Researcher for Harper Collins WWII narrative non fiction project

Qualities

• Thoroughness and ability to explore every angle
• Eye for detail
• Judgement in assessing value of material both in terms of historical relevance and role in narrative
• Initiative in tackling problems
• Desire to break new ground
• Responsiveness/ability to work to deadlines
• Simple writing style

Outline of work
-Task 1 - Background
Working to an initial book outline that highlights main characters and narrative threads, read up on main English, Polish and German (in translation) secondary sources, making notes on primary sources to explore; fact-checking outline; adding details to scenes/character descriptions
-Task 2 - Bibliography
Prepare comprehensive overview of source material relating to key character/narrative threads
-Task 3 - Active research
Prepare notes from archival material, interviews
-Task 4 - Writing
Prepare short topic pieces for incorporation/bkrd in 1st draft preparation
-Task 5 - Factcheck
Fact-check final draft, add notes, prepare bibliography

Your expectations of me

• A work contract for agreed salary/time frame plus travel expenses
• An initial book outline, chapter breakdown
• Clear, daily instruction/work flow app to manage time/tasks
• Weekly planning sessions
• Access to book's architecture via Scrivener/drafts via dropbox
• Feedback on research/writing

This is what I expect you to get out of it

• Opportunity to work on potential best-selling book that can change the way in which Poland/WW2 history is viewed
• Full acknowledgment of role in book
• Access to unexplored archives for use in your future research
• Firsthand experience of working with professional history/exposure to world of publishing
• Research/workflow techniques and tips
• Guidance on improving writing style