Character Twists or Twisted Characters?

Playing with twists that are more character- than plot-related, can be a lot of fun--both to write and to read. Nobody wants a stereotypical character--too predictable and uninteresting. So add a twist. We don't like wacky surprises where characters don't fit their role, either. Unless the writer builds in the plausibility for it. Creating a mash-up of believability and freshness isn't as hard as one might think. Like the burly cop with the heart of a teddy bear or the little old lady who lectures her would-be purse snatcher. The right situation can bring out new qualities or strengthen weak ones. 
Start with the right character for his/her role. Don't use the typical character mold. Do keep some choices logical. Sometimes the differences are subtle.  

Spice things up with a twist. How? Think about what the reader expects your character to do, then change that reaction or have them go in a different direction. Not too often--maybe a couple times in the story. We want a fun character twist, not frustrated readers. Give readers what they expect, but not in the way they expect it. Simply make things worse. Reveal a secret the character is hiding. Or use the admired character to end up as the villain (think explorer Charles Muntz in the movie UP). It's a classic twist to turn someone into a twisted character. And readers love it when done well.

 Take a character that hinted at growth from his experiences, but suddenly we see the new coat of paint.

 Which 'character' fits better as a cowboy? An executive? Put that character into an opposite setting and see the new reaction. 

When brainstorming for new ideas for your story, look at one of your characters as a way to make the plot more interesting. A new analysis of your characters could spark your creativity and keep you on track. Keep chuggin' along and start doing the twist!

The new-to-me blog of the week comes from last week's blog tour list. Head over to http://www.themusingsofabookaddict.com/ for book reviews from nearly any genre and an occasional post from one of Sandra Stiles' middle grade students.