Q&A with Asha and Baz Meet Gladys West Author Caroline Fernandez
A new addition to the Asha and Baz series is on its way! Asha and Baz Meet Gladys West comes out in May, so we asked author Caroline Fernandez some questions about the work that's gone into this time-travel adventure.
What inspired you to write this book?
In researching women in STEM for the Asha and Baz series, I discovered Gladys West. I didn’t know anything about her story, but I knew that I use GPS all the time (I have a terrible sense of direction and get lost easily). Adding in cardinal directions (North, East, South, West) came about once I researched curriculum tie-ins for map reading and directions.
What was the most rewarding and/or challenging thing about writing this book?
The most rewarding thing about this book is that I was actually able to ask Gladys West questions via email. She was very kind to share her experience directly with me.
Why would you recommend the Asha and Baz chapter book series?
The Asha and Baz series are fun reads for curious kids. Anyone who enjoys history, biography, and STEM/STEAM learning would enjoy the books. They are stand-alone books (so you don’t need to read them in sequence).
Why is the class challenge based on cardinal directions?
The class challenge in this book is related to cardinal directions because map reading is a skill (one, which this author, does not excel at). It’s important to know how to get from A to B. Ever wonder how the pizza store knows where to deliver your pizza? GPS!
Did you hide any easter eggs in the book?
I researched the fruits and vegetables which grow in a community garden to ensure everything was correct in terms of growing season.
This is book 5 in the Asha and Baz, how do you keep the books engaging?
The fact that each of the books are stand alone make it fresh. I like how we can “grow” Asha and Baz in terms of character development throughout the series. However, each new class challenge and each new person they meet makes for a new adventure.
What’s the next adventure for Asha and Baz?
Next up, Asha and Baz meet Mary Anning and discover fossils. Look for it in 2025!
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