The scariest part of signing my first book contract was not that I was now obligated (and under deadline) to write a middle grade nonfiction book. It was that I was now obligated (and under deadline!) to find photographs to illustrate said middle grade nonfiction book.
Looking back, I wonder how I had the nerve to sign the contract.
But sign I did. Here are some things I have learned since then:
• Photographic research is fun. Really. In the six months after I signed the contract, I learned how to scour digital image archives, negotiate rights to available images, secure permissions for public domain images, buy images from stock houses and professional photographers, track down amateur photographers—in my case beachcombers—who were willing and able to contribute images to TRACKING TRASH.
• Successful photo research aside, all “Scientists in the Field” books will eventually need fresh images of scientists … in the field.
• If you are going to undertake something very big—like, say, an entirely new career that will require you to fly two thousand miles from your babies to interview and photograph high profile scientists that you have never met—taking a friend is not a bad idea.
• If you want to collect stunning images, learn about photography, and get an introduction to professional photo-journalism while on location, taking Betty Jenewin is a downright fabulous idea.
Betty is a photo journalist for the Worcester Telegram & Gazette and, lucky for me, a good friend. She joined me on two research trips to the west coast and chronicled our adventures with her camera. When I look back on the year I researched and wrote TRACKING TRASH, I can not separate my accomplishment from the support and professional guidance of Betty. Fourteen of her images appear in the book, and I give much of the credit for the comments below, taken from major reviews, to her:
“…the vivid and lively photographs and well-labeled charts and diagrams help to create interest and build understanding.” School Library Journal, Starred review
“Maps and varied color photos support the text …” Kirkus Reviews, Starred review
“Photographs and detailed discussions of related subjects … contribute much background information.” The Horn Book
“…exceptionally fine color photos and handsome maps give this book an inviting look …” Booklist
“ … excellent supporting graphics.” VOYA (Voice of Youth Advocates)
Thank you, Betty, for everything. Here’s to a new book featuring your images and my text … and both our names on the spine!