TLS: No, I have never needed to provide my own photos. I do know how to do that, from my editorial days, but I don't think it's the best use of an author's time. However, since the author becomes somewhat of an expert on the topic in the process of researching a book, it's a great idea to make a list of photo suggestions and sources for your editor. I often do that and it is always appreciated. Also, if the book is to be illustrated, I make a lot of notations about sources for scrap that I make available to the illustrator if he or she wants it, just so the illustrator doesn't have to start from scratch to research a topic. But that's as far as I go with that--I wouldn't dream of giving an illustrator any input that doesn't have to do with accuracy.
11. SR: How did the Wild Wild World series come about? Are you writing all 30 volumes? Where and how will you do the research for this ambitious endeavor?
TLS: Yes, I did write the entire Wild Wild World series, but under two different names (the secret's out)! It wasn't as daunting as you might think, each book is less than 1,000 words and I have a deep knowledge base of animals at my disposal, which is an advantage as a starting point for my research. I have a Masters in Science Education (I did my final project on the diversity of pinnipeds--seals and seal lions) and already know where to look for the right primary sources, etc, to continue the research on a given animal. That series is now finished--Whew!
12. SR: Please discuss any upcoming projects.
TLS: I'm actually changing a lot in terms of the kinds of things I'm writing now. I've spent a lot of years sort of getting my "chops" as a writer, and recently feel as though I'm really finding my voice and am able to expand in new ways I didn't expect or couldn't have predicted. I think this article comes out about six months from now, so, look for new things--more creative nonfiction and possibly some YA--on the horizon...
13. SR: Complete this sentence:
TLS: Writing is.....like breathing. It's what I have to do. If I never sold another book, I would still continue to write.
