1: All your other historical fiction books are about royalty. Why did you decide to write about Eliza?
A: I really like 18th century America, but it’s not a popular period for historical fiction in the publishing world. There’s been a perception for several years (since the Bicentennial ended!) that readers just weren’t interested in it. I've wanted to write this book for forever, and I first pitched the idea for a book about Eliza about eight years ago, but there was no interest. Then, when the musical came out and everything Hamilton-related became insanely popular, my editor contacted my agent and asked if I still had the proposal, and I finally got to write Eliza's story."

2: How long did it take you to write “I, Eliza Hamilton”, and what information was needed?
A: "I wrote this book really fast because they wanted to get it out fast. I wrote it in a little over a year. When writing historical fiction, you need to bring the past to life. You need the little details, and because I was very familiar with 18th century America, I didn't need to do as much research for the everyday facts, like clothing, food, and transportation. I did, however, need to learn much more about Eliza and Alexander Hamilton. I tried to use as many primary sources as I could, especially the original letters from Alexander and Eliza, and I visited most of the surviving places and sites that they would have known. Fortunately, I had the help of many wonderful archivists and historians who made my research much easier.

3: What was the most difficult scene/ event you had to write about and why was it so difficult?
A: "The Reynolds Pamphlet (a pamphlet that Hamilton himself wrote and published to explain his affair with Mariah Reynolds) because we have no idea today of how Eliza responded to learning about his infidelity. There are no surviving letters, journals, or diaries that document her reaction. All I could do was go by what other people at the time were writing. Although she didn’t leave Alexander, she must have been incredibly hurt - and angry - the moment those papers were spread to the public."

4: Did “Hamilton: An American Musical” inspire you at all while writing this?
A: "Surprisingly, no. I kept my distance from it while I was writing, because I didn't want to be influenced by Mr. Miranda's interpretation of Alexander and Eliza. I listened to the music because I couldn’t help that, and it was very cool to have a book as a soundtrack. But as soon as I turned the book in, I bought tickets, and yes, it's amazing.

5: What's the most surprising thing you learned while writing this book?
A: "In most traditional history books - especially biographies of Alexander - Eliza is very much in the background. Some historians say she didn’t do much and was very quiet. So, for me, trying to find the real Eliza and to find out that she wasn't shy and that she spoke up. I don't think Hamilton would have accomplished nearly as much without her. I really think she helped him a lot, both as the sounding board for many of his most important papers and in life in general."

​6: What opportunities have you had since writing this book?
A: "I, ELIZA is my fifty-fourth book, I have never had a book that has taken off like this one. This is a special book. Of course, I realize that it’s the musical that has made many readers pick it up. Usually, when you write a book, I do promotion on social media and book signings for a month, and then I start working on my next book. The interest in this book just keeps going, and now I’m forced to turn down opportunities to go places and speak because I must write. I will, however, be speaking about Eliza Hamilton, her clothes, and clothing worn by 18th century American women in an event at the Museum of the American Revolution in February. It’s part of the museum’s new “Hamilton Was Here” exhibition, opening in October through March 2019.  A seamstress trained in historical dressmaking will be recreating two gowns that Eliza might have worn, and they’ll be shown complete with all the 18th century accessories. Should be fun!

7: What are the challenges you have with writing historical fiction?
A: "One of the biggest challenges comes with writing about historical figures – like Eliza – who have left few surviving letters, and there are big gaps in what they said or thought. As a fiction writer, I enjoy filling in those gaps, and see them as an opportunity to describe how the characters may have felt or how specific incidents affected their lives. Unlike a historian who can needs proof of everything they write, I can use my imagination to create the character’s world.

8: Why did you decide to start a blog?
A: "I have two blogs, 
one with my friend and fellow-author Loretta Chase (www.twonerdyhistorygirls.com), 
and the one on my website (http://susanhollowayscott.com/blog). 
My blog with Loretta is about nine years old. Back then, blogging was still new, and our editors wanted us to blog to be closer to our readers. Loretta and I decided not to write one more blog about writing, but about the historical facts that we’d discovered in our research, things we found especially interesting. We were kind of shocked to see how many other people found them interesting, too, and we receive about 200,000-page views each month.

 9: How did your degree in art history influence your writing? 
A: "I’m a visual person. I like to look at things. Art history incorporates many aspects, including architecture, fashion, and material culture in general. It all helps me imagine the past, and how and where my characters lived. I also almost always sneak a scene into every book that features a character sitting for her or his portrait with a (usually) famous artist because I can't help myself.
​
10: What are some tips you have for aspiring authors?
A good tip is to look for the details. Remember that the character is telling the story and try to imagine everything through their eyes. You need to incorporate your research in an interesting way, especially when writing in first person as I do. Put yourself in their shoes.

This interview was published in Issue 14.​

​Photography by Marci & Christy unless otherwise noted.

​1.)  Jacqui Long, 16: I loved volunteering to be a model for the workshop. Don’t get me wrong, Marci and Christy are amazing, but it’s always a great experience to work with new people and see the different techniques and personalities.

2.) Alexis Ervin, 18: The Imagine workshops aren’t just about getting a bunch of people together and taking pictures. It’s like a big family get together where we all enjoy one another, it’s amazing and so beautiful to be a part of. “I left being perfect for God, I’m just trying to be me.”

3.) Emily Raters, 18: Modeling for the workshop was great way to meet awesome photographers and have a great time. Whenever a photographer was telling me that I’m beautiful and amazing, it made me feel great. Volunteering was a good opportunity to focus on what I love, which is modeling. I came back to the second one because I had so much fun at MS: Imagine Vol 1!

4.) Jenna Underwood, 17: Volunteering the workshop was an amazing opportunity and experience. I loved meeting a variety of photographers from all over and seeing their different skills. I had to step out of my comfort zone when I spoke at the Senior Q&A Panel, but I am so glad that I did. I had so much fun & my confidence grew after this workshop with all of the other supportive models and photographers.

5.) Riley Leech, 18: It was an amazing experience to work with photographers from all over. I had so much fun at the last workshop in May so I was extremely excited to be given the chance to volunteer again. These workshops are not only fun for the photographers, but also give us a chance to meet new people and do different things! If I could do it again, I would in a heartbeat! 
Image by Chris Shabay Photography
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6.) Lucy Frey, 17: I loved modeling for the workshop because I met a lot of fun photographers who were excited to work with us with their own ideas and methods. I learned a lot from the workshop that I know will help me in the future, like how to work my angles and do different poses.

7.) Alethea Harnish, 17:  I loved being able to volunteer for the workshop because I learn right alongside the photographers. They were able to hear honest feedback from seniors, and we were able to learn new modeling techniques, since each photographer is different. I grew in my assertiveness, confidence and comfortability both in front of the camera and when interacting with adults in an unfamiliar environment.
Image by Jolene Broad Photography

8.) Meredith King, 17: What I loved the best about volunteering was helping all the photographers. All the photographers and other models were inspiring, and I enjoyed every minute of it! Everyone was so talented and kind. It was truly a once in a lifetime experience for me.

9.) Reagan Long, 16: I loved meeting all the photographers at the workshop and hearing their stories. Modeling was truly amazing because I got to see so many different ideas and creative processes. I learned that even though they are taking pictures of the same girls in the same outfits in the same place, they all see something a little different in her and they capture it their own unique way.

10.) Chase Cornelius, 17: What I enjoyed so much about the workshop is inclusion. It was my first time going to a photo shoot, but I was treated as if I were a veteran. None of us were treated as if anyone were more attractive than someone else because the truth is everyone has something that is attractive about them. I came out of my shell to come to this workshop because I have never been confident on my look. I've never thought I was attractive, but the photographers and the other models showed me why I should love the way I look. After the workshop was over, I left my shell behind and I'm not going back.

11.) Rhianna Mast, 16: Volunteering was a great experience to be able to model for a workshop with Marci and Christy. It was excited getting to work with many different photographers and seeing the difference in techniques and personalities. It’s always a great time with Marci and Christy and #MACMSImagine was an amazing experience!

12.) Morgan Ballard, 18: I love working with photographers at all stages of their careers. Each photographer has their own unique perspective. What they can capture displays a different story than the photographers. It’s amazing to see each one of their unique styles.

13.) Cooper Thomas, 17: Volunteering made me feel like a star. I loved being in front of the camera and I loved how energetic the photographers were. I learn mostly how to just sit and be pretty. 

14.) Sami Moylan, 16: Modeling is one of my favorite things to do! It’s the one thing that I can express myself in fully. Being around other models is just so amazing because we all love the same thing and we support each other! I'm so thankful for Marci and Christy for providing such an amazing environment where I can just be myself and do the thing I love! 

15.) Kacy Clegg, 18: Growing up, I never had much confidence; I would look at other girls and compare myself to their beauty. But this past year, being a part of the MAC Mod Squad has opened my eyes. I was given the chance to do something beautiful; I got to volunteer with so many amazing models and photographers for MS: Imagine Vol 2! Everyone was so welcoming and kind. I will never forget this experience that I was so lucky to have. 

This article was published in Issue 14.​

On Thursday, April 3, 1862, Dr. Thomas Orton was quickly summoned to the Turner home.
The Turners 4th child Ann Amelia began to get sick. This was very alarming to the Turners because not long before they lost three of their other children. When their first child passed the local surgeon gave the official diagnoses of diphtheria. Diphtheria was very common in London at this time some symptoms of this disease include; a sore throat, fever, swollen lymph nodes, rashes, ulcers, coughing, muscle weakness, and a runny nose.

As each of the three previous children passed, all their deaths were blamed on this contagious disease. When Ann began to get the exact same symptoms though, the Turners requested Dr. Orton to arrive immediately. Orton’s notes stated that Anne was “suffering from extreme prostration,” which is commonly connected to diphtheria. Not Anne, nor any of the Turner children responded to the common diphtheria treatments.

Dr. Orton couldn’t do anything else to help Ann, but before leaving he took notes on the Turners living conditions. This includes the neighborhood, water supply, and cleanliness. Dr. Orton’s notes stated that the home was in “capital condition,” and from this Dr. Orton gained suspicion about the wallpaper.

One month later, Ann Amelia Turner passed away and Dr. Letheby quickly tested Ann’s tissue to confirm the cause of death. After testing the tissue Letheby released two statements.
One statement confirmed that the death of all the Turner kids was from arsenic poisoning. This comes from the bright green designed wallpaper that covered the walls in the children’s bedroom. The second statement told the common people how being in a room with arsenic colored wallpaper for a few hours could be lethal.

All of this information was brought to court, but the judge's condemnation of the use of arsenic colored wallpaper as “objectionable”. After the judge stated this the jury returned to the verdict of a “natural death” for the Turner children.
​
Over time the dangers of arsenic wallpapers were known by European manufacturers before the green wallpaper obsession got to Britain. However, even with the general public knowing the risks of the beautiful green wallpaper, many companies didn’t stop making them until the 1870’s leading to many more tragic deaths.

This article was published in Issue 14.
​

The Nomination: “Madi is a rising senior at Tabb High School and a member of my 2019 Gray Senior Team. She works at Texas Roadhouse as a hostess and teaches swimming lessons to children ages 3-12 years old at the YMCA. Madi was a Tiger Friend her sophomore year, a teaching assistant at the elementary school, and a basketball sideline cheerleader her sophomore year. Her junior year she played Varsity Softball and her team won the State Championship. In the future Madi would like to attend UTSA and major in the medical field and work with children.”​

I work with kids from ages 3-12 teaching them how to swim at the YMCA. The most rewarding part is getting them to have fun while learning something new. By the end of our sessions I have taught them at least something somehow no one else could. For sports playing softball and going cheer was definitely a great experience. They both taught me a lot of different things but the main was you won’t get very far if you can’t trust your team and it’s not just your sport. Everyone has a pretty big part and being supportive has such a big impact too. ​

What being a tiger friend (freshman year) means to me is understanding and helping children how to understand the lesson in their own way because some kids learn differently than others. Balancing all of this is not easy. You really have to manage your time and keep a schedule. You may want to go out with friends instead of practice or doing homework, but in the end your future is in your school work and everyone wants the best future they can get. Once I finish high school I plan to go to UTSA hopefully and study medical and child development, then to make a future with it maybe as an anesthesiologist. 
​

1. Check the weather for your location.  Pack your clothes based off the temperature. Bring layers if you’re unsure, or if it is going to be chilly bring a jacket.
2. Don’t forget toiletries! If you are going to be in the heat pack a lot of deodorant and perfume.
3. Wear the right shoes. If you are planning on walking a lot bring sneakers, but if you are going to a beach bring flip flops!
4. Stuff for your Hair.  Most hotels don’t have the best hair products, so bring your own shampoo and conditioner. In addition, anti-frizz spray, as well as dry shampoo, can be a lifesaver in different climates.
5. Makeup. Blotting pads can be a necessity in hot locations. In addition, make sure to keep all liquids contained so they don’t spill.
6. Clothes. Make sure all your outfits are picture ready because based off of your location
you can take cool pictures! Always bring a backup outfit in case your outfit isn’t appropriate for the setting.

For the Color Issue - #14, we wanted to have some fun playing with the rainbow!

Member Sierra Zaccagnino had the opportunity to play with color with the help of Simplee U Salon and a super fun crystal called a Suncatcher.

This little disc can be purchased on Amazon for $19.95. It is a little bit challenging getting it to hit the sun and the desired spot exactly how you want it to, but it’s so fun to play around with and the results are so cool! 
​

The Nominee:  
I am the President of the SPLT team at my school. SPLT stands for: Student Prevention Leadership Team. We stand against drugs and help prevent the use of them. We do campaigns throughout the middle school and the high school against marijuana, vaping, and drinking & driving.

My favorite part about the SPLT team is being able to make a difference is people’s lives. I want them to make smart decisions. Helping today’s youth is such a good feeling. ​

 I joined the Rather B Model Team when I had my senior pictures done. I loved the concept of it!   My favorite thing the Model Team has done is volunteering with the Oaks of Righteousness to make lunch for the homeless.​

We love helping teens succeed in their areas of interest
and have a lot of fun in the process!
​
We currently have openings for writers, bloggers, photographers, videographers,
interviewers, youtubers, researchers, fashionistas, beauticians, models & more.

How can we help you be the best version of yourself?
​

The Nomination: Lauren Stone. Having been diagnosed with Type 1 insulin-dependent Diabetes just two weeks into her freshman year, Lauren's journey has become about living without limitations and educating others about Type 1!
​

 What was your initial reaction to finding out about your disease? 
It’s funny, as a 14-year-old girl, I remember immediately crying and wondering if I was ever going to cheer again. Thankfully, those worries were quickly put to rest by the doctors. After my discharge, I worked very hard with a diabetes educator specializing in athletic children. She worked with me and my parents virtually each week for two months to get my blood sugar regulated to compete and tumble again. That all-star season I traveled to various venues including Atlanta and The Summit All Star Cheerleading Championship in Walt Disney World. Since that time, I have transitioned to cheering for my high school. I am on the sidelines for both football and basketball seasons, and my high school team will compete again this year for the third consecutive year at the National High School Cheer Championships in Walt Disney World. Also, I am currently attending college prep clinics to possibly pursue cheerleading beyond high school.

Do you feel people treated you differently after they found out you had diabetes?
My friends, teachers, coaches, and teammates have all been amazing! I have been so blessed by their never-ending support and big hearts. They have never treated me differently for one second. Next to my family, they have been some of my biggest supporters! As an example, one of my best friends asked for donations to JDRF in lieu of birthday gifts for her 16th Birthday. She raised over $500 for my JDRF One Walk team. I feel the support from my friends and family definitely helped with my transition early on… and I am forever humbled and grateful for their love.

How has being diagnosed with diabetes affected your view on life?
I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes in 2015, just a few weeks into my Freshman year of high school. While I was in the hospital, I was assured that there were essentially no limitations for a well-managed Type 1 Diabetic which was extremely reassuring. Since then, I have taken this philosophy to heart and continue to be active and involved in my school and my community. I am forever grateful for the advancing technology that allows me to manage my blood sugar and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

What inspired you to start educating others about diabetes?
Interestingly, I never set out to actually “educate” people about diabetes. Type 1 Diabetes is very strange diagnosis. There is a lot of personal education that takes part in the beginning. You have to understand how exercise; food and your specific body all react together as you process every piece of food you intake. I think that educating others came more from my personality. It really has developed more out of the openness I have about my situation. When I was in the hospital, my Diabetes Educator told me I could be as public or private about my new diagnosis as I wanted to be. She indicated that some people opt to keep it a very private thing.... I smiled and let her know I had already announced to my friends on Instagram what was wrong with me! I think from that point forward, I’ve been an open book. It’s now part of who I am. I’m never ashamed to answer questions, stop and explain my insulin pump/CGM or help others learn more about T1D. I’m confident about wearing my pump on my arms and legs and happy to show others it’s just part of who I am! Because of that, I have been asked to share my story on several occasions.

 What message would you like people to know about diabetes? 
There are probably three things that I would love to tell others.
First, Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease. This makes it quite different than Type 2 with which most people are familiar. Type 1 occurs when a person’s pancreas completely stops producing insulin which regulates our blood sugar levels. Therefore, a person becomes insulin dependent and must take insulin injections or wear an insulin pump to survive. At this time there is no known cause for T1D and no known cure.

Second, T1D is very easy to diagnosis, but initial symptoms can sometimes go unnoticed. Type 1 is often confused or mistaken for the flu; someone may feel tired, have extreme thirst, make frequent bathroom trips, have an increased appetite, notice sudden weight loss, or experience vision changes. A simple finger stick with a glucose test will often give doctors an easy tip if they’re looking at a newly diagnosed Type 1 diabetic.

Third, there is virtually nothing a Type 1 Diabetic can’t do!

​To learn more or donate to JDRF, visit  www2.jdrf.org
Image by Pink Owl Photography