Can you recommend some best character driven short stories?

Well, in the best character - driven short stories, the characters are complex. They have multiple layers to their personalities, like in 'The Great Gatsby' (which can be considered in its short - story - like essence). Gatsby is not just a rich guy, he has his dreams, insecurities and a past that shapes his actions. Also, the characters' actions are often a result of their internal conflicts. For example, in 'A Streetcar Named Desire', Blanche's actions are driven by her past traumas and her struggle to fit into a new world.

Sure. 'Ella Enchanted' by Gail Carson Levine is an excellent beginner - friendly character - driven fantasy novel. Ella is cursed with obedience, and her journey to break the curse while dealing with various challenges makes for a great read. 'The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe' is also good. The children in the story, like Lucy, are very well - developed characters. Their discovery of Narnia and their role in the fight against the White Witch is a captivating story. And 'The Graveyard Book' by Neil Gaiman is another one. Bod, the main character, grows up in a graveyard among ghosts. His character development as he learns about the world of the living and the dead is really engaging.

One of the famous character - driven novels is 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen. The characters like Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy are extremely well - developed. Their personalities, pride, and prejudices drive the story forward. Another is 'The Great Gatsby' by F. Scott Fitzgerald. Jay Gatsby's character, his dreams, and his pursuit of Daisy Buchanan are central to the narrative.

One common theme is self - discovery. Characters often embark on a journey, either physical or emotional, where they learn more about themselves. Another theme is love and relationships. This could be romantic love, friendship, or family relationships. For example, a character might realize the true value of a friendship after almost losing it. Redemption is also a popular theme. A character who has made mistakes in the past tries to make amends. It shows their growth and change.

One of the best character - driven novels is 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee. The characters, like Atticus Finch, are complex and drive the story forward through their beliefs and actions. Another is 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen. Elizabeth Bennet's character growth and her relationships are central to the plot. 'The Catcher in the Rye' by J.D. Salinger also fits. Holden Caulfield's internal struggles and his view of the world around him form the essence of the novel.

An example of a plot - driven novel is 'The Da Vinci Code' by Dan Brown. The whole story is centered around solving the mystery of the Holy Grail. The characters are constantly in a race against time to uncover secrets. For a character - driven novel, 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee is a great example. The story is mainly about Scout's growth and her understanding of the world around her, especially the injustice in her town, through the lens of her father's character.

To write engaging character - driven short stories, first, create complex and relatable characters. Give them clear goals, desires, and flaws. For example, a character might be a shy artist who dreams of showing their work in a big gallery but is too afraid to approach gallery owners. Second, put your characters in interesting situations that force them to make decisions and grow. It could be a life - changing event like a sudden inheritance or a natural disaster. Third, use vivid descriptions to bring the characters and their world to life. Show, don't tell. Instead of saying a character is sad, describe their slumped shoulders and the single tear rolling down their cheek.

A really good character - driven YA novel is 'Eleanor & Park' by Rainbow Rowell. The two main characters, Eleanor and Park, are complex and their relationship develops in a very nuanced way. Their individual insecurities, family situations, and personal interests all contribute to how the story unfolds. Additionally, 'Looking for Alaska' by John Green is also character - centric. The mystery surrounding Alaska's character and the way the other characters react to her disappearance are key elements of the story.

One popular one is 'The Hobbit' by J.R.R. Tolkien. Bilbo Baggins is a great example of a character whose journey shapes the story. Another is 'The Hunger Games' series. Katniss Everdeen's character drives the adventure through the deadly arenas. Also, 'The Alchemist' by Paulo Coelho, where the boy's quest for his personal legend is character - driven.

'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen also has a strong plot for beginners, especially those interested in historical fiction. The story of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy's relationship is full of social drama, misunderstandings, and reconciliations. The plot unfolds gradually as the characters interact in different social settings.