Saturday, March 30, 2013


Character Name Calling by Author Stephen Bly
Stephen Bly (1944-2011)
In my book Cowboy For A Rainy Afternoon, the narrator is never identified by a particular character name. He is just called "Little Brother" by the six old cowboys.


However, had he a real bona fide character name, what should he be called? I was pondering that as I read this week the 10 MOST POPULAR NAMES FOR 2008: 1) Aidan, 2) Jayden, 3) Jacob, 4) Michael, 5) Ethan, 6) Caden, 7) James, 8) Caleb, 9) Andrew, and 10) Matthew. 
But "Little Brother" in this story is 10 years old in 1954. That puts him in the 5th grade, born in 1944. So, the question is ... what were the 10 MOST COMMON BOYS NAMES IN 1944?



Here's the list:  
1. Robert
2. James
3. John
4. William
5. Richard
6. David
7. Charles
8. Thomas
9. Michael
10. Ronald

Character Name Calling & 1954 5th grade class
1954 5th grade class
So, he should be called by a character name such as Bobby or Jimmy, Johnny or Billy, Dicky or Davy, Charlie or Tommy, Mikey or Ronnie. Notice that Michael and James were on both lists. But I rather fancy Stevie, if I had to give him a choice character name.That might give you a clue as to who this character is most like.

One of the boys in this 1954 5th grade class could be the narrator for this story.

Character name calling is one of the most delightful parts of being a writer. I love finding different sounding names. Whether it's Tapadera ... or Lixie ... or Jolie. Or Devy. Or Miss Oliole Fontenot. I don't limit myself to the Top 10 of the Year. But that's a good place to begin.

Along with character name creating, there's the fun of discovering the environment of the character's times.
1950s F.W. Woolworth store
For today's consumer, it's a shopping mall world. But for someone like Little Brother, it's hard to imagine the incredible thrill to him of a product-packed Five and Dime store. I'm not sure kids today can experience anything near that excitement.  

Here's a "Little Brother" narration excerpt from Cowboy For A Rainy Afternoon:

When WalMart was beyond anyone's imagination, we had Five & Dime stores like Newberry's and Woolworth's ... Mama worked at Woolworth's right out of high school. Even in 1954 most of the merchandise was inexpensive. And they had everything. What a marvelous world for a boy from the country who thought the Fuller Brush man had so much merchandise in his Chevrolet CarryAll that is must surely be sinful.
To the casual observer, we must have looked like an invasion of old men in narrow brimmed Stetsons, cowboy boots, white shirts buttoned at the collar and a little boy with plastic cap guns holstered to his side. But to my 10-year-old imagination, we were a posse surveyin' a crowd, on the trail of some bad hombres.

Stephen Bly - Copyright 2008

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Whether it's picking a character name in writing a fiction story or choosing a name for a newborn child, what's your guidelines for making that awesome choice?
What's your clearest memory of when you were 10-years-old?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

If you're looking for a character name or what to name a baby, check out this Baby Names site: http://www.babynames.com/character-names.php

Character Name Calling for novel Cowboy For A Rainy Afternoon
Cowboy For A Rainy Afternoon
Here's where to find Cowboy For A Rainy Afternoon: http://www.blybooks.com/bookstore/1950s-cowboys-novel/

81 comments:

Soapie said...

health site
health site
health site
health site
health site
health site
health site
health site
health site
health site
health site
health site

fbvidgo - A Free Tool for Facebook Video Download said...

Hi, Love this post, I'm Manisha, I really want to say sincerely that this is amazing content that you have shared. thanks for this. it's really very helpful for me.

Live Current Affairs
Live Sarkari Naukri
How to get a Government Job easily
Facebook Video Download Online
Sarkari Yojana - PM Modi Yojana

MATH TEACHER said...

cursoparaielts
cursoparaielts
cursoparaielts
cursoparaielts
cursoparaielts
cursoparaielts

live stream said...

井上尚弥 対 ジェイソン・モロニー 生放送

井上尚弥 対 ジェイソン・モロニー 生放送


Naoya Inoue vs Jason Moloney Live Stream

Watch Naoya Inoue vs Jason Moloney Live Free

Live Strems Sports said...

All Blacks vs Argentina Rugby Date and Time:
Date: 14 November 2020
TIME: 1:00 am EST


All Blacks vs Argentina Rugby Live Stream
New Zealand vs Argentina Rugby Live Reddit

Live Strems Sports said...


The Rugby Championship All Blacks vs Argentina Rugby Live
All Blacks vs Argentina Rugby Live Stream

buygold jewelery online said...

Buy Sakhi Complete bridal jewellery sets online & gold jewellery set from buymyJewel more than 100 designs with authentic jewellery certificate.

Unknown said...

Shop Fine Minerals Crystals Online from India. buy natural healing crystals
at Retail & Wholesale rate. Reiki Healing Crystals, Himalayan Quartz, Apophyllite Crystal, Green Apophyllite, Stilbites, Buy Quartz Online, Pink Quartz, Phantom Quartz, Quartz Raw , Cavansite, Zeolite Minerals and other Metaphysical Products


Unknown said...

Shop Fine Minerals Crystals Online from India. buy natural healing crystals
at Retail & Wholesale rate. Reiki Healing Crystals, Himalayan Quartz, Apophyllite Crystal, Green Apophyllite, Stilbites, Buy Quartz Online, Pink Quartz, Phantom Quartz, Quartz Raw , Cavansite, Zeolite Minerals and other Metaphysical Products

jameel said...

Nice Post
Your Dream is Here
Cracksdown Software Free Downlaod
Do-High-Quality-Backlinks-For-Google-Top-Ranking
Provide-All-Professional-Graphic-Designer-Services
Professional-Wordpress-Website-Design-And-Development
Increase-DA-70-High-Authourity-With-Seo-Dofollow-Backlinks

magicienparis said...

Sculpture de ballons paris
magicien close up paris
magicien entreprise
animation entreprise paris
Magicien mariage
Magicien Anniversaire Enfants Spectacle de magie
Magicien mentaliste
Sculpture de ballons paris

gym near me indore said...

Are you finding some nearest fitness center for a workout at gym in gwalior and gym near me indore? Aurozen helps you to finding some nearest fitness center at gyms in bhopal and gym near me gwalior. With Aurozen, you can do multiple workouts at multiple gyms.

New In Urdu said...

Blogili
Blogili
Blogili
Blogili
Blogili
Blogili
Blogili
Blogili
Blogili

Edu Blog Lover said...

Read the BloggingVibe blog to learn the latest in tech, business, health, education and travel. Take the leverage of our research and get the latest updates from around the world. Stay up to date with global information with blogging vibe.

Edu Blog Lover said...


If you are unable to write an effective piece, you should improve your writing with the paraphrasing tool online available. For example, Smallseotools paraphrasing tool will change the words of your simple writing with the most practical synonym that would enhance your impression with the viewer.

etechnocraft said...

Really very happy to say, your post is very interesting to read. I never stop myself to say something about it. You’re doing a great job. Keep it up
Write For Us Entertainment
Real Estate Write For Us
Write For Us Home
Write For Us Technology
Write For Us Education
Write For Us Travel

Ayushkhanna said...

very nice post, Please visit here free guest post.trendsmezone

SEOPeakers said...

I really love this blog post. It is quite informative and also rich in quality informational detail for all types of readers. I am a routine researcher and reader who reads different blog posts on a daily basis for the sake of knowledge. So as a part of readers' society, I want to pay my role in increasing the knowledge of other readers and researchers. I recently wrote a piece with the same quality of information on rugs sunshine coast, you can also read it. This will surely increase the knowledge and the interest of readers who regularly visit your site.

SEOPeakers said...

I really love this blog post. It is quite informative and also rich in quality informational detail for all types of readers. I am a routine researcher and reader who reads different blog posts on a daily basis for the sake of knowledge. So as a part of readers' society, I want to pay my role in increasing the knowledge of other readers and researchers. I recently wrote a piece with the same quality of information on mp3clan unblocked , you can also read it. This will surely increase the knowledge and the interest of readers who regularly visit your site.

Anonymous said...

arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo

Deepak said...

This is really nice blog. Please keep up the good work. really looking forward to see some more nice articles like that.
thanks
Thailand Tour Packages
Thailand Trip Packages
Thailand vacation Packages
Thailand Packages

Anonymous said...

arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo

Anonymous said...

arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo
arbravo

trybestthing said...

Thanks for nice information, I really impressed with your thought.

Love from Web Development Company in Australia

Web Development Company in Australia
Mobile Application Development
Digital Marketing in Australia
Software Development Australia
Graphic Designing in Australia
digital marketing consultant

Thanks for nice information, I really impressed with your thought.

Love from Web Development Company in Australia

Web Development Company in Australia
Mobile Application Development
Digital Marketing in Australia
Software Development Australia
Graphic Designing in Australia
digital marketing consultant

Thanks for nice information, I really impressed with your thought.

Love from Web Development Company in Australia

Web Development Company in Australia
Mobile Application Development
Digital Marketing in Australia
Software Development Australia
Graphic Designing in Australia
digital marketing consultant

trybestthing said...

Thanks for nice information, I really impressed with your thought.

Love from Web Development Company in Australia

Web Development Company in Australia
Mobile Application Development
Digital Marketing in Australia
Software Development Australia
Graphic Designing in Australia
digital marketing consultant

Thanks for nice information, I really impressed with your thought.

Love from Web Development Company in Australia

Web Development Company in Australia
Mobile Application Development
Digital Marketing in Australia
Software Development Australia
Graphic Designing in Australia
digital marketing consultant

Thanks for nice information, I really impressed with your thought.

Love from Web Development Company in Australia

Web Development Company in Australia
Mobile Application Development
Digital Marketing in Australia
Software Development Australia
Graphic Designing in Australia
digital marketing consultant

Thanks for nice information, I really impressed with your thought.

Love from Web Development Company in Australia

Web Development Company in Australia
Mobile Application Development
Digital Marketing in Australia
Software Development Australia
Graphic Designing in Australia
digital marketing consultant

cosmetics Uk said...

Cosmetics UK
Cosmetics UK
Cosmetics UK
Cosmetics UK
Cosmetics UK
Cosmetics UK
Cosmetics UK
Cosmetics UK
Cosmetics UK
Cosmetics UK
Cosmetics UK
Cosmetics UK
Cosmetics UK

Unknown said...

Glass Partitioning London | Glass Office Partitions in London

آپکاد said...

Thanks for nice information

دمپایی شیک said...

Very nice

Anonymous said...

arizona cardinals
venom football gloves
Miami Dolphins Bomber Jacket

Reader's zone said...

We are selling best designed and unique style clothes for men, women, and kids. We have also the latest jewelry collections for women. To know more about our shop please visit here Designer Clothing online

nayantech said...

As a result, a temporary address offers considerable privacy benefits. Temp Mail.

It's quick and straightforward to use a temporary address.
There are no features on Temp-mail.org that you will not find useful. Regular email systems, on the other hand, are bloated with capabilities that even the most tech-savvy customers are unaware of.

The advantages of using a disposable email address are as follows:

Temporary email will assist you when enrolling on a resource that requires an email from a specific country.
In most cases, you'll be asked to enter your email address when shopping online. This is an excellent opportunity to use a temporary email address. Otherwise, promotional emails will quickly take up your mailbox. Temp Mail is an abbreviation for Temporary Mail.

Toney Wix said...

Excellent goods from you, man. I have understand your stuff previous to and you’re just extremely great. I really like what you’ve acquired here, really like what you’re stating and the way in which you say it. You make it entertaining and you still care for to keep it smart. I can’t wait to read much more from you. This is really a terrific website.


uwatch,
desiremovie com,
13377x proxy,
रोमांटिक शायरी हिंदी में लिखी हुई

etudeweb said...

Etude Digital Marketing, providing digital marketing services in Mashhad, SEO in Mashhad, website design, content production in Mashhad

imran khan said...

Awesome post! Keep up the great work! 🙂
https://gntme.com/best-cisco-sfp-modules/

accounting software said...

Kavosh Farda accounting and management software, construction accounting software, contract accounting software, elevator software, insurance accounting software, transportation software

Deepak said...

Its a great article, very well informed. Please keep up the good work.
American airlines cancellation policy
Emirates airlines cancellation policy
Southwest airlines cancellation policy
American airlines date change policy
Emirates airlines baggage policy

amith said...

Checkout Dumb Instagram Captions for Stupid Pictures

Hi-Biography said...

I really loved reading your Content I had a wonderful experience ❤ loved the good work but I'll really appreciate it, if you could check my site on My Blog

Diamondexch said...

At the start of the tournament or series, you can place a wager on who will win. For tours such as India to Australia or South Africa to England, this form of world777 betting is simple. Even so, tournaments such as the Indian Premier League (IPL) are very unpredictable, and success is reliant on luck more than ability.

Anonymous said...

Camping in Rishikesh
Camping Package in Rishikesh
Holi celebration Package in rishikesh

Bus Rental Abu dhabi said...

Congratulations! You've made your final selection, and you're now the owner of a beautiful post
bus rental
Bus rental dubai
Bus rental in dubai
Dubai Sightseeing

nayantech said...

Anonymous file sharing between users is now considered to be a critical component of their personal data security system. The majority of the time, users must install additional complex software solutions in order to construct a virtual data channel for secure data transfer via email. You can defend yourself from intruders by concealing your IP address and sending out disposable mail instead than using the genuine mail box. Use temp mail now to keep anonymous. Disposable mail allows you to conceal your true personal information because you do not have to go through any registration process or submit your personal information.

F95zonetech said...



Very helpful information f95zone

Toney Wix said...

Pretty section of content. I just stumbled upon your blog and in accession capital to claim that I acquire in fact loved account your weblog posts. Any way I will be subscribing for your augment or even I success you get right of entry to persistently quickly.

malayalam quotes
love quotes malayalam
sad quotes malayalam
motivational quotes in malayalam
friendship quotes malayalam

KITest said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
techweh said...

Here is Link 52, Link 53, Link 54, Link 55, Link 56 isn't it a great one.

Mahar said...

able2extract professional

Anonymous said...


"http://movaviactivationkey.com/
"

Anonymous said...

Free classifieds ads in uae

Anonymous said...

Dubai classified free ads

Anonymous said...

latest jobs vacancies in dubai

Bestproductkey said...

Great article, exactly what I was looking for.
Zwcad Crack
Videoproc Crack
Autodesk AutoCAD Crack

Sarah J. said...

I loved your book, "Cowboy For A Rainy Afternoon," the first time I read it. I'm on my second reading. Thanks for your newsletter and the reminder about this book. I'm going to keep reading it and share it with my friends. Search Engine Optimization SEO services

Sarah J. said...

I really enjoyed reading your blog post on how to post a comment on ON A WESTERN TRAIL. I found it informative and your blog is a great resource for anyone who needs information on this topic. Cartoon eBook

Daved said...

In the meantime, I also try writing and putting ideas on paper. Do you have time to proofread my content? That would be helpful. SellShop .

Tech trend said...

online pese
hdjnxj
nbc
bhb
bx

Tech trend said...

Rummy Circle Se Paise Kaise Kamaye

Shopify Development Agency said...

Great Article!!!

Team Rhino - Shopify Development Agency.

Anonymous said...

Great article!

Arabic Coffee Cups In Dubai.
Cash Envelop In Dubai.
Cupcake Holders In Dubai.
Paper Desert Bowls In Dubai.

Anonymous said...

Good will visit again

Psychiatrist In Dubai.
Psychiatric Clinic Dubai.
Aba Therapy In Dubai.

Anonymous said...

Good one

Prayer Dresses.
Prayer Dresses For Women.
Prayer Mats.
Quran Stand.

Edison Young said...

This is very great article thank you very much.

ClubHub said...

I am also a mother after pregnancy my hair fall has been increase. Can I use 360 human hair wigs for myself?

freebacklinks said...

I've been struggling with email deliverability issues lately. I'm definitely going to give EmailCheckerInfo a try to improve my email campaigns.

freebacklinks said...

More Games, Less Worry: With the vast collection of games I own, storage quickly becomes a headache. The Steam Deck Memory Expansion's memory expansion not only offers a solution but also adds to the overall convenience of the device.

dfswcatyert44 said...

Facebook continues to be a powerhouse for marketing. With over 2.8 billion monthly active users, it offers a massive potential audience for your brand. In this comprehensive guide, we'll Buy 5 Star Google Reviews walk you through the essential strategies for successful Facebook marketing.
Buy linkedin Accounts

Buy google map reviews

Buy 5 Star Google Reviews

Buy Old Gmail Accounts

Buy Verified PayPal Accounts

co working space in Islamabad said...

In the dynamic landscape of modern business, the concept of co-working spaces has gained significant traction, providing entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small businesses with a flexible and collaborative work environment. HLB co working space in islamabad stands out as a hub for innovation, offering a unique blend of modern amenities and a vibrant community. This article delves into the features and advantages that make HLB Co-Working Space a prime choice for professionals seeking a conducive workspace in the heart of Islamabad.

Nexus Notes said...

Embarking on a Western trail evokes a sense of adventure and discovery. In the digital frontier, Frame X Lab guides you through a trail of innovation and excellence. As a leading software development company, Frame X Lab ensures your journey is marked by cutting-edge technology and seamless user experiences.

Anonymous said...

ON A WESTERN TRAIL" is a captivating journey through the rugged landscapes and untamed spirit of the American West. With its sweeping vistas and thrilling encounters, this film immerses viewers in the heart of frontier life, where every step brings new challenges and every horizon holds the promise of adventure.

International Cargo Services said...

Alweam Cargo delivers unparalleled international cargo services, ensuring swift and secure shipping solutions across borders. With a commitment to reliability and efficiency, their expert team manages every aspect, guaranteeing seamless logistics for businesses worldwide. Trust Alweam Cargo for your freight needs – where precision meets global excellence

Office Relocation said...

Office relocation can be a daunting task, but with Speedy Movers, it's a seamless transition. Our team ensures minimal downtime, streamlined processes, and careful handling of your valuable equipment. Trust us to move your office with precision and efficiency!

speedy movers said...

Welcome to Speedy Movers, where your Residential Moving needs are our priority! Whether you're relocating to a new home or apartment, we offer efficient, reliable, and safe moving services. Our experienced team ensures a seamless transition, allowing you to focus on settling in. Get ready for a hassle-free move with Speedy Movers!

Speedy Mover said...

Speedy Movers took the stress out of our commercial move with their efficient and professional commercial moving service. Highly recommend them to all businesses!

Speedy Mover said...

Impressed by the efficiency of Speedy Movers' team during our office relocation. Highly recommended for anyone in Abu Dhabi seeking top-notch service.

Speedy Mover said...

Discover hassle-free storage solutions in Abu Dhabi with Speedy Mover. Our secure units are meticulously maintained, ensuring your items are always in perfect condition.

Barbara Nye said...

After much research, I've narrowed down my app development agency options to App On Radar and a few other competitors. App On Radar seems impressive with their range of services and focus on all types of apps. However, I'm curious to hear about other companies' strengths and weaknesses. What factors should I consider when comparing app development agencies? Reading some App On Radar reviews alongside reviews of other companies would be a big help!

TH Photography said...


NAME:TH Photography
My name is Md Tuhin Hossein. I have completed a Diploma in marine engineering. I am a blogger, Graphic Designer & Digital Marketer. I have a YouTube channel. You can find my channel link somewhere in this blog.

https://thphotographyworld.blogspot.com/

Thoughtful Nature said...

Wolfgang Zulauf's dedication to environment conservation is truly commendable. Through his services, he's paving the way for sustainable practices and preserving our planet for future generations. If you're passionate about environmental stewardship, Wolfgang Zulauf is the ally you need.

Anonymous said...

thanks for sharing information on this blogpost. thanks again

Reader's zone said...

kits junction