Alida, Kathryn, and Robert discuss the first person point of view (1st person POV). We get into strengths and weaknesses, a common misconception, and the popularity of first person in YA and NA fiction.

Before you listen to this episode make sure you have listened to episode 002 Introduction to Point of View.

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Continuing our conversations on point of view, we take a look at first person point of view. We delve into common misconceptions about first person point of view, and challenges that writers face with the viewpoint. How can you utilize first person to develop your characters voice? And why does young adult fiction seem to prefer the first person point of view?

What we talked about:

Thoughts on first person, first person present tense, and young adult fiction stories. (0:35)

Is first person the closest point of view possible? (7:00)

Common first person misconceptions explored. (9:59)

Challenges of writing in first person present tense. (12:25)

How to make sure your character is a good narrator in first person? (13:34)

How can you use first person to develop your stories voice? (14:45)

Do first person narratives in the same genre tend toward the same voice? (18:02)

Why has first person struck such a chord in middle grade, young adult and new adult fiction? (19:44)

The importance of different voices when using multiple first person point of views. (21:28)

LINKS

Things we mentioned:

Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Red Rising by Pierce Brown
Legend by Marie Lu
Allegiant by Veronica Roth
All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven
The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver
The Split podcast with Robert and Bryan Cohen

Want more about these topics? Check out:

SWRT 26: Introduction to Point of View
60 Second Tip: Heart Your Narrator

Have thoughts, questions, other examples? Join the conversation at the Story Works Writers Facebook group.