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@erynne

I love this. I feel like it’s something we all struggle with (my MC is a super moody introvert, so…😬😆).

My advice would be to pick something that Eliana struggles with…maybe missing out on life while she’s sick, or feeling like “nobody understands,” or being frustrated with God for allowing it. We can all relate to inward struggles like that when we’re going through hard times.

Let the sickness bring out both her good and bad points. Maybe she’s an optimist, and so she tries really hard to be positive about the whole thing, but eventually she just can’t stand being bed-ridden anymore, and lashes out at everyone. Or (if I’ve got the story right) she could be a really protective friend, and feel really worried and responsible for her friends who are trying to save her.

I think the key to a relatable character is making them have good qualities (courage, optimism, gentleness, a good sense of humour, etc.) that we all like in other people, and then contrasting that with a struggle that we can relate to.

I would also encourage you to watch some of Abbie Emmons. She’s on YouTube, and I would totally recommend her for 13+ or if your parents don’t mind a few cringy things here or there.😂 Her writing content is amazing though, and she’s helped me a lot with making good characters.

Hope that’s helpful!