Angela Dominguez's new middle grade novel is Stella Díaz Never Gives Up, a sequel to Stella Díaz Has Something To Say.From her Q&A with Deborah Kalb:
Q: The book focuses on environmental themes. Did you need to do any research to write it, and if so, did you learn anything especially surprising?--Marshal Zeringue
A: Let me first start off by saying that in no way do I claim to be an expert. My goal is to pique curiosity in kids about science. I also remember that when I was a kid, I loved learning unusual trivia. I know there are many kids who can relate to that.
With all of the Stella books, I like to incorporate fun facts about the oceans and marine animals. I usually start with research before I jump into plot development. In the first book especially, the marine animals often were metaphors for how Stella was feeling.
When I began the second book, I approached it the same way. While I was researching, what stuck out to me the most was seeing all the environmental concerns about the oceans.
Like Stella, when I read the National Geographic article “Planet or Plastic,” I was upset. It’s a difficult article to read and the visuals are intense. However...[read on]