One of the things I have discovered when researching my books is that books aimed at children are often the best easy reference and a great place to get quick info and an idea of where to start. When I was researching Hieroglyphs, I bought a few books as I knew I was going to need them longer than the library would allow me to borrow them. (Oh, and because I am a bibliophile, especially with good reference books. LOL) I have two scholarly books and then a children’s book. While I use the scholarly books for research, my favorite one, and still is, the children’s book. Unfortunately, you can no longer find this book for purchase, except used.
What Life Was Like on the Banks of the Nile by Time-Life Books is fabulous. We’ve used it in homeschooling as well. Another great book, although I found it later while homeschool Lily is The Egyptology Handbook by Emily Sands. It’s not as in depth as the first one, but it has some fun activities included in it that children love, and you learn from.
Lily ran around for weeks after reading this as either Bastet, Isis or Hathor, and sometimes all three. LOL To this day, a year later, we talk about the Egyptian gods, their different “duties,” and why they were worshipped.
So, when you decide to do research, check on the children’s section first. You’ll often find the information you need without wading through tons and tons of scholarly text that you may not really need. (Not that it isn’t fascinating, but if your life is anything like mine, your writing time is precious. It’s essential to use it wisely.)
Civilizations: The History of the Ancient World, published by TickTock Books, Ltd., is another such book. I’ve had it checked out from the library, but I think I’m going to have to buy it. LOL For $5.18, it’s a steal.
Are you like me and find that children’s books help you hone your research?
No, not for research, but thanks for the tip. I’ll keep it in mind. I always have 3-4 books “going” at any given time, not counting the one I’m writing. One of the series I’m working my way through now is the “Cirque du Freak” books by Darren Shan. I saw the movie a few years ago and didn’t think much of it. But a boy I subbed for a couple of weeks ago had just gotten out 3 books and was nose-deep in one when I asked him if they were any good. He said that’s why he always gets more than one at a time. He’s right! I’m already on book 5! They’re quick reads, written for middle-schoolers, but the stories are great. I don’t really care if the books are for kids or not. If they’re good, I’m there reading them!
It’s a great way to get some info to start with, Fiona. They also usually have a lot of illustrations, which I find helpful for visualizing when I write. These are non-fiction. I’ll have to check out Cirque du Freak for Lily. She will probably like those.