When it comes to picture books, characters are the heart and soul of the story. A compelling, unforgettable character can transform a good book into a great one. But what makes a character memorable? Sure, personality and actions play a role, but one of the most effective strategies for breathing life into a character is the use of unexpected details.Unexpected details are those quirks, habits, or physical traits that give a character depth, individuality, and relatability. These details not only set a character apart from the pack but also make them more engaging, sparking an emotional connection with the reader. Think of them as the secret sauce that makes a character come to life. In this post, I’ll explore how quirky or unexpected details can turn a flat character into a star, with examples from three recently published picture books.
1. The Couch Potato by Jory John, illustrated by Pete Oswald
The Couch Potato tells the story of a potato who loves nothing more than lounging on his couch and avoiding any form of exertion. At first glance, this might sound like a typical story about laziness, but it’s the details that make this character shine. The protagonist is not just any couch potato—he’s a potato literally shaped like a couch. His life revolves around being comfortable and staying in one spot, and his quirky, lazy lifestyle is reinforced by his physical form and the humorous, hyperbolic language that Jory John uses throughout the book.
Why it’s unforgettable: The detail that makes this character so memorable is the literalization of the couch potato. The character isn’t simply lazy; he’s a potato that embodies all the traits of someone glued to their screen. It’s unexpected, funny, and deeply relatable in today’s screen-obsessed world. This surprising detail makes the character feel more real, and readers can’t help but laugh at the sheer absurdity of it all.
How you can apply this: Consider how small, surprising details can enhance your character. What if your character had a quirk that was reflected in their physical form? Or maybe their habits are tied to something unexpected, like how The Couch Potato embodies his personality through the form of a literal couch.
2. The Pigeon Will Ride the Roller Coaster! by Mo Willems
Mo Willems’ iconic pigeon is back in The Pigeon Will Ride the Roller Coaster!, where the character’s seemingly endless desire to experience everything (while being scared of it at the same time) takes center stage. The pigeon is a character we know and love, but what makes this book special is the unexpected detail of the pigeon’s constant internal monologue, filled with wild, exaggerated emotions.
Why it’s unforgettable: The unexpected detail here is how the pigeon’s extreme personality—over-the-top fear, unrelenting desire, and constant self-talk—adds to his relatability and humor. Pigeons aren’t typically seen as the most emotional creatures, but by layering this intense, over-the-top behavior, Willems creates a truly memorable character. The pigeon’s antics are propelled by his internal dialogue, which reveals his vulnerability and makes him even more relatable.
How you can apply this: Think about how a character’s inner thoughts can make them more compelling. Do they have an exaggerated fear of something? Or perhaps their confidence is overblown? Adding layers to your character’s personality through unexpected emotional extremes can create a vivid, unforgettable character.
3. The Cool Bean by Jory John and Pete Oswald
Okay, fine. I admit it. I’m a giant Jory John/Pete Oswald fan. In The Cool Bean, we follow a group of beans who are striving for social status and trying to fit in. The main character, a bean who isn’t quite “cool,” feels left out until he discovers that what makes him unique is far more valuable than what others think. The unexpected detail here is how the beans’ coolness is not just about being popular, but it’s also about the subtle, individual details that make each bean distinct, from their “crunchy” exteriors to their varying shapes and sizes. This unique approach to “coolness” adds a layer of depth to the narrative, showing that what truly matters is embracing individuality.
Why it’s unforgettable: The unexpected twist in The Cool Bean is that being “cool” is not about conforming or following trends. The cool beans have their quirks, and they don’t apologize for them. This shift in perspective helps the main character understand that their uniqueness is their strength, making the beans feel more relatable and authentic.
How you can apply this: Challenge traditional character traits. What if your character’s “quirk” or “flaw” is the very thing that makes them special? Embrace individuality in ways that might not be immediately obvious, and make those small details the driving force behind the character’s development.
Tips and Strategies for Using Unexpected Details to Build Unforgettable Characters:
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Focus on the Small Stuff
Think about the tiny, everyday details that can reveal something deep about a character. A character’s choice of clothing, the way they eat breakfast, or the small items they collect can say a lot about their personality. -
Use Quirky Habits to Drive Character Development
A quirky habit or unusual passion can make a character memorable. Whether it’s a child who talks to their plants, an animal that collects socks, or a grown-up who always wears mismatched shoes—these details can reveal inner complexities that resonate with readers. -
Make the Details Relatable
Even the quirkiest details need to be relatable. Readers should be able to see themselves in some way, even if the character’s quirks seem a little out there. Try connecting your character’s oddities to universal emotions like fear, excitement, or curiosity. -
Don’t Overdo It—Keep It Subtle
The best character details are often subtle and woven naturally into the story. Too many quirks can overwhelm the character and make them feel forced. Choose a few details that complement the character’s arc and enhance the emotional journey. -
Incorporate the Unexpected into Their Physical Appearance
Physical traits can be quirky, too! Don’t just go for the usual. If your character is an animal or an object, how can you make their physical traits work in an unexpected way? A character’s physical form can carry as much meaning as their actions.
By using unexpected details, you have the power to transform your character from flat to unforgettable. Whether it’s a couch-shaped potato, a pigeon with an emotional rollercoaster, or a quiet observer on a nature hike, the magic lies in the details that surprise readers and make them feel deeply connected to your character. So, next time you’re creating a character, think about what unexpected details you can add to make them truly stand out in the minds of your readers.
