I have a confession to make.
But you can’t tell anyone, OK?
I’m not fond of historical fiction.
I’m a huge reader with wide-ranging interests, so it pains me to say there’s a genre I don’t particularly like—especially when I know many writers who are working hard to create very valuable books in it. It also pains me because I’m smart enough to know that there’s probably historical fiction out there I would like if I got past my prejudice that historical fiction is all 800-page tomes full of hoop skirts, archaic language and obscure references.
So knowing that about me, what genre would you guess my latest picture book belongs to?
Yup. Historical fiction.
What can I say? Life is funny sometimes.
Interestingly enough, it’s not like I set out to write historical fiction. I kind of stumbled into it. I was initially writing a book called THE FASTEST FEET ON FLEET STREET, set in current times, about two girls competing to see who was the better runner, jumper and double-dutch rope skipper.
But the story needed something more. I wasn’t sure what.
The answer came from a discussion with an editor at a writing conference. She suggested anchoring it in a specific time. That one suggestion set off the proverbial light bulb. I immediately thought of Wilma Rudolph.
I knew the outline of Wilma’s story—overcoming polio and other illnesses as a child to become a three-time Olympic gold medalist and the fastest woman in the world—but not exactly when it had taken place. Research was obviously required.
I used to work as a newspaper reporter, so I know how to conduct research and interview and generally find things out. That part felt familiar as I read books, searched online and emailed experts.
And, as happens anytime I conduct research, l learned things. Things that fit right in with the story I was writing. My research filled in the gaps in my story, strengthened the weak parts and gave it the needed oomph, for want of a more technical term. Soon, the story’s title was THE QUICKEST KID IN CLARKSVILLE, a nod to Wilma’s hometown of Clarksville, Tennessee.
I was able to weave in facts about the poverty Wilma grew up in and how her hometown was segregated during her youth. I also learned that Wilma paved the way for the town’s eventual integration by insisting that her victory parade in 1960 be open to everyone.
I wrote an author’s note. Got the rights to use a photo of the real-life Wilma riding in her parade.
Before I knew it, I had a historical fiction picture book. That I liked. Maybe it was time to rethink my priorities.
So, when my middle-school daughter came home and grumpily said she had to read a historical fiction book and she didn’t want to because all historical fiction was “boring,” I did not agree with her.
Instead, I put out a call to my online friends and soon had a list of more than 50 historical fiction middle-grade titles they recommended. My daughter and I spent an evening at the library looking some up. She left with THE BOY IN THE STRIPED PAJAMAS and TWERP, while I left with TURTLE IN PARADISE and AL CAPONE DOES MY SHIRTS.
While I still wouldn’t say historical fiction is my favorite genre, I now know that I like it more than I used to.
And I’d certainly be open to writing some again.
As I researched, I found great quotes by Wilma that apply to any era. Here are a few:
Thank you, Pat! Sometimes agents and editors advise writers, “This story needs another layer.” You found yours in historical fiction!
I’m giving away a copy of this spunky book! Just leave a comment to enter and a winner will be randomly selected in early March!
167 comments
Comments feed for this article
February 17, 2016 at 1:44 pm
hgrange9
Historical fiction is a genre that a lot of kids don’t like, more books like this one might change their minds. 😉
February 17, 2016 at 1:47 pm
Gretchen Haertsch
Historical fiction is my favorite genre — to read and write. All your choices for you and your daughter are great. Try reading some Richard Peck, as well. Thanks for an interesting post and best of luck with the book.
February 17, 2016 at 1:47 pm
Carrie Finison
This book looks FANTASTIC – what a story! I can’t wait to read it. I’m also excited to share with my kids a book that talks about what life was like during segregation. Seems like there aren’t too many of these, and it’s important for them to understand that part of history.
February 17, 2016 at 1:47 pm
Debbie Meyer (@littledebmeyer)
Fabulous! I too typically steer clear of historical fiction, but you’ve inspired me to get over it and check them out. Thank you. This looks like a great book for any era!
February 17, 2016 at 1:48 pm
Marla
This looks like a fun book. Sometimes we have to follow our stories where they take us, even if it’s somewhere we never expected to be!
February 17, 2016 at 1:48 pm
katrinamoorebooks
Thanks for this great post, Pat and Tara! Pat, I can’t wait to read this. What an inspiring way to add that layer of depth to transform your story 🙂
February 17, 2016 at 1:49 pm
rgstones
I can’t wait to read it! Thanks for this post, Pat.
February 17, 2016 at 1:50 pm
Debbie Meyer (@littledebmeyer)
Fabulous! I too tend to steer clear of historical fiction, but as others have mentioned I do love me some Richard Peck!! Anyway, you’ve inspired me to look to historical fiction more. Thank you. This looks like a great book for any era! 🙂
February 17, 2016 at 1:50 pm
anitanolan
I remember that I loved reading about Wilma Rudolph when I was a kid. I was so enamored with her life that I read the same story repeatedly. Great topic!
February 17, 2016 at 1:51 pm
Chana Stiefel
Awesome backstory! Can’t wait to read your new book and share it with my kids.
February 17, 2016 at 1:51 pm
Traci Bold
Pat, you always have inspiring insight to share and I really appreciate it. Wilma Rudolph is a legend for so many reasons. I learned a lot about her in school but the books then were not as interesting as yours is about her. 🙂
February 17, 2016 at 1:53 pm
Lyn Miller-Lachmann
I love historical fiction! In fact, I have two published historical novels for older YA and one more that’s a work in progress (still needs a ton of research). Writing historical fiction is a lot of work because of the amount of research involved and the fact that you can’t simply dump most of that research into the book.
So far, my picture book publications have been stories I’ve translated from Portuguese, and one that’s coming out within the year is historical fiction about a family of immigrants who don’t find the paradise they sought when they moved, so they set about changing things in their little neighborhood. I’m proud to be the translator of this beautiful and inspiring story!
February 17, 2016 at 1:53 pm
Leslie Santamaria (@LSSantamaria)
Loved this story behind the story, Pat. I, too, would say historical fiction isn’t my favorite genre, but so many of my favorite books are historical fiction. Hmmm…must rethink that!
February 17, 2016 at 1:54 pm
Lane Fredrickson
I Love this story!
February 17, 2016 at 1:56 pm
Jabeen Chawdhry
Its funny, as a kid I use to think anything historical was boooorrrrring! Boy was I wrong, when I was introduced to historical fiction I was hooked! Its my favourite genre now. I love how there are so many great historical fiction books made for kids, I cant wait to read yours, it sounds amazing!
February 17, 2016 at 1:57 pm
tphumiruk
Thank you, Tara and Pat! I’ve had my eye on this book!
February 17, 2016 at 2:00 pm
danielle hammelef
Historical fiction has experienced a makeover since I was a kid! I love reading historical fiction now and would love to learn how to write it too. Thanks for the post and giveaway of this beautifully illustrated book!
February 17, 2016 at 2:00 pm
writeknit
Can’t wait to read this book, would love to win it to add to my grandkid’s collection (ok, I don’t have any grandkids yet, but the first that arrives will have an awesome bookcase full of the books I have for him or her!!)
February 17, 2016 at 2:00 pm
Rebecca E. Guzinski
Thanks for this surprisingly uplifting post. Historical fiction…who knew?
February 17, 2016 at 2:01 pm
Jennifer Bagan
Loved this post and can’t wait to read this book! Thank you!
February 17, 2016 at 2:01 pm
Sue Heavenrichs
Yay Pat, for finding your “historical fiction” voice. Yay Tara, for sharing this wonderful post. And Yay for a chance to win. I can’t wait to read about this girl so fleet of feet.
February 17, 2016 at 2:04 pm
Judy
Sounds like a great book! I put this one on my list to purchase.
February 17, 2016 at 2:07 pm
ManjuBeth
Pat, Thanks for sharing! I’m excited about your new historical fiction PB. It sounds like a great mentor text for me.
February 17, 2016 at 2:07 pm
Polly Renner
You’ve changed my mind about historical fiction, too! Off to the library. ..
February 17, 2016 at 2:08 pm
mona861
Thanks Pat and Tara.You’ve given me a new insight to creating a fun story from historical fiction from the real facts. Can’t wait to read this book. Would be great to win it!
February 17, 2016 at 2:10 pm
Kelly Rice Schmitt
Pat, thanks for this great post. This is a great idea– I love thinking about your fictional worlds and how they can merge with real truths in the world, present or past. I am big fan of well done historical fiction and biography picture books. You can learn so much. Your new title looks fabulous!
February 17, 2016 at 2:11 pm
Crystal Roget
Great post, Pat and Tara! Would love to win a copy of this book! I’m currently working on a historical fiction middle grade myself. . . . This is very inspiring! 🙂
February 17, 2016 at 2:12 pm
Kim Pfennigwerth
What a fabulous way for a story to find it’s way to nonfiction! As a reader who loves historical fiction – I can’t wait to read this!
February 17, 2016 at 2:13 pm
lydialukidis
I do love historical fiction, yet cannot imagine writing it!!
February 17, 2016 at 2:18 pm
Christine Pinto
I love historical fiction for what it tells us about ourselves today, and for what it tells us about where we came from.
Thanks for this post.
February 17, 2016 at 2:21 pm
Kathy Doherty
I love Wilma Rudolph and her amazing life story. I can’t wait to read Pat’s book and learn something new!
February 17, 2016 at 2:24 pm
lindamartinandersen
So great to hear how this book evolved! I am happy for you and for readers out there.
February 17, 2016 at 2:28 pm
ann kronwald
How motivating–both Wilma and your writing process. Thanks.
February 17, 2016 at 2:29 pm
Gabi Snyder
I’m excited to read The Quickest Kid in Clarksville, Pat! I actually do like historical fiction and I’d love to see more PBs in this genre.
February 17, 2016 at 2:30 pm
kevanjatt
Like someone else said, I love historical fiction but tryinig to write it sounds daunting. You’re awesome.
February 17, 2016 at 2:31 pm
picturebookplaydate
Would love to share this with my son; I love having PBs with strong girl characters for him to read!
February 17, 2016 at 2:36 pm
Pizzos3.com
I taught the Wilma Rudolph story every year to 8th graders coming from a family of 21 was always an amazing fact for them. Can’t wait to read this one.
February 17, 2016 at 2:38 pm
Alice Fulgione
I always thought that Wilma Rudolph was a fascinating athlete and I can’t wait to read “The Quickest Kid In Clarksville”.
February 17, 2016 at 2:38 pm
jpetroroy
This looks like a great read. I’d love to learn more about her.
February 17, 2016 at 2:41 pm
Cathy Stefanec Ogren
Love this book and the story. Way to go, Pat!
February 17, 2016 at 2:46 pm
Andria Rosenbaum
Sounds like a very inspiring book!
February 17, 2016 at 2:48 pm
Jilanne Hoffmann
Sounds like a fabulous book, even if it made it to the table as an unfamiliar dish. I, too, didn’t know how much I like historical fiction, or nonfiction for that matter, until I started reading the really good stuff being produced today. I guess I soured on it as a kid because I was forced to read some that were so yawn-inducing I gave up. So much GREAT stuff out there, now. Sounds like this book is going to psych kids up to read more. Thanks!
February 17, 2016 at 2:49 pm
Colleen Paeff
I just read this book last week and loved it! It’s such a great example of “voice” done well. Thanks for sharing your story. 🙂
February 17, 2016 at 2:52 pm
Noel Csermak
Wonderful post. I love the honesty and openness. You just never know what might happen when you give something a try.
February 17, 2016 at 2:54 pm
avivawerner
I love historical fiction!
February 17, 2016 at 3:01 pm
Janice Milusich
The quotes and your exploration into a new genre were inspiring.
February 17, 2016 at 3:07 pm
Kris
Sometimes tangents take us to wonderful places!
February 17, 2016 at 3:12 pm
Sandy Brehl
My copy arrived and i love every word/image of it!
February 17, 2016 at 3:16 pm
jjsewell416
Well I love historical fiction and this sounds like a great new addition to the genre!
February 17, 2016 at 3:19 pm
Cheryl
One of the joys of writing is that although we don’t always know where we’re going when we start out, it can be a heck of a race if we leave ourselves open to the possibilities. So glad you listened and followed this track. Looks like a marvelous book!!
February 17, 2016 at 3:20 pm
hdening
I’m quickly developing a new appreciation for historical fiction. Thanks for the your candidness and insights.
February 17, 2016 at 3:22 pm
Kassy Keppol
I love the research part, but haven’t aspired to write historical fiction yet. Bravo!
February 17, 2016 at 3:22 pm
Essea
What a great interview! I will definitely buy this book for my granddaughter. If I win a copy, I’ll donate to our schools library. Thank you!
February 17, 2016 at 3:26 pm
Leslie Raith
Your book sounds amazing — just what kids need, stories about diverse people who overcame odds to achieve their goals. Dovetails nicely with the movie “Race” that is coming out.
February 17, 2016 at 3:29 pm
Jacqueline
I love the twist that you ending up writing in a genre you didn’t think you liked. Just goes to show that we won’t know unless we try it!
February 17, 2016 at 3:29 pm
Nancy Beaule
Looks like a very interesting read, glad you pursued it!
February 17, 2016 at 3:31 pm
carolmunrojww
I love Pat’s books, and I have this one on order. *waiting, waiting, waiting* On the other hand — EEK! — the sixties are historical?
February 17, 2016 at 3:33 pm
rimna
Great story on how you got to historical fiction.
February 17, 2016 at 3:38 pm
mariagianferrari
I LOVE historical fiction! It’s one of my favorite genres, Pat. And I’m glad that your lovely PB is joining its ranks. Congrats!!
February 17, 2016 at 3:41 pm
setwiggs
I too am just starting to appreciate historical fiction. I would love to have your list of MG historical fiction books that you assembled for your daughter. Looking forward to reading your book, Pat. Love the quotes!
February 17, 2016 at 3:51 pm
Beverly R. Marsh
Thank you for sharing your journey in writing this marvelous book.
February 17, 2016 at 3:53 pm
Lynn A. Davidson
Historical fiction is one of my favourite genres. I’m glad there are interesting picture books in that genre, books that are a pleasure to read. They’re great for young readers to get interested in history (and for older ones, too) This book looks to be so beautifully illustrated.
February 17, 2016 at 3:57 pm
laura516
The third quote you posted of Wilma’s should go on every writer’s wall. Thanks for a dose of inspiration.
February 17, 2016 at 4:00 pm
Erin O'Brien
I love this background story! My wheels are spinning…
February 17, 2016 at 4:04 pm
Rene` Diane Aube
I ♥ historical fiction, and how you ended up writing one, Pat! And I love your writing *and yours, too, Tara ~ in fact, I’ve determined to purchase Monstore for both of my brothers who loved to scare this pesky little sister to pieces*. Anyway, even if I don’t win this giveaway…I’m buying your book, Pat! It sounds like a great story and I love the quotes…:D Happy day! What a neat way to add another layer, too!
February 17, 2016 at 4:16 pm
Gloria Amescua
I’m looking forward to reading this book I love historical fiction as well as other genres.
February 17, 2016 at 4:20 pm
Brenda Huante
I look forward to reading your book!
February 17, 2016 at 4:29 pm
Mary McClellan
Funny that we sometimes have to have a brick wall fall on us. 🙂 I’m looking forward to reading Pat’s book!.
February 17, 2016 at 4:37 pm
Angela Turner
Thank you for this helpful advice. I have so much to learn.
February 17, 2016 at 4:47 pm
donnacangelosi
What an amazing story, Pat! I’m looking forward to reading The Quickest Kid in Clarksville!
February 17, 2016 at 4:51 pm
Carol Jones
This was very enlightening. I think I should look into historical fiction for young kids more.
February 17, 2016 at 4:55 pm
Carol Gwin Nelson
Great post, thanks Pat and Tara. What a great way to add depth to a picture book.
February 17, 2016 at 5:01 pm
Charlotte Dixon
I’ve always enjoyed historical nonfiction. Your journey into the genre is enlightening and I look forward to reading your book.
February 17, 2016 at 5:02 pm
Kristi
Thank you for sharing.
My high school students have influenced me to consider more historical fiction and even nonfiction! Sometimes I read it for fun! Writing it? Maybe someday.
February 17, 2016 at 5:08 pm
Pam Miller
Appreciate your story, Pat, and Tara’s post, in view of the fact that I failed to interest my grandson in Historical Fiction at Barnes Noble. He said those books were for when his teacher wanted him to learn some useless information. Maybe wimpy kid will become historical.
February 17, 2016 at 5:08 pm
Jen G.
I love historical fiction, but understand why people don’t! Loved this backstory to your book — it looks awesome!
February 17, 2016 at 5:10 pm
Jennifer Bower
What an inspiring post! I love historical fiction and dream of the day I can put together a historically fabulous tale for children. I am looking forward to reading your book, as well as the others you mentioned.
February 17, 2016 at 5:13 pm
Carolyn Rohrbaugh
I know that your story will prove that not all historical fiction is boring.
February 17, 2016 at 5:13 pm
Shirley Menendez
Thanks for sharing your route to publication of historical fiction. I’m sure sales will justify all your efforts in researching for this book. I’m sure kids will not find it boring.
February 17, 2016 at 5:16 pm
Darshana
Great post! Can’t wait to read your book Pat. For the record I enjoy historical fiction especially in MG and YA. If you ever need a recommendation … Congrats!
February 17, 2016 at 5:16 pm
Meredith Pinkstone
Sounds like a wonderful story — I can’t wait to read it!
February 17, 2016 at 5:24 pm
Dee Knabb
Love Pat’s work and this sounds like another treasure. Thanks for this interview.
February 17, 2016 at 5:34 pm
tanyakonerman
Love the quotes…can’t wait to read it all!
February 17, 2016 at 5:37 pm
Lisa Katzenberger
Love your work, Pat! Can’t wait to read your latest!
February 17, 2016 at 5:44 pm
Sherri Rivers
You found the magic. Can’t wait to get my hands on it.
February 17, 2016 at 6:03 pm
Jessica
This sounds wonderful. I am so happy you found your inspiration.
February 17, 2016 at 6:19 pm
Melissa Stoller
Thanks for sharing this story about the genesis of your ideas. I agree that the comments made at writing conferences can lead to great and unexpected results. Good luck with the book!
February 17, 2016 at 6:25 pm
Barbara Carney
Really enjoyed reading about Pat’s process and finding the details that made the story!
February 17, 2016 at 6:28 pm
Lori Alexander
So interesting how you added the historical part later in the process. Thanks for sharing, Pat!
February 17, 2016 at 6:31 pm
Barbara Cairns
Congratulations, Pat! I love how your story evolved. And I hope I win a copy. 🙂
February 17, 2016 at 6:36 pm
Amy Hansen Harding
Seriously can’t wait to read this book!
February 17, 2016 at 6:41 pm
Artelle Lenthall
Thank you Pat, no really thank you. I think you’ve just given me a PB idea of my own!
February 17, 2016 at 6:52 pm
Ginny Kaczmarek
What a great story! Can’t wait to check out Pat’s book, as well as the others she mentioned. I’m writing historical fiction now and am really enjoying the process. Here’s hoping kids will like the result!
February 17, 2016 at 7:16 pm
Heather Pierce Stigall
Nice post! I wasn’t a huge fan of non fiction or historical fiction until ReFoMoRe last year when I was turned on to some picture books I really did enjoy. I look forward to reading your book.
February 17, 2016 at 7:22 pm
Debra Daugherty
Another hit! Can’t wait to read it. Pat, I enjoy your stories tremendously, and so does my 5 year old nephew!.
February 17, 2016 at 7:32 pm
Annie Cronin Romano
Love this post! So nice to hear Pat’s journey with this nonfiction picture book!
February 17, 2016 at 7:40 pm
Gail Hedrick
Thanks for sharing your journey to Clarksville-lots of info to use, and congrats on a wonderful book!
February 17, 2016 at 7:44 pm
Kyle McBride
Thanks for the process. Can’t wait to read it.
February 17, 2016 at 7:45 pm
Christie Wright Wild
I love love love this! I definitely want a copy.
February 17, 2016 at 7:57 pm
Judy Sobanski
My family’s roots are in Tennessee. Can’t wait to read your book! Thanks for sharing your NF PB journey.
February 17, 2016 at 7:57 pm
Ashley Pierson
Hi Pat,
I just watched how your dream became a reality on youtube. I love that you were determined to make your dream come true at 39! I’m 43 and I don’t want to live with the regret either! You are so inspiring! Love your new book too!
February 17, 2016 at 8:05 pm
writeremmcbride
Elizabeth McBride – What a great post Pat! I have felt the same way about historical fiction, only I soon noticed that the kids really sit up in astonishment when I tell them that there is a ‘real’ connection to the story, then point to the places where we can find out more in the library! I can’t wait to add your book to our library! Both you and Wilma are an inspiration!
February 17, 2016 at 8:42 pm
Barbara Bockman
Pat, I love the way your story evolved and matured. Congratulations on expanding your horizons.
February 17, 2016 at 8:54 pm
Juliana Lee
Love the memes! Now I HAVE to read this book!
February 17, 2016 at 9:39 pm
erikammon
A Wilma Rudolph book! Woohoo! It looks awesome and I’d love to add it to my classroom library. I love the idea you came up with to take your MS to the next level 🙂 Congrats!!!
February 17, 2016 at 9:40 pm
Trine
Pat, I look forward to reading it. I like how you found your way to Historical Fiction. I think it will grow on ya!
February 17, 2016 at 9:46 pm
Tammi Truax
Truly looking forward to reading this!
February 17, 2016 at 9:48 pm
Poppy
That was a seriously lovely post.
February 17, 2016 at 10:14 pm
Marcus Ewert
Sometimes a little grounding in reality is what a story’s crying out for. Great post detailing your process, Pat – and let me now join chorus of those who really want to read the book!
February 17, 2016 at 10:17 pm
Carrie Charley Brown
Pat, you are truly gifted. Even this post has a great character transition featuring YOU! Thanks for sharing your growth story. I have been wanting to read this one!
February 17, 2016 at 10:18 pm
Jennifer Rumberger
Pat, Congrats on your new book! It’s on my to-read list. Great choices from the library too! 🙂
February 17, 2016 at 10:28 pm
Melanie Ellsworth
Just read, and really enjoyed, THE HIRED GIRL (historical fiction), by Laura Amy Schlitz. I’m also looking forward to reading (and sharing with my daughter) THE QUICKEST KID IN CLARKSVILLE and learning more about Wilma Rudolph, a woman I didn’t know about but ought to have known about. Thanks for your book and for the insight into taking a story to a deeper level.
February 17, 2016 at 10:56 pm
Denita Johnson
Your book sounds awesome, even though most of us do not like historical fiction that much it is good for us and our children to read to learn about others, glad you wrote this one a very good inspiration.
February 17, 2016 at 10:57 pm
kimberlyjo2016
Love this! Her quotes are engraved in the steps leading up to the doors of the Wilma Rudolph Event Center here in Clarksville. How fascinating that your idea led to part of our town’s history. I believe this will be an inspiration to children who struggle with feelings of never being good enough. You just do what you love and see where it leads you. Congratulations!
February 17, 2016 at 11:22 pm
lizvoss1
This was an interesting post. I look forward to reading your book about Wilma Rudolph. I am also a journalist and interested in writing historical fiction and nonfiction.
February 17, 2016 at 11:27 pm
Donna L Martin
I’m currently writing historical fiction as well but I find I have a great fascination for the research side of things as well as the challenge of creating something out of nothing and sprinkling a touch of history throughout it to boot…
Great post!
February 17, 2016 at 11:46 pm
Zoraida Rivera Morales
I want to write some historical picture books. I identified some great people. I research and I’m stuck. This makes me think, I should keep trying. I can do it! Thanks.
February 18, 2016 at 2:25 am
Rosi Hollinbeck
I love historical fiction — reading and writing it. Thanks for telling me about your new book. I will definitely be checking it out.
February 18, 2016 at 2:51 am
Jill
I love historical fiction – especially picture books.
February 18, 2016 at 5:29 am
Freda Lewkowicz
Thank you for the insights. Your book sounds great, and I will definitely read it. I am wondering if one needs permission from a subject or from the family of a subject when writing historical fiction or fiction “based on a true event.”
February 18, 2016 at 6:13 am
Tina Cho
Yes, historical fiction takes the boring out of dry history! Can’t wait to read your new book, Pat!
February 18, 2016 at 8:01 am
Damon Dean
Read this one in my Library! Loved it… served as a model for a piece I am working on. so great to hear your story about it Pat. Thanks for sharing.
February 18, 2016 at 8:32 am
marlainagray
Those are great quotes! Looking forward to reading this one, Pat!
February 18, 2016 at 8:37 am
kirsticall
This looks like such a fun book! I can’t wait to read it, Pat!
February 18, 2016 at 8:55 am
Linda Carpenter
Anxious to read your new book Pat! Congratulations!
February 18, 2016 at 9:27 am
Tami Finley
Pat, thank you for sharing your writing with all of us. Looks like another winner!
February 18, 2016 at 9:40 am
tdegezelle
I love reading and writing Historical fiction. It is a great way to share our history with young readers.
February 18, 2016 at 9:47 am
Mary Zychowicz
I love that you left your “comfort zone” to write historical fiction. I think I would have liked history classes more if I could relate it to something like this story. Can’t wait to read it.
February 18, 2016 at 10:11 am
Carleen M. Tjader
I got a kick out of your journey for this historical fiction book! The story sounds wonderful!
February 18, 2016 at 10:57 am
katiemillsgiorgio
I heart Pat Zietlow Miller! Thanks for sharing 🙂
February 18, 2016 at 11:13 am
christinerodenbour
Thanks for sharing your interesting historical fiction journey with us!
February 18, 2016 at 11:22 am
Lynne Marie
Thanks for taking me along the run, Pat. Loved this post!
February 18, 2016 at 12:10 pm
Rebecca Van Slyke
How fun to hear the backstory about the development of this book! I’m learning never to say never. I’m now revising a MG novel that I SWORE I’d NEVER write.
February 18, 2016 at 12:39 pm
jeanjames926
Pat what a great story. My 10 y/o daughter loves historical fiction, and I can guarantee that she would absolutely love your book, especially those inspiring quotes! Congrats on a great story!
February 18, 2016 at 2:59 pm
writersideup
Pat, I just loved hearing about how this book developed. It sounds WONderful 😀
February 18, 2016 at 5:41 pm
Darcee Freier
How funny! Thanks for filling in ‘the rest of the story’ and being so encouraging.
February 18, 2016 at 6:15 pm
Niko
Thanks for the post! Its funny, I enjoy history because of historic fiction books. My kids (ages 13 and 11) are especially drawn to history (okay, for a few minutes) because they had to read a historic fiction book. I am glad you found the inspiration for your latest book.
February 18, 2016 at 8:43 pm
Akire Bubar
Interesting to hear how you started with the seed of an idea, and figured out how to add depth and detail. Great post!
February 18, 2016 at 8:47 pm
onathought
I love this post– I don’t choose historical fiction usually, but then when I read it I like it. This picture book looks great!
February 18, 2016 at 8:58 pm
Louann Brown
I actually love historical fiction. (Especially when the writer tricks you into feeling like the book is an enchanting fiction story and seamlessly sneaks in the facts along the way.) Some of my faves are Snowflake Bentley, The Noisy Paintbox and The Iridescence of Birds: A Book About Henri Matisse.
February 18, 2016 at 10:37 pm
Cinzia
Thanks for sharing! The book looks great
February 19, 2016 at 1:45 am
waengel2002
Wonderful post. Great backstory. I enjoyed reading “The Boy in Stripped Pajamas”. Congratulations on a job well done. (As you always do!)
February 19, 2016 at 2:09 am
bucherwurm65
This post was just what I needed when I needed it! Thank you!
February 19, 2016 at 7:01 am
Ali Pfautz
I can’t wait to read it! Loved hearing how it all came together. Thanks!
February 19, 2016 at 1:22 pm
Janine Gedwillo Johns
I can’t wait to read this book!
February 19, 2016 at 2:27 pm
wyszguy
Thanks for the great essay. I’m excited to read Pat’s new book!
February 19, 2016 at 4:02 pm
Erika Hitchcock
This looks like such a great book Pat! Seems to touch on so many subjects that are still very revelant today. Can’t wait to read 🙂
February 19, 2016 at 4:17 pm
lmconnors
Can’t wait to read your new book!
February 19, 2016 at 4:47 pm
Helen Matthews
Viva research
February 20, 2016 at 12:52 am
Sheri Rad
Wow, you’ve won me over with reading some historical fiction picture books and see what that is all about.
February 20, 2016 at 1:30 am
Natalie Lynn Tanner
I have found the greatest inspiration to “keep on keepin’ on” from reading historical fiction. Thank you for another great one to add to my list!
February 20, 2016 at 6:21 am
Liz
Thank you! I really enjoyed reading your post and look forward to the book, too! What an inspiring book for everyone!
February 20, 2016 at 11:03 am
Jenna Woloshyn
What a great story about the writing process.
February 20, 2016 at 3:24 pm
Carole Calladine
Thanks for sharing. I love how you added the juicy layer of place and a real person to your story.
February 20, 2016 at 6:05 pm
mermaidrain
I love most historical fiction picture books I’ve run across the last few years, but they do indeed run the gamut of what I expect to see or like and things that surprise me. This too looks like a great book. I can’t wait to read it!
February 21, 2016 at 11:15 am
Michelle Heidenrich Barnes
Looking forward to reading this, Pat– I’m glad you found exactly what it needed. Love the illustrations too!
February 21, 2016 at 12:08 pm
kathalsey
I want to win this book. I love Wilma’s quotes on the entire back story of how this book found the missing layers. Can not wait to read it.
February 22, 2016 at 10:29 am
sarvindern
Congratulations Pat! Can’t wait to read it!
February 22, 2016 at 3:53 pm
angiew.littleredhen
Well done. It takes a talented author to write a clever story in a genre she doesn’t like! Thanks for including a couple of Wilma’s quotes to inspire the growing generation.
February 22, 2016 at 5:26 pm
Tracey M. Cox
I’m like you, Pat. I had a hard time writing non-fiction & historical fiction. Once I found something interesting, it helped open the flood gates.
Congratulations on the new book!
February 23, 2016 at 9:01 am
Lisa Rogers
Pat, thanks for adding to the lively books that are appearing more and more often in this genre. Many of my students are turned off by stereotypically somber covers–your book is not one of them! I’m a former reporter, too, who has newfound interest in historical material. Love your books!
February 23, 2016 at 11:50 am
Natasha Wing
I prefer historic non-fiction.
February 23, 2016 at 1:00 pm
Heidi Clarke
Historical fiction and biography picture books are my favorite genres. I enjoy reading them to my elementary students because they are always fascinated by the characters-seemingly ordinary people who overcame obstacles to achieve their goals.
February 24, 2016 at 1:41 pm
Kristi Veitenheimer
Thanks for the chance to win this book. I’ve always enjoyed reading historical fiction!
February 25, 2016 at 3:01 pm
katmaz2012
Thank you for sharing the story of the wonderful story.
March 1, 2016 at 5:12 pm
Amy S.
Wonderful example of the rewards that sometimes come when we explore beyond our natural likes. Congratulations, Pat.
March 2, 2016 at 11:12 am
Kelly Vavala
Thank you for sharing! Very inspirational and I love the fact that some how the story took over and wanted to be written as historical fiction…Love when that happens!