For many, a gathering of family and friends around a table at Thanksgiving also includes a go-around in which each person says what and to whom they are thankful. It was so in my family. I could easily create a long list of those whom I could acknowledge with thanks and do so with a loving look into their eyes. But as a writer, among those I need to give my deepest thanks are folks I don’t know and rarely meet: my readers. Though I, unbeknownst, am writing for them, sometimes they come forward and let me know who they are. Thus, in the recent mail came, in a child’s bold, block letters, this note:
“To: Avi
From: R……
Thank you very much
I like your series of books. I like three mane (sic) charictirs (sic) poppy, ragweed, and rye. Thank you for your books”
There was an added note, written by an adult.
“Avi, I just wanted to say thank you for writing the Poppy book series! My son is 7 years old and a very precocious reader and I’m so grateful for a book that is at his reading level, but also gentle enough for his age.
Thanks, L….. (R’s mom)
P.S. Writing a letter was all his idea! He cherishes your books and keeps them on display in his room.”
A writer can’t ask for more than that, and I am so grateful to “R,” his mom and ALL my readers.
Thank you.
Avi
2 thoughts on “Thanksgiving”
It’s why children writers write. I can’t wait to do school visits. I write about Egyptian mythology in contemporary fantasy stories for middle graders. Joy. Wishing you and your family a festive Thanksgiving. Best, Edie
Thank you, Avi, for dedicating yourself to children everywhere. I taught for 8 years in the late 90’s, early 2000’s, and I learned about your books, but didn’t actually read any at that time. Since then, I have become perhaps one of your biggest fans, listening to audio books and snatching up any I find at thrift stores, or where ever I may find them. My personal favorites (so far) are Old Wolf (Merla the bird — not sure I got the name correct — is my favorite character in that book) and the Crispen series. I am currently reading Iron Thunder. I know I should underline book titles but hard to do on my phone. I am capable of reading more complicated works, but I appreciate good writing at any level, and I appreciate it being clean, wholesome, and enough details that I can go in deep if I choose to, but have a simple read (with my busy schedule) when I just want to unwind. May God bless you and may I see you in heaven one day and we will talk (because I am not likely to get around to that on earth!).