Kevin Baker: I have yet to write any book-length nonfiction, though I do have a contract with Pantheon to write a history of baseball in New York City, after my next novel with HarperCollins. I am looking forward to that, and I have always enjoyed writing shorter nonfiction pieces. My very first job, at 13, was writing for a newspaper, and I think that periodical work is very good at instilling discipline, directness, and brevity (not my strong suit).
But fiction is my first love, and especially long fiction. I think it must be like the freedom a jazz musician enjoys, the opportunity to constantly improvise and elaborate on a great theme.
Glen David Gold: I've written essays, both personal and historical, in addition to historical fiction. And I love all the forms equally. I think I enjoy the switch back and forth, as each gives you something different to chew on: you are either a slave to the truth or a slave to a good story. Each is a wonderful discipline.
Bernard Cornwell: I only write fiction. Why work when you don't have to?
Matthew Kneale: I've never written nonfiction, though I wouldn't be surprised if I do one day. From what I can see the storytelling often follows much the same lines. I think it would all be a question of what subject seems exciting to write about. If I were drawn to something that would work better as nonfiction then I wouldn't hesitate.
Megan Chance: I only write historical fiction. I've really no interest in writing a nonfiction book at this time. I'm a storyteller --- that is what I like to do.
Tayari Jones: I have never written any non fiction because I am more interested in imagining stories. If I get an idea for a plot, I like to be able to follow it without worrying about sullying the historical record.
Karen Essex: I've worked as a journalist and essayist. Fiction is my passion, but I find the challenges of laying out a good argument on the page to be very rewarding. I think it keeps the mind honest!
Margaret George: Right now I write only fiction. The reason I haven't written any nonfiction is: not enough time! I seem to need every day of my contract time to get my novels in on time. But I'd like to write nonfiction. I especially wanted to write one of those small information books on...oh, never mind! I'll keep it my secret for now. I keep a file folder on it, thinking, someday, someday....
