Create A Story World

As an author, it is important for me to know the place of my story.  I create my story world based on  food, culture, geography, economics, language and traditions of the region about which I am writing.  My middle grade novels are set in Appalachia. Since they are retellings of folktales they have elements of fantasy, but they are told in the real world environment of a mountain village.

To get a feel for the place I looked at many photos like these.  I saved quite a number of photos of the region in a board in Pinterest so I can refer to them often.

 

 

 

 

 

I also read as much as I could about the traditions, employment, and cultural history of this area.  The Museum of Applachia and the Language of Appalachia website were very valuable.  I also read a few books, fiction and non-fiction, set in the region.  This helped me get acquainted with the people, culture, pace of life, phrases, habits, and economy of the place. For the process of writing my books I wanted to make this place my home.  I have a real fondness for Appalachia and I hope it shows in my writing.