Jonathan W. Stokes's new novel for kids is Addison Cooke and the Treasure of the Incas. From his Q&A with Deborah Kalb:Q: How did you come up with the idea for your main character, Addison Cooke?--Marshal Zeringue
A: Addison Cooke is basically who I wish I was as a 12 year old! Addison is much more clever than I ever was, and probably ever will be. He is also far braver than I am, and better at coming up with a witty quip under pressure.
I suppose there is a sort of wish-fulfillment in writing dialog for him. I may not be able to sweet talk my way into the first class cabin of an international flight, but I can have Addison do it.
Q: The book focuses on an adventure involving Incan treasure. What kind of research did you need to do and did you learn anything that especially surprised you?
A: The book was pretty thoroughly researched, particularly in the copyedit where everything was fact-checked. I think I most enjoyed learning about the actual history of the lost treasure of the Incas.
The true story is pretty incredible. Francisco Pizarro could have become one of the richest people in the world, but...[read on]