Darlene: I have done months of background work on writing and setting up my own blog.

FORBES: Let Go Of Perfectionism: Balancing A Job and A Side Business, Part 2

That sort of background is increasingly essential to writing about contemporary events, Ms Harig says.

BBC: Sherlock to CSI: Mystery writers seek science accuracy

They zeroed in on Mr. Preston because of his science writing background, which included nonfiction books about astronomy, steel and viruses, as well as a novel about bioterrorism.

WSJ: Deciphering Michael Crichton's Clues for 'Micro'

Based in Chicago, Illinois, with a journalism background, she began writing her book last fall after losing her job as vice president of a Web site for people facing health crises.

CNN: Laid-off workers find fulfillment in new careers