The Nonfiction Books I've
Written: Turn of the Century
Tidbits
Outside Book
Research
Research is no stranger to nonfiction writers. Whether you're on a
quest for fresh information, want to double check old notes or find yourself
following a trail of irresistible hot links, Google is at your fingertips. But
25 years ago it was the library or live experts.
The Health section of the book produced more questions than
insights! Luckily, the pharmacist at the local Glaser drug store not only
answered all my questions, but also mixed 8 ounces of Rose Water for me to try
in the cookie recipe.
When I questioned the use of mustard plasters, he explained the principle
of counter-irritants. If you put one of those on the angry bruise, the nerve
endings will be too busy feeling fried to notice the pain from the wound.
That good man also translated for me: by "sweet oil" the
author meant olive oil. "Limewater" is a solution of calcium
hydroxide & water. Paregoric and laudanum, both opium derivatives, were freely
recommended. (The Food & Drug Administration wasn't created until 1938.)
About that time, the neighborhood Book House owner received the collections
from a couple of old estates, and I bought more books from that era. The research
then was into the what's and how-to's of social entertaining, from an elegant,
12-course dinner to a children's Halloween party. One had directions for clever
ways to fold the napkins. (They were fun!)
The research needed for each of my books has been different,
sometimes involving more interviews than books or computers. But, honestly, it
may be my very favorite part of the process!
I'll never outgrow being the little kid who's full of questions ~
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