Heroes in the Attic: Turning Genealogical Research into Historical Fiction

Family. All of us have one. But how it came together – or apart? That’s your story to tell. Family sagas that mine family history for ripping yarns – from multi-generational favorites like Little House on the Prairie and Roots to Pennsylvania-centric best sellers like The Hired Girl and The Blue Orchard – have brought success to many authors.

This workshop details how writers can use genealogical research techniques and resources to craft rich, historically accurate, commercially marketable fiction that is also personally meaningful. Learn how and where to uncover records that can color character details, and, in some cases, metaphorically raise the dead. But be warned – skeletons may tumble out while digging up the past. This workshop also addresses how to navigate unexpected or emotionally tricky discoveries that are personally challenging and professionally intriguing.