At the April 4 meeting, Andy Flink discussed researching and writing historical fiction and non-fiction. He focused on how to connect with historical experts.

He used the Internet to contact a Flying Tigers ace pilot. He showed us his First Day Cover (FDC), an envelope with a commemorative first issue stamp returned with authentic signatures of the Flying Tigers. Flink explained that when the FDC is cancelled and returned to its source, it becomes a collectible. He cautions writers who use the Internet for research to be aware that there are inaccuracies and inconsistencies from source to source.

To aid him in his nonfiction research, Flink utilizes the Sacramento public library (e.g, the Sacramento Room), or televised documentaries, such as from public television stations. He has taped interviews with people about their knowledge of historical places and events. Flink emphasized the importance of knowing your subject. When interviewing people, he says, "Do not compromise any information or what people would consider personal. Be sure you are interested in the subject."

Flink identified a research tool he calls, "researching your own mind." If a writer has never been to the historic area being written about, he can use his imagination to embellish the details. When scenes are fictionalized without compromising the true incidents that took place, it becomes creative nonfiction. He defined this as an example of "literary license."

Flink talked about his research on Jack London’s book, The Call of the Wild. He read a poem about it, written by an anonymous writer. He said, "That anonymous writer was me." The best advice given to him for writing both fiction and nonfiction is, "Practice. Practice. Practice. Write. Write. Write."