With headline news currently focused on getting two astronauts safely back to Earth, now is a great time to recall how it all started, with two Ohio bicycle shop owners on the windy beaches of Kitty Hawk, N.C.
On Dec. 17, 1903, Wilbur and Orville Wright launched a plane that went 120 feet – less than the length of today’s typical passenger jet – for the world’s first successful manned, heavier-than-air, powered flight.
But as award-winning author Tracey Enerson Wood reveals in her new book, Katharine: The Wright Sister, there is more to the Wright Brothers' story.
Georgia Writers Museum will host award-winning author Tracey Wood as its Meet the Author presenter on Oct. 1. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for a 7 p.m. start. Wood will discuss Katharine: The Wright Sister, her latest historical fiction work, which was released earlier this month.
GWM recently conducted a brief interview with Wood.
GWM: Why does historical fiction appeal to you?
Wood: History was never my favorite subject until I discovered historical fiction in Herman Wouk’s War and Remembrance. Wow, I could learn history, but it was entertaining and relevant! But it seemed back then that most historical fiction focused on war, and few focused on women.
Then I discovered authors such as Kristin Hannah and Francine Rivers, and I was hooked all over again.
GWM: Do you have a favorite historical fiction movie?
Wood: The limited series and follow-on movie Downton Abbey. Oh, the scenery! The costumes! The characters! The writing! The lovely British accents! What’s not to love?
GWM: What do you like most about being a published author?
Wood: By far, the best part is meeting and hearing from readers. What could be more exciting than learning how your words affected them? My second favorite is the research; I learn so much. Even if I fall down a rabbit hole, far from what I need for a book, I enjoy the ride.
GWM: What has most surprised you about being an author?
Wood: How collaborative an effort it is at every stage. Teachers and mentors who help you learn the intricacies of long-form fiction. Beta readers and critique partners who are essential for pointing out things that work, or that need work.
Then there’s another crew on the publishing side: editors, publicists, cover and interior designers. Sure, there’s lots of solitary time staring at words on a screen, but (thank goodness) there are also many folks helping you along the way.
Tickets to see Wood discuss Katharine: The Wright Sister are $40 each and available online at georgiawritersmuseum.org.
Make reservations soon and pre-order a copy of the book for Wood to sign following her presentation.