A character is something beautiful, something precious. A character is like a plant. A gardener grows his plant, giving it enough sunlight, and water and making sure the soil is healthy and that the pot is big enough. In the same way that a gardener cares for his plant, a writer takes the same care and deliberation with his characters. The first story that I ever wrote as a 'serious' writer of 13, was about a group of teenagers, Max, Peter, Oscar, and Ellie. Celebrate with me as we go through wacky adventures, poignant moments, puberty, and all things M.P.O.E.