Christopher Collier, and his brother James Collier, are a team of writers known for their meticulously accurate historical fiction. Born on January 29, 1930, in New York City, Christopher, as well as James, gravitated toward their father's profession as a writer. Christopher, the younger brother, shared his father's interest in history, eventually earning a Ph.D. from Columbia University. A professor who specializes in early American history, he has taught at the college level since 1961.
Christopher provides the historical background for the novels he writes with James. After identifying the general setting, he researches every aspect of the period, from terrain and weather, to common names, food, clothes, and household utensils. He writes descriptions of the characters, and makes extensive notes about authenticity. After he has finished researching, he sends the outline to James, who makes it exciting in plot and action. When James produces the final draft, Christopher gives it an extensive facts check before it is sent to the publisher.
While co-authoring fiction for young readers, the Colliers each pursue their own individual pursuits. As a historian, Christopher is the author of articles, monographs, and books, one of which was nominated for the Pulitzer Prize of 1971.
Describing his novels, Christopher says they "are intended to teach about important aspects of American history. They are as carefully researched as are the books I write for other historians. My brother, James, works just as hard to make our stories exciting and believable. It is our hope that young people will have a good time learning history so that they will remember it for the rest of their lives."
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