Writing a middle-grade novel can be a fun and challenging journey, filled with twists and turns, especially when you hit the mid-hump blues.
Many writers struggle with the middle part of the story, often considered the most difficult to navigate. It’s where the initial excitement of the beginning has faded, but the climax and resolution are still out of reach.
However, with some planning and creative thinking, you can overcome this challenge and move your story forward.
Understanding the Mid-Hump
The mid-hump is the point in your narrative where momentum can stall. This section is crucial for middle-grade novels, which cater to readers typically aged 8 to 12, as it maintains their engagement and ensures the story remains engaging.
The middle of the book needs to be more than just a filler; it should continue to develop characters, deepen the plot, and sustain interest.
Strategies to Overcome the Mid-Hump
1. Revisit Your Core Conflict Reassess the core conflict of your story. The middle of your novel should ideally escalate the central problem, not just tread water.
For example, in “Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief” by Rick Riordan, Percy’s journey doesn’t stall; instead, it deepens as he encounters new challenges and revelations about his identity and the prophecy he’s entangled in.
Use this time to make the conflict more complex or introduce new stakes that push your protagonist to her limits.
2. Introduce Subplots Subplots can provide additional layers to your narrative and help keep the reader engaged. They should relate to the main plot but offer different perspectives or challenges.
In “Charlotte’s Web” by E.B. White, the subplot of Wilbur’s friendship with Charlotte adds emotional depth and keeps the narrative moving forward.
Introducing subplots relevant to your main character’s growth can offer new avenues for tension and development.
3. Develop Your Characters Use the mid-hump to delve deeper into your characters. Middle grade readers connect with characters who evolve and face internal struggles that they can relate to.
In “Wonder” by R.J. Palacio, Auggie’s internal conflict and his interactions with his peers are central to the middle of the novel, creating emotional depth and keeping the story compelling.
Allow your characters to face personal dilemmas that contribute to their growth and the overall plot.
4. Add Unexpected Twists Introducing surprising elements or plot twists can give your story a boost. These should be both surprising and believable, offering new directions for your characters.
For instance, in “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” by J.K. Rowling, the revelation of the diary’s true nature and the attacks on students add a fresh layer of suspense and intrigue in the middle of the book.
Think about how you can introduce unexpected turns that will keep readers guessing.
5. Increase Tension and Stakes Intensify the stakes to keep readers invested. If your protagonist isn’t facing significant challenges or the risks don’t feel high, it’s time to raise the tension.
In “The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” by C.S. Lewis, the middle section introduces the threat of the White Witch and her magic, escalating the danger and urgency for the Pevensie siblings.
Ensure that the consequences of failure are clear and impactful for your characters.
6. Engage with Setting and World-Building Expanding on your story’s setting or world can add excitement and variety.
For instance, in “The Neverending Story” by Michael Ende, the middle of the novel explores different realms within the magical world, adding depth and intrigue.
Use this opportunity to explore new aspects of your story’s world or setting, which can enrich the narrative and provide fresh material for your characters to interact with.
7. Reassess Your Plot Structure Sometimes, the mid-hump occurs because the plot structure needs adjustment. Look at your outline or plan—are there gaps or areas where the story lags?
In “Anne of Green Gables” by L.M. Montgomery, the middle sections provide various episodic adventures and challenges that keep the story lively and engaging.
Make sure each scene or chapter serves a purpose and contributes to the narrative arc.
8. Seek Feedback Don’t hesitate to get feedback from beta readers or critique partners. They can offer insights into where the story feels sluggish and suggest ways to enhance it. Fresh perspectives can be invaluable in identifying issues and finding solutions.
Example in Practice Consider a middle-grade novel where the protagonist, Sam, is on a quest to find a magical artifact. By the mid-hump, Sam has faced several challenges but feels stuck.
To overcome this, you might introduce a subplot involving Sam’s new friend, who has his own mysterious past. This subplot could reveal crucial information about the artifact and provide new challenges that deepen Sam’s journey.
Additionally, increasing the stakes by showing that an antagonist is also searching for the artifact, with potentially dire consequences if they succeed, will heighten tension and drive the story forward.
Summing It Up
The middle-grade novel mid-hump blues can be tricky. It will take creativity and planning, along with the tips above, to keep things moving smoothly and keep your readers hooked.
I’m a working children’s ghostwriter, rewriter, editor, and coach. I can help turn your story into a book you’ll be proud to be the author of, one that’s publishable and marketable.
