Straight from the Source: Michelle Markel on Writing Picture Book Biographies
What inspired you to write biographies?
When I was young, I loved reading fairy tales and biographies- which seem like polar opposites. But those genres have something in common- many are about transformation, about overcoming formidable obstacles, often with help from others. (In biographies of course, those helpers are not fairy godmothers! Eleanor Roosevelt worked with Mary McCloud Bethune and other Black leaders)
What typically comes first for you: a character? An era? A story idea?
For my biographies, the subject or “character” comes first. After learning a bit about this person, I feel a sense of attraction, and want to spend more time with them. That connection matters for commissioned work as well. There has to be an emotional draw, because investigating and writing a biography is a major commitment.
That said, the historical setting attracts me too. I have a fondness for the late 1800s and early 1900s, so It’s been fun to virtually visit that period, like I’m seeing a little movie in my head.
What kinds of sources do you use?
I start with books and academic articles written about the subject, and then look at primary sources, such as letters, speeches, published writings, diaries if possible. My biography of Henri Rousseau includes a bit of the artist’s language. He said that walking through the botanical gardens was like a dream, that he became someone else completely. I included Eleanor’s words at the end of my latest book: “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. But we cannot wait for tomorrow- tomorrow is now.”
What is your favorite thing about researching biographies?
It’s a quest for trying to get to know my subjects. I love hitting gold- finding key details that help characterize them, something they said or did. I was fortunate that Eleanor wrote a newspaper column called “My Day,” revealing her attitudes, observations, reactions to events. I became intimately familiar with her “voice” while updating her book for children, When You Grow Up to Vote.
At what point do you feel comfortable beginning to draft? How does your research continue once you begin writing?
When my research isn’t uncovering new and useful material, it’s time to start drafting. After I start writing, I may need more details to flesh out scenes or events, to make them more vivid. I’ll dig deeper, check other sources. For my next project, I’m reading New York Times articles from the 19th century – very entertaining.
Tell us about your latest book, Unshakable Eleanor.
It’s about Eleanor Roosevelt’s journey from shy, fearful orphan to the most admired humanitarian in the world. After becoming a politician’s wife and raising a large family, Eleanor reinvented herself by entering politics and reform movements. Defying gender roles, she boldly used her position as first lady to fight for marginalized workers, women, and people of color. She refused to be discouraged by her many critics.
What do you hope young readers will take away from the book?
I hope they’ll understand that anyone- no matter how shy or insecure they are- can find meaning and fulfillment in public service, in trying to change the world. I’d like young readers to know that being an ally means facing challenges, and that progress is made one step at a time.
Why is biography so important?
Biographies offer great role models for young people. My books show how trailblazers persevere when facing setbacks. Life is full of formidable challenges, but we can build brave versions of ourselves, and realize our dreams.
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Michelle is the acclaimed author of nonfiction books for young readers, including THE FANTASTIC JUNGLES OF HENRI ROUSSEAU, BRAVE GIRL: Clara and the Shirtwaist Makers’ Strike of 1909, and BALDERDASH!: John Newbery and the Boisterous Birth of Children’s Books. Most recently she modernized Eleanor Roosevelt’s WHEN YOU GROW UP TO VOTE, and written HANUKKAH HAMSTER, a picture book. She lives with her family in Woodland Hills, California. Visit her online at michellemarkel.com.