Rebellion, Revolution, and Writing: Laurie Halse Anderson on Historical Fiction

In this episode of The Growing Readers Podcast, host Bianca
Schulze interviews acclaimed author Laurie Halse Anderson about
her writing process, experiences with young readers, and her
latest book, Rebellion 1776. They discuss the importance of
historical fiction in helping readers understand contemporary
issues, and how Anderson crafts engaging stories that make
history accessible to young readers.





Transcription: You can read the transcription on
⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Children's Book Review⁠⁠⁠





Highlights:



Anderson's Reading Journey: From struggling
with dyslexia to becoming an award-winning author


Writing Process: Anderson's approach to
writing historical fiction, including her morning writing
routine and research methods


Character Development: Creating authentic
historical characters that modern readers can connect with


Rebellion 1776: Discussion of Anderson's new
book set during the Siege of Boston and smallpox epidemic


Research Methods: How digital access has
transformed historical research compared to her earlier career


The Importance of Hope: Anderson's commitment
to including hope in all her books for young readers


Historical Fiction as Adventure: Making
history exciting and page-turning for young audiences


America's 250th Anniversary: Why understanding
our nation's founding is particularly relevant now






Notable Quotes:


"I think [it's] immoral to write for children without
including hope." —Laurie Halse Anderson

"With a good friend by your side, you can get through
anything." - Laurie Halse Anderson on the main takeaway from
Rebellion 1776

"You should never criticize yourselves with words or a tone
that you would not use to talk to a five-year-old."— Laurie Halse
Anderson on self-criticism during the creative process






Books Mentioned:


Rebellion 1776 by Laurie Halse Anderson: Amazon or
Bookshop.org

Fever 1793 by Laurie Halse Anderson: Amazon or Bookshop.org

Prairie Lotus by Linda Sue Park: Amazon or Bookshop.org

Fault Lines in our Constitution by Cynthia Levinson: Amazon
or Bookshop.org



A Swim in a Pond in the Rain by George Sanders: Amazon or
Bookshop.org

Anatomy of a Story by John Truby: Amazon or Bookshop.org






About Laurie Halse Anderson


Laurie Halse Anderson is a New York Times bestselling author
known for tackling difficult subjects with honesty and
sensitivity. Her work has earned numerous awards and has been
translated into many languages. Her historical fiction brings
America's past to life while addressing themes relevant to
today's young readers.





Connect and Follow:


Visit The Children's Book Review website for more episodes



Learn more about Laurie Halse Anderson at
https://madwomanintheforest.com/






Credits:


Host: Bianca Schulze

Guest: Laurie Halse Anderson

Producer: Bianca Schulze






The Growing Readers Podcast celebrates children's literature and
its power to inspire a lifelong love of reading.





Keywords: Laurie Halse Anderson, Growing Readers podcast,
historical fiction, writing process, children's literature, young
readers, Rebellion, smallpox epidemic, Siege of Boston, character
development, historical fiction, human nature, storytelling,
adventure, research, young readers, American Revolution, writing
process, literary themes