PDF Format - California Library Literacy Services

Writer
TO
Writer
A Writing Challenge for Adult Learners in
California Library Literacy Services
Letters of the
Award Winners & Finalists
2007
libraryliteracy.org
If you could write a letter to any author, living or dead,
whom would you choose?
Earlier this year, the California State Library, in partnership with the Bay Area Literacy Network
(BALit), Northern California Literacy Coalition (NCLC) and the Southern California Library Literacy
Network (SCLLN) presented a challenge to adult learners in library literacy services across the state.
The Challenge? We asked adult learners to select and read a book and then write to the author to tell
them how that book changed their lives.
Over 140 learners took up that challenge and sent letters that showed depth and perception that
warmed the hearts of everyone who read them. The letters opened a window into the lives of our
learners to show how their reading affects their lives. Although not all letters appear here, they
represent the passion and determination to get past barriers and reach their goals that all the letters
expressed. From these letters we can all learn how reading a book can dramatically influence and
change a life.
In this booklet you’ll find letters by the winners and the finalists of the 2007 Writer to Writer
Challenge. Rudy Borboa’s letter to Chris Gardner, the author of “The Pursuit of Happyness”,
identifies his desire to be literate with the author’s pursuit of happiness. Rudy writes:
“I started my pursuit of happiness at the age of fifty. When I said, “enough is enough! I can’t
pretend anymore. I need help!” That’s when my journey to be free from illiteracy started. I
met this special person that opened my eyes and mind to a whole world of books and writing.”
You’ll be touched by Alejandrina Roldan’s letter to Ernest Hemingway as she speaks of her strong
desire to reach her goals and compares her determination to the persistence of the old man in “The Old
Man and the Sea”. Lupe Beltran wrote to Adele Faben and Elaine Mazlish to explain how their book,
“How To Talk So Kids Will Listen and Listen So Kids Will Talk” changed her outlook on parenting.
These few examples are just a sample of the talent of our learners. Thank you for participating in this
challenge.
There were two rounds of judging. The first round was conducted by Library Literacy Coordinators
who painstakingly narrowed the field to these 30 included in this booklet. The second round of
judging was conducted by learners from across the state. Thank you all for participating.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the first ever Writer to Writer Committee, Jacquie
Brinkley, California State Library, Kelli Sandman-Hurley and Tracy Block, San Diego Public Library,
Glenda Logie, Marin County Literacy, Shanti Bhaskaran, Santa Clara Public Library, and Donna
Jones, student extraordinaire!! Warm thanks to our three Regional Networks that continue to support
this special event, Bay Area Literacy Network (BALit), Northern California Literacy Coalition
(NCLC) and Southern California Library Literacy Network (SCLLN).
Mary Miller, Chair
Writer To Writer Committee
Writer TO Writer 2007
Contents
Beginning Level:
Page
Winner:
Rudy Borboa wrote to Chris Gardner author of The Pursuit of Happyness
Finalists:
Susana Barba wrote to Paulo Coelho author of The Alchemist
Erlinda Benavidez wrote to Jack London author of The Call of the Wild
Angela Guthrie wrote to Mattie J.T. Stepanek author of Reflections of a Peacemaker: A Portrait
Through Heartsongs
Castleberry Harvell wrote to Kenneth Rudeen author of Jackie Robinson
Joe Linhares wrote to Colonel Hunt author of On the Hunt
Garland Rabon wrote to Dr. Benjamin Carson author of Gifted Hands
Tanya Romanov wrote to Louise Hay author of You Can Heal Your Life
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Intermediate Level:
Winner:
Alejandrina Roldan wrote to Ernest Hemingway author of The Old Man and the Sea
Finalists:
Sandra Cardona wrote to Juanita I. McDonald author of A Child Apart
Sophia Chan wrote to Fern G. Brown author of Daisy and the Girl Scouts
Julia Fassoth wrote to Virginia Hamilton author of The People Could Fly
Judy Gallagher wrote to Mitch Albom author of Tuesdays With Morrie
Abel Gamboa wrote to Anna Fienberg author of Borrowed Light
Charles Joseph wrote to Maya Angelou author of I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings
Shannon Lin wrote to John Grisham author of Skipping Christmas
Armando Mendoza wrote to Anne Rice author of Violent
Mina Silani wrote to Danielle Steel author of Leap of Faith
Diana Velcheva Toneva wrote to Jane Resh Thomas author of The Comeback Dog
Petr Vopata wrote to Alain Bombard author of The Bombard Story
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Advanced Level:
Winner:
Lupe Beltran wrote to Adelene Faber and Elaine Mazlish authors of How to Talk So Kids Will Listen
& Listen So Kids Will Talk
Finalists:
Gloria Boresoff wrote to Paulo Coelho author of The Alchemist
Tammy Lozier wrote to Peter Chase, M.D. author of A First Book for Understanding Diabetes
Olivia Moreno wrote to Francisco Jimenez author of Circuit
Lupe M. Perez wrote to Susan V. Bosak author of Something to Remember Me By
Lenka Priscakova wrote to Phyllis Y. Harris author of From the Soul
Jacqueline Redmond wrote to John Steinbeck author of Of Mice and Men
Lanette Scott wrote to Antwone Fisher author of Finding Fish
David Springer wrote to Stuart Woods author of Capital Crimes
Francisco Zelaya wrote to Donald Nieman author of Butterfly Emerging
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Writer TO Writer 2007
Rudy Borboa
Orange County Public Library
Dear Mr. Gardner,
My name is Rudy Borboa. I have read your book the
“Pursuit of Happyness”. You went through a lot in your
life as a child and a young man. You must have had the
strength of a thousand men, or maybe it was strength and
Faith your momma bestowed in you to believe in your self
and never give up no matter what.
Everyone is in pursuit of his and her own happiness, mine happens to be literacy. We share some of
the same struggles in a way. You lived in a home where you were verbally abused by your stepfather
and had a mom that was in and out of your life. As well as being a single parent.
I lived in a home where both my parents worked very hard six days out of the week and never had the
time to tell me they loved me. I’m living in a society where doors are slammed and the feeling of
being tossed aside shames me.
I started my pursuit of happiness at the age of fifty. When I said, “Enough is enough! I can’t pretend
any more. I need help”! That’s when my journey to be free from illiteracy started. I met this special
person that opened my eyes and mind to a whole world of books and writing.
You had to overcome many obstacles, for me writing and reading were my obstacles. You never gave
up, even when you were faced with a new challenge. When I want to give up I think of my goals and
push forward. You saw an opportunity to better your life through business. My opportunity comes
when words flow on a piece of paper. My pursuit of happiness will happen when I’m no longer a
slave to illiteracy. My millions will come at the end of a pencil when I no longer wear down the eraser
before the pencil. Your book inspired me to write a little about myself. By doing so I am healing
from very deep, old wounds. By writing this book you have encouraged a lot of others, like me to
believe in ourselves.
Sincerely,
Rudy Borboa
3
Writer TO Writer 2007
Susana Barba
Oceanside Public Library
Dear Paulo Coelho,
My name is Susana and I am so happy to be writing this letter,
to explain my impression of The Alchemist.
I want to explain my own idea about life. For me life is
like a ferris wheel. When the ride begins, it is down; the
next stop is the middle; at other times it is at the top. It
goes around again and again the same way.
My own idea is life at the bottom is with no experiences.
Everybody is looking for a goal to the finish. To get to a
goal there are many stops like on the ferris wheel. In my
opinion, that is what you, Paulo Coelho, tried to show in
The Alchemist.
When I read this book it made me think about my own
experiences, and every time I get to the same conclusion,
life runs like the ferris wheel. There are different positions,
and every time it begins over again, like in the book.
The ferris wheel and The Alchemist only made me come to
a conclusion. In each stop what I have won no one can take
away. It is what I have learned through each experience.
For that reason, this book made me reflect. I learned a lot,
and I am ready to continue to learn.
Sincerely,
Susana Barba
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Writer TO Writer 2007
Erlinda Benavidez
Hemet Public Library
Dear Mr. Jack London,
I truly enjoyed reading your book "Call of the Wild." The
first thing about the book that caught my eye was the
picture of the dog on the cover. He looked like a wolf dog
and I was interested in reading about him.
Buck reminded me about a dog I had named Bonnie. She
was very loving and protective towards me. I remember
one time when a stranger was yelling at me and she was
ready to attack him. "You go girl," I said proudly.
The "Call of the Wild" is also about my life. Good or bad
things happen, but no matter what, I go on strong and get
stronger. This is why I am here today writing this letter. It
was hard for me to stop reading this book. It is the first
book that I ever finished reading — at 55 years old! Now, I
am ready to read another book.
Thank you Mr. London, for a great book
Sincerely yours,
Erlinda Benavidez
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Writer TO Writer 2007
Angelea Guthrie
Del Norte County Library District
Dear Mattie J.T. Stepanek,
I am very thrilled to have read your book, Reflections of a
Peacemaker: A Portrait Through Heartsongs. It inspired me to
become a better person. I too want to write poetry and have
dreams for a better world.
Reading this made me question what is meant by "Heartsongs." It
was fun to discover the answer throughout the written pages. Your
simple but fresh approach and message was "Always remember to
play after every storm." It's like the urge that cries out to play
after a lost friendship or illness. One needs to rediscover that life
is still a mystery to be solved and treasured. The heartsong is a
way back to life, because life still has a lot to offer.
The lesson that I take from this book is that no two heartsongs are exactly alike, and I need to stop and
make more of an effort to listen to others and share in their heartsongs.
For example, my family was struck with a double tragedy when my father was in the end stage of
cancer and then my mother was diagnosed with stage one breast cancer. We kept my mother's illness
from him to preserve what quality of life he had left.
My father wouldn't let me out of his sight. When he slept, I slept. I was never far from his side.
Toward the end he couldn't speak. He hated when home health workers came in twice a week. It
took the whole time between their visits to calm him down this also upset my mother greatly.
When my father finally passed away, I was able to relieve my anger, frustration, and exhaustion. I had
been mad at the world because my father was dying and I was also worried about my mother. That's
when I started to tell people "no". That's when I started celebrating life. My whole attitude about life
changed to a more nurturing, compassionate, and caring feelings towards others. Likewise my
mother became stronger and more positive about living. And, therefore, she was able to survive
cancer and is a living role model for me today.
It's your courage that makes me want to leave this world a better place. Thank you for writing all
these inspired poems about peace, family, religion, and love.
Sincerely yours,
Angela Guthrie
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Writer TO Writer 2007
Castleberry Harvell
Sacramento Public Library
Dear Mr. Kenneth Rudeen,
I like that you have written about Jackie Robinson. I feel good about what the book says.
Thank you for taking time to write it. It has inspired me, what you have written about
this man who carried out his dream.
I was a small boy in 1947 when I first heard of Jackie Robinson. Someone brought a film
to Simmons High in Okolona, Arkansas, to show us what Jackie was going through. But
when Jackie retired, the major leagues were open to every young man in the United
States.
Like someone said, "When Jackie went up to home plate to bat, we all went with him." My cousins and I listened to all the games on
my grandmother's radio. All of us Black folks were pulling for Jackie to get a hit and make a home run. We never had someone in a
position like Jackie was in playing baseball. We wanted him to do good at home plate. We didn't want failure because Jackie
represented himself and all of us when he was at bat and when he went on defense out in the field.
The book says, "In the beginning many bad things happened." I have mixed emotions about that. The other players were human
beings, but they were taught different. They weren't prepared for change. If everybody had been in the same schools and
neighborhoods, the other players would have been better. They would have a better understanding of each other when Jackie showed
up.
In 1949 the owner of the Dodgers and Jackie felt it was time to talk back. He could show the fans he was a human being like they
were, and he wanted to be treated fair. All along, he took whatever they said to him. Basically, he was there just to play ball for the
Dodgers.
There is a picture in the book of Jackie and other Dodger players smiling with each other. That shows the team finally figured out
Jackie wasn't going away, and they might as well go ahead and be friends. They were winning because of Jackie. They said he's too
nice a guy to not want him to play baseball.
Jackie had such a good career playing for the Dodgers, and he kept such a good attitude, you'd have to like him. Jackie never rebelled
against players on the other team. He was so polite and kind, they had to back down. One time the St. Louis Cardinals didn't want to
play Jackie, but after they saw he was so nice and kind and tenderhearted, they changed their minds.
Later, after his career in baseball, Jackie still was an outstanding person. He knew what was going on and still wanted to help even after
he was sick. Reading this book might change a person's outlook. People need to come together.
I like the pictures in the book because when you read it you feel like you're there. The writer and the illustrator, Michael Hays did a
great job. The picture on page 46 where Jackie is asking a question and the umpire is explaining in a proper way shows Jackie was a
good listener, like when Branch spoke to Jackie. He'd listen and be willing to carry out his plan.
I can relate to Jackie's childhood. His mother had to raise the family all by herself after his father left. I saw for myself a lot of
children grow up without a father. I grew up without a mother or father. My mother died when I was 6 months old. My father went
away and left us with our grandmother. She raised me and my brothers and sister. So I can relate to what Jackie went through. I
understand how Jackie must have been lonesome and worried about how hard his mother worked trying to take care of them. But she
did take good care; look how well Jackie turned out.
I thank God and Jackie Robinson for introducing me to baseball because I was 14 when I left home to be on my own. As a young boy
growing up in Miami, baseball kept me out of a lot of trouble. I played baseball instead of getting into all the things teenagers can get
into to cause trouble. Baseball kept me from drinking, drugs, and smoking. I just loved baseball as a teenager. I'm blessed to say I've
never been in trouble or with people who got into trouble.
Later I coached Little League in Fairfield, California for 15 years and really enjoyed it. I don't know what would have happened to me
without baseball.
Sincerely,
Castleberry Harvell
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Writer TO Writer 2007
Joe Linhares
Tulare Public Library
Dear Colonel Hunt:
I have recently read your book "On The Hunt". I enjoyed it very
much. I believed everything you had to say was the truth.
You stated in your book that the military leaders in charge of the
war in Iraq are more concerned with their image, in the media,
than finding a resolution to the war and withdrawal of our troops.
This upsets me because I feel the leaders should be focusing on
the war and not thinking how to advance in their careers.
American lives are at stake, both home and abroad.
You also stated that after Sept. 11 a law was passed to protect
our borders by hiring 10,000 border patrol agents. Thus far only
2,500 have been hired. This upsets me because I do not want to
see another day like Sept. 11 happen to our country.
I came to the United States with my parents when I was a boy. I
am a naturalized citizen. I was born in another country but the
United States is my home.
When I read your book it made me want to know more about
what happens in our country. I am also reexamining my political
party and I may not vote for my political party in the next
election.
Thank you Colonel Hunt for telling us like it is.
Sincerely,
Joe Linhares
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Writer TO Writer 2007
Garland Rabon
Stockton/San Joaquin County Public Library
Dear Dr. Carson,
My teacher just finished reading your book, Gifted Hands, to me. We've been reading 13
pages every time we meet and then she teaches me how to read. I'm a sixty-year old
black man, but we have a lot more in common than just that. That's why your book was
very inspiring to me. My teacher couldn't believe how much we had in common as she
read the book to me. I couldn't either.
I was raised by a single mother in inner city Oakland, California. I never met my father.
My mother had it rough putting clothes on our backs and food on the table. She worked
two jobs like your mother. When my sister and I were old enough, we helped by getting
jobs, too. I admire your mother's backbone. She's the one who really pushed you and
kept encouraging you.
One big difference between our childhoods, though, is that I mostly lived in the hospital until I was ten. I was born with a twin
brother but he died when he was seven months old. I couldn't hear and had pneumonia and other problems. That's why I was in the
hospital with doctors more than home. When I did go to school, it was in a big warehouse in Oakland with kids in wheelchairs. That's
what I remember. I was never taught to read in that place. When I was ten years old, I remember hearing for the first time. I heard a
fire truck and it scared me so badly that I hid in a closet. After that, I was plopped into fifth grade in a regular school but I was put in
special education classes and still never learned to read. I started life under doctors' care and that's where I am again now. I learn to
read Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. I have dialysis Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. I'm waiting to have a kidney transplant.
Now, since last November, I'm finally learning how to read. When we started back then, words meant nothing to me. They were only
letters. I can really read some now. I know that I still have a lot of work to do but I want to keep going. I have one teacher, Mrs.
Briggs, on Mondays and Wednesdays from 10:00 A.M. until noon and another one, Mrs. Steele, on Fridays for two more hours. My
teachers push me like your mother pushed you, but I like it. They encourage me, too. I want to be able to read to my grandchildren, read
the newspaper, and read the Bible.
I think because I had nice doctors helping me who I had faith and trust in, and I really liked and admired, Dr. Spencer, the doctor my
mother worked for, I wanted to be a doctor. I admire you because you had a dream. You were on a mission and with God's help you
made it. I think that's what mostly got you through, God.
I liked the THINK BIG letters a lot you put at the back of Gifted Hands. "H" for Honesty and "T" for Trustworthy and especially the
"G" for God were some of my favorites that I remember. I grew up in church and learning about God and having faith has always been
important to me, too.
Even though I can't read your book yet, I bought the book at Barnes and Noble. My daughter-in-law, Christina, has read it, and she's
reading it to my grandson, Romero. My granddaughter, Meriechi, and my nephew, Freddie, are reading it now. They all really like
your book and are encouraged by it like me.
The story of you operating on the Binder twins really touched me. I love babies and I felt like the only chance they had was with you
and with your gifted hands that God gave you. I like that you prayed every time you performed surgery. I like that you never wanted
to be famous or go on T.V. to be a celebrity; that it didn't go to your head. In the book, you always went back to God giving you the
gifted hands and then using them to help people. I liked that you really cared about your patients. You were so compassionate. Mrs.
Briggs even cried when she was reading some of those parts.
So, you can see that our lives mirror each other in many ways but they're also different. I'm so glad that you set your goals and
reached them with God's help. Thank you for taking the time to write Gifted Hands so that we could read about your life's goals and be
motivated, inspired, and encouraged to reach ours.
Sincerely,
Garland Rabon
dictated by Garland Rabon to Darla Briggs
9
Writer TO Writer 2007
Tanya Romanov
Escondido Public Library
Dear Mrs. Hay,
Last summer I went on vacation to Kharkiv, my hometown
in Ukraine. I haven't been home for several years and
expected to have a reunion with my family and friends and
also to fix my health problems with the help of local
doctors.
One day I was walking downtown and stopped by a book street-vendor to check some children's
books for my little girl to read in our native language. Suddenly, my eye caught an interesting
title, You Can Heal Your Life. I picked up the book and opened it. Easily, I skimmed over the
first few pages. This book was translated into Russian, which gave me the opportunity to enjoy
that book from the very first sentence. I got this book and read it three times, twice in Russian
and once in English. This book became my guiding light to new life. My world changed to the
better, brighter and more joyful.
You, Louise, became my personal teacher and powerful guide to learn more about life and help
me to do work on myself. You gave me the power of my own mind to use in everyday life. By
using your lessons, I learned to enjoy every present moment and count the blessings.
As a result, my health condition has improved dramatically and depression was defeated
completely. Your book energized me and brought me back to my family to be a better mother,
better wife, and better person. I rediscovered pleasure of life again.
Your positive affirmations were very useful in my personal experience. I was deeply impressed
about your idea of looking on the past with love and choosing to learn from old experiences.
Now, my thoughts make me feel good. I realized what caused my physical and emotional
problems.
Thank you for helping me value my life in a new way. Your book is very instructive, the
lessons and exercises are unique. I am looking forward to reading more of your books.
Thank you very much for your remarkable book, full of healing ideas for a troubled world.
Sincerely,
Tanya Romanov
10
Writer TO Writer 2007
Alejandrina Roldan
San Bernardino County Library
Dear Mr. Hemingway:
Recently I read your book "The Old Man and the Sea," and I loved it.
First of all, I liked the idea of reading a short book. Second of all, I
identified with the main character of your story: "The old man," not
because I am old or a fisherman, but like Santiago I have not given up
on my desire to reach my goal despite all hardships. Also like Santiago, I
have had to wait a long time, be patient and have suffered emotionally
and physically while waiting for my "big fish."
My "Big Fish" is a college degree. This is a really "big fish" for a young
woman with three children who came to this country at the age of twentyone not speaking, reading, or writing English and with no financial
resources.
I believe that all of us have some of that "old man" inside them. Most of
us have that intense desire sometimes bordering on stubbornness to get
the "big fish." Some will do anything it takes to catch the Big Marlin,
others will be happy with a minnow.
The old man waited for more than eighty days for the big fish. He was
thirsty in the middle of the ocean, he was starving, his hands were
bleeding and he fought to death with a shark. Nevertheless, he could
have given up, he didn't.
Endurance, hope and humbleness is Santiago's message to all of us. And
any person determined to achieve a goal needs to possess these three
characteristics:
Endurance to overcome tough circumstances in life.
Hope to always keep that desire alive.
Humbleness because is the best quality a human can
possess.
Thank you again, Mr. Hemingway, for your wonderful contribution to
American Literature with your inspiring and uplifting story "The Old
Man and the Sea."
Sincerely yours,
Alejandrina Roldan
11
Writer TO Writer 2007
Sandra Cardona
Hayward Public Library
Dear Juanita
It was a pleasure to read your booklet A Child Apart...
Growing Up with Lymphedema. In your little book you
described both the physical and psychological pain of
growing up with a rare hereditary condition: one that caused
both of your feet and legs to swell. It motivated me to think
about your courage with admiration.
To read this booklet was important to me because it was
written by you, my literacy tutor. It gave me the opportunity
to share your feelings when you wrote it. For me it was very
nice to understand the feelings of a person who has lived with
a chronic disease. In the beginning your parents tried to find
a correct diagnosis and then tried to find the right treatment.
While I was reading your story, I remembered part of my life when I got sick and no doctor in my
country of Columbia could make a correct diagnosis. It took three years before they knew that I had a
chronic disease. The doctor told me that there was not a cure for my disease. In that moment I was
connected with you. The main difference was that you got sick during your infancy and I got sick
during my adulthood. I think that it was more difficult for you because you were a child and you
depended upon your parents decisions.
As a child, you did not understand why you were treated differently by your classmates, friends and
adults. I think that children don't understand that not everybody is equal and their natural reaction is
to isolate the person that they don't understand.
Some thoughts that passed through my mind when I read your booklet were that you thought that your
little classmates discriminated against you because of your swollen feet, but really it was because of
the boots the doctor required you to wear. Your classmates thought that you were trying to show off.
When you later met a lady who knew you during your youth, she remembered that you were different
from all of the others. She remembered you not because of your swollen feet, but because of the
flower you wore in your hair every day.
I admire you because you learned how to have regular activities appropriate for your age and to
handle the pain and swelling. You continued a normal life, going to a university, getting a job,
helping others to understand lymphedema and having a beautiful family. Another person could be
apart forever!
With admiration and gratitude,
Sandra Cardona, your student
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Writer TO Writer 2007
Sophia Chan
Santa Clara City Library
Dear Fern G. Brown,
I believe that Juliette Gordon Low was a remarkable woman. She was resourceful, creative and
talented. I admire the way she created friendships around the world. I have great respect for her
leadership abilities and deeply appreciate her for encouraging women and girls. Even though she
had a physical disability and she became very ill, she continued her work with Girl Scouts of
America. Today we can still see evidence of her work. We can see Girl Scouts working and
sharing their skills in the community.
As I read your book Daisy and the Girl Scouts, I was inspired to take on a challenge that will make
important changes in the world. I could begin by becoming involved in Girl Scouts with my
daughter. My daughter, Susan, is three years old. Soon she can become a Daisy. As the mother of
a Daisy, I could learn about leadership, serving and helping others, and how to encourage girls
and women to learn lifelong skills. This would help me develop stronger self-worth and help me
polish my skills in leadership and resourcefulness. I will work very hard just like Juliette Gordon
Low. I will never become tired from helping others. I will use every resource available to
encourage women and girls. The most important lesson I learned from Juliette Gordon Low is that
it is possible to make lasting changes in the world.
Sincerely yours,
Sophia Chan
13
Writer TO Writer 2007
Julia Fassoth
Placer County Library
Dear Virginia Hamilton,
Several years ago I lived for a few months in a facility that had a
small library. Even though, at that time, I could not read very well,
I loved going to the library. It was there that I discovered your
book "The People Could Fly." The pictures captivated me. I found
myself experimenting with black and white drawings, like in the
book, and with my own drawings in color. But, oh, how I wished I
could read the words!
I showed the book to a woman friend, who lived near me. She
asked me to draw several of the pictures for her to put on her walls.
My friend could read and as she read your book, she would laugh
and tell me about words and characters she recognized in the
stories. She got a kick out of the book and I got a kick out of her!
My friend was African American and I am a Caucasian who grew
up in Texas. This made it so exciting for us! Bringing our
backgrounds to your charming blend of African, West Indian and
southern states cultures, made for delightful sharing. We saw
something of ourselves in the characters.
A little over a year ago, I started taking a class with a tutor from the
Placer Adult Literacy program. Before I began this class, I would "head
for the hills" anytime I was asked to read or write in public. I couldn't
do it and I wouldn't do it! Now, I read, read, and read to anybody who
listens and to some who don't! I have read at least six of your books in
the last few months. I'd like to say, not only is it fun to draw pictures
from "The People Could Fly," it is even more fun to read it for myself.
Thank you for giving me a greater understanding of other cultures
through the window of your timeless stories. You have given me a gift
that tickles my soul!
With my teacher's help, I have been doing some creative writing. That
is what inspired me to write this letter to you. I want to thank you for
keeping these stories alive. You have given a gift to so many through
your storytelling and the magic of your imagination. I wish you were
here so you could read this letter and see the drawing I am enclosing.
But wherever you are in God's great house of love, I know you can feel
my joy and my appreciation for you and your writings. You have set me
free!
Sincerely,
Julia Fassoth
14
Writer TO Writer 2007
Judy Gallagher
Santa Clara City Library
Dear Mitch,
I read and reread one of your books "Tuesdays with Morrie."
Like
everybody else, I really liked the book. You see, I am a student at the
Santa Clara adult literacy program. I was very lucky to be introduced to
one of your books. Through your pen, I met your great professor Morrie. I
learned a great lesson - what attitude people should have about life and
death. You use simple, short sentences with no fancy words. It is easy for
me to understand and I truly enjoyed the book.
I thank you for writing "For One More Day," "Tuesdays with Morrie," and
"Five People You Meet in Heaven." I enjoyed them all.
You said if professor Morrie taught you anything at all, it was this. "There
is no such thing as ‘too late’ in life. He was changing until the day he said
good-bye." I will take this expression by you as my motto because I am
getting older and have a tendency to act like I am retired from life. Since
you said there is no such thing as too late in life to make changes in one's
life, I want to become a better English user.
I am setting the short term goal to learn to write correctly with short,
simple sentences as you always do. My long term goal is that one day I
will feel free and confident to write a lovely letter to my daughter or my
dear friend.
Thank you again. I hope the next time I can also feel free and confident to
write you a letter all by myself without any help from my tutor.
Sincerely,
Judy Gallagher
15
Writer TO Writer 2007
Abel Gamboa
Carlsbad City Library
Dear Ms. Anna Fienberg,
Did you ever imagine an experience in a man's life would relate to your
novel about a young girl having an abortion? In the beginning of your
book Borrowed Light, the sixteen-year-old girl Callisto captured my
attention. The difficulties in her family circle mirrored mine in many
ways. Like Callisto, I felt lonely even when I had many people around
me. I longed for someone in my family to pay attention to me.
Everyone was so busy with their own issues.
The conflict and resolution in the last part of your book reminds me of a very difficult stage of my life. When I
was seventeen, I met an attractive woman in a night club. We became intimate very quickly without getting to
know one another and like Callisto, I was acting without thinking about what was good for me. Within two
months, my life changed drastically and I became isolated and depressed. What occurred was bigger than
anything I had ever experienced, and like Callisto, I felt I had no one to talk to.
I found out my girlfriend was an exotic dancer and at the same time I discovered that I had an STD. I was both
angry and afraid and I felt helpless much as Callisto felt when she discovered she was pregnant. I told no one.
I was sure I had HIV and I was going to die. I never imagined myself having to deal with such a complicated
issue. I was so angry with myself. I felt stupid and ignorant for not protecting myself in the first place. I saw
myself in Callisto who was also living her life seeking pure enjoyment without thinking of the consequences of
her actions.
I even refused to go to the doctor because I was sure he would tell me that I was going to die and did not want
to hear that! I became seriously depressed and crawled into my shell. I lost weight, stopped playing soccer, and
quit school. Thinking about girls was something I would never be able to do again. After the abortion, Callisto
said that she wanted her life back. She was no longer a carefree girl but was carrying the weight of the world on
her shoulders. I was one year older than she was when this happened to me and I would have done anything to
get my life back again. Both Callisto and I lost our innocence. We both went with the first thing that looked
like love without realizing that we were not taking care of ourselves. I think this was because neither of us felt
the love of our families.
When Callisto told her parents she had an abortion, they told her she should have told them about it before, and
that they were there for her. That was when she noticed that they loved her no matter what. My sister made me
tell her what was wrong, and got me to go to the doctor. I found out that I was not going to die, and I began the
journey to getting my life back. Like Callisto, I realized that I made my problem worse by not reaching on to
my family for help. Even though they seemed too busy to give me the attention I needed, they still loved me.
At present time, I am still insecure and need someone to talk to and really hear me. I have to trust myself to be
able to make important decisions. There is a part of me that wants to speak up, but the other half does not let
me do it. Thanks to your novel Borrowed Light, I have decided to stop avoiding my problems. This will allow
me to find happiness and enjoyment in life.
Sincerely,
Abel Gamboa
16
Writer TO Writer 2007
Charles Joseph
Berkeley Public Library
Ms. Angelou:
Listening to the audio book of I Know Why the Caged Bird
Signs was like being a passenger on a train traveling back in
time. Even though this is the story of your young life, you
described some of my experiences too. Your words helped me
see parts of my childhood that I had not thought about for years.
Only people of a certain age would know where to find a
moaner's bench; and I always love to hear about my hero, Joe
Louis, the Brown Bomber.
The church was an important part of my family's life. On most
Sundays my mother would take me along to church. After
hearing the hymns on the audio book, I knew where I had heard
voices like that. I would look over the tops of the pews, in the
direction of the strong, low voices. Those hymns were coming
from the old women on the moaner's bench.
The next event from your story made me so happy I felt that I had
been delivered back to the year of 1941 on Eve Street in New
Orleans, my hometown. Many families in my old neighborhood
depended upon the radio for entertainment. The one event that
everybody could agree to listen to, adults and children alike, was
a prize fight, especially if it was the Brown Bomber who was
fighting. I can recall the prize fight that you described between
Joe Louis and Primo Camero. Joe Louis' victory gave all black
people a sense of pride because he had the strength and skill to
prevail.
Someone in the neighborhood would let their radio blare into the
street so that everyone could hear the fight. When the victory
was announced, everyone marched into the street, making a
spontaneous parade, beating on cans. I remember being
overjoyed. Joe Louis was a great athlete and a great man.
I am fortunate to be part of this adult learner's program that put
me in touch with writers such as you. I will continue to learn. I
thank you for your skill to write such a beautiful story.
Sincerely,
Mr. Charles Joseph
Berkeley Reads Program
17
Writer TO Writer 2007
Shannon Lin
Oceanside Public Library
Dear Mr. Grisham,
Christmas is my favorite holiday of the year.
Your book
Skipping Christmas caught my attention and that was how I
started to read my first book in English for myself. I used to
read easy books to my three children when they were young,
but not for my own reading. Once I began to read your book, I
just couldn't stop. I also listened to the cassettes of the story
many times.
Sometimes, I felt I was in the story of the
conversation between the main characters, Luther and Nora,
somehow just like my husband and me. For example, when Nora asked Luther to call the neighbors
to invite them to their Christmas Eve party, he answered, "not in a million years".
I always remember the first Christmas we had eleven years ago, the time we just moved to the
United States from Taiwan. On Christmas Eve my husband took our kids and me to look around the
neighborhood's light decorations. We saw millions of lights sparkling at night. That made us dizzy
and so excited.
For us Taiwanese, who did not celebrate Christmas, it was an unforgettable
experience. I told my little kids, we were going to have Christmas next year, and we did.
Now we celebrate Christmas like most American families. But after the holiday each year, I
collapse. I started wondering, is it the holiday I really want to have? I was confused until I read
your book. Presently, I have a different view of Christmas. Maybe, I can just simply skip a
Christmas. No crazy running between the stores shopping for gifts, cards, and foods, no party, no
arguing with my husband about how to decorate the tree. Of course, I would not have to beg him
over and over again to hang the lights for me. It is the most painful thing I have to go through every
year. Without exhausting work, I would be a lovable little woman again, not a bomb ready to
explode. I would like to enjoy the vacation on a mountain and have a snowball fight, or just go
barefoot on the beach with my family. I love your book; it may have changed the way I think about
the holiday.
Sincerely,
Shannon Lin
18
Writer TO Writer 2007
Armando B. Mendoza
Santa Fe Springs City Library
Dear Anne Rice:
This letter is way overdue. Thank you for being so inspirational to my recovery. I came out of a dark period in
my life and your books helped me make my transition. I found your first book “Violent” at a food bank. As I
started to read my hands became steady. I was more relaxed and able to concentrate, focused for the first time
in a long time. There were words I did not understand. I try to use the dictionary and still I had troubles. So I
decided to join the literacy program at our local public library.
I fell in love with your character "Stephan." How he came to be a stranger in the night playing his beautiful
music. How he seduces Triana with his Stradivarius and their development of their odd relationship. How he
brought her into his world and how she brought him into hers.
My favorite part of the book is when Stephan takes Triana by the hands and takes her on a journey she will
never forget. Stephen wants her to see and to feel the whole magnitude of the events leading to his death. How
he became to be what he is today - a ghost... trapped in limbo for eternity because he loves his music. Being a
music lover myself, I felt taken away from my own tragedies. Listening and disappearing into my own music
the same way.
I love the way you put words together to illustrate the history of Stephan's journey, the place and time when he
lived, the feelings he felt and the emotions he suffered. The actions and reactions taking place between him and
his father. I am also reminded of my own miseries and my misfortune with my own father. You give life to
your characters in a way that made me feel a part of Stephan.
I have enjoyed your books immensely. You have opened up new worlds to places I have never been. You
educate me with historical facts from the past, sparking my curiosity. You allow my imagination to venture for
just a short time and return safe to my own world. For this Ms. Anne Rice I thank you.
Armando B. Mendoza
19
Writer TO Writer 2007
Mina Silani
Los Angeles Public Library
Dear Danielle Steel,
When I read your book Leap of Faith, I felt like I was reading about my
life. Marie Ange had a very good life in France while she was living
with her parents. After her parents died, she came to America to live
with her aunt, a cold lady, who gave her a hard time. Marie Ange
learned she must be strong. Later, she married a man who she loved.
They had two children and she was happy for a while, but her husband
turned out to be a bad man who had married her for her money. Now
Marie Ange learned she must be strong for her children.
When I look at Marie Ange's life, I remember my life. When I married my husband, we had so
many problems and we eventually divorced. A big problem for me after the divorce was raising
my children. I had four boys and I decided to raise my boys alone. I am happy right now
because the two oldest graduated from USC, and the two youngest graduated from UCLA. The
two youngest have decided to continue their education. One is going to medical school, and one
is studying for law school. All through these years I knew I must be strong for my family.
I learned from your book to take a leap of faith, and that changed my life. I am undergoing
kidney dialysis. Before I read your book, I thought dialysis would cut my life short and I was
waiting for death. But now I am full of faith. I am trying to find a donor kidney, and I teach
other dialysis patients to not give up. I tell them they must be strong and believe in themselves
and fight for their lives.
Right now I am sixty years old. I have decided to study English and computers. I am glad to
read your book because it taught me to appreciate my life and to always be strong.
Sincerely,
Mina Silani
20
Writer TO Writer 2007
Diana Toneva
San Rafael Public Library
Dear Jane Resh Thomas,
I am an adult learner in the San Rafael Literacy Program and my dream is to read and write and understand
English as well as my native language, Bulgarian. My tutor thinks that the best way to learn more is to start
reading books.
One night when I came back home from meeting with my tutor, I asked my daughter to borrow one of her
books. She chose "The Comeback Dog” and said, "Mom, this is a good one you can start reading with this."
So I had the pleasure of reading your book, "The Comeback Dog." It reminded me of my childhood in
Chernogorovo, Bulgaria. I grew up in a small village there. My family had a little farm-with one cow, two
calves, ten to twelve chickens, one cock, two ducks and eight ducklings, but the most important member in
the farm was my little dog- Boby.
It was 30 years ago but I still remember how I played with my dog, how he waited for me to come back
after school next to the main entrance and how playfully he wagged his tail. One day during the winter my
dog drank water with motor oil spilled in it and he died. I felt very sad and cried for many days after his
death.
Several days later, my Dad brought another dog for me and my brother. His name was Rony, but he was a
different breed of dog than Boby and maybe that's why he stayed away from us.
Two months after Rony lived with us, he started to look at us like we were friends and stayed close to us and
began to trust us. The same as Lady, Rony needed time to understand that people can be friends and they can
help dogs when they are in trouble.
I think that your book, "The Comeback Dog” shows how, step-by-step, Lady and Daniel built their friendship
with a lot of patience, love and care. His heartwarming story of interaction between Daniel and his new dog
made me return not only to the days in my childhood, but this story made me feel the real pleasure of reading.
It turned into motivation for me to continue reading books in English and by doing this I will improve my
reading and writing skills.
Thank you for motivating me with your story.
Your new friend,
Diana Toneva
21
Writer TO Writer 2007
Petr Vopata
Newport Beach Public Library
Dear Dr. Bombard,
Your book grabbed me from the very first page. I could not stop reading because I wanted to
know what was going to happen next on your incredible journey across the Atlantic Ocean.
When I first read your book "The Bombard Story," I did not realize that I too would have the
chance to sail across the ocean on a small boat.
I will never forget sailing across the Pacific for 41 days in a small sailboat with my friend. I
cannot even imagine accomplishing such a journey on only a 15-ft inflatable dinghy equipped
with just a sextant and a single sail. How did you survive? Although our boat was bigger, better
equipped and had enough water and food I was sometimes scared. I thought of you when we
were waiting for wind for many days with a broken engine and we were running low on drinking
water. Now I can understand better how lost and helpless you felt in the middle of the ocean,
where the hope was the only thing you had left.
I learned a lot during my sailing experience. I learned that nothing is safe on the ocean and I
now have a bigger respect of the sea. However, you proved wrong the old myth that you cannot
survive on the sea without drinking water for more than a couple of days. You truly pushed the
limits of survival. You showed everybody that impossible is possible when you have your will
and hope. Thank you!
Sincerely,
Petr Vopata
22
Writer TO Writer 2007
Lupe Beltran
Nevada County Library
Dear Adele and Elaine,
I still feel the pain in my heart and the tears coming down my
cheeks when I remember my childhood. When my mother was
five months pregnant with me, somebody killed my father. It
was devastating for my mother. She became a single mom
without income. We had to move to live with my grandmother.
When I was six years old, my mother decided to get married
again.
My mother left me with my grandmother.
My
grandmother was the most critical and negative woman that I have known in my whole life.
She never took the time to respect me or to acknowledge my feelings. I never got a hug, a kiss,
or a word of appreciation from her.
When I became a parent, I didn't know how to
acknowledge my kids feelings. When I read your book How To Talk So Kids will Listen &
Listen So Kids Will Talk, I was absolutely impressed about how important it is to acknowledge
kids' feelings. I'm very thankful about your book. It taught me how to deal with my kids'
feelings, to engage their cooperation, to guide their behavior without punishment, to encourage
their autonomy, and to praise to help them to build their self-esteem.
I remember that when I was a child my grandmother used to compare me a lot with my cousins,
telling me that they were perfect in many ways, and that I needed to learn from them. I used to
get really angry at her and I felt worthless and annoyed. I didn't want to talk to anyone, and I
didn't want to listen either. Now that I have my own children, I know that if I want them to
listen, and I want them to talk to me about their feelings, I need to respect them by not
comparing them, just like the title of your book said.
Sometimes I still find myself saying things to my children that they don't like. But, I'm trying
really hard to break the horrible cycle that I grew up with. Thank you for writing such a
wonderful book. It has been really helpful in my life.
Sincerely yours,
Lupe Beltran
23
Writer TO Writer 2007
Gloria Boresoff
Santa Fe Springs Public Library
Dear Mr. Coelho:
I want to tell you something about myself before talking about
your book, The Alchemist. I came to this country 20 years ago,
now I am 70. I had dreamed of speaking and writing English
fluently. It was very hard for me because of my age, but I never
gave up. It has been a rough road, but with persistence, reading
books, and listening to a lot of videos at last I can express my
feelings and desires in letters, like the one I'm sending you now.
Your book The Alchemist is a precious treasure. It seems like a
fairy tale; both kids and adults can enjoy reading it. The narrative
about Santiago trying to reach his Personal Legend is excellent. I
loved the part when Santiago begins his journey as a shepherd,
when he meets different people that would be important in helping
him to reach his goal. Each step he took was a great lesson to me.
It was amazing when the old man encourages Santiago to find his
Personal Legend giving him confidence with his wisdom, and
telling him how to follow the Omens God left for him. Another
part of your story that I enjoyed was when Santiago meets with the
crystal merchant and how he could help him increase his business
with his smart ideas. Although of many obstacles that Santiago
has to pass, he learned from them and gained maturity and
patience.
It is also sweet the form you describe how Santiago shows his love
for Fatima, and how she leaves him free to reach his Personal
Legend. He at last understand that money and material things come
and go and not to put too much worth into them.
Mr. Coelho, the lessons of your story are very valuable and
applicable to anyone's life. The Alchemist tell us that we have a
single mission or goal in life, though most of us do not realize it.
Thank so much for this marvelous story that opened my mind and
my heart encouraging me to reach my goal of learning and
speaking English fluently.
Sincerely,
Gloria Boresoff
24
Writer TO Writer 2007
Tammy Lozier
Rancho Cucamonga Public Library
Dear Peter Chase M.D.,
I'm writing to you about one of the darkest days of my life. My son, Justin, was just two and a half years old when
he was diagnosed with type one diabetes. His little body was so thin you could see every bone in his body. He was
always eating large amounts of food but he stayed really thin.
I called the doctor and my husband and I took him to the pediatrician that day. The doctor sent us to have his blood
drawn. By the time we made it home an hour later there was a message regarding the results. The message said to
get Justin to the hospital right away, he has diabetes. He said he could go into a diabetic coma. The doctor's exact
words were "come now Mrs. Lozier, bring him now." I tried to tell my husband what the doctor had just said. I
looked at my husband and said "its diabetes". My husband broke down crying and weeping like a child. He
couldn't control his emotion. I didn't know what diabetes was, but I knew it had to be something bad.
My son was hospitalized for two weeks. I stayed with him every day and night. The hospital gave us a dietitian to
teach us how to read labels and weigh food. They also gave us a thick book to learn how to care for my son, and I
was so very lost.
You see, Dr. Chase, I couldn't read a word of this book. I was illiterate. I was afraid to tell any one in fear that they
would try to take my son from me because I could not care for his medical needs. My wonderful husband took that
book home and every night he would read three pages to me so I could understand and learn about what we had to
do for our son. He was so patient and understanding with me. It took many long, late nights but he never gave up
on me.
Dr. Chase, now that I can read, I went back and read the book that the hospital gave me. It is still very confusing. I
just finished reading your book, A First Book For Understanding Diabetes.
This book, I feel, should be on every library shelf worldwide. It is very easy to understand and comprehend
without all the medical mumbo jumbo and what not. I just wanted to understand what was really going on in my
son's body, and your book has made it so much clearer to me. All those nights my husband taking the time to read
to me from that other gigantic book is not a waste of time or a frustration now. I understand and grasp the concept
of diabetes, and it's all thanks to your book. Your book has given me and my family hope for the future. Now, with
good control over certain aspects of my son's life, he doesn't have to worry too much about losing his sight, or his
kidneys or feet. His future looks just a little brighter now, and once again, I thank your book for bringing this upon
us. I also feel great about how knowledgeable this book can be for kids who know they have diabetes, but don't
understand what it is, or how it affects them, or adults like me, who have reading challenges.
Your book has inspired my son and I to contribute back to society. We are
communicating with our local hospital about starting a support group for
children and teens with diabetes. The group will also offer education and
support for family members, friends, teachers, etc.
Once again, I want to say how much I appreciate your book, A First Book
for Understanding Diabetes. Diabetes isn't a stranger in this house
anymore, thanks to your book, we're ready!
Sincerely,
Tammy Lozier
25
Writer TO Writer 2007
Olivia Moreno
Napa City-County Library
I want to share my experience about the book I read. It was The Circuit by
Francisco Jimenez. This book touched me because he told about his experiences
when he was a child and how he and his family worked so hard to find places for
living and also jobs. They went from place to place looking for the basic needs
like food and living space.
They had a hard time when his little brother got sick. I think that was the most
difficult time. When the baby started to get sick the parents tried to do
something for him at home, but he did not get well and when they decided to
take him to hospital the doctor said the baby was very sick and he was not sure if
he can get well. When I read that I started to remember when I was 3 years old, my sister and I got sick, and my
mom tried to use home remedies for us. She went to the pharmacy and asked for magnesia but the pharmacist
gave my mom zinc oxide. She did not read the label on the packet, so she gave us the wrong medicine, and then
we got very sick. My mom couldn't take two children to the doctor, because she wasn't able to afford that, so
she decided to take only my sister, who was more sick than me. The doctor said there isn't much hope for this
child actually, he said she will die. At this point they didn't know about the wrong medicine. She stayed in the
hospital for a while, but fortunately she get well the same as Francisco's brother.
This story not only refreshed my memory but also reminded me how many kids are in the same situation,
because it's very common in our culture to use home remedies before you go to the doctor. I know some home
remedies can help but we can risk a life by trying something that is not sure to cure. I'm a mom of three kids
and I don't really like to use home remedies.
Another thing that really touched me was about the hard time that Francisco had in the school because he did
not speak English. One day the principal gave Francisco a jacket, which was in the box "lost and found" for a
long time. She was trying to help him, but the owner fought with Francisco and he was not able to talk with the
principal about the problem. He was on the bench during recess as punishment. The teacher sent a note to his
parents, but they didn't know how to read, but they knew what the note said when saw Francisco with a swollen
upper lip and scratches on his left check. When Francisco explained what happened they got upset, but they
didn't tell anything to the school. I understand that. How can they communicate with the teacher?
It was a very sad story and still too many sad stories happen, because not all parents can speak English. When I
read this part in the book it encouraged me to keep learning English. I don't expect any sad situations like this
with my kids, but I want to feel free to communicate with teachers, and to know how my kids are doing in
school.
This book affected me a lot because Francisco Jimenez wrote this book when he grew up
but he tells us about how his childhood was. I got a clear vision of how children are
affected by the situation they are living. I know there are things that we can't change and
some we can. And all grown-ups have memories about our childhood and, some sad
memories. We can't go back to the past and fix it but we can do something for our
children so they can live a better life, and one day they will have great memories.
By,
Olivia Moreno
26
Writer TO Writer 2007
Lupe Perez
Santa Clara City Library
Dear Susan V. Bosak,
The book that you wrote, Something to Remember Me By, to thank your
grandmother, reminds me of a lot of things I should have thanked my mother for. My
mother passed away two years ago, but she was more than my mother, she was my
friend.
Like your grandmother that cooked homemade food, my mother did too. Anytime
any of us visited my mom, she would get up and start cooking. At Christmas my
mom would cook tamales, and on our birthdays she would make us dinner and bake a
cake. On her last Christmas with us my mom made a tamale pie, probably because it
was too hard for her to make the tamales one at a time.
You said that you visited your grandmother often. I visited my mom every weekend. We also did grocery shopping
together. I read that the grandmother and granddaughter watered the garden. My mom was good at watering the plants
and taking care of them. I never was good at knowing how or when to water the plants.
I also use to watch television with my mom. I used to laugh because my mom was watching TV and she would yell at the
ones that were saying or doing the wrong thing. Now I feel so lonely not hearing her yelling at them.
The one thing that you said to your grandmother that I regret not saying to my mom is that she is the best mother in the
whole world. Although I did dream, not too long ago, that my mom and I were hugging each other. My mom was
probably showing me that she knew that I loved her, and that she loved me.
In your book you mentioned talking on the phone with your grandmother. My mom used to call me every day to see how
I was. You also said that your grandmother sent you a hand sewn cushion in the shape of a heart. It reminded me that my
mom knew how to sew. When we were little, my mom would sew clothes for us to wear. Not long before she passed away
my mom was still sewing our clothes. After my brain surgery I lost a lot of weight, so my mom sewed all my pants so
they would fit me. My mom also knew how to knit. She knitted a blanket and crocheted beautiful table mats that I still
have.
Towards the end, you wrote in your book, how your grandmother was very sick and looked confused. What I remember
about my mother is that she would take her pills from the pill box and would look at it kind of strange and put it in her
other hand. I was afraid that she would take all the pills at once, so I started giving her just the pills she was going to take
each time.
At the very end you talked about your smile looking just like your grandmother's smile. The other day some one pointed
to my hand and said that it looked just like my mom's. I thought that she was talking about my mom's wedding ring that I
was wearing, but she was talking about my hand.
I'm sure we all have something from our mothers, but I also have her name. Every time someone calls and asks for Lupe,
I wonder if it's for me or my mom.
Now I keep a book that I started writing in when my mom passed away. Maybe this book will be like the cedar chest was
for the granddaughter in the book. Something to Remember Me By!
Sincerely,
Lupe M. Perez
27
Writer TO Writer 2007
Lenka Priscakova
Newport Beach Public Library
Dear Mrs. Harris,
I would love to bring the past back to life especially after my Daddy passed away couple of
months ago. Your book, From the Soul, reminded me how grateful I am for everything I have
got from my parents and time is not important at this point because even my father is not here
anymore I still gain a lot from him. You awakened memories of my childhood.
As the youngest child sometimes being spoiled and oblivious to reach my own petty needs I saw
struggling with money, the lack of necessities, hopelessness and desire to live better. I witnessed
the misery when I was sick, the hope for my recovery, the endeavor to end a discomfort times.
However at that age the life was too complex not accepting my spontaneous solutions. I felt so
guilty whenever I forced my parents to go behind their abilities. And I am endlessly proud they
could face any challenge I prepared for them. With my Mommy and Daddy the imaginary things
became real.
I wish to be one of the interviewed people to talk about my exceptional springtime of life. I could
never stop writing about every feeling evoked by particular stories. It makes me cry every time I
open the book. Thanks to you my strong empathy enables me to go back in time. Where I smell
the scent of my mom she used to have when she came home from work, where I can hear my
Dad's voice again telling me the things I have never enjoyed before, where I can see my
grandparents sacrificing their lives for our future. All of these stories make me sad but on the
other hand I am extremely happy you showed me the way to travel in time. I love this book.
I look at the great black families and I am one of your readers that
say: "The book is incomplete. The author failed to include my
family."
Best regards,
Lenka Priscakova
28
Writer TO Writer 2007
Jacqueline Redmond
Contra Costa County Library
Dear Mr. Steinbeck,
Where would I be without a dream?
Your book, Of Mice And Men reminds me of the power that dreaming has
to someone like me who struggled to raise two children on a small salary,
but I always took time to write in my journal hope for a better life.
The only difference is I lacked a person like Lennie who would allow me to
share my dream without criticism. So I used my journal to express the
dreams I wanted for me and my family.
I dreamed of Christmas when I could actually purchase Christmas gifts for
my children, but in reality I often had to give them a handmade coupon
with a note that read "This coupon entitles you to a $100.00 shopping
spree when I receive my income tax refund which was normally two or
three months later. Another time is when the children wanted to have
Taco Bells for dinner, however because I financially could not afford it we
had to improvise and redeem aluminum cans at the local grocery store
which provided us with a store credit that I used to purchase the
ingredients to make homemade tacos.
Like George, dreaming allows me to go to a place or time of my choice
where I could escape from reality even if only temporarily.
Currently my dream is to own my own home. I will continue to express
these thought on the pages of my journal. Special thank to you for writing
this wonderful book, which has encouraged me to dream on.
Sincerely,
Jacqueline Redmond
29
Writer TO Writer 2007
Lanette Scott
San Francisco Public Library
Dear Antwone Fisher,
I write to commend you for having the courage to disclose your personal story.
Writing about your experience as a foster child has motivated me to not be
shameful of my past, as I too grew up in foster care. Your autobiography
Finding Fish has inspired me to help raise awareness of the challenges foster
youth face when exiting the foster care system. Hence, I have become a vocal
advocate representing the often-unheard voices in the foster care community.
What the public policy world needs to improve services for youth in the social
service system is my talent, vision, and passion. In 2006 and 2007 I received a
Youth Leadership awards in recognition of my contributions. Additionally, I
have been the keynote speaker at several public awareness events for foster
youth, and have coordinated awareness events. I most recent was interviewed on
live radio, a program called Childhood Matters, discussing the need for more
foster parents, and disclosing my personal story.
Indeed, the lack of support for foster youth transitioning into adulthood is a major problem in San Francisco. Sadly, I
come from a system where disadvantaged students are placed in the shadows and left to fend for themselves and are
socially promoted, as they are illiterate and underachieving in all subjects. This was the reality for me growing up in the
foster care system. I came from a system where hope for an adequate education was seen as an elusive dream. Therefore,
attending college definitely seemed to be an unrealistic goal as my past could have designated me a high school dropout.
However, I applied to and was accepted to the University of San Francisco.
In retrospect, I was a child whose dreams were clouded by self-doubt and self-esteem issues. I was abandoned at a very
young age; therefore, neglect and isolation alone should have brought me to daunting consequences. However, just as you
chose not to let your past predict your future outcomes, I too chose not to let my adversities distract me. I chose to prevail
by choosing hard work and dedication.
Sadly, there are thousands of foster youth who fall through the cracks and become negative statistics. Reading your
autobiography has shown me that, I too can share my story. I want to empower the foster care community by showing
them that they too can prevail form their misfortunes.
It is unfortunate that the city of San Francisco has failed young people aging out of foster care. Their safety and
emotional well-being were of paramount concern when they were removed from their parents as younger children. Yet
despite conclusive research showing how vulnerable foster youth are upon discharge from the child welfare system, these
young people often follow a path of uncertainty. This is why; I am a tenacious advocate for this forgotten community
because foster youth continue to exit the child welfare system to lives of pain, destitution and marginalization. Reading
your story has fired my passion to raise awareness of the desperate need to support emancipated foster youth. If we don't
focus attention on this community we will continue to incur exponentially greater costs in the form of wasted potential,
welfare dependency, homelessness, child abuse, delinquency, crime, victimization, illness and untold sorrow beyond
measure.
In short, I would like to thank you for sharing your story and shedding light on this important issue. You are truly an
inspiration and I hope that one day more people from this community will share their stories to help empower others, as
yours as inspired me.
Sincerely,
Lanette Scott
30
Writer TO Writer 2007
David Springer
Tulare County Public Library
Dear Mr. Woods,
I have been a reader of your excellent work for a couple of years now. The last couple of books I read were
good. The Short Forever and Worst Fears Realized kept me very interested. Wow! The one I just finished,
Capital Crimes, was so great!
You made me feel as if I were Deputy Director Bob Kinney. He was chasing after something he just could not
get his hands on. I've often felt that way in my life. It is unbelievable how somebody such as Mr. Fay could be
so mad at people over their views that he was willing to kill them. Personally, I believe that everyone is entitled
his or her own views.
I thought it was so amazing how somebody with the sources that Mr. Fay had could just eliminate himself from
the face of the earth on paper. There have been times in my life that I wished I had the ability to do so. It was
really cool that Katherine Rule Lee, the director of Central Intelligence, believed the ex-FBI agent who was in
prison, Mr. Rawls. He gave her information that helped the FBI identify the killer Mr. Fay. The first thing I
thought about her was support, and people you can count on. I have recently found the Literacy Center. This is
where I go for tutoring for my GED. The staff and my tutor support me unconditionally. I have already passed
the Writing test, and I have signed up to take the Social Studies test on April 11, 2007.
Mr. Fay was an ex-CIA. He knew how to fire guns, make bombs, disguise himself; all the things one is trained
for while in the CIA. He was a very angry man. I do not understand how people can be so angry all of the time.
I am always a real happy guy! I hope there is a continuation of this book. They never found his body, and he
faked his own death once. I really need to know what happens next! The book is very good. Please keep up
the excellent writing. I cannot wait for the next one!
From,
David Springer
31
Writer TO Writer 2007
Francisco Zelaya
Downey City Library
Dear Mr. Niemand,
Compassion and generosity were the emotions that drove me to
immerse my eyes in the pages of your book, "Butterfly
Emerging", effortlessly. These emotions provoked a wake up
call in my mind and made me look around to find them alive
and well in our community.
I am sure I could find people that have received those gifts
somewhere, but I don't need to look anywhere else but my own
to bear witness of the blessing these qualities bring among us. I
am a grateful recipient of that generosity through the gift of
tutoring and I know my time will come to help someone else to
link the chain of gratitude. It is not because I feel obligated but
because gratitude grows inward in one's soul.
What a great significance compassion and generosity have,
when unrelated people are part of the mix of this marvelous
interchange of divine touch.
I have to thank you for this
beautiful display of human evolution melted in your book's
pages.
Sincerely,
Francisco N Zelaya
32
Writer
TO
Writer
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