How plot conflict is resolved also harks back to "why." Why does your character take these particular steps, instead of an easier or more obvious route, to reach his goal? What fears, hang-ups or quirks does character have to overcome to get what he wants? Would a child understand and care about these traits? Have you laid groundwork in beginning of story so reader believes character could not possibly act any other way, thus never forcing reader to question you in first place?

Why this article?

Virtually any nonfiction topic can hold a child's interest if it's presented in right way. But first ask yourself why you're writing this article or book. Does it have a direct application to experiences of your readers? Can it tie in with what they're learning in school? Will it enrich their lives in some way? If your motivations are clear, then take a hard look at your audience. Why would kids this age be interested in this topic? How can you present material in a way that's entertaining as well as informative? If you find you're working hard to shape information to fit a specific audience or format, perhaps you need to rethink your approach. Maybe you're trying to write too young, and subject really requires an older reader. Or perhaps you assume middle graders will be fascinated with an animal alphabet book, but after researching other ABC books on market, you learn they're really targeted to much younger children.

Tip #3: Interview a Character

Leaf through a copy of an old magazine. Cut out a picture of an interesting character. Tape it in your journal. On opposite page, write interview questions to this person. Answer questions with your imagination. Having a picture of person to focus on will help you do that. Write detailed questions, in present, that relate to setting of your story. For example, if your story unfolds in Biloxy, Mississippi, but your character looks like a New Yorker, don't ask him, "Were you born in New York City?" Ask, "How did you end up here, at Whistle Stop Café, with one beat-up suitcase and no money for a return ticket?"

Your writer's journal can help you create characters for your short stories and novels that readers will understand and enjoy. If your reader believes your character, he or she will also believe your story.