Evan, Frances Y. 1951–

PERSONAL: Born May 10, 1951, in Waltham, Stow, England; daughter of Maurice W. and Vera G. Middleton Brown; married Joseph G. Evan (a controller) June 2, 1972; children: Peter, Thomas. Education: Attended Central Connecticut State College; Kree Institute of Electrolysis, diploma, 1986. Politics: "Independent." Religion: Protestant.

ADDRESSES: Home—44 Marcroft St., Stratford, CT 06614. E-mail—frany51@aol.com.

CAREER: Church school teacher, 1977–93; freelance electrologist; Norwalk Seaport Association, Norwalk, CT, education coordinator, 1989–2004; Staples High School, Westport, CT, social studies and math department paraprofessional, 2003–; writer.

WRITINGS:

The Forgotten Flag: Revolutionary Struggle in Connecticut, White Mane Kids (Shippensburg, PA), 2003.

WORK IN PROGRESS: St. Katharine's Dock; Curse of the Shark's Tooth; The Brass Bell.

SIDELIGHTS: Frances Y. Evan once commented: "My writing career began more than fifteen years ago when I worked as an education coordinator for a nonprofit seaport association in Norwalk, Connecticut. The association offered field trips at its facility for pre-school and elementary school children and introduced the nautical topic of the day with a story told in an entertaining and creative manner. My associate and I often found it difficult to find stories suitable for our needs and so I began to write them myself. My original stories were well received and highly praised by students, teachers, and parents attending our program. I became more and more comfortable, confident and excited about writing.

"My love of history and the mysterious find of a vintage American flag stuffed in the attic rafters of our pre-Revolutionary War farmhouse inspired me to write a story of historical fiction for older children. I wanted to explain the reason the flag was hidden in the attic and began researching the records, documents, and written accounts of Fairfield, Connecticut during the Revolutionary War. I wove my fictitious story into the town's history, keeping the historical characters, dates, and events as accurate as possible. The Forgotten Flag is my first published work.

"History is the telling of true stories. Historical fiction is a tool that can be used to enhance actual personalities and events of the past. It can create a deeper understanding of the passions of the time period and a better explanation for decisions and behaviors of individuals living at the time. I find myself drawn to this genre. I have recently completed a work of historical fiction for young adults and am currently writing my first novel of adult fiction.

"One of my favorite authors is Anya Seton. I had the privilege of meeting her in her home in Old Greenwich, Connecticut toward the end of her career. My favorite novel remains one of hers, Katherine, a work of historical fiction that takes place in fourteenth-century England."