Glossary or no Glossary that is the question?

[Paul Stretton-Stephens]

Hello,

 

It was suggested to me that with a piece of fiction that introduces characters of another world there should be a glossary.  I must say that my initial reaction was to say that I thought that the writing should introduce the characters.  After this suggestion I spoke with others and I spoke to someone that said, “I would include a glossary and then it is there for those who need it and if others don’t want it they just won’t access it.”

 

So my question is to you all: Do you say yes or no to a glossary of characters?

 

If yes, would you put the glossary at the front or at the back?

 

What do you think?

 

All thoughts appreciated.

 

Paul

[Rebecca Ryals Russell]

I have a glossary in mine. I'm writing both YA and MG based on a new planet with strange creatures, etc. and while reading my drafts my husband kept saying he needed a glossary to keep it all straight.

[Paul Stretton-Stephens]

Rebecca, Thank you for your response.  Actually my wife says the same about keeping it all together.  I wondered what were the reactions of your readers?

 

Paul