Research

Research.  That one word excites me. Not the kind of research I was asked to do in high school, but the kind I do today. Whenever I get the idea for a new book, I certainly do some basic research online or in books, if there’s available information. But predominantly, I contact experts in the field and learn more from one email exchange or telephone or Zoom call than I would have learned from ten books or twenty websites.

Generous men and women share their expertise and time in a way that astounds me. Why? They want kids to have the most accurate information available. Some have even remarked that they have noticed large errors in children’s nonfiction books that they wish they could correct.

One of my books that will debut in late September, 2024, I co-authored with Lisa Eickholdt. It’s title is Merry Christmas, Zoo. We wrote this book after I heard Ron Magill, Communications Director of Zoo Miami, give an interview on NPR. He explained how the zoo staff prepares and distributes wrapped treats to the animals during the holiday season. He described the teamwork involved in selecting just the right surprise for each animal that will stimulate them physically and mentally. It has to be a healthy treat, of course, and one that will improve some aspect of their daily life.

After additional research, Lisa and I learned that quite a few zoos here in the US and many in other countries also provide gifts to their animals at this time of year. Not only does it stimulate the different creatures, but the distribution and opening of these treats is a festive time for the visitors to the zoo.

What surprise awaits a jaguar? Would a polar bear prefer a new ball or a giant ice cube of fish? How does a hippo unwrap its gift?

What a great book to write and, we hope, to read! All thanks to experts who enjoy sharing what they know and do every day.