My Author Collection …

                               

My mother, as soon as she finished reading a book that she enjoyed, would often write to the author of that book and tell them so. It was amazing how many of them wrote back. But it was a cumbersome process because authors were controlled by their publishers and it was only through them that you could make contact.

It is a different world now and many authors actually put their email addresses on their websites. When I realized this I decided to start my own collection. That was four years ago and I grant you that an email does not have the charm (or frankly, the value) of a hand written signature, but it’s still fun.

I now have 21 email answers and here are excerpts from my three favorites:

“The Book Thief”, Markus Zusak ….”the fact that my writing has also meant something to you is something that can never be taken for granted. You write and think no-one will read it, let alone be compelled to write to you about it. You’ve made my day”.

“The Welsh Girl”, Peter Ho Davies …”Many thanks for your kind note. It is such a pleasure to hear from readers who’ve enjoyed the book. I was especially glad you liked that scene in the pub, it’s one of my favorites too “ etc. (he goes on to tell me of his new book which he is having trouble putting down on paper!)

“The Night Circus”, Erin Morgenstern … “I’m so glad to hear you enjoyed the book ! It is indeed my first novel and it’s amazing that the response has been so strong” etc. (also talks of her new idea for a book and signs it “Cheers, Erin”)

Give it a try … it’s fun, it’s FREE, and, as Markus said …it just might make their day … and yours !