These people are real to me, and situations keep coming up where their emergence feels natural. It's like meeting old friends. I hope readers feel the same way.

In this quote, Jonathan Kellerman, a well-known American author of crime fiction and psychological thrillers, discusses his deep connection to the characters he creates in his books. He compares writing about them to the experience of meeting old friends, emphasizing how their personalities and actions come naturally to him. Kellerman suggests that his characters are so well-developed and real to him that their actions feel like a natural extension of their personalities, rather than forced or contrived.

Kellerman’s words also reflect the intimacy he feels with his characters, which is essential for a writer in creating believable and engaging narratives. By describing the emergence of situations as "natural," he implies that his characters’ development is fluid and authentic, allowing their stories to unfold without artificial constraints. This shows the organic nature of storytelling when a writer is deeply invested in their characters and the world they inhabit.

The hope that readers will feel the same connection speaks to the goal of good storytelling: to make the characters and their experiences resonate with the audience. Kellerman is not only aiming for a compelling plot but also for a deeper emotional connection between his characters and the readers. He wants his audience to feel as if they are encountering familiar faces and reconnecting with the characters each time they revisit his work.

Ultimately, Kellerman’s quote highlights the importance of authenticity and empathy in writing. When a writer can bring characters to life in such a way that they feel real, it creates a powerful bond between the writer, the characters, and the readers. This connection is what makes a story memorable and impactful, as readers are more likely to connect with characters who feel like long-lost friends.