All good points, Alison. I would add to those, don't forget to talk to people! Do you know someone who works or has worked in the area you're interested in? (I get a lot of people asking about crime scene examination). Or perhaps a relative lived in a place or time that fits in with your book?
Of course, personal recollections need cross checking as well - memory isn't always reliable - but first hand accounts can be invaluable, and true stories add depth and interest.
Thanks, Paul. Also some of the social history archives have audio recordings of interviews with people which can be fascinating (and a very easy rabbit hole to fall into!).
All good points, Alison. I would add to those, don't forget to talk to people! Do you know someone who works or has worked in the area you're interested in? (I get a lot of people asking about crime scene examination). Or perhaps a relative lived in a place or time that fits in with your book?
Of course, personal recollections need cross checking as well - memory isn't always reliable - but first hand accounts can be invaluable, and true stories add depth and interest.
Thanks, Paul. Also some of the social history archives have audio recordings of interviews with people which can be fascinating (and a very easy rabbit hole to fall into!).
Great advice, Allison. I would definitely go about research differently now having fallen through a few rabbit holes!
Many thanks, Sheila.