What I Learned from My Favorite Characters

We celebrated National Read Across America Day and Dr. Seuss’s birthday this week. Here’s what I’ve learned from some of my favorite characters through the years.

Charlotte and Wilbur - Everyone needs friends. Treasure the special relationships. Writing is a solitary venture. Make sure you have a crew to share celebrations and road bumps with.

Charlie Brown and Snoopy - Everyone needs a sidekick. Our pets are our family, and they are our special protectors, comforters, and friends.

Nancy Drew - The girl sleuth had a car, good friends, and the curiosity to solve problems that adults couldn’t. Always be curious and ask questions.

Hermione Granger - Study hard and learn your craft. Do your homework. Hard work pays off.

Stephanie Plum - Perseverance is necessary. You may not succeed at something during the first (or the fifth) attempt but keep at it. This is especially true if you’re on a writing journey.

Grover (from the Monster at the End of the Book) - It’s okay to be a little scared sometimes, but often you’ll find that the thing you’re scared of isn’t as bad as you imagine it.

Sam-I-Am - It’s always a good idea to try new things. Be open minded and give new and “strange” a chance. You may find out that you just might like it.