But, if I were to guess. I would say historical research in the first case and research+science+imagination in the latter case. At least that's how I would tackle it. For science fiction, I would imagine all kinds of science gadgets that I wish I had or dreaded having, then give them to some young characters to figure out. I would do the same thing with clothing, environment, and family relationships to name a few. Then, I would start fiddling with a mashup of several of the threads. Conflicts? Characters? Journeys? Resolutions?
I wouldn't start out knowing much about the story, but with a lot of analysis and (for me) outlining. I would know a lot by the time I finished the story. How about you? Do you wonder about writing in the past or future, invisible or unknown? - Q
I like NF, too, but don't write it so hearing how you would approach it is interesting!
ReplyDeleteI write a ton of NF (mostly science - see http://williams-science.blogspot.com/) but merging that with a fictional premise is the challenge. Picture books (writing as QC) are my joy AND ongoing learning curve. :)
DeleteI love writing historical fiction. You have to already know about the time period and/or do your research.
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