What aspect of character development increases reader investment in a story?

The transformation and growth of characters is crucial in enhancing reader investment in a story. When characters undergo significant changes, whether through personal struggles, life experiences, or interactions with others, it creates a dynamic narrative that can resonate deeply with the audience. Readers tend to become more attached to characters who face challenges and evolve, as it mirrors the complexities of real-life experiences. This development fosters empathy, allowing readers to relate to the characters' journeys and feel more engaged with the overarching narrative.

In contrast, reducing character backstory might limit the depth and understanding of a character's motivations and decisions, leading to a less immersive experience. Keeping characters one-dimensional can result in a lack of connection, as readers may find it difficult to relate to or care about flat characters. Simply explaining character motivations does not provide the richness of an emotional journey; it is the experience of seeing how characters react, learn, and transform that truly captivates readers and draws them into the story.