When Sequels Don't Measure Up

Sequels can be fun.  When a story gives us a satisfying ending, one where we cared deeply about the characters, we want to stay in that world.  It’s familiar and comfortable, so we look for more stories set in that universe, preferably with the same characters.  Unfortunately, not all sequels measure up.

When a sequel is done well, such as with UnionForever or Harry potter and The Chamber of Secrets, we view it as little more than a continuation of the world we fell in love with.  However, when a sequel is done poorly, like Ready Player Two, it can be soul crushing.  Badly written sequels can destroy the world we loved if it upends that world in ways we loathe.

Some authors write with the express purpose of creating a sequel, so the flow is seamless.  However, so many authors write with a single story in mind.  They said all they wanted to say, so they concluded their story.  But that doesn’t mean that they won’t succumb to demands for something else based on the love the audience had for the previous story.  This, in my opinion, is where writers get into trouble.  When a continuation is forced, the reader can sense it.  Sometimes, the writer will do something so against a character’s template, or change part of the world so extremely, all in pursuit of mixing it up to create new pull towards a story, that it makes the story fall apart.  If done badly enough, it can make the whole world(ie, previous stories) also fall apart.

A writer should only create a sequel if they find a good story, either because there was always meant to be one, or because they truly found inspiration.  Trying to appease the audience doesn’t rank as good enough reason and is dangerous.  The author tends to get either rushed, or get insane ideas that would have never otherwise made it into the story, or both.

Before you clamor for a sequel, see if it’s natural.  And if there wasn’t a natural continuation, go in with a jaundiced eye.  Maybe the author will re-create the magic that once captivated you, but he or she may also destroy a beloved part of your past.  Just know that going in.