2026 Reading Challenge

Ask the Author: Janet Beard

“I'm happy to answer any questions you may have about 'The Atomic City Girls' or writing in general.” Janet Beard

Answered Questions (6)

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I just read The Atomic City Girls for our family's booked and we loved it. It is an incredible story and we learned so much about the history at that time. One question we had is how did you decide on the title? The story weaves many different characters together and not just the "girls".
Janet Beard Hi Julie,

I'm so sorry to have missed this question when you first posted it! Thank you reaching out, and I'm glad you enjoyed the book!

I had a different title for the book, but my publisher thought 'The Atomic City Girls' would attract more readers. I agree with you that it is not a perfect reflection of the book. But titles are complicated, and ultimately, publishers view them as marketing tools. And I am grateful that this title did appeal to readers.

Big apologies again for taking so long to get to your question!

All the best, and happy reading-

Janet
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What should i do if i find it difficult to get right words for my feelings while writing?
Janet Beard Try to take a break from writing and come back to it later. Go for a walk, read a book, or even just sleep on it!
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Where did you get the idea for your most recent book?
Janet Beard I grew up near Oak Ridge, TN where uranium was enriched for the first atomic bomb. Ever since going on a field trip to the science museum there as a child, the history of the bomb has filled me with a mixture of fascination and horror. As an adult I saw a TV documentary about the young women who worked on the Manhattan Project and got the idea to write 'The Atomic City Girls'.
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How do you get inspired to write?
Janet Beard I don't. Occasionally, I'm lucky enough to have an idea strike that I can't wait to get down on the computer screen. But for the most part, I just have to sit down and write. Inspiration is thrilling but extremely unreliable.
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What’s your advice for aspiring writers?
Janet Beard Read good books and think about how they are written. Write and get feedback and your work. Be open to new ideas and experiences. And as one of my college writing professors said to me in an advising meeting, marry rich. Just kidding! But seriously, do figure out a way to support yourself while finding the time to write.
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How do you deal with writer’s block?
Janet Beard I keep working. That may mean spending some time doing research or writing pages that will wind up in the trash. But I think the only way to get past a block is to keep moving forward. I also like long walks and the tried and true 'sleeping-on-it' method.
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Janet Beard
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