Podcast Summary: "Totally Booked with Zibby" Episode: Marie Benedict & Courtney Sheinmel, The Secrets of Lovelace Academy
Release Date: June 23, 2025

Introduction

In this engaging episode of Totally Booked with Zibby, host Zibby Owens welcomes co-authors Marie Benedict and Courtney Sheinmel to discuss their collaborative work, The Secrets of Lovelace Academy. This marked the first time both authors teamed up, merging their expertise to create a captivating story aimed at young readers.

The Collaboration: How It All Began

Zibby delves into the origins of the partnership between Benedict and Sheinmel. Marie explains that their collaboration was orchestrated by their agent, who acted as a "matchmaker of sorts" for the two authors.

Marie Benedict [05:33]: "It was a setup."

Courtney adds that the initial meetings felt like a "blind date," emphasizing the organic nature of their partnership.

Courtney Sheinmel [06:03]: "It was a virtual setup initially."

Their collaboration began virtually due to living in different cities, allowing them to build a strong working relationship despite the distance.

Conceptualizing The Secrets of Lovelace Academy

The authors discuss the genesis of The Secrets of Lovelace Academy, highlighting their desire to create a historical adventure that resonates with middle-grade readers.

Courtney Sheinmel [07:36]: "Lovelace Academy is the quintessential kind of English boarding school... but for girls at a time period when girls were completely left out of the educational mix."

They aimed to design a setting where bright girls could receive a genuine education, mirroring the opportunities young men had at institutions like Eton. This historical backdrop provides a rich tapestry for the story's events and character development.

Incorporating Historical Figures: Mileva Einstein

A significant aspect of the book is the inclusion of Mileva Einstein, Albert Einstein's first wife, who was a brilliant scientist in her own right but often overshadowed by her husband's legacy.

Marie Benedict [08:39]: "Mileva Einstein... was a brilliant mathematician who never got the credit she deserved."

The authors sought to shed light on Mileva's contributions, integrating her into the narrative to inspire young readers about unsung female figures in history.

Character Development: Lainey's Journey

Central to the story is Lainey, a young girl whose personal journey intertwines with historical figures and events.

Marie Benedict [12:00]: "Lainey could... figure out where she comes from and where she's going and her place in the world."

Lainey's adventures across Europe are both physical and emotional, allowing readers to explore themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the importance of community.

Themes and Messages

The authors emphasize that while the book is an adventure story, it carries deeper themes relevant to today's youth.

Marie Benedict [14:03]: "There's more work to be done and the work continues with all of us."

The narrative aims to highlight the progress made in girls' education while also acknowledging ongoing challenges, encouraging readers to continue advocating for change.

Co-Writing Process: Balancing Voices

Benedict and Sheinmel share insights into their co-writing dynamics, emphasizing the importance of blending their voices seamlessly.

Marie Benedict [20:36]: "You can't be too in love with any of your own sentences... It becomes a voice that was like a third person who was in the room with us."

Their collaborative approach ensures a uniform narrative voice, free from personal biases, resulting in a cohesive and authentic storytelling experience.

Intended Audience and Reception

Targeted primarily at middle-grade readers, The Secrets of Lovelace Academy is designed for those who enjoy adventure and historical fiction without the need for fantasy elements.

Marie Benedict [26:00]: "It's an adventure story... if you're someone who's interested in story and finding yourself in books, I hope you pick this one up."

The authors hope to inspire young readers to appreciate history's unsung heroes and understand the significance of their own roles in shaping the future.

Future Projects and Inspirations

While specific future projects remain under wraps, the authors hint at exploring other historical figures, particularly scientists, in upcoming works. Their passion for history and storytelling promises more enriching narratives ahead.

Courtney Sheinmel [24:38]: "If you looked at Marie's catalog, adult work, we would get some supreme hints."

Conclusion

Zibby Owens wraps up the episode by expressing excitement over the collaboration and the impact The Secrets of Lovelace Academy is set to have on its readers. She commends the authors for their inspiring work and encourages listeners to explore their books.

Zibby Owens [28:31]: "I'm so excited that the two of you teamed up and put this into the world... Thank you for all your work and entertainment and inspiration."

The Secrets of Lovelace Academy stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, historical appreciation, and storytelling aimed at empowering the next generation. Through this episode, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the book's creation, themes, and the authors' dedication to bringing untold stories to the forefront.