Cinnamon roll characters are those fan-favorite characters! They are sweet, kind-hearted, and often naive characters that can add an abundance of warmth and depth to your story. However, while cinnamon roll characters are extremely fun and comforting for readers, they can be difficult for writers to write. Which is why listed below are some tips to effectively create and develop these types of characters.
Incorporate Kind Actions
The leading attribute of a cinnamon character is that they are kind. As a result, to make your cinnamon characters seem "cinnamony," emphasize their kindness in both their actions and interactions. Make sure to show them going out of their way to help others, even in just small, thoughtful ways. Highlight their warmth, empathy, and willingness to listen or offer comfort. But also don't solely focus on the physical things they do, rather represent the comforting things they say. Their dialogue can be a great way of showing their kindness. For example, they could speak in a warm tone or always offer reassuring words.
Show Don't Tell
The best thing you can do when writing cinnamon roll characters is to show instead of tell. Showing is when you draw a vivid scene in your writing by using details that relate to all 5 senses. When you use this technique you allow readers to experience your story and interpret it themselves. Simply put, instead of telling the details of a story, showing lets readers be transported into the novel. Which is why when writing cinnamon roll characters make sure you show your their kindness and compassion. For example, instead of saying, "Mariah was always thoughtful," show her thoughtfulness in action. For instance, you could show how Mariah gives a classmate her own scarf when she seesthat the classmate is cold. This allows readers to feel Mariah's caring nature through her small, considerate gestures. Written below is another example that shows the difference between telling and showing.
Tell
Eliana was kind. Her favorite activity was helping her best friend Jessica.
Show
Include a Positive Backstory
While not all cinnamon roll characters have positive backstories, many do. That is because a positive backstory can explain why cinnamon characters are so kind and compassionate. Maybe they grew up in a loving home where kindness was always encouraged, and they learned from a young age the importance of caring for others. Perhaps they were once on the receiving end of someone else’s kindness during a difficult time, and now they make it their mission to pass that kindness on. A positive backstory doesn’t just shape who they are; it also gives readers insight into the experiences that fuel their warm and gentle nature.
Give Them Passions
You should also consider giving your cinnamon roll characters passions. Whether that passion is soccer, gymnastics, singing, or video gaming, these interests can add layers to their personality and make them more interesting. A character’s passion can drive their actions, create connections with others, and even reveal their vulnerabilities. For example, a cinnamon roll character who loves soccer might show their kindness by encouraging a teammate who missed a goal, or by organizing a community soccer match. Their passion also gives them something to strive for, making them more than just a symbol of kindness.
Don't Make Them Perfect
While cinnamon characters are kind, compassionate, generious, and even sweet, that doesn't mean they should be perfect. In fact, it is better that you don't make them perfect. That is because imperfections make them more relatable and realistic. If they’re too perfect, they can come across as unrealistic or even annoying to readers. Plus, these imperfections can add depth to their character and make their kindness even more meaningful. When readers see a cinnamon character grappling with their own challenges yet still choosing to be kind, it highlights their goodness in a more authentic way. It also opens up opportunities for growth, making their journey more compelling!
Along with many other readers, I love cinnamon roll characters. They're kind and compassionate and can help brighten up a story. So, if you are interested in writing engaging cinnamon roll characters utilize the tips above!
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