Should I include these two characters to my book?

Question

These two were my two favorite characters, but many people told me I should just leave them out.

The 1st one was the main girl's mentally-challenged cousin, George. I thought he would be a very cute character because of her friendship with him and how everyone loves him. He was based off of one of my buddies who I used to "help" out because of his disabilities. I would watch over him.

The 2nd one was the main girl's best friend, Jaimee. She dies in a car crash while her brother, Jude, survives. It's a major loss to her so I thought after this huge tragedy she would go to the main guy's characters for comfort even though they recently had a big fight, but there's many other ways to make that happen.

Should I leave these characters out? I really liked them, but I don't really need them.

Any suggestions?

Thanks.

:]

Answer 1

I'd need way more than that to decide. The story at present-is it even started yet? If it's already got lots of drama and angst there's no need for Jaime with two ee's (ick) Would George have a real role and a really spot on character or would he just be the patron retarded kid that every looks down on and laughs at when he does silly stuff because he's mentally handicapped? Will your main girl character look down on George or genuinely care for him and want to spend time with him? I think George is an interesting idea but only if you're writing is on par with the level of skill needed to accurately describe a mentally challenged person's actions, thoughts, and feelings.  

Answer 2

It's up to you really.

If they don't have a part in the story at all then don't include them, but you could always mention them. On the other hand, if they help with the plot or help the audience understand a certain aspect then  include them.

Hope this helps :)

Answer 3

If the story doesn't actually need them, I'd say definitely leave them out.  You don't want to clutter your story with needless things, including awesome characters.  

But you can keep the characters themselves, just in case you write something with a place for them later.  ^^

Answer 4

Any characters based on those you know are great to keep in. They are fr more interested to read about, in my opinion. Cheers.