Boochi Malloochi and Role Models for Today's Youth: are they important?

Writing stories, whether for children's fiction or adults can be rewarding in many ways. For starters, as a writer I get to share my vision of characters and far away lands full of mystery and fantasy. Another reason, is gaining a following for my stories which is a high that is very hard to beat with any other accomplishment. Most importantly is the role we share as writers to provide characters that foster solid morals, demeanor and genuine personality traits. When readers get wrapped into a story, inevitably it's a lead character who takes center stage in their minds. This can be a villain, or the savior who never loses a battle. When crafting a children's story, it's an awesome responsibity for any author to undertake as the necessity to fuse a great character with moral fiber can be challenging. Kids love to read about someone who is fearless and can't be defeated. How this character arrives at this level is something that children will want to emulate in their daily lives. This is where the responsibility becomes a challenge, as we have an incredible amount of influence, something not to be underestimated by any writer. So when I created the character of Boochi, I wanted to make sure that children, as well as parents, would see how her personality and moral behavior on those around her could have a positive influence. In today's world, our kids have too many negative messages and poorly manifested role models to look up to. Don't get me wrong, everybody has a right to create their own characters and stories, but as writers, we should use our influence to make sure we send the right message and role models for today's youth. So to put it simply, writers can have an affect on today's youth...with a solid character who isn't afraid to be real.