Natalie
asked
Katherine Arden:
Hi Katherine. I wanted to reach out and say that I LOVE your books. As a Russian speaking person, born in Belarus back in the Soviet Union days, I must say that I am simply amazed at how well you konw the Russian literature, folklore and history. It always puts a smile on my face to read about Morozko, domovoj and other creatures. I read that you lived in Moscow - did that help you to research for the books?
Katherine Arden
Yes, living in Moscow gave me the impetus and also the background information to start (a few years later) researching and writing what became the Winternight Trilogy. Thank you so much for reading. One goal I had in writing was to be respectful of Russian culture and history, and to convey some of my love for the topic. I am glad that came across for you.
More Answered Questions
Chris Conrady
asked
Katherine Arden:
Coincidentally, right after enjoying The Bear and the Nightingale, I read The Stranger in the Woods, by Michael Finkel, a true investigative story about a hermit living in solitude for 26 years in the Main woods. Much of the imagery and descriptions of the of isolation seemed to dovetail well with Vasya's life. It made me curious, who were the actual people or places that you drew upon when crafting this series?
Manami
asked
Katherine Arden:
Dear Katherine Arden! Firstly, as someone coming from a Russian family, I'd like to tell you; I think that your books are kind of the best ones using Russian mythology. I truly enjoy them (TBATN is my favourite book of all time, to be honest). My question is, have you ever considered writing about Marya's story? (Or anything similar to it?) Thank you, and have a nice day! :)
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