Complex characterization is a Naylor trademark. Through subtle hints the reader gets an overall picture of an individual. By Joe Stump's attitude toward his new selling job and by comments his wife had made about him, the reader knows he is an optimist. By the advice he gives to Ellen, the reader knows he has good common sense. On the other hand, Joe knows that his lane is rutted with holes as deep as water buckets, but he can maneuver his car around them. It may occur to the reader that Joe should fill the holes, but Joe does not think of doing it.

This type of information gives the reader a round picture of a character.

Ellen Stump is a self-starter and a hard worker. The author does not tell the reader this. Instead, she shows Ellen at work. Ellen washes curtains, paints cupboards, and...