never looks in the mirror, YA is obsessed with the chin zit. :) #mglitchat -7:23 PM Sep 8th, 2011
WaldenPondPress MG characters reside in that lovely place of tension where they are still kind of kids, but not totally naive anymore #mglitchat -7:23 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore People have mentioned character sheets. What else ya got? #mglitchat -7:23 PM Sep 8th, 2011
kurtisscaletta RT @SarahDarerLitt: RT @timothypower67: MG never looks in the mirror, YA is obsessed with the chin zit. :) #mglitchat -7:23 PM Sep 8th, 2011
coachhays64 @BA_Watson I'm happy that MG characters don't need the love interest thing. #mglitchat Me too! Not a "love" thing kind of a writer guy. -7:23 PM Sep 8th, 2011
LaurelSnyder I think sometimes we obsess over MC to the detriment of the rest of the cast. Something I've been mulling... #mglitchat -7:23 PM Sep 8th, 2011
deegarretson @librarykelly @elliefalcone true, though it made me wonder if I'm just around extra-whiny kids #mglitchat -7:23 PM Sep 8th, 2011
SarahDarerLitt RT @WaldenPondPress: MG characters reside lovely place of tension where they still kind of kids, but not totally naive anymore #mglitchat -7:23 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KKittscher @LaurelSnyder Or Bigger than a Breadbox, which I see as upper MG:-) #mglitchat -7:23 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari @elliefalcone @librarykelly But I love that for every reader, there is a character - someone for them to relate to - so imp. #mglitchat -7:23 PM Sep 8th, 2011
librarykelly @elissacruz @kurtisscaletta #youaresucceeding #MGlitchat -7:23 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KateMilford @elissacruz I think we need normal adults, too. Helps make mc's feel more real, helps kids relate to them even better. #mglitchat -7:23 PM Sep 8th, 2011
ca_london 2 things I hear most about my MCs: 'hard to like' & 'just like my kids'-Often said by same person! #mglitchat -7:23 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes @LaurelSnyder Yes, I think that happens when we focus too much on plot rather than character. #mglitchat -7:23 PM Sep 8th, 2011
timothypower67 RT @LaurelSnyder: I think sometimes we obsess over MC to the detriment of the rest of the cast. Something Ive been mulling... #MGlitchat -7:24 PM Sep 8th, 2011
kurtisscaletta #mglitchat Making characters compelling -- every character should have their own goals & think they're the hero. B/c they are in their life. -7:24 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @LaurelSnyder This is very true. MC is MAIN, but the secondaries have stories to tell as well. #mglitchat -7:24 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @timothypower67: RT @LaurelSnyder: I think sometimes we obsess over MC to the detriment of the rest of the cast. Something Ive been mulling... #MGlitchat -7:24 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura @JoWhittemore conflicting interests always make an MC more interesting to me. eg. Loves rock climbing but afraid of heights. #mglitchat -7:24 PM Sep 8th, 2011
LaurelSnyder For me, learning to write character is HARD. Each book has been different. Right now I work to push against villain/hero model. #mglitchat -7:24 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone Writers obsess over too mcuh. RT @LaurelSnyder: I think sometimes we obsess over MC to the detriment of the rest of the cast. #MGlitchat -7:24 PM Sep 8th, 2011
WaldenPondPress For instance in TRUE...(SORT OF) when Delly discovers her friend is abused, she doesn't run to mom, but doesn't dismiss the idea #mglitchat -7:24 PM Sep 8th, 2011
deegarretson How about Artemis Fowl? Many adult readers despise him, yet many kids love him. #mglitchat -7:24 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KevinTCraig @kurtisscaletta agreed. #mglitchat -7:25 PM Sep 8th, 2011
LaurelSnyder @JenniferCEstes Good point! #mglitchat -7:25 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KDuBayGillis I've tried character sketches, but now I'm going deep in my own MG memories to feel it more. Crazy to go back into turmoil. #mglitchat -7:25 PM Sep 8th, 2011
michaelascotto @LaurelSnyder Backing up and thinking about theme helps me find direction with my 2ndary chars #mglitchat -7:25 PM Sep 8th, 2011
kellypolark I love silly or witty characters. I like to laugh. #mglitchat -7:25 PM Sep 8th, 2011
katyaczaja I love Artemis Fowl... does that make me a kid? #mglitchat -7:25 PM Sep 8th, 2011
LaurelSnyder @KKittscher Heh. Yeah. I've been obsessed this year... #mglitchat -7:25 PM Sep 8th, 2011
timothypower67 Every character should be drawn well enough to take over as MC if the spotlight hit him/her. #MGlitchat -7:25 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @tamiveldura Paradoxical characters are fascinating! #mglitchat -7:25 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura I adore AF! We can be kids together :D RT @katyaczaja: I love Artemis Fowl... does that make me a kid? #mglitchat -7:25 PM Sep 8th, 2011
kurtisscaletta Want to know how to do character? Read Harriet the Spy, When You Reach Me, anything by Betsy Byars. Prepare to be Humbled. #mglitchat -7:25 PM Sep 8th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @LaurelSnyder Writing character is a challenge for me too, I feel like I'm a plot girl and trying to create characters to fit. #mglitchat -7:25 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes RT @kurtisscaletta: Want to know how to do character? Read Harriet the Spy, When You Reach Me, anything by Betsy Byars. Prepare to be Humbled. #mglitchat -7:25 PM Sep 8th, 2011
SarvenazTash Awesome --> RT @timothypower67: Every character should be drawn well enough to take over as MC if the spotlight hit him/her. #MGlitchat -7:26 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone How many of y'all just keep it all in your head and don't do sketches, interviews, etc.? #MGlitchat -7:26 PM Sep 8th, 2011
PippaBayliss @michaelascotto @LaurelSnyder Secondary characters make (or break) a good MG novel #mglitchat -7:26 PM Sep 8th, 2011
deegarretson @katyaczaja yes! you want to be an honorary kid if you write MG, so it's good. #mglitchat -7:26 PM Sep 8th, 2011
LaurelSnyder @michaelascotto Yes, I think this is key! Theme helps inform character for me too. Theme is a question character must answer. #mglitchat -7:26 PM Sep 8th, 2011
AnshaKotyk Good one: RT @timothypower67: Every character should be drawn well enough to take over as MC if the spotlight hit him/her. #MGlitchat -7:26 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz I'm not a big fan of character sketches, but it helps to really get inside the head of your character, however is best for you. #MGlitchat -7:26 PM Sep 8th, 2011
earthwards RT @timothypower67: Every character should be drawn well enough to take over as MC if the spotlight hit him/her. #mglitchat -7:26 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes @elliefalcone *raises hand* #mglitchat -7:26 PM Sep 8th, 2011
kurtisscaletta RT @SarvenazTash: Awesome --> RT @timothypower67: Every character should be drawn well enough to take over as MC if the spotlight hit him/her. #MGlitchat -7:26 PM Sep 8th, 2011
katyaczaja My MC seems to take me the longest to figure out -- sometimes not until the second draft. #mglitchat -7:26 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KateMilford @elliefalcone I'm a keep it in my head girl. I make notes, but they tend to be world/history/plot stuff, not character. #mglitchat -7:26 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura @elliefalcone /raises hand. no sketches or interviews for me. I start writing scenes from the start, cement the character asap. #MGlitchat -7:27 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore When writing characters, it's important to find a balance in personality types. You need one with humor, one with heart, etc. #mglitchat -7:27 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari @kurtisscaletta also love any character Lisa Yee creates - so vivid + unique #mglitchat -7:27 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @elliefalcone *guilty of not doing sketches or interviews* Too much like paper work. Kills my creativity #mglitchat -7:27 PM Sep 8th, 2011
literaticat RT @kurtisscaletta Want to know how to do character? Read Harriet the Spy, When You Reach Me, Betsy Byars. Prepare to be Humbled. #mglitchat -7:27 PM Sep 8th, 2011
Sarah_Skilton Good point RT @timothypowers67 MG characters are not too embarrassed to be enthusiastic about the things they like... #MGlitchat -7:27 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KKittscher @kurtisscaletta I agree. All of them reveal character so economically -- and through the charac's observations about their world. #mglitchat -7:27 PM Sep 8th, 2011
librarykelly @deegarretson @elliefalcone Ha, ha! Me, too! #MGlitchat -7:27 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @JoWhittemore Very true. A good balance makes for a good story. #mglitchat -7:27 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura We are Captain Planet? RT @JoWhittemore: . You need one with humor, one with heart, etc. #mglitchat -7:27 PM Sep 8th, 2011
earthwards I also try to think of the 5 most important people to my MC, and the effect they would have on their character/motives #mglitchat -7:27 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone Me too. RT @DanyelleLeafty: *guilty of not doing sketches or interviews* Too much like paper work. Kills my creativity #MGlitchat -7:27 PM Sep 8th, 2011
librarykelly RT @jmaschari: @elliefalcone @librarykelly But I love that for every reader, there is a character - someone for them to relate to - so imp. #mglitchat -7:27 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KevinTCraig @LaurelSnyder I try to make sure they're all fallible. The villian shows his heart & the hero shows his ugly. #mglitchat -7:27 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore If everyone's cutting jokes, it becomes madness with everyone trying to out-funny the other. Or if everyone's a romantic...GROSS #mglitchat -7:27 PM Sep 8th, 2011
librarykelly @ca_london Uh-oh! #MGlitchat -7:28 PM Sep 8th, 2011
LaurelSnyder RT @timothypower67 Every character should be drawn well enough to take over as MC if the spotlight hit him/her. #MGlitchat #mglitchat -7:28 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore HAHAHA! RT @tamiveldura: We are Captain Planet? RT @JoWhittemore: . You need one with humor, one with heart, etc. #mglitchat -7:28 PM Sep 8th, 2011
imruthwalker Think Gilgamesh with Enkido; 5 thousand years + and those pages are full of characters with mega-complex baggage #mglitchat #figlitchat -7:28 PM Sep 8th, 2011
LaurelSnyder @KevinTCraig Yes, this! #mglitchat -7:28 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari @JoWhittemore Total gross-out on the romance. ;) #mglitchat -7:28 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes @elliefalcone Also, with mystery, most of first draft is plot -- working on character & voice in 2nd, and later, drafts. #mglitchat -7:28 PM Sep 8th, 2011
kellypolark RT @JoWhittemore: When writing characters, it's important to find a balance in personality types. You need one with humor, one with heart, etc. #mglitchat -7:29 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore Love that! RT @timothypower67: Every character should be drawn well enough to take over as MC if the spotlight hit him/her. #mglitchat -7:29 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone I read somewhere that MCs should be opposites. Yes? No? #MGlitchat -7:29 PM Sep 8th, 2011
kurtisscaletta #mglitchat Katherine Patterson said the best creds for writing kids books is having been a weird little kid. -7:29 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KKittscher @jmaschari @JoWhittemore We're solidifying our reputation as #yalitchat "without the tongue" #mglitchat -7:29 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @JenniferCEstes @elliefalcone I agree. My mysteries have always needed plot first, then character. #MGlitchat -7:29 PM Sep 8th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @kurtisscaletta Oh good. I qualify. :) #mglitchat -7:29 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone @JenniferCEstes Same here. #MGlitchat -7:29 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KDuBayGillis RT @kurtisscaletta: #mglitchat Katherine Patterson said the best creds for writing kids books is having been a weird little kid. -7:29 PM Sep 8th, 2011
deegarretson RT @kurtisscaletta: #mglitchat Katherine Patterson said the best creds for writing kids books is having been a weird little kid. #mglitchat -7:29 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes RT @kurtisscaletta: #mglitchat Katherine Patterson said the best creds for writing kids books is having been a weird little kid. -7:29 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura @elliefalcone disagree. having two similar-but-different can provide interesting viewpoints #MGlitchat -7:29 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari @KKittscher @jmaschari @JoWhittemore HA! Someone should make t-shirts. An amazing slogan. #mglitchat -7:30 PM Sep 8th, 2011
kellypolark @JoWhittemore Agreed. You need a variety of personalities. #mglitchat -7:30 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone Not saying it's true. Just that I read it. RT @elliefalcone: I read somewhere that MCs should be opposites. Yes? No? #MGlitchat -7:30 PM Sep 8th, 2011
WaldenPondPress RT @KevinTCraig: @LaurelSnyder I try to make sure theyre all fallible. The villian shows his heart & the hero shows his ugly. #mglitchat -7:30 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore BUT there is that point where secondary characters have to be in soft focus in the background so they aren't more interesting. #mglitchat -7:30 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @elliefalcone For me, it depends on what the story needs. They won't always work in harmony, though. #mglitchat -7:30 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @elissacruz @JenniferCEstes @elliefalcone Thought that could just be how I write. I can't get past the plot holes #MGlitchat -7:30 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KateMilford Does anybody else feel like their characters come more from their interactions with the villain or plot than from pre-planning? #mglitchat -7:30 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura RT @KevinTCraig: @LaurelSnyder I try to make sure theyre all fallible. The villian shows his heart & the hero shows his ugly. #mglitchat -7:30 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KDuBayGillis @kurtisscaletta I think we probably all felt like a weird little kid. (I had a scab collection. Nice, huh?) #mglitchat -7:30 PM Sep 8th, 2011
SarahDarerLitt *Raises hand* RT @kurtisscaletta: Katherine Patterson said best creds for writing kids books is having been a weird little kid. #mglitchat -7:31 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @KKittscher @jmaschari Yes! I like that motto! #mglitchat -7:31 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari @JoWhittemore Yes - I struggle with this at times - my secondary characters tend to be pretty vivid #mglitchat -7:31 PM Sep 8th, 2011
MojoFingers #mglitchat @LaurelSnyder & @AnshaKotkyk I have the oppos issue. I have a plethora of great chars, but struggle with finding their big story -7:31 PM Sep 8th, 2011
AnshaKotyk ditto :RT @jmaschari: @JoWhittemore Yes - I struggle with this at times - my secondary characters tend to be pretty vivid #mglitchat -7:31 PM Sep 8th, 2011
katyaczaja @KateMilford I agree. Seeing what they do helps me understand them and write them. #mglitchat -7:31 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @jmaschari And then you wonder...did I pick the wrong main character? #mglitchat -7:31 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura Oh, ew. I'll stick with POGs. RT @KDuBayGillis we probably all a weird little kid. (I had a scab collection. Nice, huh?) #mglitchat -7:31 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes @KDuBayGillis Um....ew? #mglitchat -7:31 PM Sep 8th, 2011
timothypower67 I love Artemis Fowl cuz I believe under all his coldhearted bluster he is a scared lonely insecure softie like the rest of us. #MGlitchat -7:31 PM Sep 8th, 2011
SarahDarerLitt @KDuBayGillis @kurtisscaletta I kept my appendix stitches for YEARS. They might even still be in my attic. #mglitchat -7:31 PM Sep 8th, 2011
literaticat But...there's different KINDS of MG, no? Take, say, HORTON HALFPOTT or LIZARD MUSIC...this doesn't apply to those, I don't think. #mglitchat -7:31 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KateMessner I think flawed protagonists & sympathetic villains make a novel so much richer. #MGlitchat -7:32 PM Sep 8th, 2011
deegarretson @elliefalcone nice thing about MG, kids that age are often friends with kids totally unlike them, not yet trying to be Borg #mglitchat -7:32 PM Sep 8th, 2011
AnshaKotyk Yes, exactly. RT @JoWhittemore: @jmaschari And then you wonder...did I pick the wrong main character? #mglitchat -7:32 PM Sep 8th, 2011
ixtumea RT @KateMessner: I think flawed protagonists & sympathetic villains make a novel so much richer. #MGlitchat -7:32 PM Sep 8th, 2011
coachhays64 @elliefalcone Me! It's probably why it takes my stories so long to develop & write. I have to "see" them while I write them. #mglitchat -7:32 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @MojoFingers @LaurelSnyder @AnshaKotkyk Make a "web" that weaves them all together! #mglitchat -7:32 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone My hero! RT @KDuBayGillis: I think we probably all felt like a weird little kid. (I had a scab collection. Nice, huh?) #MGlitchat -7:32 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura RT @KateMessner: I think flawed protagonists & sympathetic villains make a novel so much richer. #MGlitchat -7:32 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KevinTCraig @JoWhittemore I usually have ONE stress-breaking funny person. #mglitchat all of them cracking is too irritating -7:32 PM Sep 8th, 2011
coachhays64 RT @KateMessner: I think flawed protagonists & sympathetic villains make a novel so much richer. #MGlitchat -7:32 PM Sep 8th, 2011
earthwards @literaticat Totally reading HORTON right now, as an aside. =D #mglitchat -7:32 PM Sep 8th, 2011
SarahDarerLitt Agreed RT @KateMessner: I think flawed protagonists & sympathetic villains make a novel so much richer. #mglitchat -7:32 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @KevinTCraig: @JoWhittemore I usually have ONE stress-breaking funny person. #mglitchat all of them cracking is too irritating -7:32 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari @JoWhittemore Amen sister. You are singing my song! #mglitchat -7:32 PM Sep 8th, 2011
WaldenPondPress We always look for this: RT @KateMessner: I think flawed protagonists & sympathetic villains make a novel so much richer. #mglitchat -7:33 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @literaticat Just what I was going to say. The type of book may also decide what types of characters we create. #MGlitchat -7:33 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KarenAdairYA My son LOVES the 39 Clues Series. I do too. Awesome characters. #mglitchat -7:33 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @KevinTCraig Exactly. An occasional back-and-forth is good, but that's it. #mglitchat -7:33 PM Sep 8th, 2011
AnshaKotyk Making mental note: RT @JoWhittemore: @MojoFingers @LaurelSnyder @AnshaKotkyk Make a "web" that weaves them all together! #mglitchat -7:33 PM Sep 8th, 2011
PippaBayliss stink! my mushrooms are burning - brb #mglitchat -7:33 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @AnshaKotyk: Making mental note: RT @JoWhittemore: @MojoFingers @LaurelSnyder @AnshaKotkyk Make a "web" that weaves them all together! #mglitchat -7:33 PM Sep 8th, 2011
thereadingzone RT @KateMessner: I think flawed protagonists & sympathetic villains make a novel so much richer. #mglitchat -7:33 PM Sep 8th, 2011
LaurelSnyder @JoWhittemore @jmaschari This happened to me with Penny Dreadful. Was HARD to fix the last draft. #mglitchat -7:33 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KateMessner Great way to get to know characters: snoop around their bedrooms. What's up on the walls? Shoved in back of dresser drawer? #MGlitchat -7:33 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KDuBayGillis RT @WaldenPondPress: We always look for this: RT @KateMessner: I think flawed protagonists & sympathetic villains make a novel so much richer. #mglitchat -7:34 PM Sep 8th, 2011
kellypolark @KevinTCraig @JoWhittemore Yes! Exactly why Fred & George worked so well in Harry Potter! #mglitchat -7:34 PM Sep 8th, 2011
ca_london @KateMilford completely! I learn more about the characters by putting them through things than from planning #mglitchat -7:34 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone @deegarretson Absolutely. My friends were quite the opposite with just few similarities. #MGlitchat -7:34 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KevinTCraig @SarahDarerLitt did you know arm casts start to stink like dead bodies after a couple of years! #mglitchat ;-) -7:34 PM Sep 8th, 2011
librarykelly RT @KateMessner: I think flawed protagonists & sympathetic villains make a novel so much richer. #MGlitchat -7:34 PM Sep 8th, 2011
Sarah_Skilton I think whether characters are compelling also depends on the order in which we reveal their traits (see WESTING GAME) #MGlitchat -7:34 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @KateMessner Yes! Setting can say a lot about a person. #mglitchat -7:34 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @literaticat Are you referring to complexity of character re: different MG? #mglitchat -7:34 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes YES! RT @kellypolark: @KevinTCraig @JoWhittemore Yes! Exactly why Fred & George worked so well in Harry Potter! #mglitchat -7:34 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari Gregor the Overlander series (I know, again!) does a fantastic job of showing flawed hero/sympathetic, dimensional villain #mglitchat -7:34 PM Sep 8th, 2011
timothypower67 RT @ca_london: @KateMilford completely! I learn more about the characters by putting them through things than from planning #MGlitchat -7:34 PM Sep 8th, 2011
ca_london RT @kurtisscaletta: #mglitchat Katherine Patterson said the best creds for writing kids books is having been a weird little kid. -7:34 PM Sep 8th, 2011
imruthwalker @PippaBayliss Perfect line for dialogue. Save it and use it somewhere. #figlitchat #mglitchat -7:34 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @timothypower67: RT @ca_london: @KateMilford completely! I learn more about the characters by putting them through things than from planning #MGlitchat -7:34 PM Sep 8th, 2011
WaldenPondPress @jmaschari - Just read the first in the series - yes, great example! #mglitchat -7:35 PM Sep 8th, 2011
SarahDarerLitt @KevinTCraig Uh oh - we have my daughter's leg cast from her broken ankle in the mud room. She decorated so beautifully... #mglitchat -7:35 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone My characters develop as I write them. Since I write mysteries the plot tends to get planned more than anything else. #MGlitchat -7:35 PM Sep 8th, 2011
librarykelly @literaticat Horton Halfpott! The unwitting main character! I loved the narration in that book #MGlitchat -7:35 PM Sep 8th, 2011
deegarretson I'm out of here early tonight. Happy reading! #mglitchat -7:35 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari @WaldenPondPress I often look to this series as a model for my own writing - of what I want to accomplish/achieve #mglitchat -7:36 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes @DanyelleLeafty Indeed. What they notice, what they ignore, how they react to what's there -- all helps build voice. #mglitchat -7:36 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @AnshaKotyk Yep! Every point of the web (person) should connect to someone else with a thread (that's their story) #mglitchat -7:36 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KKittscher To develop characters, I have to experiment with voice until I find the right one. Plot comes later -- even with a mystery. #mglitchat -7:36 PM Sep 8th, 2011
PippaBayliss Yep, that's why I try (TRY) to start with the villain b4 I sketch my MC RT @KateMilford: #mglitchat -7:36 PM Sep 8th, 2011
ca_london My dog will not be treated like a secondary character-he demands a walk right now! Bye #MGlitchat Goodnight all you crazy characters! -7:36 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @JenniferCEstes Yes--and deepens their connection with the reader. #mglitchat -7:36 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone @DanyelleLeafty I have setting issues. We need a chat on setting. #MGlitchat -7:36 PM Sep 8th, 2011
WaldenPondPress @Sarah_Skilton - That is a very interesting insight (and a great example) The Westing Game masters the slow, calculated reveal #mglitchat -7:36 PM Sep 8th, 2011
timothypower67 Derail, sorry...thinking today how Toto is still doomed. Rich Ms. Gulch will be back for him! :( #MGlitchat -7:36 PM Sep 8th, 2011
SarvenazTash For me too. RT @KKittscher: To develop characters, I have to experiment with voice... Plot comes later -- even with a mystery. #mglitchat -7:37 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @KKittscher Do you re-work the first chapter until you're happy with the voice? Or plunge on and see how it plays out? #mglitchat -7:37 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes RT @elliefalcone: My characters develop as I write them. Since I write mysteries the plot tends to get planned more than anything else. #MGlitchat -7:37 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @elliefalcone @DanyelleLeafty the Setting chat is already scheduled. #FYI #MGlitchat -7:37 PM Sep 8th, 2011
AnshaKotyk Me too! consider it done. ;) RT @elliefalcone: @DanyelleLeafty I have setting issues. We need a chat on setting. #MGlitchat -7:37 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @elliefalcone Me too. I'm working on it. And yes! Will set up a chat for setting. #mglitchat -7:37 PM Sep 8th, 2011
AnshaKotyk Really? I need to read up on the blog!RT @elissacruz: @elliefalcone @DanyelleLeafty the Setting chat is already scheduled. #FYI #MGlitchat -7:37 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @elliefalcone @DanyelleLeafty We DO have a setting (time & place) chat scheduled in October, clever girl! #mglitchat -7:37 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KDuBayGillis @elliefalcone @DanyelleLeafty We'll add it to the list! #mglitchat -7:37 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KevinTCraig @SarahDarerLitt is it loose or wrapped...in plastic or bag? I opened the bag mine was in and the family ALMOST died. ;-) #mglitchat -7:37 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes @JoWhittemore Onward, ho! See how it plays out! #mglitchat -7:38 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KateMilford @ca_london @pippabayliss Esp for MG--they're still malleable kids & we're writing the biggest story of their lives (so far). #mglitchat -7:38 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone I love you guys! *sniff* #MGlitchat -7:38 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KateMessner Oh, this makes me happy! #LOVEsetting RT @elissacruz The Setting chat is already scheduled. #MGlitchat -7:38 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @elissacruz @elliefalcone @Anshakotyk We are made of psychic! #mglitchat -7:38 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KDuBayGillis @ca_london Thanks for coming! #mglitchat -7:38 PM Sep 8th, 2011
SarahDarerLitt @KevinTCraig Oh, hers is just out in the open. We were thinking of making into a planter : ) #mglitchat -7:38 PM Sep 8th, 2011
WaldenPondPress @jmaschari - Good for you - it's a fantastic model, though sometimes under-appreciated, I feel. #mglitchat -7:38 PM Sep 8th, 2011
literaticat @JoWhittemore I dunno dude. Don't mind me. I'm just saying, all this beezwax sounds right for realistic bks - not nec. farce etc #mglitchat -7:39 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KevinTCraig RT @JoWhittemore: @elliefalcone @DanyelleLeafty We DO have a setting (time & place) chat scheduled in October, clever girl! #mglitchat -7:39 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KKittscher @JoWhittemore @KKittscher I do lots of free-writing of monologue-type things that I throw away..then pluck plot ideas out #mglitchat -7:39 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone @DanyelleLeafty @elissacruz @Anshakotyk You guys are too cool for school. #MGlitchat -7:39 PM Sep 8th, 2011
LaurelSnyder I saw Collin Meloy speak this week, and he said in Wildwood, the setting *is* a character. #mglitchat -7:39 PM Sep 8th, 2011
donalynbooks RT @KateMessner: I think flawed protagonists & sympathetic villains make a novel so much richer. #MGlitchat -7:39 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari @WaldenPondPress Entirely under-appreciated - I agree with you on that! #mglitchat -7:39 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KateMilford @ca_london @pippabayliss I'm more comfortable letting the experience change them rather than mapping out their changes. #mglitchat -7:39 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @literaticat @JoWhittemore I agree. I write humor, and I have to admit that my characters are a little overboard, but it works. #MGlitchat -7:39 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore We touched on this a little, but let's talk books. What's your favorite craft book on character & favorite characters in books? #mglitchat -7:40 PM Sep 8th, 2011
MsHoughton RT @literaticat: RT @kurtisscaletta Want to know how to do character? Read Harriet the Spy, When You Reach Me, Betsy Byars. Prepare to be Humbled. #mglitchat -7:40 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tcanny In lurker mode at #MGlitchat -7:40 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone Hurry up, October. RT @LaurelSnyder: I saw Collin Meloy speak this week, and he said in Wildwood, the setting *is* a character. #MGlitchat -7:40 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KateMessner @LaurelSnyder Setting as character could be its own chat. Lucy Christopher's STOLEN one of my favorite examples of this. #MGlitchat -7:40 PM Sep 8th, 2011
katyaczaja Orson Scott card's book on character is amazing. #mglitchat -7:40 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone @tcanny You can't hide from us. Welcome. #MGlitchat -7:40 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore My craft book is Characters & Viewpoint (Writers Digest) by Orson Scott Card. #mglitchat -7:41 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura RT @katyaczaja: Orson Scott card's book on character is amazing. #mglitchat -7:41 PM Sep 8th, 2011
librarykelly Funny! “@elliefalcone: @DanyelleLeafty @elissacruz @Anshakotyk You guys are too cool for school. #MGlitchat” -7:41 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @katyaczaja Jinx! #mglitchat -7:41 PM Sep 8th, 2011
AnshaKotyk I need a good character book. I read part of "Getting into character" it might be a good idea to pick it up again. #mglitchat -7:41 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty My favorite craft books on character are the regular MG books I read that do it well. #mglitchat #analyzingwhatworks -7:41 PM Sep 8th, 2011
pvoelkel Re flawed protoganists, when we first submitted Middleworld, some people (adults not kids) didn't like mc because he was bratty. #MGlitchat -7:41 PM Sep 8th, 2011
SarvenazTash I know others have mentioned, but Turtle Wexler from Westing Game and Harriet in Harriet the Spy are 2 who always inspire me. #MGLitChat -7:41 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KKittscher @elissacruz @literaticat @JoWhittemore I can't have fun unless it's all a bit overboard. No sympathetic villains for me! #mglitchat -7:41 PM Sep 8th, 2011
literaticat @elliefalcone @LaurelSnyder what happens in October? WILDWOOD is out now... #mglitchat -7:41 PM Sep 8th, 2011
katyaczaja @JoWhittemore great minds... #mglitchat -7:41 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari Fave characters in books- Temp and Gregor in Gregor the Overlander, Zachary Beaver (oh man I love him) #mglitchat -7:41 PM Sep 8th, 2011
michaelascotto RT @DanyelleLeafty: My favorite craft books on character are the regular MG books I read that do it well. #analyzingwhatworks #mglitchat -7:42 PM Sep 8th, 2011
PaulWHankins @KateMessner @LaurelSnyder Certainly setting (environment) works as character. Example, "The Noise" in Patrick Ness series. #MGlitchat -7:42 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @literaticat @elliefalcone @LaurelSnyder Our chat about setting happens in Oct. #MGlitchat -7:42 PM Sep 8th, 2011
coachhays64 @LaurelSnyder Lucky you! I hope you wrote everything he said in permanent marker or better yet, stone. Collin Meloy = Genius. #mglitchat -7:42 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KevinTCraig @LaurelSnyder #mglitchat big time. My adult character's house is a main character in my MG. It's almost the only setting. Integral. -7:42 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @jmaschari I really am starting to feel I must read Gregor #mglitchat -7:42 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone I agree with @DanyelleLeafty I learn more about character by reading the books than by studying it. #MGlitchat -7:42 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari Maxwell Kane and Kevin Avery in FREAK, THE MIGHTY are my all-time favorite characters #mglitchat -7:42 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tcanny Adding to my to-read list now. @jowhittemore: My craft book is Characters & Viewpoint (Writers Digest) by Orson Scott Card. #mglitchat -7:42 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KDuBayGillis @LaurelSnyder 1) Jealous 2) agree! #mglitchat -7:42 PM Sep 8th, 2011
AnshaKotyk me too. RT @JoWhittemore: @jmaschari I really am starting to feel I must read Gregor #mglitchat -7:42 PM Sep 8th, 2011
LaurelSnyder @SarvenazTash Turtle is good example of how it doesn't have to be a deep issue book for fully developed character to matter. #mglitchat -7:42 PM Sep 8th, 2011
earthwards @KKittscher @elissacruz @literaticat @JoWhittemore Same here! *dives overboard* =D #mglitchat -7:42 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KateMessner @pvoelkel He is bratty. But he's also a real kid. #MGlitchat -7:42 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes RT @elliefalcone: I agree with @DanyelleLeafty I learn more about character by reading the books than by studying it. #MGlitchat -7:42 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone @literaticat Oh. We're having a chat on setting in October. #MGlitchat -7:43 PM Sep 8th, 2011
timothypower67 MT @KKittscher: @elissacruz @literaticat @JoWhittemore Cant have fun unless its a bit overboard. No sympathetic villains for me! #MGlitchat -7:43 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KateMilford @literaticat @elliefalcone @LaurelSnyder McNally's got Wildwood for 10% off on the (end of summer) reads table. :) #mglitchat -7:43 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KevinTCraig Absolutely! RT @DanyelleLeafty My favorite craft books on character are the regular MG books I read that do it well. #mglitchat -7:43 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari @JoWhittemore You will never regret reading the series - it honestly becomes a part of you #mglitchat -7:43 PM Sep 8th, 2011
LaurelSnyder @coachhays64 Carson Ellis was genius as well, but Meloy happened to say that part. Just FYI. #mglitchat -7:43 PM Sep 8th, 2011
michaelascotto To Be A Playwright by Janet Neipris had some amazing char building tools...useful to all narrative forms #mglitchat -7:43 PM Sep 8th, 2011
MattPhelanDraws #MGlitchat The Penderwicks are amazing. You always know which sister is talking. Definitely sisters, but each an individual. -7:43 PM Sep 8th, 2011
blueeyedadri Following new people leads you to find new things like #mglitchat *waves* Hi! -7:43 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore For well-written characters, it's @JonathanAStroud's Bartimaeus. So much backstory in that character. #mglitchat -7:43 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KevinTCraig RT @elissacruz: @literaticat @elliefalcone @LaurelSnyder Our chat about setting happens in Oct. #MGlitchat -7:44 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @MattPhelanDraws I love this series! #mglitchat -7:44 PM Sep 8th, 2011
PaulWHankins @EgmontUSA @KateMessner @LaurelSnyder Don't know. I was reading this new YA title coming out in December and stumbled on a #MGLitChat post. -7:44 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @blueeyedadri *waves back* Welcome to #MGlitchat! #MGlitchat -7:44 PM Sep 8th, 2011
timothypower67 Joan Aiken's Dido Twite needs a shoutout here re. awesome character. #MGlitchat -7:44 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @MattPhelanDraws I have heard of these Penderwicks. My reading list is going to be long, methinks. #mglitchat -7:44 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KevinTCraig Yes! RT @michaelascotto To Be A Playwright by Janet Neipris had some amazing char building tools...useful to all narrative forms #mglitchat -7:44 PM Sep 8th, 2011
LaurelSnyder It is! #MGLitchat is Thursdays at 9. Is fun. But NO KISSING! @PaulWHankins @EgmontUSA @KateMessner -7:45 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KKittscher @MattPhelanDraws I agree. Birdsall juggles the four effortlessly. #mglitchat -7:45 PM Sep 8th, 2011
WaldenPondPress @AnshaKotyk @JoWhittemore @jmaschari - Just read it and could easily read it again - a great, albeit, overlooked series #mglitchat -7:45 PM Sep 8th, 2011
SarvenazTash I'm reading Penderwicks now. They're wonderful! #MGLitChat -7:45 PM Sep 8th, 2011
Ann_de_Forest RT @JoWhittemore: Love that! RT @timothypower67: Every character should be drawn well enough to take over as MC if the spotlight hit him/her. #mglitchat -7:45 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty @JoWhittemore @MattPhelanDraws My reading list always grows after each chat. :S #mglitchat #somanyawesomebooks -7:45 PM Sep 8th, 2011
MojoFingers #mglitchat I think Christopher Paul Curtis's whole Watson family is a great study in voice. Each is unique, funny, honest -7:45 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @michaelascotto Haven't heard of THAT one. Will have to look for it. #mglitchat -7:45 PM Sep 8th, 2011
literaticat @elliefalcone Ohhh i see. CARRY ON! ;-) #mglitchat -7:45 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura RT @DanyelleLeafty: @JoWhittemore @MattPhelanDraws My reading list always grows after each chat. :S #mglitchat #somanyawesomebooks -7:45 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes Yes. RT @DanyelleLeafty: @JoWhittemore @MattPhelanDraws My reading list always grows after each chat. :S #mglitchat #somanyawesomebooks -7:45 PM Sep 8th, 2011
librarykelly @blueeyedadri *waves back* Hi! #MGlitchat -7:45 PM Sep 8th, 2011
pvoelkel oops forgot #mglitchat @KateMessner And adults who didn't like our sometimes bratty mc tended to have younger than MG kids. They'll see... -7:46 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @LaurelSnyder @PaulWHankins @EgmontUSA @KateMessner Yes, NO KISSING! (At least, not with the tongue.) #itstherules #MGlitchat -7:46 PM Sep 8th, 2011
LaurelSnyder Hell to the yeah. #didotwiteforever @timothypower67 #mglitchat -7:46 PM Sep 8th, 2011
WaldenPondPress @MattPhelanDraws I was wondering if someone would mention The Penderwicks - talk about mastery of voice and character #mglitchat -7:46 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari @MojoFingers Yes - love Christopher Paul Curtis' characters in all his books - a true master #mglitchat -7:46 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KateMilford @literaticat @elliefalcone I was confused about that, too, obviously. #mglitchat -7:46 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone @literaticat Not a problem. It goes so fast in here sometimes. #MGlitchat -7:46 PM Sep 8th, 2011
katyaczaja I love Ripred from Gregor the Overlander, Artemis Fowl, and Bone. #mglitchat -7:46 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes RT @pvoelkel: oops forgot #mglitchat @KateMessner And adults who didn't like our sometimes bratty mc tended to have younger than MG kids. They'll see... -7:46 PM Sep 8th, 2011
rhondasaunders Way late. I'll just lurk and enjoy since I'm useless at this point. #mglitchat -7:46 PM Sep 8th, 2011
MattPhelanDraws @JoWhittemore Yes, make it 3 books longer for Penderwicks. You won't regret it. #mglitchat -7:46 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura /loving all over AFRT @katyaczaja: I love Ripred from Gregor the Overlander, Artemis Fowl, and Bone. #mglitchat -7:46 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DanyelleLeafty RT @MattPhelanDraws: @JoWhittemore Yes, make it 3 books longer for Penderwicks. You won't regret it. #mglitchat -7:47 PM Sep 8th, 2011
blueeyedadri @elissacruz thank you, when are the #mglitchat 's? -7:47 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz I was going to say Penderwick, but I guess someone else already did? Each character is #awesome. #MGlitchat -7:47 PM Sep 8th, 2011
MojoFingers #mglitchat and I completely agree about reading Gregor - and about Philbrick's Max & Kevin - great characters -7:47 PM Sep 8th, 2011
librarykelly “@pvoelkel: #mglitchat And adults who didn't like our sometimes bratty mc tended to have younger than MG kids. They'll see... Yes they will -7:48 PM Sep 8th, 2011
michaelascotto @JoWhittemore She teaches @ NYU's Tisch School...was lucky enough to have her crit one of my plays some years back. Great book #mglitchat -7:48 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari @katyaczaja Love Ripred too!!! Glad to see a fellow Gregor disciple ;) #mglitchat -7:48 PM Sep 8th, 2011
Ann_de_Forest RT @timothypower67: MG characters are not too embarrassed to be enthusiastic about the things they like. YA tends to hide behind on a public face. #MGlitchat -7:48 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore A last note on character...how much thought do you put into names? How do you choose them? #mglitchat -7:48 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura Speaking of timing, how do you all keep track? I need a calender or... RT @blueeyedadri: @elissacruz thank you, when are the #mglitchat 's? -7:48 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @blueeyedadri Thursdays 9pm EST. You can view transcripts and upcoming topics here: http://t.co/6HPm7jx #MGlitchat -7:48 PM Sep 8th, 2011
LaurelSnyder @JoWhittemore Oh, I love naming so much. #mglitchat -7:48 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KateMilford @JoWhittemore Names are one of my most favorite ever parts of the process. So much fun. #mglitchat -7:48 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes @JoWhittemore *thud* with painstaking agony..... #mglitchat -7:48 PM Sep 8th, 2011
WaldenPondPress Excellent questions! RT @JoWhittemore: A last note on character...how much thought do you put into names? How do you choose them? #mglitchat -7:48 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura @JoWhittemore oh man, the name has to fit. HAS to. I'll usually start with a letter or sound, hard or soft, and tinker from there #mglitchat -7:48 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @michaelascotto Makes me think of a scriptwriting book about saving cats. Or saving the cat. Or shaving the cat. Something. #mglitchat -7:49 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone @JoWhittemore Ugh. I put way too much thought into names. Some do come easy though. #MGlitchat -7:49 PM Sep 8th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @JoWhittemore after writing a couple thousand words character names reveal themselves. #mglitchat -7:49 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KateMessner @tamiveldura I usually have a timeline & calendar with me through the revision process. Make chapter-by-chapter notes. #MGlitchat -7:49 PM Sep 8th, 2011
SarvenazTash I prob put TOO much thought into names but I always think about why they have their name & how it affects them. #ihaveacrazyname #MGLitChat -7:49 PM Sep 8th, 2011
PaulWHankins @elissacruz @LaurelSnyder @EgmontUSA @KateMessner Sounds like a super idea. Would love to learn more about MG. I'll behave (?) #MGLitChat. -7:49 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes *nods head virgorously* RT @elliefalcone: @JoWhittemore Ugh. I put way too much thought into names. Some do come easy though. #MGlitchat -7:49 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @LaurelSnyder Me too! I relish it. #mglitchat -7:49 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura @KateMessner lol! sorry, I meant timing of all the litchats! #MGlitchat -7:49 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari Names normally just pop in my head and I go with them! Unfortunately, that is about the only thing that comes easy for me. #mglitchat -7:49 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @tamiveldura Check the blog: http://t.co/6HPm7jx #MGlitchat -7:49 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @AnshaKotyk Really? Fascinating! So you can go without knowing the names? #mglitchat -7:49 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura @elissacruz thank you #MGlitchat -7:50 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone @JoWhittemore @michaelascotto Shaving the cat. hahahaha #MGlitchat -7:50 PM Sep 8th, 2011
earthwards Always a different path to find each name, but I also always end up thinking 'oh THERE you are!' when I find the right one :) #mglitchat -7:50 PM Sep 8th, 2011
michaelascotto @JoWhittemore I have that one on a shelf too (my background was screenwriting before getting into kidlit) #mglitchat -7:50 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KateMessner @tamiveldura Oh! That! I don't keep track - I just stumble on them happily. #MGlitchat -7:50 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes RT @earthwards: Always a different path to find each name, but I also always end up thinking 'oh THERE you are!' when I find the right one :) #mglitchat -7:50 PM Sep 8th, 2011
blueeyedadri RT @elissacruz: @blueeyedadri Thursdays 9pm EST. You can view transcripts and upcoming topics here: http://t.co/6HPm7jx #MGlitchat -7:50 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura @KateMessner haha, I did just that today #MGlitchat -7:50 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KKittscher @PaulWHankins We'll accept kisses on the cheek:-) #mglitchat -7:50 PM Sep 8th, 2011
timothypower67 Favorite character names? One for me: Sport Rocque. #MGlitchat -7:50 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore I think names are so important and have to match the character. Some just don't. #mglitchat -7:51 PM Sep 8th, 2011
patriciacaspers Hi, I'm new! What do you all think of Mother Daughter Book Club? Loved the premise, had trouble keeping the characters straight. #mglitchat -7:51 PM Sep 8th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @JoWhittemore Yeah, my characters have generic names like MC or some initials that I like... then magically the name shows up. #mglitchat -7:51 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz I take no thought for names. I pick the first thing that comes to mind. Then change them later if need be. #MGlitchat -7:51 PM Sep 8th, 2011
MojoFingers #mglitchat GAH! Names are essential Sometimes that's the first part I collect about a char - & it doesn't feel right until the name is beast -7:51 PM Sep 8th, 2011
librarykelly @AnshaKotyk @jowhittemore Same here. I don't like naming all that much. #MGlitchat -7:51 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @AnshaKotyk That is so cool. #mglitchat -7:51 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes @elissacruz Oh, how liberating! Must try that... #mglitchat -7:51 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone MC names come easily. That's how I know I'm ready to write. It's the secondary characters that drive me batty. #MGlitchat -7:51 PM Sep 8th, 2011
blueeyedadri @tamiveldura so many chats, so little time.... #mglitchat -7:51 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tcanny Thank goodness for the public library because my reading list just keeps getting bigger and I'd go broke if I had to buy 'em all. #MGlitchat -7:52 PM Sep 8th, 2011
michaelascotto I think a lot about names. Must fit character, their world...plus they need a certain rhythm when read aloud #mglitchat -7:52 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore I'm one of those saps that looks for names that have certain meanings. #mglitchat -7:52 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KKittscher @JoWhittemore Best part about naming challenges? Global find/replace. #mglitchat -7:52 PM Sep 8th, 2011
pvoelkel One of my favourite MG characters is Ida B. I guess because I used to feel the same way. #MGlitchat -7:52 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz But I should mention that I do a LOT of thinking before I write anything, so I'm sure my subconsious is choosing them for me. #MGlitchat -7:52 PM Sep 8th, 2011
kellypolark I have a character name word document. Working in a school helps me build a healthy name file! #mglitchat -7:52 PM Sep 8th, 2011
blueeyedadri @elissacruz I will check it out, thanks. #mglitchat -7:52 PM Sep 8th, 2011
PippaBayliss @JoWhittemore @JonathanAStroud Stroud is a master. I bow and grovel at his feet. #mglitchat -7:52 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura @blueeyedadri chats and books and blogs ... it's a full time job! #mglitchat -7:52 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone Me too. Urgh. RT @JoWhittemore: Im one of those saps that looks for names that have certain meanings. #MGlitchat -7:52 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @michaelascotto Rhythm=yes! You can't have a bunch of one syllable characters or names ending in "y" #mglitchat -7:52 PM Sep 8th, 2011
AnshaKotyk I do this too. RT @JoWhittemore: I'm one of those saps that looks for names that have certain meanings. #mglitchat -7:52 PM Sep 8th, 2011
coachhays64 @JoWhittemore Combination of names I find in sources (newspapers, scientific papers, sports names, etc.), which fit character. #mglitchat -7:52 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari RT @kellypolark: I have a character name word document. Working in a school helps me build a healthy name file! #mglitchat -7:52 PM Sep 8th, 2011
SarvenazTash I love coming up with first names. For some reason, last names are really hard for me. #MGLitChat -7:52 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone I have a baby naming book. Might get a new one. #MGlitchat -7:53 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura @JoWhittemore or all the names starting with R or a Kathryn and a Cathrine... #mglitchat -7:53 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes Me three! RT @elliefalcone: Me too. Urgh. RT @JoWhittemore: Im one of those saps that looks for names that have certain meanings. #MGlitchat -7:53 PM Sep 8th, 2011
HeidiNorrod I dislike when #mglitchat and #bookcountry are both going on at the same time... All I can do is read and play catch up, not ask. ...sigh... -7:53 PM Sep 8th, 2011
SarvenazTash Me too! RT @elliefalcone: I have a baby naming book. #MGlitchat -7:53 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @tamiveldura Or rhyming names *shudder* #mglitchat -7:53 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @elliefalcone @JoWhittemore Confession: I did this with my current WIP. It was my first time. #MGlitchat -7:53 PM Sep 8th, 2011
coachhays64 RT @elissacruz: But I should mention that I do a LOT of thinking before I write anything, so I'm sure my subconsious is choosing them for me. #MGlitchat -7:53 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone @SarvenazTash I usually consult the phone book for surnames. #MGlitchat -7:53 PM Sep 8th, 2011
librarykelly @elliefalcone See, I can name secondary characters like nobody's business. I modify names of people I know. #MGlitchat -7:53 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura @HeidiNorrod I'm watching both too, /feel your pain #mglitchat #bookcountry -7:53 PM Sep 8th, 2011
patriciacaspers @AnshaKotyk @JoWhittemore Me, too. RT I'm one of those saps that looks for names that have certain meanings. #mglitchat -7:54 PM Sep 8th, 2011
storiesbylaura RT @SarvenazTash: I do character sketches: I feel like if I know where someone came from, I can figure out where they're going. #MGLitChat -7:54 PM Sep 8th, 2011
SarvenazTash Ooh. Good idea! @elliefalcone: @SarvenazTash I usually consult the phone book for surnames. #MGlitchat -7:54 PM Sep 8th, 2011
pvoelkel As for naming characters, I think about who they are & who their parents wanted them to be when they were born. #MGlitchat -7:54 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura @JoWhittemore I ran into a name once with an upsideown exclamation point in it. apparently that's a type of tongue click... #mglitchat -7:54 PM Sep 8th, 2011
michaelascotto @elliefalcone @SarvenazTash I *knew* there was still a use for those! #mglitchat -7:54 PM Sep 8th, 2011
PippaBayliss Pet names are my specialty. Could be my kinda, sorta Brit background but why call a kid Christopher when he can be Kit - or Kip #mglitchat -7:54 PM Sep 8th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @librarykelly my character's names all have to have a different first letter, or I confuse myself in my notes! #MGlitchat -7:54 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore If it's a minor character, they get a bland name so they aren't memorable. #mglitchat -7:54 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @tamiveldura @HeidiNorrod Sorry! There are only so many days in the week to hold Twitter chats, unfortunately... #MGlitchat -7:54 PM Sep 8th, 2011
nikkiloftin Ooh! Names! I've started naming my characters after people I liked as a kid... and some I didn't. Bwahaha #MGlitchat -7:54 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone @librarykelly Oh yeah. I've stolen a few names from my family tree. #MGlitchat -7:54 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura RT @AnshaKotyk: @librarykelly my character's names all have to have a different first letter, or I confuse myself in my notes! #MGlitchat -7:55 PM Sep 8th, 2011
librarykelly @SarvenazTash Sometimes I look in the phonebook. #MGlitchat -7:55 PM Sep 8th, 2011
kurtisscaletta Psst, #mglitchat... http://t.co/YIb268K -7:55 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura @elissacruz no worries! keeps me on my toes :D #MGlitchat -7:55 PM Sep 8th, 2011
kurtisscaletta I'm out for the night. Very pleasant #mglitchat tonight. Everyone have a great weekend. -7:55 PM Sep 8th, 2011
michaelascotto helps the reader too RT @AnshaKotyk: my chars names all have to have a different first letter, or I confuse myself in my notes! #mglitchat -7:56 PM Sep 8th, 2011
earthwards Sorry guys, gotta step out a few minutes early tonight! Thanks for the great tips and adding even more books TBR! ;-) #mglitchat -7:56 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura @JoWhittemore anything with similar sounds, homonyms or close to it. plz don't go ther. #mglitchat -7:56 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KevinTCraig @JoWhittemore #mglitchat YA-just pick em. MG-I'm a Dahl-ist. Love quirk MG. Names r playful/poetic-y-Dubious Pickles & Arbour Levesque -7:56 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone @kurtisscaletta That takes the fun and aggravation out of my life, dude. #MGlitchat -7:56 PM Sep 8th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @earthwards see you next week! #mglitchat -7:56 PM Sep 8th, 2011
librarykelly @elliefalcone @sarvenaztash Same here! #MGlitchat -7:56 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tcanny Internet to the rescue! @kurtisscaletta: Psst, #mglitchat... http://t.co/ZKBm0iT -7:56 PM Sep 8th, 2011
pvoelkel For our Maya characters, I brought the phone book with me when I came back from Belize. #MGlitchat -7:56 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore I occasionally do shout-outs to people I know with character names, eh @al_dorf? #mglitchat -7:56 PM Sep 8th, 2011
EgmontUSA @elissacruz @LaurelSnyder @PaulWHankins @KateMessner Man! Not even on the cheek? I don't have cooties! #MGLitChat -7:56 PM Sep 8th, 2011
Sarah_Skilton @jmaschari Thx, I think it's one of the most important elements; do we fear or worry that a character will get what he/she wants? #mglitchat -7:56 PM Sep 8th, 2011
librarykelly @tamiveldura @jowhittemore I love it! #MGlitchat -7:56 PM Sep 8th, 2011
kurtisscaletta Also, I have book coming out Tuesday. #mglitchat #shamelessplug #sorry http://t.co/otxWNT9 -7:56 PM Sep 8th, 2011
librarykelly @AnshaKotyk Yes! #MGlitchat -7:57 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KateMilford RT @kurtisscaletta: Also, I have book coming out Tuesday. #mglitchat #shamelessplug #sorry http://t.co/CoFZOlY #mglitchat -7:57 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura has anyone ever stolen a name from a friend/acquaintance to use in a story? I discovered D'Angelo that way. #mglitchat -7:57 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KDuBayGillis For folks stepping out, thanks for coming. I'll do my best to get the transcript up on the blog! #mglitchat #thankgoodnessforbackups -7:57 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @EgmontUSA @elissacruz @LaurelSnyder @PaulWHankins @KateMessner We've decided cheeks okay. Tongue, so not okay. #themodifiedrules #MGlitchat -7:57 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes @kurtisscaletta Shameless plug = excellent! #mglitchat -7:57 PM Sep 8th, 2011
LaurelSnyder A wonderful book! RT kurtisscaletta Also, I have book coming out Tuesday. #mglitchat #shamelessplug #sorry http://t.co/TaKNKQE #mglitchat -7:57 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone @kurtisscaletta What's that you say? You have a book coming out Tuesday? :-D #MGlitchat -7:57 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tcanny Thanks for the highly lurkable chat. Going to add to my to-read and Amazon wish lists. #MGlitchat -7:57 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes @KDuBayGillis Thanks Kellie! #mglitchat -7:58 PM Sep 8th, 2011
LaurelSnyder That totally depends on the cheek. @EgmontUSA @elissacruz @LaurelSnyder @PaulWHankins @KateMessner #mglitchat -7:58 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @kurtisscaletta Forty lashes for that, sir! And congrats! :-) #mglitchat -7:58 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes I'm out too. Have a few hundred words to meet my daily goal. #mglitchat -7:58 PM Sep 8th, 2011
SarvenazTash Thank you for the excellent chat! High-fives #nokissing #MGLitChat -7:58 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @LaurelSnyder @EgmontUSA @elissacruz @PaulWHankins @KateMessner Pfffft. Hahahahaha! #mglitchat -7:58 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura @elissacruz what about tongues in cheeks? #themodifiedrules #MGlitchat -7:58 PM Sep 8th, 2011
EgmontUSA Sad that I didn't know about this before, but so happy this exists because . . . #MGLItChat -7:58 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @LaurelSnyder @EgmontUSA @elissacruz @PaulWHankins @KateMessner Oh, true. Cheeks ON THE FACE okay. Other cheeks, not. #MGlitchat -7:59 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes RT @elissacruz: @LaurelSnyder @EgmontUSA @elissacruz @PaulWHankins @KateMessner Oh, true. Cheeks ON THE FACE okay. Other cheeks, not. #MGlitchat -7:59 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari Thanks for another great chat. No Yeti this time but no tongue kissing either so it evened out. :) #mglitchat -7:59 PM Sep 8th, 2011
librarykelly Plug away!! “@kurtisscaletta: Also, I have book coming out Tuesday. #mglitchat #shamelessplug #sorry http://t.co/AbQm8Q2” -7:59 PM Sep 8th, 2011
Sarah_Skilton @KateMessner I agree, I LOVE flawed protags and sympathetic villains. Makes a novel all the more realistic, to me #mglitchat -7:59 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore Thanks for coming out and sharing all your awesome ideas, peeps! Air kisses all around! #mglitchat -7:59 PM Sep 8th, 2011
EgmontUSA I LOVE middle grade, but it's so hard as an editor to find the amazing projects that really sing. This is such a great venue. #MGLItChat -7:59 PM Sep 8th, 2011
WaldenPondPress Lovely chat tonight - thanks again @JoWhittemore @KDuBayGillis #mglitchat -7:59 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @EgmontUSA We're glad you found us! #mglitchat -8:00 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KevinTCraig Thank you! RT @JoWhittemore Thanks for coming out and sharing all your awesome ideas, peeps! Air kisses all around! #mglitchat -8:00 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone Allyson Heffelfinger 2. Gay Mettler 3. Darcy Tingey 4. Maricela Hellickson Just some names from the random generator. HA! #MGlitchat -8:00 PM Sep 8th, 2011
michaelascotto @EgmontUSA It's become one of my weekly highlights #mglitchat -8:00 PM Sep 8th, 2011
librarykelly @JenniferCEstes Good luck! #MGlitchat -8:00 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @EgmontUSA So happy it's useful! #wehavedoneagoodthing #MGlitchat -8:00 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KDuBayGillis Have to give a shout out to @elissacruz the Mama to #mglitchat. Thanks for bringing us MGophiles together! -8:00 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura Ditto! RT @KDuBayGillis: Have to give a shout out to @elissacruz the Mama to #mglitchat. Thanks for bringing us MGophiles together! -8:00 PM Sep 8th, 2011
timothypower67 RT @KDuBayGillis: Have to give a shout out to @elissacruz the Mama to #mglitchat. Thanks for bringing us MGophiles together! #MGlitchat -8:01 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes Amen, sista! RT @KDuBayGillis: Have to give a shout out to @elissacruz the Mama to #mglitchat. Thanks for bringing us MGophiles together!A -8:01 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone Next week: Zombies vs. Yetis. Buy your tickets now. #MGlitchat -8:01 PM Sep 8th, 2011
LaurelSnyder @EgmontUSA The chat has a pretty wide range. Come back and it'll be different (but equally grand) #mglitchat -8:01 PM Sep 8th, 2011
AnshaKotyk We have a great group each week! RT @michaelascotto: @EgmontUSA It's become one of my weekly highlights #mglitchat -8:01 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore @WaldenPondPress @kdubaygillis Thanks for your input! It's invaluable. #MGlitchat -8:01 PM Sep 8th, 2011
EgmontUSA Oh we know we're in the middle grade crowd when we have confusion about what we mean by "cheek." :oP #MGLItChat -8:01 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @KDuBayGillis You are so welcome! I'm thrilled to be the instigator in this case. ;) #MGlitchat -8:01 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura @elliefalcone Oh, oh, MEMEMEME! Front Seats VIP please! #MGlitchat -8:01 PM Sep 8th, 2011
librarykelly Another fabulous #MGlitchat! Thanks to the hostesses! See everyone next week. Ta-ta! -8:01 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes I'm in! RT @elliefalcone: Next week: Zombies vs. Yetis. Buy your tickets now. #MGlitchat -8:01 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes RT @EgmontUSA: Oh we know we're in the middle grade crowd when we have confusion about what we mean by "cheek." :oP #MGLItChat -8:01 PM Sep 8th, 2011
HeidiNorrod @tamiveldura @elissacruz at least #bookcountry is only every other week. :) #Mglitchat -8:01 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura @HeidiNorrod truth #bookcountry #Mglitchat -8:02 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore And I have to say, we as hostesses get along very well! #mglitchat -8:02 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone I think I'm learning more from chat than I am from the shelf full of how-to books. #MGlitchat -8:02 PM Sep 8th, 2011
PippaBayliss Whoot - next chat is about MG fantasy. I'll be into it with bells on, doing a hula. Weekly happies! #mglitchat -8:02 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes @PippaBayliss Go, Pippa! Get your bells on! #mglitchat -8:02 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @JoWhittemore Yes we do. #high fives #MGlitchat -8:02 PM Sep 8th, 2011
EgmontUSA Who's bringing the snack next time? I vote for cookies! #MGLItChat -8:03 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura I have cheeseits? RT @EgmontUSA: Who's bringing the snack next time? I vote for cookies! #MGLItChat -8:03 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elliefalcone Ciao! #MGlitchat -8:03 PM Sep 8th, 2011
AnshaKotyk @elliefalcone til next week! #MGlitchat -8:03 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes Anything chocolate! RT @EgmontUSA: Who's bringing the snack next time? I vote for cookies! #MGLItChat -8:03 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @EgmontUSA I'm so glad you volunteered! I like choc. chip, FYI. #MGlitchat -8:03 PM Sep 8th, 2011
jmaschari RT @elliefalcone: I think I'm learning more from chat than I am from the shelf full of how-to books. #MGlitchat -8:03 PM Sep 8th, 2011
pvoelkel @elissacruz Thanks for organizing #mglitchat! I only found it tonight & got so excited I kept forgetting hashtag. Can't wait for next week! -8:04 PM Sep 8th, 2011
ca_london RT @kurtisscaletta: Also, I have book coming out Tuesday. #mglitchat #shamelessplug #sorry http://t.co/HmL021r #mglitchat -8:04 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz MG people: I may not be here next week (gasp!) since I will be on my way to Kidlitcon. If I'm not, have fun for me! #MGlitchat -8:04 PM Sep 8th, 2011
WriterRoss 10 PM, just finished registering daughter for SAT; I'd rather be MG-ing it. Next week, pls: save me a seat. Sad missed tonight. #mglitchat -8:05 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @pvoelkel You're welcome! I'm so glad to see I'm not the only one excited about this. #MGrocks #MGlitchat -8:05 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes @elissacruz Gasp! Elissa! You really can't expect us to carry on without...I mean.... #withoutcaptain #rudderless #mglitchat -8:05 PM Sep 8th, 2011
PippaBayliss @elissacruz Kidlitcon??? Suckage and jealousosity max. #mglitchat -8:05 PM Sep 8th, 2011
EgmontUSA @pvoelkel Me, too Pamela. How did I not know that this existed!? #MGLItChat -8:05 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @elissacruz (Er, not here, I mean. If I'm not here, have fun for me.) #MGlitchat -8:06 PM Sep 8th, 2011
WriterRoss Glad summer is over. Back to more organized chat schedule. @EgmontUSA You have to talk to the Right People. <g> #mglitchat -8:06 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @JenniferCEstes I'm letting my little birdies fly...#sniff I'll try to sneak if the flight has internet access. #MGlitchat -8:07 PM Sep 8th, 2011
KevinTCraig Is there a @kellypolark here? #mglitchat -8:07 PM Sep 8th, 2011
michaelascotto @PippaBayliss @elissacruz I see your jealousosity and raise you an envyation! #mglitchat -8:07 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura RT @michaelascotto: @PippaBayliss @elissacruz I see your jealousosity and raise you an envyation! #mglitchat -8:07 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @michaelascotto @PippaBayliss @elissacruz Well, then I won't mention how I'll be speaking at Kidlitcon... #MGlitchat -8:08 PM Sep 8th, 2011
coachhays64 No lie! My head spins each week. @elliefalcone I think I'm learning more from chat than I am from the shelf full of how-to books. #MGlitchat -8:08 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JenniferCEstes @elissacruz Well, okay. But only because the other captains are so awesomely talented. *sniff* #mglitchat -8:09 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @elissacruz @michaelascotto @PippaBayliss Which, come to think of it, is probably not something to be envious about. #scary #MGlitchat -8:09 PM Sep 8th, 2011
pvoelkel @elissacruz I love it! I was sitting here writing & floundering, checked twitter for displacement, & now I'm totally energized! #MGLitChat -8:09 PM Sep 8th, 2011
michaelascotto @elissacruz @PippaBayliss Very cool! Hopefully there will be a video or text record?... #mglitchat -8:10 PM Sep 8th, 2011
WriterRoss @WriterRoss @EgmontUSA Oops, thought that Pamela was meant for me. Sorry, @pvoelkel. Two Pamelas in one tweet. Very cool. #mglitchat -8:10 PM Sep 8th, 2011
JoWhittemore And remember, folks. You can always see the transcripts & upcoming chat schedule on mglitchat.blogspot.com/ #mglitchat -8:11 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @michaelascotto @elissacruz @PippaBayliss I dunno. Last year I spoke and managed not show up in any photos anywhere. #weird #MGlitchat -8:11 PM Sep 8th, 2011
elissacruz @pvoelkel Hooray! Now get back to work... ;) #MGlitchat -8:12 PM Sep 8th, 2011
michaelascotto @elissacruz Well, I will keep my hopes up this year, and plan on attending next year #mglitchat -8:12 PM Sep 8th, 2011
tamiveldura I's been lovely, folks. Chaio! #mglitchat -8:12 PM Sep 8th, 2011
pvoelkel @WriterRoss @EgmontUSA Yay! Hello, Pamela! Pleased to meet you. When do we get our own hashtag? #MGLitChat -8:13 PM Sep 8th, 2011
DGPublishing RT @EgmontUSA: Who's bringing the snack next time? I vote for cookies! #MGLItChat -8:13 PM Sep 8th, 2011
AnshaKotyk RT @JoWhittemore: And remember, folks. You can always see the transcripts & upcoming chat schedule on mglitchat.blogspot.com/ #mglitchat -8:13 PM Sep 8th, 2011
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