| The Official | Diana Wynne Jones | Website |
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Messages for Diana |
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MESSAGE BOARD 5 updated July 27th, 2002 |
From C. Houldcroft
Dear Ms Jones, Is there any chance of you writing another book in the Dalemark series? The Crown of Dalemark is the best book i have ever read, and much better than Harry Potter. I love Mitt and Maewen, and i want to know what happens to them. Also, i am in love with Howl, he is utterly amazing.
From Claire Tominson,
My name is Claire. In my English class, we are reading books by an author in the ãLive Women Authors Societyä. I read the books ãHowlâs Moving Castleä, ãCastle in the Airä and ãArchers Goonä. While I was reading these books I noticed that their genre was fantasy. They all had characters which were either witches or wizards. I would like to know: Why you write many books about witches, wizards, dragons, and castles? Also what was your inspiration is for these books? While I was researching your background I saw you lived in the Lake District, which I know is known for its magical history. Does your experience from this period influence your writing? Why? Also while researching I saw you had a husband and children, do they have any influence on your writing? Why is this?
From Clare
Are you going to write more boks in the Dark Lord of Derkholm series?
From Emma
Hi Diana! I don't know how to put this but about six months ago I saw HOWL'S MOVING CASTLE sitting on a shelf. It had this amazing cover (I know, I know - you mustn't judge a book by it's cover) it was that really bright UK one with Howl in his blue and silver suit with his guitar and Calcifer on the front. I just HAD to pick it up and read the synopsis! It looked so good, it was picked for my holiday book! (That's a great honour by the way) :o) And when I read it, it was almost almost like I was there seeing everything that happened, and my VERY bad habit of skimming through pages totally DISAPPEARED! After that I read CASTLE IN THE AIR, and I loved it as well but there is something about Wizard Howl that is so appealing! I've read all the questions about another sequel (you must have got so TIRED of writing that answer again and again!) and I really do hope that that bit of inspiration comes to you! Hope this isn't too long, Emma xxx Howl's no.1 UK fan!!
From Sara Serenity
DHave you ever heard of Schršdinger's Cat? Well, there was an expiriment dreamed up by a guy called Erwin Schršdinger to prove something about having multiple worlds. I was leafing through EYEWITNESS: TIME & SPACE some time after I read the Chrestomanci series and I was wondering if you had gotten your idea about multiple worlds from that theory. Did you?
From Heather
Hello Diana, regarding The Crown of Dalemark. When Hestefan tried to kill Maewyn, he stated that he actually did kill her twice. Does this mean that Maewyn is of the Undying? If so, could we see more of Mitt and Maewyn in future?
From Shelly
Hi Diana, I read DARK LORD OF DERKHOLM & YEAR OF THE GRIFFIN. I need you to write a sequal. The book ended with a turn that made me think someone tore out the rest of the pages. In the sequal you should write Kit, Elda, and Blade as the main charectures. I love Robin McKinley's books, and when she said she LOVED your books I had try them. :*)I will be waiting for a sequal. Thanx!! Shelly
From Yori Mazuru
dear Ms.Diana Hello,I am 17 old live in Japan. I interesting read your books. Especially,I most like story is "Howl's Moving castle" I read since four years ago, for the first time, I surprised at strange and fanny story. I think it the most interesting book I ever raed! so I glad to get movie. I very expectation it. I hope more read your books.my dream is became to translator. I think will translate your books. I expect your next story!
FromHayley
Hello Diana! I just wanted to write a little note to say how much I enjoy your books. I didn't find them until about a year ago but I can't stop reading them. In fact, in the past four months I've racked up huge fines at three different libraries for not returning your books ontime. Which reminds me, I need to return Fire and Hemlock....anyway, I really did want to say how much love your books, especially A Tale of Time City, Archer's Goon, and of course The Dalemark Quartet. And Howl's Moving Castle. And anything with Crestomanci...ok, I'll stop before I give a list of every book you've written...you get the picture, I love your books!
From Lauren
Dear Diana, You are my favorie author in the whole entire world! I read a lot and I enjoy reading your books the most. I love the Crestomanci series and I also love Howel's Moving Castle. I'm so excited that it's going to become a movie! I can't believe that there was a time that I had never heard about you. I'm glad that your books are funney because there are some fantasies that are really serious. I am a novice writer. I write mainly for fun. You have really inspired me. Thank you!
From Rym Kechacha
Hi, I've read lots of your books but I have a bad job trying to find them. I loved Hexwood and Fire and Hemlock, even though I didnt understand them at all. Some bits I did understand, but most of the time I was completely at sea! I love the Chrestomanci books, and I want more than anything to be at that castle. Is our world is twelve B? It seems to be, because magic doesnt exist here. Thankyou for writing all your books, they take me somewhere life is better, and easier. Please keep writing!
From Maria
Dear Diana, Hi! I'm 12 years old and it was just a few days ago when I went to the library looking for some fiction books to read during the long summer days. First I went to the young adult section where there's ALOT of fiction books. They were all very incredibly thick and they all sounded boring. So I went to the kids (which I was suppose to be looking at on the first place) section and looked for one of my favorite authors: Madeline L'Engle. I like her books because there's magic in it and just a tiny bit romance. So I found her and I picked out a book. Then I went across looking for new books and spotted out "Castle in the Air" I read the info, and it said the title "Howls moving Castle". WELL ANYWAY, I read the book (sorry that was so long!). I finished it in about 3 days because I couldn't stop reading it! It just touched my heart completley! Especially the end. So I was just wondering..there's really gonna be a movie? Because I never knew that. And if you have time to answer my question: When is it coming out, or did it already? Then please do answer it in my e-mail. Thankyou that would be soooo incredible. Now I need to read more of your books. Right now, you're one of my favorite authors! Thankyou for your time in reading this, Maria B.
From Amanda
I'm writing a book and I noticed that I have a lot of dialogue. Is there such thing as too much dialogue?
From Joanna
I loved reading Dark Lord of Derkholm and Year of the Griffin. I hope that there can be more books about those characters, I really want to see what happens between Elda and Flury!! They are wonderful books, and it would be great to continue reading about them.
From Gwen Ireland
!Hola! I have to say I know you will not get this message so I shall be very brief. I love your books and I hope someday we will accidently run into each other. Why? Because, my last name is Ireland. So I hope anyone else who is a fan of Diana will always respect her, even if you don't like her next book. Adios Gwen
From Roy Garett Hammonds
hi my name is garett I have read Dark Lord Of Derkholm and I loved it. But now I would like you to write a sequel to it. I know that Year Of The Griffin is a sequel but, I still want you to write another. It should be atleast a thousand pages, everyone (from the first book) should be in it, th mian characters should stay the same, the characters should be trying to repair their world from what Mr. Chesney has done to it and, it should follow the story line from where Dark Lord Of Derkholm left off. I have plenty of ideas if you need help. Please write the seque soon. Your Fan Garett Hammonds
From Ethan Baybutt
Dear Diana, I am an amercan living on Cape Cod, Massachusettes. I first discovered your books when i went to Florida in April, 2001. The book i found was the Chronicles of Chrestomanci volume1. I read that book in about 2 weeks. later my father bought me the second volume and I read that in about the same amount of time. since then, i have read each book around two times because the are my favorite books ever. I have recomended these books to my closest friends and am currently shharing the second volume with a friend of mine. I just wanted you to know how many people in the United States like your books.
From Lauren Hom
Dear Diana, Hello, my name is Lauren. When I first discovered your books, it was when I picked up "Dark Lord of Derkholm". It was so good! I conratulate you on your success. I look up to both you and your works. I too wish to become a writer and hope that I have as many fans as you some day. I'm finishing up your "Chronicals of Chrestomanci" and the way you desribe these worlds that already exist in a way that seems impossible is wonderful, and if not, perfect! I only hope to be as good as you some day. I look forward to reading more of your novels. PLEASE keep writing! You, along with others (J.K. Rowling, J R R Tolkien, and Philip Pullman) were my inspiration to become an author. I CAN'T STOP WRITING! Thank you for everything! It only takes the someones words to create dreams for someone else. P.S.- You probably don't do this but if you or one of your "people" send me some info on publishing I would be MOST thankful.
From bets davies
please please reprint archer's goon if you possibly can. it has impacted the lives of my family and immediate circle of friends. we have become archer's goon hoarders. this is partially due to my mother's (Okay, i do it too) habit of giving away copies of archer's goon to people she feels needs to read it. Consequently, we are on constant a constant archer's goon quest, forever seeking out copies and ferritting them away for future use. thank you very much, bets
From Alyssa Klubeck
hi! after i read howl's moving castle, and the chrestomanci books i always run off to my own world daydreaming that i help them somehow. so thanks for that! secondly: i know at least two peaople have asked if there will be a female chestomanci. i think there should be one. you could make it really hard for her with prejudice about her being a girl. also, could you consider writing a book on morgan? i really want to find out what happens to him (will he be as vain as howl--testy as sophie.):). anyhow. even though i'm only 13 i've set in my mind to become an author (i've already started at least six books!) your a big insperation. Tamora peirce (another author) is the other. on CAstle in the air the cover has a name on it: D. Craig on it (i beleive) if he is the illustrator for the cover do you have his e-mail? (in case i ever finsh writing a book i'd like him to draw the cover). also do you have any advice for me for my books, i'm still trying to make them funny, exciting, and fun to read, just like yours. i also have two cats (tiger and whitenose are bro. and sis), and i think on the chrestomanci books (with two in them) look cool with the cats on them. they give the books a strong look for anyone that can understand that cats are just to supernatural to live in this world it seems. P.s. i know this sounds vain (like howl) but if you ever need a new character for your books, please contact me! i've always daydreamed about being in one of yours. sorry 'bout that just a daydream again. please write back...you are one of my favorite authors. thanks for listening to me.
From Ethan Baybutt, age 12, United States
Dear Diana, I have one question and as an America i have to ask this. Why is the Chrestomanci never an american or maybe a brizilian? I think many people will find the answer to this question interesting
From Sarah
I haven't read all of your books, but I plan to over teh summer. My friend Katie has read all of them, and reccomended them to me. So far I've read The Magicians of Caprona, Charmed Life, and The Lives of Christopher Chant. I just re-read the latter two yesterday. I love how mystery and fantasy are combined in your writing. I hope to see more books coming out so that I don't get bored.
From Jessanne O.
Dear Diana, You are one of my favorite authors,your books really do paint pictures in my mind. And even though this sounds real greatist-fan-like but every time I finish your one of your books tears come to my eyes. PS Ive tried to not sound to corney (it diddn't work) ,but even though its corney its true.
From steven guild
I love your books! Chronicles of Chrestomanci volume I is my favorite book ever! I wish that we could be come penpals, and I could get your adress so I can write to you when I am on vacation in february. I want to be a writer when I grow up and I would like some training. I would especially like it from you! I live in The U.S. and am only 10 but last year I tried tried write a book. pleas contact me. and about my screen name I made that before I knew about you i will trie to change it. Yours truely your number one fan steven guild
From Jonna
I read both volumes of the CHRESTOMANCI series & loved them both! You should definitely write a Volume3.
From Jacqui
Dear Ms.Jones, Thank you for writing all those wonderful books, particularly the Chrestomanci series. Like another person who has written, I too had a brief thought of stealing one of your books from the library! *grins* It was Charmed Life, my absolute favourite book. It took me a while to get a copy of my own, but I still love it four years on. I just wanted to say that, like so many other people, I love your work and it has encouraged me to write as well. Thankyou.
From mel
hi, diana, first of all, i want to tell you that you are a really fantastic and talented writer. i own most of your books, but i cannot get my hands on the dalemark quartet. my favorite book from you is howl's moving castle. i just simply love howl, cos he's just so, well, howl. anyway, i brought howl's moving castle to school, to lend it to my friend. after reading it, she also fell in love with howl and his antics. another 5 other friends of mine borrowed it from me and to my surprise(and horror)after reading it, they all came up to me and told me that they were in love with howl. (i think sophie is up for some competition). whats worse, all of them want to know, is howl a real person or not? oh well. looks like the charmed suit is still working..... love, mel
From Robert Yanz
Dear diana , When will the thrid book of " Year of the Griffin" come out?? Will it come out? I have reread " DArk Lord of Derkholm" and "Year of the griffin" 3 times! Please tell me if the 3rd book is coming out , and when. -robert
From Gerard Narendran
Arrrrrgh...........................I am fascinated by all of your books, but I can't get enough of the lesser acclaimed world of the Undying their children. I need more stories about Closti's sons and daughters especially. I might as well go live in a cave and read your books and I would be happy. I read all of your books that I own at least once a month, and that is sustenance enough for me. Your characters are so vivid and life like that I feel as if I am in on that person's latest adventure. I need more!!!!!Thanks so much
From Becky
Hi Diana. I have started resding your books and fell instantly in love. My favorite books are "The Dark Lord of Derkholm" and "Year of the Griffin". I was wondering if there would be anymore books that follwed these?
From Jennifer Fandrich
Dear Diana, I would like to know if you are going to write any more sequels to The Chronicles of Chrestomanci?
From Lauren
I live in America and nobody I know knows about you! It is very frustrating because people are always going harry Potter this and Harry Potter that and I'm very sick of it because I mean she's only got like 4 books so how much can you talk about them! When I finally got my friends hooked we found out about your Archers Goon TV series and I have been trying ever since to get it on tape or DVD. (preferably DVD) So if you know any dealers or anyone who ever produced a tape of those shows we would be very gratefull. The only reason I even got to read Archers goon was because of my school library which has no new books but some of your very hard to get old ones. I am a huge fan and have a shelf and a half of your books. ( It doesn't sound as impressive as i'd hoped but they are very long shelves.) Thank you so much for writing all of your books and for putting weird thoughts into my head.
From Rhiannon
My mom and I have both read the "The Chronicles Of Chrestomanci" Volumes I and II and we both think that they are really good. Most books that i read I dont even read chapter 2! But these books kept me wanting to read more and more. I really really like these books and my mother and I want to know if there is or will be a "Chornicles Of Chrestomanci -volume III-"
From Trent
Please write a third book after The Year Of the Griffin
From Gerard Narendran
We need a book about this world of Kathayack in which the dogs have such powerful magic and demon hunters can be trained. Also, I completely dont understand the ending of Fire and Hemlock, very confusing. Thanks a bunch, and dont do drugs, stay in school, and so on and so on....
From Cass Malloy
I have loved your books ever since my teacher read Dogsbody to my class in third grade. I plowed through the Chrestomanci novels, devoured Howl, and, later, read and re-read my personal favorites, 'Dark Lord of Derkholm' and 'Deep Secret'. A while ago (several years actually) I had attempted to read your Dalemark series, starting with 'Cart and Cwidder.' And I must say that, at the time, I was quite disappointed. This year I made it my job to re-read most of your books as I noticed that hard to obtain ones, such as 'Tale of Time City,' were being reprinted. And so, I picked up the Dalemark Quartet again, ready to give it another go. And I don't think I've ever been so impressed. Again, though, 'Cart and Cwidder' was a little discouraging, but 'Drowned Ammet' was better, and 'The Spellcoats' interesting in itself just the unusual way that it was written. I was in tears by the end of 'Crown of Dalemark.' I don't think that I've every read anything so wonderfuly crafted as the Dalemark Quartet, its humor and characters get to me every time that I read it now. I don't think that the series calls for another book - the ending seems to be perfect just the way that it is. I would like a small bit of conformation, though. I would just like to make sure that Mitt and Maewen end up together, with all the happines that they deserve. I want to thank you for letting me share the brilliance of your worlds, your people, and your imagination.
From Mehe
I know you have probably heard this a million times before but could you pleeeeeeeeease pleeeeeeeease write more Howl or Chrestomanci books? They are the kind of books that I read over and over again. If you don't have any inspiration you could come and have a holiday in New Zealand or write one book with both Howl and Chrestomanci in it. That is probably a very stupid idea. Anyhow, if you do come to New Zealand then you have to come to Dunedin. Not for any particular reason but that is where I live. Is it really cold where you live? I don't like the cold and it is cold in Dunedin so I thought that if it is not cold where you live I could live there. Not that I am going torun away to your house so no need to worry.
From Serra
Diana-I LOVE YOUR BOOKS!!!! I'm 13(next month) and I just discovered your books when my mom bought The Chronicles Of Chrestomanci, Volume 1 for me to read while we were on vacation in Africa. The Lives Of Christopher Chant was my favorite book ever. I tried to get the second volume, but I live in the U.S., and it wasn't available, so it's on order. I am currently reading Dark Lord Of Derkholm. I used to like the Harry Potter books, but after reading The Chrestomanci books, I think Rowling stole TONS of your ideas. Now when I try to read her books, they seem lifeless compared to yours. THANK YOU FOR WRITING SUCH GREAT BOOKS!!!!!!!!!!! I was beginning to think that there weren't any more good books out there! My LIFE is all reading books and especially WRITING books. At the moment, I am writing a novel that is 120 pages so far! I started writing before I could even really read, scratched out on pieces of paper at my brother's piano lessons. So reading is practically all I do otherwise. THANK YOU!!! PLEASE, It would mean practically EVERYTHING to me to have my favorite author write to me!!! Sorry if this is kind of a babble, but thanks for your time. I hope you get better soon!!!!!
From Allie
Diana- I know this isn't very original, but you are the best author! My favorite books are almost all yours.(especially The Dalemark Quartet, The Crown of Dalemark is my all-time favorite!) I admit I have only read about half your books, but I am planning on reading the rest very soon. I really liked the Crown of Dalemark, so there needs to be a sequel sonetime. PLEEEEEEEEEZ! Meanwhile I'll write a hopeless sequel myself. I really admire the way you can put so much life into the characters, and make them good and have faults at the same time. That is something that makes all my stories look bad. Allie, age 12 The USA, The World, The Universe
From Els Vosselman
Hello Miss Wynne Jones, I am a girl from holland, I first read youre book when I was 8 years old. It was "The nine lives" I liked it so much that I read it three times after each other before I returned it to the libary.Not long after that, I took that book again and again and again. I even made my best friend read it.She liked it, but just to read it one time. Then suddenly the book disappeared out of the libary,and I joined an other libary just to see if they had this book. I never found it again until a few months ago. I visited www.bol.com, a book selling site and there I found it. Then I dicovered that you wrote more books. I want to read them all. I am 27 years old, bought youre book "The nine lives, now I bought the second book in the crestomanci series. I just know I will love it. I hoped to find you're adres on the internet, so I could write you a letter, but then I saw this site. I hope you will read this and know that even thouhg you're not so famous as harry potter is in this country, there are real fans here. I think I will become you're biggest fan. I still am looking for a full list which contains all of you're books, and hope I can get all of them here in holland. you made me dream when I was young. And believe me if I tell you that my youth wasn't very pleasant. You're story of that little boy,(I don't know if his name is cat in english) made me believe that even in the worse scenario, there is always hope. I hope you will forgive me my pore english, it was a little while ago that I went to school, and practised it.fortunedly I can read english perfectly, so if there are books that are not translated in dutch, I can buy them in english. Well I think I took enough of you're time now, so I will stop this message whith wishing you a long happy healthy live. Goodbye and greetings from Els Vosselman
From ?
I would like to know if there is a book after Year of the Griffin but I will find out myself. I really like your books and have read all the ones in the library. When my friends ask for some good books to read the first name that comes out of my mouth is "The Diana Wynne Jones books. Read them! Now!"
From Clara Ng-Quinn
Hi Diana! You are one of my favorite writers! I love your books! Theu're so witty and funny! They're the kind of books that when I finish one of your books I just flip back to the last page and start reading again, and it never gets boring. I read on your questions page that Disney isn't planning to show Howl's Moving Castle in theatres in Britain and i think that's a shame! I hope you get at least some say in what goes on in the production of the movie! I really hope you write lots and lots of Derkholm books! They're my favorite.
From Mary Elizabeth
Hello. I suppose you must have heard this a thousand times, but you are an amazing author. Most books are utterly predictable, with each charater fitted into their little slot and only doing what that slot permits them to do. Your books have never been like this. In particular I find myself coming back to 'Howl's Moving Castle' time and again. Your characters sparkle and pratically leap off the pages. And, like many others, I feel an odd attraction to Howl himself. I commend you for creating him, and writing in such a way that is always new and fresh and full of suprises. I'm also excitied to hear about the upcoming movie. I was wondering if it has a release date for the US yet? Thank you for bringing light to my life through your words.
From Blaire Slayder
Hi Diana! I am from Washington, U.S.A. I just wanted to tell you that I LOVED Howls moving castle and The castle in the air. I read them both in about 2 days! Im just hoping you will wright more about Howl and Sophie! One of your fans, Blaire
From jessica
Hi Diana, I think you are a wonderful writer, full of a glorious fantasy. Your type of writing makes the reader come in your book and enjoy it. If I have to be confident with you, well I read just half of "The lives of Christopher Chant" because I didn't have time but I will finish it. I am a person that understands from the first page of the book if I like the book or not. Infact when I came to my library and I saw your book, I stared at it and I opend it and read the first line..."who! it's wonderful" I thought. I wrout you to ask you something: When you were little what did you want to do when grew up? did you always want to do the writer? I ask you this because before I wanted to do the writer and I was sure I wanted but than I thought: "If the editor doesn't like my book?," If I don't get to uneversity?" and then I don't get how can someone write so long books?. So I was confused and I am... Please answear me - I just want to now what you think about it.
From Denise
Hello Mrs (Ms?) Jones! I hope you have managed to avoid any additional disasters lately -- your fans want to see you sticking around for a long time! ;^) I signed this book long ago, but wanted to mention that I did my senior thesis at the University of California at Berkeley on the psychological benefits of fantasy fiction for people that are outcast/disabled, relying largely upon your novels as examples, and got top marks. Also, considering the viewpoints in all of your novels and comments from your autobiography, I have been wondering if you have been evaluated for Asperger's High Functioning Autism? Until very recently, you were the only person I've read about that seems to experience the world the way I do, and I recently was diagnosed HFA partially based on those traits. (Most of the HFAs I've met online since then are the same too, so I am happily no longer alone. :^) No need to respond personally, as I'd much rather have you writing fantasy, though if you can sketch the idea into one of your great online lectures it would be quite neat. Keep yourself safe!
From Jamie
Dear Diana Shouldn't you continue your Chrestomanci books with a female Chrestomanci? Just an idea. Love your books!
From Miranda Whiteley
Dear Diana I'm with Stephanie (comments at the bottom of the page) who likes Fire & Hemlock, Hexwood and the Dalemark Quartet best. My sons Johnny and Gabriel (6) are loving Witchweek at the moment and I'm sure will be posting their own messages as soon as they are given access to the web. Lots of love Miranda
From Sean
Dear Diana I have been dying to know. Is there going to be another book about the Dark Lord of Derkholm? I ask this because i loved the books and i hope to see more of them coming. I also hope that you feel better and your health will get better.
From Margaret Fiore
Dear Diana, I'm a read-aholic mom with a read-aholic daughter, now 12 (her, not me) who found you through her. She brought home "Howl's Moving Castle" from her school library, and offered it to me, knowing I would like it. Of course, though she knew it was "good", she really is not - and especially then WAS not - discriminating enough to realize HOW good! (She will happily devour "Goosebump" books, Nancy Drews, Treasure Island, and Harry Potter, and realize only years later that Treasure Island is the one she wants to re-read over and over.) Since then I have looked for everything I can find with your name on it, and have never been disappointed. And now, I have turned the tables; I am the one now to find the Diana Wynne Jones books and hand them off to my daughter! Thank you so much for so many wonderful, rich, complex, believable, imaginative, unforgettable characters and stories!! Dogsbody, and then Archer's Goon (we have an "Awful"!), perhaps followed by Hexwood, and Howl, too, are favorites that both of us have and will re-read endlessly. But we continue to find and enjoy more! The Chrestomanci books, the Griffins, the Dalemark books - they are all so different from each other, and all so rich and real! Thank you, thank you, thank you! You cannot imagine how delighted we are each time we find another! I send you my utmost gratitude and appreciation.
From Adrian Buckle
Hi Diana. I have just discovered your website and found it very interesting. I read your hints on writing and FANTASy with great interest. I felt I had to write this message as a response. I am 30 years old, and aspiring to be a writer. For the time being, however, I do Theatre. You said that you feel you still haven't written a book that the reader would read over and over again. Well, I just finish reading 'The Crown Of Dalemark' and felt absolutely devastated the book had come to an end. I must consider it my favorite book together with the 'Lord of the Rings' and Lewis' "Till We Have Face". Incredibly, I liked Kialan's character more than the rest. He's like a seasoned actor, giving a special guest appearance in a play and upstaging all the main character with his presence and charm. I confess that the character has inspired me to do some writing of my own. Congratulations!
From Cairenn
hi diana my name is cairenn, i am from dublin ireland, i am a great fan of yours, and have only started to read your books, I have Fire and Hemlock, Power of three and Time of the Ghost. I hope to read many more of your novels because they are so inspiring to me and someday i want to become a writer my self. Many thanks for the hours of enjoyable reading. thank you for taking the time to read this.
From Neil Snowdon
Diana, At 25 i guess i'm a latecommer to your work... but i adore it. As someone who also writes and has far too many ideas heading for far too many different outlets (i can't help it, some stories seem best as prose, some illustrated, others as film, TV, Theatre... and so it goes on, aided and abbetted by my caffiene addiction)... i'd love to adapt your work to film (or TV or Theatre in some cases) but was wondering, which of your books hadn't already been picked up that way. Black Maria is the book i fell for you on, but i hear the rights may well have been bought. Thrilled about the Miyazaki film tho, his films are simply fantastic. Also, i'd love to send you some writing of mine and wondered the best direction to do that. I've had a hit and miss time getting thigns to authors via their publisher, some seem very good about it, others not so... what's the best way to go, and while i'm at it, i'd love to interview you some time. There. Done now. Don't ever stop writing. Neil Snowdon
From Wren McNally
Hi! I first got ahold of one of your books in grade 6, I started to read it but didn't finish it. In grade 8 I picked it up again and finished it then read it again and again and again. I have to be on about my 13 re reading of Howl's Moving Castle. I was delighted to hear about the movie make of it, I really like Studio Gibli and even though it won't be as good as reading the book, I trust they will turn out something respectful. I can't wait to see what Howl and Sophie look like! I've also read Archer's Goon, but had to take it back to the library or else it would have been properly worn by now. I love your imagination and will countinue to try to find more of your wonderful works. Thank you!
From Alexandra
Dear Diana My name is Alex Pollard. I have written short notes before, now I want to try a longer one. Does Howl actually exist somewhere? If he does, I would love to know him. I think I would get on well with him, I like arguing, and he sounds funny. I had a dream where he knew me and when he saw me he exclaimed " Oh no!" in horror. I think you ought to write about a cat someday. You can just let that sit in your brain until it gets jumbled up with other stuff, and you suddenly have tyo write a story or when you go to eat a banana you will put the banana in the bin and eat the peel. I have an antisocial cat called Jennifer, she is a tabby who loves glaring at you and ambushing people. Dad calls her Fang. I am writing a story about a witch called Andora Somerset, it has been rejected by one publisher so I'm sending it off again. One day you might be walking past a bookstore and think what an interesting book that looks like than find it's about a witch girl called Bobbie and her friends, and then you'll be able to say "I know who wrote this book!" I think JK Rowling copies too much. She takes an idea from one book, another from another book, and combines them. She is good at composting, but she needs to learn the 'change the idea' part of composting. I live in Australia, and I am 14 years old. Why do people not understand you don't MAKE stories, things just sit and jumble in your mind then KABOOM! you suddenly have to write a story that has miraculously appeared there? Bye! Good luck on more books! PS. I can never find books here! I only have 13. I love to read. I read 5 novels a day, normally.
From Justine
Dear Diana, I just loved your book "Howl's Moving Castle". It must have taken a lot of imangination. It has this "magic" that keeps you from putting it down. I just loved the way you portrayed the characters, even giving a fire a personality. I can see why they call you "Britain's best fantasy author." It's certainly true.
From ?
Sorry you have been so ill (Ansible news). All your readers wish you well for the most selfish of reasons - we get such joy from your writing, Please be well enough to carry on. You are unique. If all your fans think positive thoughts/pray according to their religion perhaps you will benefit?
From Hannah
Dear Diana, I love your books! They are my favorite books that I own. I like buying your books and reading them, then going back through them and illustrating them. My personal favorite is Howl's Moving Castle. I have read it fifteen times - my poor book is falling apart on its seams! Yet I laugh every time I read parts like, 'I shall die and then you will all be sorry'. I quote from it all the time! Which is your favorite book that you have written? You know, we are all clinging to that small thread that you left us hanging on in Castle in the Air - what happened after Abdullah and Flower-In-The-Night got married and moved into that house? What is Lettie's little girl's name? What about Michael and Martha? Who was the other apprentice that Howl kicked out? What about Howl, Sophie and Morgan? What happened to them after everything was put right? And I have one more question that is not related to my others: How do you create such loveable characters?
From Suzanne Spridgeon
I am an ardent fan of yours - and as a bookseller - you are my most regular recommendation (I usually plug Fire & Hemlock where I can - first read when I was about 10 - I'm now 28 and I'm still rereading it - still don't thoroughly understand it - but I'm atill as hopelessly in love with Tom as I was then and I always tell anyone I recommend it to that they can't have him because he's mine!) I have a faint recollection of reading a sequel to The Homeward Bounders - and I was most upset when all your books were reissued in the last couple of years to discover that I seem to have totally invented this. Have you done a short story on the subject that I haven't yet traced - or is it a totally false memeory? (perhaps Laurel has been at me because I won't let her have Tom!) I work in a lovely big bookshop in Canterbury - if you ever find yourself in the area - please drop into Methven's and say hello. I promise I'll only ask for my copies to be signed!
From Sandy Teich
Dear Diana: I'm on a total binge of your books, but have to thank you particularly for Deep Secret, which I loved more than life itself (but not more than Howl; *never* that). And thank you, THANK YOU for writing another book about Nick Mallory! As I finally put down DS last night at 3 am, I immediately thought: but what *happens* to Nick now? And what the heck will Rupert and Maree get up to? And now I only have to live through next April to find out! You are the bomb, as the kids say here -- you grant wishes as soon as they're uttered! I am so glad I found your books, and I am sending them out to all corners of this country. Everyone must know how great you are. Thank God Neil Gaiman loves you and writes about you in his weblog. Love, Sandy Teich in Los Angeles
From steven guild
hi again I fogot to mention I loved Chronicles of chrestomaci volume I so much that I read it in two days
From Nina
I'm really looking forward to the next book and I'm pretty glad to hear that it's about Nick Mallory because I loved Deep Secret. I'm definitely in agreement about American Gods but was surprised that it was related to Eight Days of Luke because I didn't spot it at all! I'm curious to know if you'll be doing any signings soon because I'd love to meet you (for 5 seconds). I'm embarking on a signing trip round London this summer starting with Neil Gaiman but I've met him before and damnit I'd rather meet you Diana (probably because at the age of 21 I've finally managed to work out what happened in Fire and Hemlock and Hexwood - it only took me seven/eight years :) )
From Carmel Harris
Diana, I was fascinated to read your biography. The neglect , emotional, physical and pyscological, is incredible. I don't believe suffering makes you a better person, but a sense of humour certainly helps you to cope. No wonder some of your books have a dark truth in them. My daughter and I love your books, and, as a primary teacher I try very hard to encourage children to read them. I do this by reading selected parts and asking them to guess what the story might be about. It often works. Please keep writing - we always look for your latest book and can't resist buying it. We also have our favourites that we return to time and again. One of my favourites is Hexwood. Many thanks for the pleasure you have given us! Carmel
From Lisa
Hi Diana, I hope your health is improving after surgery :) I write from New Zealand very excited about some research I have recently been doing in relation to the Chrestomanci series. I am particularly interested in The Magicians of Caprona. I love the depth of this book - the exploration of the multiverse, the history. I am sure I'm not telling you anything new when I say that I've twigged on to the fact that DeWitt was an investigator of quantum theory of the multiverse in the 1970s. I can't help but wonder if this theory is something that you are exploring actively in The Magicians of Caprona, this theory about the existance of parallel worlds and histories supported by physicists' work. I hope to draw out your "conclusions" shall we say, in further research. I am also fascinated by the apparent links in this book to Italian history in the middle ages - in particular the Guelphs and Ghibellines and the later split of the Guelphs into black and white: "the glorious Angel took the words back to heaven after the White Devil was vanquished". I have recently read Dante's Inferno and love how I can relate elements of this to your work. I hope I'm not reading too much into things! I just thought I'd send you some jottings to let you know how excited my mind is about your work over here in the antipodes! Best wishes Lisa
From Kim!! :)
Hi!!! I'm Kim, from Australia!!! Yay!! Oh, well anyway, I'm writing to say that I totally, totally adore your books!!! Well actually, everybody says that, but I thought you might like to hear it again anyway. :) Okay, well my faves are Archer's Goon and Charmed Life!! It would be so great if you ever write a sequel to either of them!!! There aren't many people who write like you, you know (at least not in Australia), so I have to read your books over and over again!! Just so you know, I like (and have read) practically every book you've ever published. I think the only one I didn't like so much was A Sudden Wild Magic, because I just didn't understand it. Hmm.... maybe you have to be twenty or something to understand it. I'm still only 17. But it's still a pity they don't stock your books in the shops... I have to get Mum to order them for me!!! So this is just to say please don't ever stop writing, because you're so good at it!! I mean, I'd write myself, but I don't have enough concentration for it. Which is why I'm relying on you!! Keep it up!! OK!! Thanks!! Bye!! ;)
From Leslie D
Hi! I read alot of your books and checked out this fan forum finnaly came up with a question. Now, you made sequels to alot of your most famous books like the Chrestomanci(sp? sorry) series and your Howl Series. I really do like both and all of your other works that I've read. But what happened to the charecters in the Dalemark Quartet? I've read the whole thing and I would love it if you could make another book about them. I know that it's been 20+ years since you finished them and I'm only like the only in the forum that asked about this series but could you please just think of even a rough draft about a new series?
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