As a reader, you may have noticed that some stories are driven by actions and events, while others are driven more by character development. You may have even noticed that you prefer one or the other.
Does knowing the difference matter? In my opinion, yes.
In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between these two, and why understanding this distinction can impact your reading experience.
Plot-Driven Stories
In a plot-driven story, the events of the narrative take precedence over the characters themselves. The plot is what propels the story forward, and characters are vehicles to move the plot along. In these types of stories, the focus is on what happens rather than who it happens to.
So, basically, while there are many characters in these books with well-developed personalities, flaws, and agency, they are still mostly plot devices for the story.
Most often you’ll see plot-driven stories in fantasy or action-adventure novels. There’s usually twists and turns, and it’s the plot’s events that drive the characters’ actions and reactions. These stories keep readers on the edges of their seats.
Some examples include:
- The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon
- The Cruel Prince by Holly Black
- The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
While I do prefer a balance, if I personally had to pick between a plot-driven story and a character-driven story, I’d choose plot. But that’s just my own preference.
Character-Driven Stories
In contrast to plot-driven stories, character-driven stories place a greater emphasis on the internal development of the characters. The plot is still important, but it takes a backseat to the characters themselves. These types of stories tend to focus on how the characters grow and change throughout the course of the narrative.
In these books, the plot is often simple, but the characters are complex and layered. The focus is on the inner thoughts, feelings, and motivations of the characters, and readers are drawn in by their struggles and triumphs.
Some examples include:
- Olga Dies Dreaming by Xóchitl González
- The Catcher in the Rye by JD Salinger
- Daisy Jones & the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid
While not always my first choice, there are some very notable character-driven reads that I absolutely loved and rated highly, like The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, or A Gentleman in Moscow.
The Magic is in the Balance
While plot-driven and character-driven stories may seem like opposites, the truth is that most successful stories incorporate elements of both. A good plot can keep readers engaged and interested, while well-developed characters can make the story more relatable and emotionally resonant.
The key is to find the right balance between plot and character. A story that is too heavily focused on plot can feel empty or contrived, while a story that is too focused on character can feel slow and uneventful. The best stories find a way to seamlessly weave them together, creating a narrative that is both exciting and meaningful.
Knowing the Difference is Important
As a reader, understanding the differences between plot-driven and character-driven stories can help you appreciate compelling narratives – but it will also help you fine tune your to-be-read list accordingly.
If you understand your preferences, you’ll spend less time on books you won’t like and more time on books you will.
Check out some of my other recent blogs:
- The Sky on Fire: Great worldbuilding, slower plot
- Literary Atmosphere: A basic building block for immersion
- My Lady Jane: Funny and charming
- Discovery: The best part of reading
- Hell Bent (Book 2): More fantasy than horror
