# Ep. 20 How to Turn Lost History Into Compelling YA Nonfiction

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/nonfiction-kidlit-craft-conversations-7100428/ep-20-how-to-turn-lost-history-into-compelling-ya-nonfiction
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/nonfiction-kidlit-craft-conversations-7100428/ep-20-how-to-turn-lost-history-into-compelling-ya-nonfiction.md
Podcast: [Nonfiction Kidlit Craft Conversations](https://stenobird.com/podcast/nonfiction-kidlit-craft-conversations-7100428)
Published: 2026-03-06T08:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://podcast.kirstenwlarson.com/e/ep-20-turning-lost-history-into-compelling-ya-nonfiction/
Audio file: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/udr97vz4kqsxtpkb/Podcast_Recording_Kirsten_Lindsay_Debbie_and_Janet.mp3
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/nonfiction-kidlit-craft-conversations-7100428/episodes/ep-20-how-to-turn-lost-history-into-compelling-ya-nonfiction
Duration seconds: 2354

## Resource

How do you write powerful YA nonfiction that brings forgotten women in STEM back into the spotlight? In this episode, authors Lindsay H. Metcalf (Footeprint) and Debbie Loren Dunn and Janet Fox (The Real Rosalind) explore the craft of writing young adult nonfiction, the research process behind uncovering hidden scientific histories, and how to transform archival discoveries into emotionally compelling narratives. From the stories of Rosalind Franklin and Eunice Newton Foote to broader conversations about credit, persistence, and passion in science, this discussion dives deep into what it takes to write nonfiction that resonates with teen readers. Whether you’re an aspiring author, educator, historian, or simply passionate about women in science, this conversation offers practical writing advice, research strategies, and inspiration for telling stories that matter. Topics covered: ✔️Writing YA biographies ✔️Researching overlooked women scientists ✔️Crafting emotional arcs in nonfiction ✔️Turning anger into purpose-driven storytelling ✔️Balancing historical and scientific accuracy with narrative engagement ✔️Advice for aspiring nonfiction writers If you care about STEM history, women’s contributions to science, and writing meaningful books for young readers, this episode is for you. Subscribe for more conversations on writing, research, and publishing. 00:00 Welcome & Introduction to Writing YA Nonfiction 04:12 Why Forgotten Women in STEM Matter 09:35 From Anger to Purpose: Discovering Rosalind Franklin’s Story 14:48 Research Deep Dive: Finding the Truth in the Archives 20:10 Crafting Emotional Arcs in Nonfiction 26:42 Writing for Teens Without Oversimplifying 32:05 The Power of Persistence in Science and Storytelling 38:30 Advice for Aspiring YA Nonfiction Writers 4…

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