What makes really good children stories?

A good story often has interesting characters. They can be complex and relatable, making the readers or listeners care about what happens to them.

A really good story often has interesting characters. They can be complex, with their own motives, dreams and flaws. For example, in 'Pride and Prejudice', Elizabeth Bennet is a strong - willed and intelligent character, which makes the story engaging.

Another factor is the author's ability to stay true to the spirit of the original work while still being creative. They should understand the themes, the world - building, and the rules of the original and then build on them in an interesting way. For example, in a Star Wars fanfiction, respecting the lore of the Force and the different species and planets in the galaxy while creating a new adventure for the characters.

For a story to be really good, it needs elements like unexpected twists, relatable emotions, and vivid descriptions that draw you in. Also, a unique perspective or fresh take on a common topic can make it stand out.

Well - developed characters play a huge role. When you care about the characters in a horror story, it becomes more engaging. For example, in 'The Shining', we get to know the Torrance family, and as they are slowly driven mad by the haunted Overlook Hotel, we feel their fear and desperation. The setting also matters. A spooky old mansion, a desolate forest, or an abandoned asylum can add to the overall horror atmosphere. And the plot twists. A sudden turn of events that you don't expect can make a horror story really engaging.

They tap into our primal fears. Things like the dark, death, and the unknown are common themes in really good horror stories. When a story can make you feel that fear deep down, it draws you in. For instance, a story about a mysterious figure in the woods at night plays on our fear of the dark and the potential danger lurking there. Also, the way they can make the ordinary seem terrifying. A simple doll can become a source of horror in the right story.

A good story for children usually has colorful characters, simple but engaging plots, and maybe a moral lesson. Like in 'The Three Little Pigs', it's fun and teaches kids about being hardworking and smart.

Another place to find really good children stories is from family and friends. They might have some favorite childhood books that they can pass on to you. Also, some schools or community centers may have book exchanges where you can discover some great children stories.

The unknown factor makes really really scary stories terrifying. When we don't know what's going to happen next or what the source of the horror is, our imagination runs wild. For example, in a story about a strange noise in an attic, not seeing the cause of the noise creates a sense of unease.

The use of atmosphere. A really scary story will set a dark and foreboding atmosphere. Descriptions of dark, lonely places, like an old cemetery at midnight. The cold wind, the howling of animals in the distance. All these details work together to create a sense of dread. Also, the characters in these stories are often ordinary people, which makes it easier for us to put ourselves in their shoes and feel the fear they experience.