I receive remarkable questions from students and readers—about stories, history, the process of writing, and all those dark, unexplored crevices in history. It never ceases to amaze me how inquisitive young minds can be. I learn so much for what I’m asked to consider or rethink, so whether you’re a young reader or not, ask away… Submit a question!

Women & Girls: Dr. Gladys West

Using your GPS to guide your springtime travels? Thank DR. GLADYS WEST. Born in rural Virginia, education provided her...

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Q: What made you start writing?

This question has been asked by more than a few (concerned) people…at several points in my life. See, there...

Q: What’s the hardest thing you’ve ever written?

This is such a nuanced, multi-faceted question. I realize you, kind reader, want to know what aspect of fiction...

Women & Girls: Elizabeth “Bessie” Coleman

A child of sharecroppers, ELIZABETH “BESSIE” COLEMAN dreamed of flying, but no aviation school in the United States would...

Q: How do you come up with your ideas?

I generate ideas based on what’s left out of a story. For example, when I’m reading an historical document,...

Q: What’s the connection between Shakespeare and Virginia?

In 1609, the disappearance of the Sea Venture (the largest ship in the largest fleet, the Third Supply) was...