I think those of us who produce nonfiction books for kids feel a special responsibility to do the extra work necessary to be accurate. Several of my writer friends have told me about the same experience. Later, I discover the same mistake repeated by other academicians, who apparently hadn’t checked the primary source themselves. A quote might be inaccurate or taken out of context, for example. Sometimes after I’ve tracked a cited statement in an academic book or journal article to its primary source, I spot a glaring error. I’ve read so much and dug so deeply into the material that I’ve become a bit of an expert on that narrow subject. Jarrow: It has! When I finish researching a topic, I feel great satisfaction. I like to think my prodding has encouraged you. Original research can only lead to original writing. And I know when you are delving deep into the research you are delving deep into the story-finding just the right journey for your story to take. But stellar research leads to stellar writing, filled with rich anecdotes and details. Yoder: I agree! And I know I am known for demanding rigorous research. Wouldn’t you say that’s one reason we get along so well and have had such a productive relationship?

Verify facts.” That kind of extensive research might dissuade some writers, but I thrive on it. From then on, I heard your voice in my head every time I worked on an article or book: “Find primary sources. When I think back to the first article I wrote for you, I remember how your edits sent me scurrying into the stacks of the Cornell University library to locate a primary source and quote. Gail Jarrow:Yes, Carolyn, it has been a long time, and we’ve had fun! Your book The Printer’s Trial (2006) was one of the first titles published by Calkins Creek. So, I knew you before Calkins Creek was created almost 18 years ago. Carolyn Yoder:Gail, I feel like I have known you for a very long time! But I believe we first met when I was the history editor for Highlights and you submitted several articles that ended up getting published.

Spooked by gail jarrow