I recently received a bunch of letters from a group of fifth graders whose teacher read them Captain Grey. This book, my first historical novel, was published in 1977. That’s to say it was written some thirty-seven years ago. I have strong memories of how and where I wrote Captain Grey, but in truth, I have few recollections of the book’s details, other than the general plot. The kids’ letters name characters, and recall incidents, which I’ve long forgotten. What a pleasure to know they enjoyed the book so much. In that sense, I think the book belongs far more to them, now, than to me. Still, it’s lovely to be reminded that old books are always new books to new readers. In this sense the books I once wrote have a kind of eternal youth, which, I can assure you I have not. Can you hear my sigh? I am envious of my old books!
4 thoughts on “Old Books”
I wish I had known your books as a young student. Now as a 40+ year old I am enjoying reading your “old” books myself and to my two children! In fact, I just checked out two more at the library last night–“Bright Shadow” and “Perloo”.
I like old books too they bring a lot of juice, like Tom Sawyer and Arabian Nights.
I hope you enjoy them all.
Avi
Personally I enjoy Call of the Wild, though some people think it’s boring! I’m surprised, because it’s an exciting story with lots of action. I love it, and I read it when I was 9.