Hollie Blakeney

Hollie Blakeney asked Erik Larson:

I am a huge fan and have read all of your books. How long does it take you to research and write your books? I can't fathom the amount of time and work each book takes.

Erik Larson I have the luxury of researching and writing full time. Both are infinitely engaging. Typically my books take four to five years to complete, with about half the time devoted entirely to research and half to writing--though with varying intensity the research continues throughout the entire process.

More Answered Questions

Erin

Erin asked Erik Larson:

The first book I read of yours was "Devil in the White City", I'm curious how you ever came to know who Herman Mudgett was? Until I read your book I'd never heard of him.

Susan Spellman

Susan Spellman asked Erik Larson:

I teach several college-level history survey courses and struggle to find good books that highlight the kind of human choices and consequences your works highlight. While I love a long, meaty book, my students (and class constraints) require shorter reads. Have you considered producing condensed versions of your bestsellers for classroom use, or composing a few shorter accounts?

Brian Olson

Brian Olson asked Erik Larson:

Do you have any advice for would-be writers in developing a set time of day or a set routine for them to write?

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