The Secret Letters: Frequently Asked Questions

Note: My answers may contain some spoilers for the book—please don’t read this if you haven’t finished the book!

How much research did you have to do for the 1970s reference?

Since I was a kid in the 1970s myself, a lot of the references were based on my own memories. But Toby and Rosemary had different experiences than I did, so I had to look up several things that they would have cared about more than I did. And I did a lot of research to remind myself exactly when certain events happened, and certain trends occurred.

Is Groveview, Ohio, a real place?

No. But I drew a lot upon real small towns I've lived in or visited--especially ones in Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois--in order to imagine Groveview.

Who do you think is right in their attitudes toward junk: Nevaeh's dad ("I love junk!") or Colin's mom ("Clear out the clutter and you'll be happier!")?

I think there's room for middle ground! I am fascinated by historic artifacts, and can be sentimental about memorabilia. But I can't think of any clutter that I've gotten rid of that I ever wished I had back.

How many more books are there going to be in the Mysteries of Trash and Treasure series?

Two more! The second book, The Ghostly Photos, comes out as of fall 2023. The third book will be out in fall 2024.