Libby

Libby asked Colson Whitehead:

There's obviously a fantastical element to your book as the railroad is real, but how much research did you do into the actual Underground Railroad to inform your writing?

Colson Whitehead Enough to feel I could make a believable 1850, and start writing. If I get stuck or run of steam, I can always stop and do more research as necessary. The Dr. Steven Chapter, Ridgeway's time in New York, all came from things I researched in the middle of the book.

More Answered Questions

Sunny

Sunny asked Colson Whitehead:

I think this is about the fifth of your books I've read and "Underground" is one of my favorites. Do you see a difference between reviews by white reviewers and black reviewers? I've been reading and listening to recent reviews from white reviewers (who may or may not have read the book) and am surprised at their takes on "Underground."

Emanuela

Emanuela asked Colson Whitehead:

I'm from Italy and I honestly never heard about the Underground Railroad before I read of your upcoming novel. What are your expectations and hopes about people's reactions to the book, especially in countries outside the USA?

A Goodreads user

A Goodreads user asked Colson Whitehead:

Hi! Just finished your book, and loved it. Why did you decide to have a woman as your main character? Did you feel this allowed you to do something special with the character? What would have been different - if anything - if the hero was a man?

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