Out-of-the-Box Research: Pro-Tips for Writers

Defy temporal and geographical boundaries when researching historical fiction, memoir, or non-fiction. Where do you go when you’ve tapped out Google but need to know what your character wore in the snow two hundred years ago, how her kitchen smelled, or where he got his news? Two experienced historical fiction writers share lessons and tips on unconventional sources when creating believable settings in other times and cultures. They’ll give examples of cultural details that lend authenticity to your story while sidestepping stereotypes. They will reserve plenty of time for discussion and questions.

About the presenters:
Jean Gordon Kocienda is a former Silicon Valley geopolitical risk analyst and intelligence officer. Her first novel, Girl in a Box, chronicling the tangled life of Japanese poet Yosano Akiko (1878-1942), launched in April. Her current novel-in-progress Smart is a romantic thriller set during the Occupation of Japan after World War II. A graduate of Colgate University (B.A., English Literature) and George Washington University (M.A., International Affairs), she lived in Kyoto, Japan as a student. In addition to writing and working, she does historical research for a Japanese documentary production company, volunteers with refugees in the San Francisco Bay Area and is President of the California Writers Club of Marin County.

Jonelle Patrick is the author of five mysteries set in Japan. Her newest, The Samurai’s Octopus, launched in April. In addition to her books, she produces the monthly e-magazine Japanagram and blogs at Only In Japan. She teaches writing workshops, appears as a panelist at Thrillerfest, and was the keynote speaker at the Arrow Rock Writing Workshop. A graduate of Stanford University and the Sendagaya Japanese Language Institute, she holds a renewable cultural visa awarded by the Japanese government for writing about Japan. She’s also a member of the Mystery Writers of America, International Thriller Writers, Sisters in Crime, and the Historical Novel Society. She splits her time between San Francisco and Tokyo.