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Writer's Room => Kidlit Genres => Topic started by: jen-seggio on July 10, 2019, 10:20 AM

Title: Should I include an afterword detailing the event my story is based on?
Post by: jen-seggio on July 10, 2019, 10:20 AM: I'm writing (and illustrating) a picture book inspired by a funny true story that happened in my community little over 100 years ago involving an escaped circus elephant, though in order to appeal to a wider market I've made some minor changes that have it lean closer to historical fiction (the elephant in this story talks and communicates with the people she meets). The manuscript and book dummy is complete, but I'm wondering if I should write up an afterword detailing the real events the story is based on. I found several published articles and some photographs from back in the day surrounding what happened that back it up. I ask because I've seen plenty of historical picture books that end with this inclusion. It could be neat, but I also don't want to drag out the book either.
Title: Re: Should I include an afterword detailing the event my story is based on?
Post by: Debbie Vilardi on July 10, 2019, 06:49 PM: Write it, but don't submit it with the book. Include a mention that information on the true story is available for back matter in your cover letter. It's also a good idea to mention your sources somewhere if it can be done simply.
Title: Re: Should I include an afterword detailing the event my story is based on?
Post by: Vijaya on July 10, 2019, 07:40 PM: Since this is historical fiction, I'd submit the entire package. Manuscript, back matter, sources and do mention that you have access to original photos, etc. in your cover letter. Sounds like a neat project! Good luck with it.
Title: Re: Should I include an afterword detailing the event my story is based on?
Post by: dinalapomy101 on July 11, 2019, 04:30 PM: I think the end matter would add to the appeal! I vote for write and send it all.
Title: Re: Should I include an afterword detailing the event my story is based on?
Post by: rab on July 14, 2019, 06:47 PM: I agree about adding the end matter, like Vijaya said, including the sources. I think that could help it stand out. It sounds like a fun story!