Making multiple-use of research

Edel Wignell

Edel Wignell, who has many works based on research, pays tribute to the assistance and inspiration she has received from librarians, all of whom help her to make a living as a writer.

Years ago someone said, 'Don't tell anyone what you're researching. Keep it a secret so that no one can pilfer your idea.' But I have benefited greatly from sharing, for many people, especially librarians, have directed me to sources I would not have found.

After spending many hours researching for a writing or compiling project, it makes sense financially to find several ways of using the information. When the project is finished I write features, short stories, verse, scripts or novels incorporating some of my findings, or I may be invited to speak. Because I write for both adults and children, my markets are doubled.

Edel Wignell's main interests are history, folklore and fantasy. Opportunities to write in these areas continue to multiply, and ideas for spin-offs continue to spin. She is looking forward to the release of Tricking the Tiger and Other Plays Based on Asian Folk Tales (Phoenix Education) in April 2002, and an historical novel The Long, Sticky Walk (University of Western Australia Press) later in the year.

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