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WORK TITLE: Superpower? The Wearable Tech Revolution
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WEBSITE: https://www.elainekachala.com
CITY: Toronto
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COUNTRY: Canada
NATIONALITY: Canadian
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School Library Journal vol. 68 no. 10 Oct., 2022. Amanda Borgia, “KACHALA, Elaine. Superpower? The Wearable Tech Revolution.”. p. 100.
About me
How did you become a writer?
First, I was a reader. Reading helped expose me to great writing. I love books. I still have some from when I was a kid, and I’ve kept all of my kid’s books (they’re grown up now!).
Fast forward a few years, I came to love writing at school and later at university. I earned a Bachelor of Science (BSc) from the University of Toronto and a Master in Environmental Studies (MES) from York University, where I wrote many essays. Then, I led the research and writing of health reports for governments and agencies for over 20 years. Early on, I learned about the power of stories to explain difficult topics instead of just laying out the facts.
Photographed by John Carvalho
Media Kit & Press
What do you like about writing children's books?
So many things! Exploring different topics. Discovering new information and sharing what I learn with readers.
What do you write?
I write picture books and non-fiction for middle-grade readers. Two of my two picture books were longlisted in CANSCAIP's Writing for Children Competition (2017, 2018). Superpower? The Wearable-Tech Revolution is my first book. It will debut on October 18th, 2022 with Orca Book Publishers.
I also write for Sci/Why, a group blog by Canadian kids' science and technology writers. It’s a terrific resource for kids, teachers, families—anyone!
Where do you live?
I was born and raised in Toronto, Canada, where I still live with my family. We have the sweetest golden retriever named Tucker.
What do you do for fun?
Outdoor stuff like hiking, biking, and camping. I’ve hiked through canyons and forests, across beaches, and up ladders, some even 30 feet high! And, as much as I love Toronto, I love traveling even more. That’s when our family’s fondest memories happen.
Elaine Kachala
Writer
English
Canada: East
PAL Member
Member Since: 2016
Speaker Info
Visit Website
@ElaineKachala
ABOUT ELAINE KACHALA
Elaine Kachala is a health-policy researcher, writer and
adviser. She has over 20 years of writing experience with health agencies.
Superpower? The Wearable-Tech Revolution is her first book. Elaine has a
special interest in wearable technologies. She’s curious and hopeful but can’t
help being a little worried about how wearables will impact our health,
well-being and equity. With degrees in psychology and sociology from the
University of Toronto and a master of environmental studies from
York University, she brings a unique perspective to the topic. Elaine
lives with her family in Toronto.
Elaine’s excited to report that Superpower? is a Best STEM Book Award Winner (NSTA/CBC 2022-23) and a SCBWI Golden Kite Award Finalist (2023)!
Author Elaine Kachala on Sharpening One’s Focus- PLUS a GIVEAWAY!
POSTED ON JANUARY 18, 2023
Hello world!!
Welcome to my blog, Blissfully Bookish and my first Q & A for 2023! My first guest is Canadian like me, and also loves writing nonfiction. Please welcome Elaine Kachala as she discussed her book journey for Superpower? The Wearable-Tech Revolution, a middle grade book illustrated by Belle Wuthrich and published by Orca Book Publishers.
BUT first- YAY! Elaine is generously giving away a FREE copy of her book. To be eligible to win, please enter the Rafflecopter contest by clicking HERE. Contest ends Jan 27, 2022, Canada/US only.
Please describe the journey to publication for Superpower? The Wearable-Tech Revolution.
Thrilling! Nerve-racking! Fun! It was filled with many emotions and challenges since this was my first book. It was also a heartwarming experience because of all the people who supported me.
My journey began six years ago at a writer’s workshop, where we discussed STEM/STEAM topics for middle readers. We talked about the impact of technology on people and the world and what would be the hook for this age group. I’m intrigued by STEM/STEAM topics because I have two daughters who work in these fields. I also work in health care policy, and in my job at the time, I was learning about incredible technologies that were improving people’s lives, especially those with disabilities.
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My earliest drafts included many different technologies. The style was descriptive, and there was too much information; I had to sharpen the focus and needed a narrative arc. I reflected on what I saw in healthcare and dug deeper into the research. Many drafts later, I landed on the topic of wearables—technology that’s on, in, or attached to your body. I wondered why I was suddenly so invested. I realized two things: first, this multifaceted topic has to do with health, well-being, and equity—issues that are important to me. And, beyond the blow-your-socks-off cool factor, our society faces many challenges with wearables as these sophisticated devices go mainstream. I wanted to write a book exploring how wearables are changing our lives and delving into technology’s pros and cons. Suddenly, many threads came together, and the idea for this book was born!
When Kirstie Hudson at Orca Book Publishers said she wanted to publish Superpower? as part of Orca Think, a nonfiction series for middle-readers, I was thrilled beyond belief! I’m ever grateful to Kirstie and the Orca team for their unending enthusiasm and support. We signed in April 2020, and this book became my passion project. Working with Orca Book Publishers has been an incredible experience. They are a fantastic publisher.
Where did you draw the book’s inspiration?
I drew inspiration from a few sources, including my work in health care, the books I was reading about the impacts of fourth industrial revolution technologies, and the incredible inventors I interviewed, including the young inventors! Their steadfast passion for inventing technology to improve the world and their keen insights into the ethics and challenges had me at the edge of my seat and wanting to know more.
What is your writing process and does it vary depending on the project?
When I’m writing middle-grade nonfiction, I always begin with research. I glance at what’s in the headlines of credible magazines (e.g., Forbes, Harvard Business Review), news reports, reputable websites (e.g., professional associations), etc. But I quickly delve into the literature, focusing on primary sources (e.g., books, scholarly journals, government documents) to further validate what’s in the headlines. I also watch video presentations (e.g., TEDx) and listen to podcasts by experts. I find these especially helpful for clarifying information with highly technical topics. I also read middle-grade books of the same genre to learn about the market, what topics were covered, where there are gaps, and how authors I admire present the information. I note names of experts I’d like to talk to, and after I know the book’s focus, have a clear structure and understand the topic, I write outstanding questions for interviews.
I’ve tried writing informational fiction picture books in the past, and my process was different. I’d focus on getting down my ideas and then go back and forth with research. But so far, the process I have for writing middle grades feels most comfortable. Maybe if I go back to writing PBs, my process will change.
Please paste a short and compelling excerpt from your book.
Wow, this is a tough choice! I hope you don’t mind me sending four short excerpts that I love:
“…those of us designing social virtual reality (VR) better get it right, and fast! This technology will transform our lives and how we communicate…we can’t ignore the darker side, and we each have a role in defining how this technology is shaped and developed.” (VR expert Dr. Jeremy Bailenson)
“We have to realize technologies can be used maliciously. They need to be managed, controlled and regulated. And it’s the responsibility of people inventing to focus on ethical innovation.” (Young inventor Soumiya Sivasathiyanathan)
“Technologies are tools made and used by people. We do have a say in how they advance. Caution! Move slow and think human.” (Author Elaine Kachala)
“Imagine being totally alert but unable to walk, speak or move our hands to turn on a light switch. It’s like you’re locked in your body. Now imagine a technology that helps you do these things using only your thoughts. That technology is called a brain-computer interface.” (Author Elaine Kachala)
Did you consult an expert for this book?
Yes! Many experts and they’re named in the Acknowledgments. Since there are many different technologies in the book, I had to check with various specialty experts. I interviewed several, including young inventors, and I also had experts with diverse backgrounds fact-check the manuscript.
I loved your fourth chapter entitled ‘Are We Crossing the Line?’ Can you please briefly comment on the ethics of technology?
Thank you! That was one of my favorite chapters to write. To quote Dr. Mary Lou Jepsen in the chapter, “there’s no denying it, the ethics are huge.”
In this chapter, I focused on brain-computer interface (BCI) and virtual reality (VR) technologies because, in my view, they best illustrate the dichotomy between the tremendous benefits coupled with the extraordinary challenges that we’ll face. Like Dr. Jepsen says, “I’m going to make a life-saving medical device, but…it will also make telepathy possible.” As she also says, we have to ask questions and make choices, and it’s essential to have discussions now about how we’ll allow these technologies into society because once they’re out there, we will use them!
We’re fortunate to have scientists like Dr. Jepsen and others speaking out to make us aware of the challenges and advocating for the responsible design of technology. I also think our best chances for reaping the benefits and mitigating the risks are when two things are in place. First, when technology is designed collaboratively by diverse teams and when society works fast and furious to ensure kids everywhere have access to STEM/STEAM education where they can be part of the ethical conversations and prepared for job opportunities.
Please share your favorite books from 2022 that have inspired you.
The books that most inspired me while I was writing Superpower? came before 2022, they included: Klaus Schwab’s The Fourth Industrial Revolution (2017) and Shaping the Future of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (2018). Schwab has a new book, The Great Narrative (2022), and it’s on my reading list! Two other books also inspired me: Tools and Weapons: The Promise and the Peril of the Digital Age (2019) by Microsoft’s Brad Smith and Carol Ann Browne and Experience on Demand: What Virtual Reality Is, How It Works, and What It Can Do by Jeremy Bailenson (2018). I read the Age of AI: And Our Human Future (Henry A Kissinger and Eric Schmidt, 2022) after writing Superpower? It is a fascinating book. When I’m not reading books related to the subject I’m writing about, I love reading books by Mitch Albom!
What is the best piece of advice you would give to other writers?
Be prepared for the considerable time commitment that goes along with marketing and promotion, so start early and make a plan! I was new to the publishing industry and needed more M & P experience. So about ten months in advance, I started researching and attending workshops. You’ll be better prepared to work with your publisher, you won’t miss opportunities, and you’ll be able to plan and budget; there will be costs, but it’s an investment.
And a bonus question just for kicks! Would you rather forget the ending of every book shortly after reading it OR not be able to re-read a book ever again?
Oh, I’d rather forget the ending and re-read it! I love re-reading; I learn new things each time.
BIO
Elaine Kachala is a health-policy researcher, writer and adviser. She has over 20 years of writing experience with health agencies. SUPERPOWER? The Wearable-Tech Revolution is her first book. She’s curious and hopeful but can’t help being a little worried about how wearables will impact our health, well-being and equity. With degrees in psychology and sociology from the University of Toronto and a master of environmental studies from York University, she brings a unique perspective to the topic. Elaine lives with her family in Toronto.
Elaine’s excited to announce that SUPERPOWER? is on best book lists including the National Science Teaching Association & The Children’s Book Council’s – Best STEM Books for K-12, The Children’s Book Council Hot Off The Press, November 2022 and tinlids best books for schools & libraries, Fall 2022.
LINKS
Website: https://www.elainekachala.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elainekachala
Twitter: https://twitter.com/elainekachala
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elainekachala/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elainekachala/
YouTube Book Trailer https://youtu.be/hvbNOG7V48Y
The book is available at bookstores and online, including Amazon.com and Amazon.ca.
Debut Author Interview: Elaine Kachala and Superpower? The Wearable-Tech Revolution Giveaway
Happy Monday Everyone! Today I’m excited to have debut author Elaine Kachala here to share about her MG nonfiction Superpower? The Wearable-Tech Revolution. It sounded fascinating to me after I read the first sentence of the blurb.
Here’s the blurb from Goodreads:
Imagine being able to run without getting tired. Or travel to the moon to observe Earth for science class. The technologies that could make these things possible are mixing into our lives faster than we realize. The stakes are high. In Superpowers: The Wearable-Tech Revolution, young readers will discover how technological innovation can help people survive and thrive, but the book also asks readers to question whether it should. What if super strength results in endless work? What if hackers can read our thoughts? Meet the inventors, designers, engineers, scientists and young people navigating the next tech frontier.
Hi Elaine! Thanks so much for joining us.
1. Tell us about yourself and how you became a writer.
I work as a health policy researcher, writer, and advisor for government and health agencies. Together with journalists and editorial teams, we'd talk about "our reports having legs" so they'd inspire people to make improvements in the healthcare system. Early on, we discovered the power of stories to explain complicated topics to governments and the public instead of just laying out the facts. It is satisfying and exciting to research a new topic, distill the information, and then write about it in a way that compels people to want to take action.
I'd never considered writing for kids, but I was looking for a creative outlet about six years ago. I love picture books; they're brilliant pieces of art. Why not write a picture book? I revealed this goal to my family, and they bought me Anne Whitford Paul's, A Hands-On Guide from Story Creation to Publication for Christmas. Many courses, conferences, and manuscript drafts later, I was at a workshop when I found myself discussing STEM/STEAM topics for middle readers. I'd started down the road of writing picture books, then, in one conversation, everything changed!
We talked about the impact of technology on people and the world and what would be the hook for this age group. I'm intrigued by STEM/STEAM topics because I have two daughters who work in these fields, and I'm always trying to understand their work. In my job at the time, I was learning about incredible technologies underway to improve people's lives, especially those with disabilities. But I didn't want to write a book merely about technology; I was curious about the implications of technology. Suddenly, many threads came together, and this book was born!
2. That’s great your family bought you a book that inspired you. Where did you get the idea for Superpower? The Wearable-Tech Revolution?
My earliest drafts were about many different technologies. The style was descriptive, and there was too much information; I had to sharpen the focus and needed a narrative arc. I reflected on what I saw in healthcare and dug deeper into the research. I read books like Klaus Schwab's The Fourth Industrial Revolution and Shaping the Future of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and Tools and Weapons: The Promise and the Peril of the Digital Age by Microsoft's Brad Smith and Carol Ann Browne. I was learning about the importance of the responsible design of technology and what that meant. I researched the children's market. While there were many brilliant STEM/STEAM books and books that explained technological advancements and their impacts on society, I didn't find any current books that combined these themes.
After more research, the topic of wearable technology cast a spell on me. Why was I suddenly so invested? I realized two things: That deep down, this multifaceted topic has to do with health, well-being, and equity—issues that are important to me and are at the core of my professional work. Beyond the blow-your-socks-off cool factor, our society faces many challenges with wearables as these incredibly sophisticated devices go mainstream. Writing a book that explores how wearables are changing our lives and that delves into the pros and cons of technology is the book I wanted to write. I wasn't seeing these issues reflected in books for young readers, yet kids have a significant role in helping steer the world toward a better future. Also, when I interviewed youth for the book, I was seriously impressed by their thoughts, insights, and passion for creating technology for a better world; I had to write a book that included their ideas and opinions.
Your Writing Process
3. Tell us about the research process that you used in writing this book. What advice do you have for other writers about researching for a nonfiction book?
· I delved into the literature, focusing on primary sources (e.g., books, scholarly journals, government documents), then reputable websites (e.g., professional associations), and magazines (e.g., WIRED, Harvard Business Review). I also watched video presentations (e.g., TEDx) and listened to podcasts by experts (often, they produced YouTube videos or did TEDx presentations or podcast interviews). All of this research helped me understand news issues, learn about the technologies, and identify experts to interview. I found podcasts, presentations, websites, and magazines especially helpful for clarifying information with highly technical topics.
· Read MG books of the same genre not only to learn about the market and what topics were covered and where there were gaps but to see how authors that I admired presented the information.
· I delved deeper into the research and ensured I had a clear structure for the book and a better sense of what I knew and needed to know.
· After I had a clearer sense of the outstanding questions, I finalized my list of experts and did more research on them and their work, and prepared questions. Always do your due diligence before reaching out; experts have limited time.
· I conducted interviews. A couple were by Zoom; others were via email; in all cases, I sent my questions in advance. (It was during covid; I couldn't visit people). I was specific about why I wanted to talk to them in my outreach email.
4. It sounds like your research was extensive. How did what you learned when doing your research affect your narrative?
The research directly shaped the narrative. I was learning how wearable technology changed how we live, learn, work and play. As I continued researching and reflecting on this point, it hit me that wearables weren't just changing how we live but were changing and augmenting us as human beings, and developments were happening fast. Experts were speaking out about this and the pros and cons of technology; they were asking whether innovation can go too far and questioning the "move fast and break things" mindset that was common in the tech industry. While the benefits of wearables were huge, in many ways, this technology was crossing into some crazy ethical territory, and there were risks and challenges. The questions that struck me most were: how do we innovate and design technology responsibly? How do we reap the benefits but still protect against the harms? The book's structure followed my learning process and the information I found.
5. What tools did you use to stay organized?
For reference management, Zotero saved me! Initially, I'd tried Scrivener, but it could have been more user-friendly. I found it too time-consuming to learn when I was learning so many other things. When I learned of Zotero, I tried it and found it easier to understand; Zotero helped me with reference management, which was huge. Otherwise, I worked in WORD and EXCEL and had many folders.
6. What was a challenge you faced in writing this book? How did you overcome it?
Since Superpower? was my first book, the entire project was a sharp learning curve. My top challenges were managing version control, keeping references organized, controlling word count, and ensuring accuracy.
As the drafts evolved, I found it hard to keep track of older ideas; I'm still trying to figure out how to have the best version control system. But for reference management, Zotero saved me! I learned about this software for managing bibliographic data from a presenter at an SCBWI conference, and I'm ever grateful.
The last chapter is called How Do We Design Responsible Technology? SET UP! RISE UP! TEAM UP! Initially, each was a separate chapter, and the overall word count was too high. My editor asked if I'd consider condensing them into one chapter. I had a moment, but then I said, no problem! She was right. Condensing, SET UP! RISE UP! TEAM UP! into one chapter helped me restructure the material, present ideas more clearly and concisely, and reduce the word count. When I read it now, nothing important is missing! Always listen to the editor!
Finally, I did an insane amount of research on this topic; I had over 500 references, including expert interviews. I was meticulous about ensuring accuracy. I'm so grateful to the experts who reviewed the manuscript. They'd made some recommendations, but overall, I'd been accurate, so my research paid off! Getting expert eyes on the manuscript is essential.
Your Road to Publication
7. What was your road to publication like?
Thrilling! Nerve-racking! Fun! It was filled with lots of emotions and challenges. It was also a heartwarming experience. For example, becoming part of a community of children's writers was amazing. I can't believe everyone has been friendly, supportive, and welcoming.
Working with Orca Book Publishers has been an incredible experience. They are a fantastic publisher. All aspects, from editorial support to illustration and book design and promotion, have been incredible. It was truly a collaborative experience. They're so professional and friendly, and supportive, and communication was easy and timely. I couldn't have asked for a better first-time experience. I hope I can work with Orca again.
8. That’s great that your publisher was so good to work with. What is something that surprised you in the process of getting a book contract or working with your editor? Why?
Since this was my first book, I was curious to know what it would be like to work with an editor. What surprised me most was that she gently presented revision ideas but didn't change anything independently. I really appreciated that. Of course, I took all of her suggestions!
Marketing
9. You live in Toronto. How are you planning to market your book in the United States?
A few ways:
1. Orca Book Publishers markets their books in Canada, the USA, and Internationally. Orca staff also attend conferences such as the American Library Assoc, pitch festivals, and sends direct newsletters to teachers, librarians, and schools.
2. From a warehouse near Bellingham, Washington, Orca distributes its own titles and those of other Canadian publishers throughout the United States (to schools, libraries, boards, wholesalers (e.g., in US Follet, Baker & Taylor; Amazon).
3. Orca connects directly with clients to pitch books.
4. Sometimes clients put out calls for specific books, and Orca responds to the call.
5. I had a Discussion & Activity Guide developed for educators. It was created by a US STEM educational consultant and is aligned to Common Core & National Generation Science Standards Grades 4-7.
6. I am doing interviews with contacts in the American literary community, such as yourself, ReadingWithYourKids, and others.
7. I'm also reaching out to contacts that I have in the US.
If you have other ideas, I'd love to hear them!
10. One idea would be to have a blogger who schedules blog tours schedule one for you to reach new audiences. What advice do you have to other debut authors getting ready for the release of their book?
Be prepared for the considerable time commitment that goes along with marketing and promotion, so start early and make a plan! I was new to the publishing industry and had no M&P experience. So about ten months in advance, I started researching and attending workshops. You'll be better prepared to work with your publisher, you won't miss opportunities, and you'll be able to plan and budget because if you do it right, there will be costs; it is an investment.
Thanks for sharing all your advice, Elaine. You can find Elaine at:
Website: https://www.elainekachala.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elainekachala
Twitter: https://twitter.com/elainekachala
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elainekachala/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elainekachala/
YouTube Book Trailer https://youtu.be/hvbNOG7V48Y
Giveaway Details
Elaine’s publisher is generously offering a hardback of Superpower? The Wearable-Tech Revolution for a giveaway. To enter, all you need to do is be a follower of my blog (via the follower gadget, email, or bloglovin’ on the right sidebar) and leave a comment by November 19. If your e-mail is not on your Google Profile, you must leave it in the comments to enter the contest. Please be sure I have your email address.
If you mention this contest on Twitter, Facebook, or your blog and/or follow me on Twitter or Elaine on her social media sites, mention this in the comments and I'll give you an extra entry for each. You must be 13 years old or older to enter. The book giveaway is U.S and Canada.
Marvelous Middle Grade Monday is hosted by Greg Pattridge. You can find the participating blogs on his blog.
Upcoming Interviews and Guest Posts
Tuesday, November 8 I’m participating in the Super Stocking Stuffer Giveaway Hop
Monday, November 14 I have an agent spotlight interview with Adria Goetz and a query critique giveaway
Wednesday, November 16 I’m participating in the In All Things Give Thanks Giveaway Hop
Monday, November 23 I have a guest post by author Jessica Vitalis and a giveaway of her MG fantasy The Rabbit’s Gift
Tuesday, December 6 I’m participating in the Winter Is Coming Giveaway Hop
Wednesday, December 7 I have a guest post by debut author Deeba Zargarpur and a giveaway of her YA contemporary House of Yesterday and my IWSG post
Monday, December 12 I have an agent spotlight interview with Kelly Dyksterhouse and a query critique giveaway
Friday, December 16 I’m participating in the Dashing December Giveaway Hop
Monday, December 19 I have an agent spotlight interview with Savannah Brooks and a query critique giveaway
Hope to see you tomorrow!
Posted by Natalie Aguirre on Monday, November 07, 2022
KACHALA, Elaine. Superpower? The Wearable Tech Revolution. illus. by Belle Wuthrich. 112p. Orca. Oct. 2022. Tr $24.95. ISBN 9781459828278.
Gr 4-8--Technology is all around us; some of it can even be found on us. Devices are being created to improve our lives, from smartwatches to smart tattoos. What's cool is that these technologies can sometimes make it seem as if we have superpowers. While there are many positives of wearable technology, there are also negative points. Kachala explores different types of wearable tech, their creation, and their pros and cons in this resource guide. Readers will be familiar with some forms, while others will likely be brand new. Broken down into clear chapters with an index, this is a readable guide for valuable information on the subject. Kachala presents the information skillfully for her target audience. Fun illustrations and photographs are scattered throughout the book to support the text. Likely to fall flat for those already indifferent, those who are interested or need research sources for a school assignment will be satisfied. A glossary and list of resources are included in the back. VERDICT Purchase where STEM books are popular and are needed for school assignments. --Amanda Borgia
Copyright: COPYRIGHT 2022 A wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/
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Borgia, Amanda. "KACHALA, Elaine. Superpower? The Wearable Tech Revolution." School Library Journal, vol. 68, no. 10, Oct. 2022, p. 100. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A720065779/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=f53fb5c2. Accessed 11 Mar. 2023.