C is for Characters

15 Fictional Characters That Influenced Me

etc.usf.edu

Among the writers in the blogosphere, I've yet to find someone who wasn't a voracious  reader.  I would bet most have been this way since they started reading.  So, I've put together a list of 15 characters I met through the years that found a permanent place in my memory and what I've learned from them.

   

Addie and Max (Addie Meets Max): They taught me preconceived notions lead to confusion and pain, and to be open and unafraid of new friendships.

Ottie (Ottie and the Star): He taught me people will always stand between you and your goals.  Find the strength to defeat the opposition and believe in your success.

Catundra (Serendipity Series): She taught me people who help us the most are the ones we least expect.

Charlotte Monster (Don't remember the title, my memory is failing): I learned most people are mean and judgmental, but if you embrace yourself, friends worth having will show up. 

Nancy Drew: She showed me the benefits of being nosey: Cognizance and keen observational skills help solve mysteries.

Babysitters Club: The whole group of girls taught me to make my own success, and children are more enjoyable when you can give them back to their parents. 

Sophie (BFG): When you open you eyes a world of magic and goodness reveals itself.

Henry Sugar (The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar and Six More): Our minds hold amazing power.   

Conrad (Ordinary People): He taught me everyone deals with emotional pain and depression.

Charlie (Flowers for Algernon): Taught me to understand the sadness and beauty surrounding mental disability.   

Jane Eyre: No matter how much pain and suffering you endure, if you hold on to your hopes and dreams, one day they will come true.

Hermione (Harry Potter Series): She showed me being smart and bossy are positive traits.

Scott Pilgrim: Taught me loves makes you do crazy things, like fight off your lovers many crazy exes.  He also showed me making mistakes in relationships is normal.  Being honest and open help you get past them.    

Donna (Cujo): Cheating can bring terrible consequences.

Jay Gatsby (The Great Gatsby): Taught me the desire for wealth and jealously will destroy you.   

Honorary Mentions (real people)

Alexander Supertramp/Christopher McCandless (Into the Wild): Idealism does not equal ignorance.  Be smart and base your decisions on all the facts before jumping headlong into an adventure. And above all, respect nature.

Cedric (The Hope Unseen):  He taught me everyone deserves a chance and good teachers help hopeful students escape terrible situations.  

What characters have influenced you over the years?