Today, I have the pleasure of interviewing author, David Cataletto. He is the author of Kings of the Coast, Montauk, which tells the story of a Native American princess who was kidnapped in New York in the 1660s. In this interview, we discussed why this event was forgotten in history. We also discussed his writing process and which parts of the book were true and which parts he used creative license. Thank you, Mr. Cataletto!
What inspired you to write Kings of the Coast?
I teach middle school history and English so wanted to teach my students about our incredible and dynamic history of Long Island, New York.
The story of Storm Lily, who was a Native American princess being kidnapped in 1660s New York, is largely forgotten. Why do you think the story is forgotten?
I think it happened so long ago and so much has changed that it might seem irrelevant to today's youth. Also, there is not much written evidence from this time period.
Why is Storm Lilly not a famous Native American princess like Pocahontas?
Great question! Again, I think it's because the story has been lost in time and not well known.
Kings of the Coast is told from the perspectives of Seahawk and Storm Lilly. Why did you decide to tell the story from their perspectives?
At first I wrote it from the perspective of Seahawk. But then I thought about how half my students are female, and I wanted them to have a character they could identify with and be empowered by. I thought about also having a few chapters from David's POV but thought it might get to messy.
What parts of The Kings Coast were based on fact and which ones were fictional?
So, Lion Gardiner, David Gardiner and the origin of Gardiner's Island are accurate. Also Sachem Wyandanch of the Montauketts was real as was his daughter. She was actually kidnapped from her wedding and eventually returned to Montauket. Also, the feud between the Dutch and English for New York did happen. Although there wasn't a real battle, I created that to add drama. I created the character of Seahawk and the other Montauketts like Ten Bears, Gray Wolf, Bright Water, etc.
What was your research process like? What sources did you use for your research?
I give lots of local history talks at our local libraries and historical societies so I've been doing lots of research at our library, going over old archives, journals, history books, etc. Plus online searches.
What were the most challenging aspects of writing Kings of the Coast?
I think it was trying to keep the pace moving and interesting so YA audience don't get bored. Also, knowing when it was done, I kept wanting to add more layers and details to the narrative.
Were there any facts during your research that were surprising to you?
Not sure since I've always loved this era and history and have been researching it for many years.
What is your next project?
Hopefully enough people read and enjoy Kings of the Coast: Montauk, so I plan on writing a second book. Maybe titled Kings of the Coast, King Philips' War. Not sure exactly. Or maybe a book on haunted tales from Montauk.
About David Cataletto:
David Cataletto is an East Hampton native and a dedicated educator, teaching History and English at East Hampton Middle School. There, he channels student energy into local causes by running two community service clubs: Surfrider and Do Good Be Good.
Beyond the classroom, David is engaged in the preservation and stewardship of East Hampton. He currently serves as an East Hampton Town Trustee, chairs the Education Committee at the historic Amagansett Life-Saving Station Museum, and is a Trustee for the East Hampton Town Nature Preserve Committee.
David leads a sea shanty band that performs at historical events and dive bars. In the summer, he sails around New England with his wife and two young kids on their sailboat. For more information please visit his website.
If you are interested in purchasing Kings of the Coast: Montauk, you can purchase it through Amazon!
Also, check out my review of Kings of the Coast: Montauk!
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