Karen Meyer
asked
Martha Brockenbrough:
I'm writing a youth biography of the frontiersman, Simon Kenton. Any hints about how to grab young reader's attention for something as distant as the 1770's? Do you guess at Hamilton's emotions and put them in? My subject left no letters. Do you imagine dialogue?
Martha Brockenbrough
I didn't imagine any dialogue or emotions. I used letters for dialogue and based emotion on the same source.
Focus on what's different about the 1770s. The challenges people faced to do simple things we take for granted. In your research, replicate those if you can. So if you're talking about baking bread, grind the wheat. Chop wood you'd need for your oven.
And then focus on what's the same. Human emotions are consistent over time. We want love, shelter, food, safety. What happens when those are threatened? How does your character respond?
As far as research goes, did anyone write letters about him? Have you read contemporary journals?
Focus on what's different about the 1770s. The challenges people faced to do simple things we take for granted. In your research, replicate those if you can. So if you're talking about baking bread, grind the wheat. Chop wood you'd need for your oven.
And then focus on what's the same. Human emotions are consistent over time. We want love, shelter, food, safety. What happens when those are threatened? How does your character respond?
As far as research goes, did anyone write letters about him? Have you read contemporary journals?
More Answered Questions
Courtenay
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Martha Brockenbrough:
Just when I think I've read all the holiday picture books out there, you create Love, Santa. When I'm moved to tears by a touching story, I tell the author thank you. THANK YOU for your perspective on Santa. I really loved your latest book. Was it based on your own childhood?
Caitlin
asked
Martha Brockenbrough:
I was browsing my library looking for some good books and i found yours and I began reading it yesterday and finished it today. There were so many moments that brought me to a crying mess. You executed the idea and plot amazingly and the idea was so original with the problems not only from the Game but with what social problems that came with the 20th century. I will be rooting for any future works! Ly ur writing! "?"
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