Teresa Wilhelm Waldof, author of Wilhelm’s Way: The Inspiring Story of the Iowa Chemist Who Saved The Manhattan Project
General Nonfiction Category, sponsored by The Duchess Harris Collection
Each week leading up to the 35th annual Minnesota Book Awards, we are featuring exclusive interviews with our finalists. You can also watch the authors in conversation with their fellow category finalists here.
Would you tell us one or two things about your finalist book that you are particularly proud of, and why?
Compiling and articulating my research on the scientific work of Dr. Wilhelm, his project team in Ames, and the Manhattan Project in such a way that the average reader could understand not only the science, but the criticality of the success of the Manhattan Project, while also weaving Dr. Wilhelm’s life and the history and progress of the twentieth century into a story that holds ones’ interest.
What advice would you give to an aspiring writer with an interest in your category?
Be patient. My project took over seven years to complete. I wanted the book to be highly credible and well-written. It took much longer than I anticipated, but rushing the project would have diluted the quality of the book. Taking the time to get it right paid off!
Tell us about a favorite book. Why did you find it moving, influential, or otherwise memorable?
The nonfiction book, Good to Great is a book that I read many years ago. It has impacted the way I approach both my work (day job), my writing, and life – for the better.
Tell us something about yourself that is not widely known.
I love to cook and bake! I almost always add my own twist to recipes to spice things up or intensify the flavors. I am the one my family and friends always ask to bring the dessert because, I must admit, mine are simply over-the-top delicious.
The Minnesota Book Awards is a celebration of writers, readers – and libraries. We’d love if you would share thoughts about the role and value of libraries.
Libraries are crucial to maintaining free thought in America and, I believe, for the continuity of our democracy. Over time, libraries have become not only a source for knowledge, but are also central locations for people to connect within their communities. Today, libraries are essential to providing a wide range of needed resources in communities that improve people’s lives.
Teresa Wilhelm Waldof is an independent scholar and speaker on the Ames Project section of the Manhattan Project. She holds a B.A. in speech communications and an M.B.A. from the University of Minnesota.