We are inviting academic editorial contributors to an innovative new series of history books for high-school students. The Alternate History series uses what-if scenarios (counter-factual history) to attract, intrigue, and stimulate interest in all facets of historical thinking and discussion among students. Constructed to complement the existing high-school curriculum, chapters are being assigned that cover reassignments for the War of 1812, Reconstruction, A. Johnson Impeached, and 21 new chapters for the 1960s and the 1980s.

Each chapter is comprised of approximately 7,500 words, including an Introduction, Turning Point, Actual History, and Alternate History. Using a classic example of alternate history, “What if Oswald Had Missed?,” the chapter would include an intro to Kennedy, followed by the Dallas shooting as turning point, then Johnson as actual history, then a Kennedy second term as alternate history. Thus, these assignments involve encyclopedia-like nonfiction writing, complemented by imaginative yet factually driven fiction.

The Alternate History series is being published by ABC-Clio and is a production of Golson Books, Ltd. Rodney P. Carlisle, Ph.D., professor emeritus, Rutgers, serves as General Editor, reviewing all submissions for historical accuracy and acceptability.

Deadlines are: February 15, 2006, for Civil War-era chapters and April 1, 2006, for the new chapters on the 1960s and 1980s.

The chapter lists and turning points are provided with style guidelines, and a complete sample chapter is also sent via e-mail to potential contributors.

If you are interested in contributing to this remarkable project, it can be a major publication addition to your CV/resume and truly broaden your publishing credits. We are offering a $250 to $350 honorarium and a free copy of the title to which you have contributed. This assignment is geared to imaginative historians and teaching professionals who know that introducing the what-if scenario into the classroom can be an electrifying educational tool.

As a next step, we will e-mail you the list of chapters available and guidelines. In turn, we would like prospective writers to briefly explain their historical expertise or credentials. If you would like to contribute to building a truly outstanding new series of history books for students, please contact me by the e-mail information below. Thanks very much.

Susan Moskowitz
Managing Editor
Golson Books, Ltd.
35 Wolf Road
Croton-on-Hudson, NY 10520
914-271-6390
suemoskowitz@yahoo.com