Meaning: The quote "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," by Jonathan Kellerman, a psychologist and best-selling author, provides insight into the author's connection to the characters he creates in his novels. Kellerman is best known for his crime fiction novels, particularly the Alex Delaware series, which features the character of a psychologist, Alex Delaware, as the protagonist. In this quote, Kellerman expresses his deep connection to the characters he has developed and his hope that readers will also feel a similar connection to them.

Kellerman's statement reflects the intricate process of character development and the importance of creating characters that resonate with both the author and the readers. As a psychologist, Kellerman brings a unique perspective to his writing, infusing his characters with psychological depth and complexity. Through his portrayal of these characters, Kellerman aims to create a sense of familiarity and emotional resonance for his readers, akin to the experience of meeting old friends.

The author's sentiment also highlights the immersive nature of storytelling and the power of well-crafted characters to evoke genuine emotions and connections. When an author feels that the characters are "real" to them, it speaks to the depth of the character's development and the author's investment in their stories. This level of authenticity and emotional investment can greatly enhance the reader's experience, as they are more likely to become emotionally engaged with the characters and the narrative.

Furthermore, Kellerman's hope that readers will feel the same connection to his characters underscores the importance of relatability and empathy in storytelling. By creating characters that feel authentic and relatable, authors can forge a strong bond between the readers and the fictional world they have created. When readers feel a sense of kinship with the characters, it deepens their emotional investment in the story and enhances their overall reading experience.

In the context of Kellerman's crime fiction novels, the intricate and multi-dimensional portrayal of characters, particularly the psychologist protagonist, Alex Delaware, allows readers to delve into the complexities of the human psyche. Through the character of Delaware, Kellerman explores the intricacies of psychological trauma, resilience, and the pursuit of justice, drawing readers into a world that feels both familiar and captivating.

Overall, Jonathan Kellerman's quote encapsulates the profound connection between an author and their characters, as well as the author's aspiration to evoke a similar connection in their readers. It speaks to the power of storytelling to create meaningful and lasting impressions, and the ability of well-developed characters to resonate deeply with audiences. Through his psychological insight and storytelling prowess, Kellerman has crafted characters that feel undeniably real, inviting readers to embark on an emotional journey alongside them.