INTERVIEW WITH ANN RINALDI

"I began writing poetry when she was 10 years old. I was inspired to write upon reading Little Women by Louisa May Alcott. I attempted writing novels after my children were born, but felt them to be "terrible." In 1969, I began my career as a newspaper columnist which would last 21 years. My first novel Term Paper was published in 1979."

"I find my stories in history. For example, I came across numerous references to Phillis Wheatley while conducting research for other novels. I could not believe that no popular literature had been written about Ms. Wheatley. In reaction to that finding, I decided "here is a story screaming to be written." So, I found the story for my novel Hang a Thousand Trees with Ribbons. Also, as many authors do, I apply my own life experiences to my characters.

"I begin by searching my large personal library which I have developed, together with my son who has a Master's degree in American and Military History. I visit public and private libraries as well as historical sites to gather the needed information. My research has led me to visiting Richmond, Virginia, Appomatox Court House, Philadelphia, Boston and Salem, Massachusettes to name a few. I pay special attention to small details that help bring history to life."

"Not long." Ann explains, "I read quickly, absorb information quickly and have learned from being a reporter to pick out key elements quickly."

" I will only invent in history when history doesn't provide information...only when I run into a brick wall in research." I include in my novels an Author's Note which clarifies verifiable fact from personal creation. I look at gaps in recorded history as a challenge and an opportunity to create character."

"No. I recognize that there is a definite risk involved in creating a personality/childhood/feelings for a historical figure. However, one must take risks in life. I never contradicts documented fact and always note what is my own invention."

"The novel I am currently working on is always my favorite. I have to be excited about what I am writing or else I wouldn't be able to write. I do feel, however, that I have reached a "new level of writing" and that my works in progress are my best."

"I looked to the late Barbara Cohen (Molly's Pilgrim) as my mentor. I openly and regularly look to several other contemporaries for feedback on my work as well. I would identify the work of Karen Cushman and Gary Paulson specifically as ones I greatly admired. My favorite book is The Killer Angels by Michael Shaara."

"I first establish an historical protagonist and a conflict that young adults would be able to identify with. However, the story does not develop until I sit down to write it. Every new book is a struggle. . .and even when you have a great story to tell, translating that into a good novel requires knowing what to put in, how to put it in and what to leave out. No one can teach you that, you have to learn it for yourself. Writing for me has always been a process of self discovery. I think that's what writing is. I never know what I am going to write till I sit down to write...If I am lucky the book will take off on its own and take me where I didn't think I would go. If I am wise I will go with it."