Questions for Diana Wynne Jones

The Official

Diana Wynne Jones

Website

Those burning questions ...

QUESTIONS FOR DIANA

These are all the general questions which were asked between March and late July 2001. (There's a separate page for questions about the Chrestomanci books.) Diana is answering these now and her replies will be available on the site soon.

From Lindsay Hill

Are there any movies or television versions of any of your books, or any in the making or planning? If there are any, could you tell me where to find them in Canada, or even the UK? Also, what books would you recommend that have great characters or settings that really make the imagination? I've been reading and re-reading your books for years, and have found few to compare with the full complement of great character, humor, setting that is wonderfully new but somehow familiar . . . I love the way you don't insult the reader by explaining every detail three times or state it too pointedly just to make sure we know we have to notice it for the story to work. The way your books are written is so vivid and evokes so much of the reader's own imagination (is ther something hidden in the average psyche that you know how to refer to that others miss?) that your books are some of my favourite inspirations in my wish to be a writer. Wow, that sounds soppily banal, but I guess you must be used to it, eh?

I'm an 18 year old Canadian, currently spending a year in Bavaria as an exchange student. I've been trotting around for the last few years saying that 'Harry Potter is all very well, but doesn't go very deep, and SURE AS HELL AREN'T THE FIRST ONES LIKE IT!' If more people had listened to me when I started to sing your praises the first time I discovered you by happy chance in the Library ten years back, they'd know it too. Thanks for breaking ground in the area of interesting intelligent younger reader's books. Oh, if you haven't read it, 'The Perilous Gard' by Elizabeth Marie Pope is a beautiful Tam Lin following tale.

From Caroline Milne

This is not a question nor does it require a reply. I read as many of your books as I could find when I was about 12 - I am now 36, and they still stand out in my mind as being some of the best reads of all time - this from a confirmed bibliophile. I just want to say thanks. Actually, they were libray books - I would like to know where your old titles are available for purchase.

From Elizabeth Brown

Dear Diana, I'm a new reader of your books and I was wondering if you were a little upset about the Harry Potter boom and some of the "adaptations" JK Rowling made from your books?

19 and wishing the bookshops had more of your stuff

From Liz Cotterell

I was just wondering why your books have been so hard to get hold of in Australia? I first read "The Homeward Bounders" (bought in the US) when I was 9 and have been hooked ever since (it is still my favourite). I managed to acquire a couple more and kept finding references to other books that I hadn't read inside the front covers - though I was unable even to order them! Through sheer persistence and several overseas trips I have managed to find and read all of your books (as I am now living in the UK, I am getting orders from my family for the back catalogue!) - and have thoroughly enjoyed every one of them. Unfortunately I can't seem to make them last, though I try - I devoured "The Year of the Griffin" in a couple of days. Any chance you could make them longer?

I'm 26, and still shop in the 'children's' section of bookshops! (so much more imagination) I love the way your characters always have so much personality and humour - when I read Harry Potter, it reminded me so much of your books I wondered why everyone thought it was all so new!

From Aifric Ní Ruairc

Dear Diana, I would really love for you to write another book about Sophie and Howl. They are so interesting and I want to know more about them. I loved Howls's Moving Castle and Castle In The Air. Any chance of another?

I am 11 years old. I love reading but your books are my favourite. I think that even J.K. Rowling robs your i

From Richard Starfield

Do you think that anyone can become an author if they really want to, or does it require a special talent you have to be born with (like magic in your books)?

I'm sixteen, and several times I've tried to start writing a book during a long holiday, but the plot often turns where I'm not expecting and then everything gets muddled... I have really enjoyed all of your books which I have read so far. The first one I read was The Lives of Christopher Chant, and I love the idea that somewhere there might be universes with magic in them... I've just read Power of Three - the next one I want to read is Deep Secret but I don't know if I'll be able to get it. I read a question on this page about time travel - my theory is that it may have occured/will occur/be occuring because if we discovered it now, would we rush off to medievil times and attempt to explain it to them? I think not - we'd probably say "leave them alone - they were happy the way they were" and anybody attempting to prove otherwise might "vanish"... In the Dalemark Quartet, does Drowned Ammet occur at a similar time to Cart and Cwidder? And is Tanaqui really Cennoreth? It seems to be hinted at throughout the book but its never said directly, although The Weaver does call Mage Mallard 'Duck' at some point, doesn't she? I think Hexwood is one of the best books I've ever read. Please keep writing, and thanks so much for answering the questions of the populace. Richard.

From Rosalind

At the end of the Time of the Ghost each of the children give up something to Monigan. Although I am sure I understand what most of them gave could you tell me what the flowers symbolised?

From Rosey

I know the next book to be re-published of yours is going to be The Time Of The Ghost, so will you be doing any book sighnings? Infact, will you be doing any talks/sighnings any time soon?

I'm 14 and a very big fan. My favourite books are The Magicians Of Caprona, Fire and Hemlock and Mixed Magics. Also, please answer my questions!!!

From Rosie Benson

Dear Diana (I hope it's OK to call you that) Ms Wynne Jones sounds so - well - formal! I wondered if you have any thoughts about the following? I love the idea of a centaur asking for sanctuary of the ladies who used to inhabit nunneries or monasteries and who were not nuns! Could it be done? Has it been done by you? Anyway, about Nunneries. I was attempting a very dull Masters of Philosophy on Women's Studies a couple of years ago and discovered much to my glea, that nunneries in the early Medieval era were often for rich women who ganged up together, took all their money that they did not want to give away in marriage to undeserving pillagers who wanted them as chattels, and set up nunneries, so that they could live in peace and quiet. They built (or took over as patrons of) existing nunneries or monasteries (who were grateful because they found people who could cook amongst the women's entourages!) and using the high walls and willing peasants who worked for them to protect them (not counting the monks who were adept at staff fighting) they survived in female communes, intact in body and soul! Your comments about the dirt, smell and general itchiness of life at that time made me think about these 'gracious ladies'. What do you think would happen? I hope the spring and summer is beautiful: we are just emerging into winter and the cold - my birthday 21/3 is no longer the first day of spring but nearly winter! Thank you for reading this. Blessed be RosieB. xx

I am a crone, a teacher and mother of many (natural and other)young ones who find sanctuary with us from time to time. ALthough I live in W. Australia I was born in Britain - and intend returning to teach at the end of 2001. I am a solitary witch, healer and comforter. I enjoy your books - they are special. Thank you.

From Jack

Sorry to bother you, but I need to know the following for a school report: What comments do you have about your book, Dogsbody? Thank you for your consideration.

From Milly Lapikens

Do you have any more information on TIBBLES, such as what kind of things she has done in the past. AS I am doing an English project on her. Thank You very much. Milly

I am 12 years old and love all of your books is there going to be another Dogsbody type book?

From Jennifer Rowland

Reading the answers to other peoples' questions, my own start bubbling up. You say there are gaps in the Dalemark series- how much of the history between Spellcoats and Cart and Cwidder do you know? It seems to be thousands of years later. It would be lovely to find out about some of the things a bit later than Spellcoats, when Tanaqui's family have "gone undercover" but the stories about them are still new and the Undying are still visibly meddling. By the modern time of Crown, it all seems to have gone very prosaic- how much magic still exists? Have the Undying deliberatly left, or been pushed out by people forgetting about them? How do people without a birth certificate get on in that world? Oh yes, and where did the oldest Undying, like the One, come from? Are they people who got trapped into godly roles, or something more, like nature spirits? Gosh, sorry. Once I get started thinking about some of your books there are always questions, and yet they are so satisfying! And I certainly don't want to force answers to things you left ambiguous on purpose, or try and get you to write sequels to old books when there are new ones wanting to emerge.

From Kerrie L.

Dear Diana Wynne Jones, Thank you very much for giving me permission to quote from your article on 'Heroes' in my thesis--though I'm afraid it looks like I won't be getting to that chapter, or the 'heroines' paper, for quite a while now! So much to write, only one and three-quarter years left to do it in...Thanks for your good wishes, too; I hope they 'take'.

The first book of yours that I read was Power of Three. That and Michael de Larrabeiti's Borribles books got me onto fantasy for life. I'm thrilled that PoT is being reprinted along with the Chrestomanci books and other well-known ones, because it's great, but no-one I speak to seems to have read it!

From Seamus Feeny

dear diana, i was wondering if there was any way i could write to you moer directly via e-mails or a postal address im a big fan and also a writer though i am only 18. i live in ireland and there are a couple of things i'd like to disscuss with you. this of course is only if you want to and you have the time.one of the topics im particularly interested in discussing with you is the involvement of northern ireland in dogsbody. due to the reprints of your books i've manage to read all the old ones i never got a chance to like dogs body and so on. Anyway i hope that we can find some type of arrangement if not dont worry about it thank you very much Séamus feeney

18 male ireland - been a fan for many a year.

From Marie Denley

In preparing a recent lecture on Fire and Hemlock for my Children's Fantasy Literature course, I looked closely at names, titles etc. and their sources. (Well, I am a medievalist trained partly by your husband, whom I admire just as much as I admire you, so you can expect that kind of minute pedantry!) (1) The 'heroic' titles: is 'Tan' anything to do with the Welsh for 'Fire', as a sort of honorific - 'the fiery one'? (2) Does 'Coul' have any relation to Finn Mac Cool, as a prominent Celtic hero? (3) I'm stumped about the origins of the other heroic names of the Dumas Quartet members. Are they out of your head? (4) I'm also stumped with 'Obah Cypt'. I keep wanting it to be either an anagram, or related to some other form of wordplay/word-and-idea associative pattern, devices you use prominently in the book (e.g. with the permutations of Nowhere, or with the poisonous-plant female names, Ivy and Laurel). I've always been hopeless at anagrams in crosswords.However, my students weren't able to spot anything so I feel slightly less obtuse. I have read around quite a lot to try to solve these; I apologise if I've missed an obvious source. Perhaps I shouldn't be nit-picking like this, but Fire and Hemlock is such a patterned book that you offer the temptation.(For example, I assumed that Hunsdon House was the eighties version of Huntly Bank from the ballad.) Writing that lecture was probably the most enjoyable experience of my career. Thank you for writing a superbly rewarding novel, and for being willing to answer questions.

From Paul Andinach

I've been rereading 'The Dark Lord of Derkholm' recently, and some of the character names have been bothering me; I keep getting the feeling that there's some trick to the pronunciation. Is "Derk" pronounced to rhyme with "irk" or "ark"? Is there some trick to Mr Chesney's name, or is it pronounced the way it's spelled? Are there any other character names (in any of your books) with tricky pronunciations we should know about?

I'm 20 years old, and I live in Australia. I've been a Diana Wynne Jones fan for years and years and years. I think the world would be a dimmer and less interesting place without any Diana Wynne Jones books in it. Thank you very much, Diana.

From Tawen

Just wanted to say how much I love your books. It's great that you are on the web! (I still remember once burning to tell a Canadian singer how much I liked her CD and, after writing a long letter, finding out at the post office that the envelope has to be a certain size to be sent to Canada. I think the letter is still in my backpack somewhere....) Also, just out of curiosity, since someone else talked about a paper you wrote re: heroes v. heroines--where can I find the article? Do you find it easier to write about girls than about boys? I am interested because I was writing to friends of mine about what I was reading, and realized that all the authors I was reading (and actually all my favorite authors) were women. (Well, except for Garth Nix.) After thinking about it I realized that it's mostly because I very seldom like female characters written by men--I won't name names, but some of them make me want to throw the book against the wall and pull out all my hair. On the other hand, all the male characters I love are created by women. (I've been half in love with Will from Dark is Rising for years, and Miles Vorkosigan is so interesting! 'course, hands off now that he's getting married!) Also, why is it that most of the fantasies for "young adults" are so much better than most of the fantasies written for adults? (There are some really great fantasies for adults out there, but most of them are so darn predictable! And the characters and plot are not nearly so much fun!) Do you have any recommendations other than the ones you've already mentioned? (I do like most of Tanya Huff's stuff, and I really like Bujold, as you can probably tell :-) I guess what I really want is to combine the quality of the "YA" fantasies with the length of the fantasies for adults, because I really love fat books that'll occupy me for days.... Do you think the combination is possible/likely? Anyway, enough rambling. I am sorry this is so long, and turned out to be more about me than about the books. I am undoubtedly a wee bit too self-centered. :-(

From Michela Ecks

Hello, My name is Michela Ecks. I am working on a paper for an english class at Northern Illinois University on fan fiction and copyright. For this paper I was hoping I could have some information from one of my favorite authors whom there is little to know information on this topic on the net. I was also hoping that I could have permission to post that information to my web site at http://writersu.s5.com/ and in particular to the page at http://writersu.s5.com/law/policy.html though I only really need the information for my paper. At any rate, if you have the time, I would be very happy if you could answer the following questions pertaining to fan fiction and copyright in regards to your own work for me: 1. Do you have a set policy regarding fan fiction derived from your stories? 2. If you have such a policy, what is it and why did you implement it? 3. If you have such a policy, is this a policy that you created yourself or was it created at an agent or lawyer's behest? (Which is the case with Katherine Kurtz, and Mercedes Lackey...) 4. If you allow fan fiction derived from your work, why? (Terry Pratchett was quoted some where as saying that it creates good will among fans. J.K. Rowlings said somewhere she found it flattering.) 5. What are you general feelings on fan fiction? Do these feelings differ when it is fan fiction based say on books versus television? Thank you for taking the time to read this note :o) Any help would be greatly appreciated.

From cameron busch

are you going to make another series? i like your books.

From Christian Nutt

Is Deep Secret set in the same multiverse as Hexwood and Dragon Reserve, Home Eight? The reason I ask is because I just got done rereading Deep Secret and I noticed that there's an "Albion" alluded to, as there was in Hexwood. Right now I'm too muddled to figure out if the books are mutually exclusive so I figured I'd just ask.

23, Fan of DWJ since ~12, started with The Lives of Christopher Chant and never stopped.

From B Bishop

Dear Diana, well, after the Chrestomanci series I did go on to read your other books and I love them all! So whether or not you write another Chrestomanci book makes no difference to me anymore just keep writing! I especially liked Dogsbody, Howl's Moving Castle, Drowned Ammett. I am now down to the last two or so books you've written and am already in dread of the Wynne Jones withdrawal pains. You're the best! If you can stand a trivial question I'd like to know where you write. If it's a study what does it look like and what kind of things are in it. Thanks!

From LeighAnna

Dear Diana, I've always liked your books, well, since I discovered them, which wasn't too long ago. How do you deal with being so famous? Do people stop you for your autograph all the time? Please answer! Your Number One Fan, LeighAnna

I'm twelve years old and I like to write myself. Do you have any tips for an aspiring writer?

From Faigie

Thank you so much for your answer! About the dreams, there is one I typed up, because it was so vivid and stuck out in my mind so much. It's online at http://www.geocities.com/halite.geo/dream.html ...Let me know if anything in it interests you, or if you want to hear about the other dreams. You wouldn't want to e-mail me, would you? (By the way, I'm a jeweler-in-training, that kind of shows up in the dream.) Archer's Goon is really a favorite of mine, probably because it is so unexpected and original. Hmm... This is supposed to be a question? Okay. Are you thinking of starting a new series, with totally new characters? Or another single book that can stand on its own? How long does it generally take for you to write a book? Well, I could go on and on, but I think that's enough for now. Thanks!

From Ann Zald

I would like to know who represents the film and television rights for Ms Wynne Jones' books? I work for a company called RightsCenter.com. We have compiled an online database that catalogs books and authors in which film and tv companies might be interested. We'd like to include you in the database. To do so, all we need is a contact name, phone number and email address for either yourself or your literary representatives. If the rights to your works are held by your publishers, then we merely need to know which publishers should be contacted. Note that there is no fee to be included in the Film Rights Directory. If you'd like to speak to me directly about this project so you can better decide whether you'd like to participate, please let me know. Best Regards, Ann K. Zald

From Nozomi Murray

You were kind enough to answer a question I had posted earlier, but slightly misinterpreted part of it (not unreasonable given my long convoluted sentences): you had understood me to be mildly criticizing "Eight Days of Luke," which is far from the case, I adore it. I hope all is well with you. Just wanted to say this, please don't feel you have to answer it. :)

From Daniel Holleb

Hi my name is Daniel and I'm 13 years old. I really enjoyed your books: Dark Lord of Derkholm, and Year of the Griffen. I have not, however, read any of your other books and I was wondering if you could give me your opinion on which of the other books you have written are most similar to those. I would also like to ask you if the next book you are writting has the same charecters as the Griffen books.You don't have to answer the second question if you don't want to but I'd like it you could at least answer the first.

I've read a lot of great fantasy books ( Tolkien, Dune, and many many more) and I'd just like to say that the two of your books are in the top five.

From Katy E.

Hi Diana! My name is Katy. I'm 13 years old and in the 7th grade. I just wanted to tell you that I think your books are the best. How many more books do you plan on writing? What's it like to live in England? I'm from America. Bye, Thanks for your time, Katy E.

From Bob

How do you start writing? Do you just sit down and write, or do you make a lot of webs, character outlines, and drafts first?

Age: 11 Gender:F Ambition: to become a writer

From jane h-k

Dear Diana, Are you going to write another book about Vivian from a Tale of Time City?

I am 11 years old and my friend Madeleine(she has already written to you)and I have read all the books by you that we can get our hands on.

From Karissa Smith

My name is Karissa. Do you have an address? Can You give it to me please.It is for a school project.

I am 11.I read Witch Week. I liked it. ButIt had a Questional ending. it could have been better. Also, I want to be an author someday too.

From Liz

I just finished reading The Year of the Griffin and was wondering if there are going to be any more books about Derkholm.

From Aaron Casto

I was wondering how you came to make the story of Howls Moving Castle?

I am 13 and have read Howls Moving Castle 4 times.

From nadine

i just have to say, i think your books are amazing, and i think you are one of the most underrated childrens author! but what do you think of the harry potter series by j.k. rowling?

From Nadine Oelschlager

Dear Diana, Where in all the worlds do you get your ideas from?! You certanly have a lot of them. I have read both the Chronicles of Chrestomanci volumes one and two and "Cart and Cwidder", book one in the Delemark Quartet (witch, really which, you probobly already know, the book one part, that is). My very favorite book that I've ever read is "Cart and Cwidder". I think it's really good. Now I'm going to tell you a little bit about myself. First of all, my name is Nadine. I am 10 years old, and I am in fourth grade in Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA. Please take the time to write back, it really means a lot to me. P.S. Are you going to write any more books? I hope you will.

From Hannah

Hi my name's Hannah and I'm sorry if someone's already asked this but I couldn't find it anywhere. But, is there a sequel to Year of a Griffin? I bought it last week and I'd finished it the same day. It was absolutely brilliant and I read it again the following day, but I desperately need more of the same!!!! Is there a sequel? If there isn't, please please please can you write another? Write a whole series. Twenty if not more!!!! And make Kit and Elda the main characters!!! Please!!!! I first read the Skiver's guide when I found it a jumble sale and I was hooked. I didn't manage to find anymore of your books until I found a section in my local bookshop saying "if you liked Harry..you'll love this" and they had all your Chrestomanci series. Ever since, I've have been begging, cajoling and threatening my friends with death (not really) to read your books. I really love the world you've created with Dark lord of Derkholm and all that's keeping me going through my AS-levels is that someday you will write a third instalment if one doesn't already exist!!! A little bit of emotional blackmail will do my cause no end of harm but I want to say that you are a brilliant and humane writer and I think your books deserve to be as widely known as HP as they are just as good if not better. So I say it again! Please please please please please write more books about Derk's world, I know it's not up to me and I can't force you but I'm still going to try! Thanks for all you've written, Hannah (o:

I'm 16 and I live in London. I am an AS-level student and I don't know whether to study Chemistry or English at university, Arg! (o: I love reading I miss it so much, now that I have so litle time. Thanks for many hours of pleasure in the school library and at home when I've been reading your books.

From Irene

WHY IS THERE NOTHING ON THE INTERNET ABOUT YOUR BOOK POWER OF THREE I READ IT AND THOUGHT IT WAS THE BEST BOOK EVER

From mooey:-]

diana how come most of your books are fantasy and adventure? Are you coming to vic in the next 2 years pleas come to bendigo?????

im 11 years old i go to school in Australia vic bendigo I have almost finished Castle in the Air. i love it

From Lisa Jo Rudy

Dear Diana, I discovered your books as a grown up -- introduced by an editor who was helping me along with my own YA novels. I believe the first book I read was Witch Week -- and I found it to be one of the most original and intriguing works of fantasy I had ever read. I'm reading my way through your entire booklist now. Yet somehow, even with an interest in YA fantasy and SF, no one had ever sung your praises to me! Knowing all that -- I have to ask you how you feel about the extraordinary reactions folks are having to Harry Potter. I had one friend of my parents tell me how marvelous it was that someone had come up with the idea of writing about a school for wizards... and how wonderful to read about MAGIC of all things! I mean -- they're great fun, well written -- but Rowling seems to be getting credit for inventing the fantasy genre! Thanks so much for your thoughts.

Would you be willing to read and/or comment on unpublished sf/fantasy? I know this is probably an outrageous imposition but hey -- it can't hurt to ask!

From austin (from Tulsa)

Hi, I just want to let you know you should consider making your books into movies. Also, I would like to know if you are considering making a 3rd book, if so then when should I look for it? I also want to know a little more about the GUY FAWKES thing, and if part of your new book (if your making one!)will be about Guy. Finally,(a question I've ALWAYS wanted to ask), HOW do you come up with all the NAMES and personalities?????? Well, any way, gotta go!

I'm 11 years old and I live in Tulsa Oklahoma. I LOVE your books! Thank you soooo much for writing them.

From Maria Lourdes

When is your birthday? What are your parents names? What was your birth city and state? Who was your hero or role model in you life? Would you ever think of doing presentation about your self for a high school? perhaps mine? You don't have to consider this tought. It would be great to have you there even though I don't think you'll be in San Antonio on 5/17/01. Thank You, for taking your time in reading this!

I'm a high school student doing a final exam on an english paper on Mrs. Diana Wynne Jones and found it to be intresting that I would actually be writing to my author!

From Hannah

Dear Diana I have been a fan of yours for about a year or so now, after I picked up Charmed Life by chance in a bookshop. I would just like to say that all your books are FANTASTIC and I really really love them. I've read almost all of them and my favourite is probably Fire and Hemlock because Tom is so likeable and, well, just plain nice. I think your books are WAY better than Harry Potter. Anyway, is Power of Three published in Harper Collins now because I haven't seen it anywhere. Also, could you give me some advice (pretty please) on writing fantasy, because my LIFELONG DREAM is to get published. Sorry this question is so long, and _please_ could you write some more books soon???

I am 13 years old, a sulky teenager whose life has been CHANGED by DWJ's books from wandering round in bookshops looking for decent fantasy books to an ardent collecter of her stuff.

From jenny

In 'Hints on Writing' you mention that you start planning stories with a beginning, an end and a clear image of a 'scene' somewhere in the middle. If you remember, I'd love it if you could describe the central images in the Lives of C. C. (my favourite) and maybe some others. Thanks!

i've gone through a crazed re-reading of your books every year since i was twelve. Now at 21, i pick up Lives of Christopher Chant whenever i can to combat the nasty effects of required texts and the Heiddeger/Chomsky/blahblah-analysis of university. i'm also known to recommend your books to children in bookstores, (who seem lately to gravitate towards horrible series full of sleepovers, and horses and boys) but unfortunately, they've been trained to ignore strangers.

From Meera

Hi Diana, my question for you is about one of your short stories, The Master. I don't get it! Who is the master, why does he keep wolves, who is the dead woman in the forest, who is the strange man that the Lady meets and why was she called there? This story has puzzled me for years. I absolutely adore your books. I just wish you were more well known here in Canada. Whenever I tell someone that my favourite author is Diana Wynne Jones, they say, "Who?" The first book of yours that I read was The Lives of Christopher Chant, which I picked up for 25 cents at the local library. After that I just devoured all the other books that I could find. I think The Tough Guide to Fantasyland is just hilarious. There are so many bad fantasies out there, as I'm sure you know! I think the Harry Potter books are highly overrated. Sure, they're fun to read, but your books have so many more original plots and characters. Thank you so much for being you!

From CC

What is your favorite fantasy series or book that you like to read? This is not including your own. If so, do you consider a good book for your fans to read? Are you going to continue the dalemark quartet with maybe Mitt finding Maewen?

From Shaun

Hi Diana, I don't mean to be irritating, just curious. My question is: between your own books and JK Rowling's Harry Potter books, whose would you prefer to read and why? Have you read all of the HP books? Do they fascinate you?

I'm 22 this year

From monique

where in wales did you live? and was it the lake district

could you please send me the answer asap as it is for a book review

From Clara C

Hello Mrs. Jones....I am Clara from Malaysia...When your first book came out in the bookstores, I thought the covers were funky and the stroryline were quite interesting so i bought them...I heard that a film based on the Howl's Moving Castle Book is coming out...When is it coming to Malaysia???And I can't wait to buy the Fire and Hemlock book..I heard it is really interesting...How come ur books come out late in Malaysia???Sorry to ask such dumb questions...And why don't you write more books about magic (like Harry Potter)???Anyway, I admire your style of writting so keep it up...Lots of people in Malaysia enjoy your books as much as Harry Potter!Keep writing!!!

errrmmm...i am your BIG fan!!!

From Elly

I wanted to say thank you. Your books fitted right in with my imagination and I'm glad because they gave me other worlds to go to when this one didn't start out as very nice. They weren't the only things but your books helped and I'm still here! I hope you don't mind that I wrote this. Aside from reading I guess it is inevitable that I also love writing, I can't not do it and I would like to share it. I'll only know if people want to share it too if I try to get it out there so I was wondering what your advice on getting an agent would be? It seems the best way would be personal recommendation but I don't know any authors. Anyway thanks again for the books, I'm glad you find such pleasure in what you do. Thankyou in advance for any advice and I hope I haven't taken up too much of your time.

I'm 21 now just finished my degree and off to see the world!

From Gabriella Zeugin

Dear Mrs. Diana Wynne Jones, Would you please consider adding more Dalemark Quartet books? I just finished The Crown of Dalemark and it left me hanging horribly! If you made another book in The Dalemark Quartet series would you mind writing about Mitt and Maewen? The end of the fourth book broke my heart. I can't stop thinking about how Maewen screamed,"Mitt!" I can't stop wishing there was another book in which Maewen could see Mitt again for a long period of time. Thanks, Gabriella Zeugin

Age:11 (12 : August 20) Your books I've read: All Chrestomanci and the Dalemark Quartet series Favorite type of books: Fantasy (as in magical stuff)

From Candice Guinan

Ms.Jones, I'm dying to know, do Maewen and Mitt ever get together? When I read "The Crown" I was glad I was in my room because when Maewen realized her friends had died 200yrs ago I burst out crying! At first I really couldn't stand Mitt, but I grew to love him. Can you pretty pretty please with a gumdrop on top write another book about Dalemark? Either that or a sequal to Hexwood. I love the Bannus as well as Mordion and Veirran. Thanks a million!!!

I think I'm your biggest fan in the tri~state area. I'm fifteen and discovered your book Witch Week in the library. I read that first, then discovered it was the last in the series.

From Justin

I'm currently reading the Derkholm books and went back to read the Tough Guide as prep (Loved the mention of "Gna'ash" in Dark Lord of Derkholm :)! ) and realized the map is Europe upside down. Then I further realized that the placenames, for the most part, are anagrams of real places (Caysib=Biscay; Rowany=Norway) and was wondering if that was intentional? If so, what does "Nuneaton" represent? Also, will Harper keep the books in constant print? I've been picking them up as I find them, but stores have been having a difficult time ordering them.

Charmed Life was actually the first fantasy I ever read, followed by the other three Chrestomanci books. Now, at 17, I've read all the big authors, including all the works of yours I can find in the Seattle area. Thanks for getting me into this wonderful genre!

From Abigail Moxon

Dear Diana, Everyone says this, but I wanted to tell you aswell, just how much I enjoy your books. I read my first, 'Archer's Goon' when I was about 8, but my favourite has to Be 'Howl's Moving Castle'. I couldn't get hold of your books for years, but my sister got me 'Howl's Moving Castle' for my recent 21st birthday, hurrah! When reading it the first time when I was 8 I simply thought that Howl was a brilliant character, but re-reading it as a much older female made me realise how attractive he is! The same goes for Chrestomanci, resulting in much discussion with my sister over whether it would be more enjoyable to live in the moving castle with Howl or with Chrestomanci in his castle. (I decided Howl, she decided Chrestomanci). I was wondering if you created them as men that you yourself would find attractive or more as characters to appeal to children?

My sister is called Sophie and is the eldest of three girls like Howl's Sophie,and my other sister is called Francesca, the same name 'Castle in the Air' is dedicated to.

From Jen Dederich

Why did you choose to write fantasy books? Why was Gwendolen able to use up Cat's lives?

I am a sophmore at Lincoln High School in Wisconsin Rapids, WI, and I really enjoyed your book.

From Erica

Do you believe in describing the character's physical appearance right away or letting the story clues come together to form it's own mental image?

I am 12 years old and truly hope to become an author when I "grow up" I would really appreciate an answer to my question, because I am currently writing a short story. An English teacher told me that I shouldn't describe the physical characteristics right away and not out right. I'm not so sure I agree with her. I need some advice.

From Dorothy Cleary

I don't have a question, but I was delighted to see in a local bookstore that you had recently been republished with fancy covers, and that you are enjoying a richly deserved wave of publicity. Although I have nothing agianst the ubiquitous Harry Potter, my first thought on reading him was that Diana Wynne Jones had been around for ages beforehand, and was MUCH better, so why wasn't she also a multi- millionaire? My family (now 20 and 18) LOVED your books, read them avidly, and my husband and I really enjoyed reading them out loud - the first one I found was the one about the new stepfather - The Ogre Downstairs? - which I still remember with pleasure. So, more power to you! Dorothy Cleary

From Anna Beyer

I was wondering if you mind others writing fanfiction on your books and posting them online (at a place such as fanfiction.net). Most writer whose books are the center of fanfic there dont mind, but some sections have been deleted recently at the request of the author. Also, I was wondering exactlly how big an event must be to split a world. Does it need to be a war or something on that scale, or do small things such as whether or not to press the snooze button create more worlds. I ask because I wonder how it can be decided if events are large enough to create a split. In Chrestomanci's world, are females treated as equals of males, or are they stuck in the dark ages in that sense?? Are females just as likely to become powerfully magical as males, or is that rather rare? :) I hope i havent bored you have to death with my questions. I think your a marvelous writer, and I can't wait till your next book comes out!!!

I am 13 and I live in a small town in the mountains of North Carolina, in the US. I can daydream new stories for days on end just by reading a chapter of one of your stories. No other writer has this efect on me, and I hope you keep writing for many years to come.

From Bonnie

What is the best way to start a book? Do you start with a conversation or a description. I usually start with a description but I find that when I do that I get into a dead end later on, having nowhere to go from there. Also, when I've read books by other people, I tend to not notice the descriptions, but just take it in. But, when I write descriptions they go very flowery and you lose interest. How can I stop this from happening?

From Rose

When will you make the sequel to Year Of The Griffen?

I love your books andI love to read. I hope you keep up the hard work.

From Natalie Costa Bir

You have some very imposing and impressive males in your series, I was very taken by Woden's blue eyes, Mr Lynn, Mordian, Howl, Christopher Chant as Chrestomanci, and so on. Where did you get inspiration for these wonderful men? (if anywhere) - All other portrayals of Woden I've seen are rather ugly, and bloody, and include the single bulging eye.

Dear Ms Wynne-Jones, I have been reading your books since I was in year four, and I must say on an aside that I am quite shocked at all these adults who are raving about Harry Potter, because I -know- you were published when they were younger! How they could have missed you I don't understand! I can't even describe my pleasure when I realised you were being republished. (it was along the lines of 'Glory Be! There is a God! And he/she reads books!')My favourite, perhaps because it was the first I read - is "Witch Week", I always laugh hysterically when I come to the scene where Nan is accusing Charles, and vice versa, and she comments on his feet. Your humour has always made me love your books, and the amount of times I have reread them -especially now that I own them instead of borrowing them- are uncountable. Abdullah is especially funny with his prudence, and 'the soldier' in the Panarch's dress or similar...

From jenni

about the book fire and hemlock, who is that woman Laurel suppose to be, like what kind of a moster is she and did she die?? what happened to the people after the car(horse) knocked into the rose bushes? what does the fire and hemlock picture signify? how did they overcome polly's charm

From Ven

I suspect this is unanswerable but "Are you or have you ever been a magid?" And to make up for being awkward, "What question do you wish readers would ask you?"

The first question came to me last time I was reading Deep Secret and I just couldn't resist asking.

From Elle Groch

I'm doing a school progect and I was wondering if you could please tell me your nationality, were you live(if you dont mind), previouse occupations and your age. and anything else you think is important and would make my project better. thank you from Elle P.S i love your chrestomanci books i think they're great

im 12 but i cant thik of any thing else to say. so bye

From Eleanor Gilbert

Hi my name is Eleanor Gilbert I live in New Zealand .Do you have a email or an address you could give me.I am a really good fan of yours my favourite books are the Qreastomanci ones so Iwas really excited when the libary got all of them. Well got to go now. Thanks Eleanor

My age is 10!

From kate n alex

Hi this is kate and alex, kate first got into Diana Wynne Jones as a child (7?) because her big sister was borrowing lots of DWJ books from the local library. Her first favourite was The Power of Three. Kate recently got Alex into Diana Wynne Jones. alex had been a housemate of kate's a year previously, and all he knew of dwj at that stage was that kate would disapear into her bedroom for weeks on end whenever she had an essay due, and dwj was the excuse. then earlier this year alex had too much work to do. luckily, kate gave him witch week. he then graduated to howl's moving castle, castle in the air. after that alex went back to study but suffered a relapse a week later - archers goon, hexwood, fire and hemlock, and just last night finished sudden wild magic. alex's burning question: i'm intrigued by the re-occurrence of gnostic themes in yr work. wisdom forgetting the task it was sent into this world to perform, forgetting one's true identity etc. i wonder: is this something you self-consciously 'work', or does it just come about of its own volition? kate's burning question: people have said that your work isn't exactly fantasy per se. Fantasy has a bit of a cheesy element (i.e. dungeons and dragons sort of stuff) how should we describe your books when we describe it to people? it's not exactly fantasy, it's not sci-fi, it's not 'everyday life'. it's also not indoctrinated with an element of moralism, like CS Lewis for example. what is the best way to describe it from your perspective?

australia

From Cody Kinker

What do you think of the Harry Potter series? Are you going to write a sequel to your book Witch Week? (thats my favorite book you have written) Also do you write the anwers yourself?

13years old male

From Tamary S.

I've just finished reading The Ogre Downstairs again, and I'm curious about the Greek motorcycle gang near the end -- is that really what they are? Were they just transplanted from their everyday lives in modern-day Greece, or did they spring into being like warriors from dragons' teeth? (Hence "Dens Drac."?) And what did you picture happening to them afterwards (besides causing headaches for the local police)?

I'm on my fourth or fifth time through all your books I can find at the library. Luckily they have almost all of them. I've loved your writing for nearly twenty years now and I'm very glad to see more people becoming acquainted with your books. Thank you for your consistently wonderful characters and twisty plots!

From Carol Marsh

Its not so much as a question but a thank you. I was introduced to charmed life in my early teens, after a visit to the local library. Since then I have collected every book i can lay my hand on to this day, and have still got the collection ready to hand over to my young son when he's ready. Hope there are many great stories to come. Everyone's mad on Harry Potter at the min, naturally, and i've bought the books but not got round to them, what i always say to Potter fans is, read your books, they were around a lot earlier.....

35 years old, from Nottinghamshire, living in Belfast, the books came with me :)

From Hong

I love how you twisted the Fairy Tale formula in "Howl's Moving Castle", especially the stepmother and "eldest of three" aspect. I'm someone who loves fairy tales but at the same time, enjoys making parodies of them and I wondered if you felt the same way. And will we see Michael or Martha again soon? And definitely, where can I get a Howl of my own?

Sophie and Howl are my current favorite couple, which I find surpisingly because not until the very end was there even a hint of romance. Not even romance novels have given me a couple as satisfying as those two are. I simply adore them, on their own and together.

From miranda smith

I have a question about 'the true state of affairs'. Is the heroine actually mad and in an institution or has she been transported into a different world. I ask this question as when I was at university we studied the play "top girls" - do you know it? Five women talk over dinner and it turns out to be one woman who has gone mad and thinks she is five different people. So I wondered if all the references to going insane were suggestions of the whole thing being a fantasy. I have asked a couple of others who read the story and they think I am reading too much into it. Am I? by the way, I absolutely adore all your books - especially Black Maria.

I am 25, university graduate and now stay at home mother of two little boys.

From Karen Schwab

How on earth do you "do" your characters? There's something about many of your books that grips me in the first paragraph, and did the first time I picked up one of your books (Magicians of Caprona, about 20 years ago when I was 15). It seems to have to do with the characters and how their concerns are very ordinary. In other fantasy books a character only cares about Right and Truth and Justice but your characters seem capable of arguing about who gets the last brownie. What's your explanation or perspective on that? Thanks.

From Shanleigh Wilson

Hi, I'm a huge fan of your writing. I adore Dark Lord of Derkholm as well as the follow-up, Year of the Griffin. I also very greatly enjoyed reading The Chronicles of Chrestomanci (my first taste of your wondeful writing). In consideration of the fact that these are my all time favorite books in the world, I was wondering if you might have a recomindation for another of your books that I might also enjoy.

I am 13 (14 on July 20). DWJ is my favorite author ever. Before I could even read I used invent the most absurd stories, usualy consisting of charictors that, as I reflect on it, were all reflections of my friends and family. By the time I could read and write, you couldn't find me without a book in hand, or writing some comedy tinged story about what ever I felt strongly for. Eventualy I grew a strong love for stories about magic of some kind. When I read The Chronicles of Chrestomanci (both I and II) I knew I had just discovered my favorite books. This turned out not to be the case though, for when I read Dark Lord of Derkholm I discovered that I loved it, if possible, even more. Anyway, before I get too carried away relating m Thank you so, so much for giving the world such Excellent stories! Please answer as this took me a fair amount of time to compose and type out

From Katie

Is there going to be a sequel to "Hexwood"!?

I love your bookS!!!!

From Kyra Jucovy

Dear Diana, Okay, I'm finally getting around to asking a question. What I'm currently curious about is which of your characters are your personal favorites. Part of the inspiration for this question is knowing who seem to be fan favorites, and knowing who my favorites are, and wondering how much all of these things correlate. The other part of the inspiration was being very amused by your "jumping the queue for Howl" answer in March - although I don't really mean to ask which of your characters you'd "queue up for," just which you think are the most interesting, likable, or emotionally engaging (and these three are sometimes very different things, to me at least). Feel free to answer as lengthily or briefly as you'd like, and thank you _so_ much in advance!

I'm 19 years old and originally from Long Island, NY. I've been reading your books since I was 8 - you are definitely my longest continuous favorite author. I've also introduced various family members and friends to them, of course. Who wouldn't? I have spent a week of my life being totally obssessed with _Archer's Goon_ - the second time I read it, when I was 12. I couldn't even read anything else, since all I could do was think about AG. I even made up a prequel, although I didn't write it down, so I don't remember it _that_ well. I'm sort of hoping that you don't plan to jump the queue should a real-life analogue of Torquil or Navis ever be spotted, since I would feel an obligation to let the author have first choice. And I really want to say thanks. First of all, for the books, of course - what can I say that hasn't already been said? They're wonderful, and you are truly brilliant. And secondly, for these answers - even though you clearly have a lot to respond to, you still manage to make every single one really, truly engaging and appealing. Thanks so much for taking the time and effort to do this for your fans!

From Adele Mariadass

I've been doing some research on famous people's IQ, and I was wondering, what was yours? If you wouldn't mind to tell, that is. And I was also wondering, why do you name some of your characters so weirdly (Flower-in-the-night, Awful..etc..)?

Someone who keeps all her Diana Wynne Jones books dearly in a glass case. ^_^ Someone who is also very proud to be her favourite author's first fan from Malaysia! Woo-hoo! =)

From Joni Harbottle

Greetings, Ms. Jones! I am an advanced Creative Writer at an Arts School in Florida (U.S.A); A very good writer I am, But, I have a problem with certain story formats. I can Write in a narrative point of view, but never at an outside angle like you do. If you would be so kind as to give me some pointers and rules for how to write like this, I would be very honored to recieve you tips, for you are an outstanding, exellent writer and author! Lets keep this between us- personally, I think you are much better than J.K.Rowling. After all, her plot lines are so predictable; while your's are much more "one-of-a-kind" and interesting! Please send me a reply of some sort and once again, I'd be honored! Thank you so much for taking the time to read this! Hope to hear from you soon, Your Loyal fan, Joni Harbottle- 13/F/FL

I am thirteen years of age. I Live in Florida, It is the peninsula state at the eastern corner of North America! I have read many of your books and I am a big fan!

From Rachel

I absolutely love all your books. It's been particularly interesting to reread now what I read first years ago and see how it's changed (Norse gods--who knew!) Anyway, I have a few questions. In Archer's Goon, where in the book is it proved that "pig's fly, making them hard to catch." I get all the others, but I just can't find any pigs. Also, what are the references in Laurel, Morton, and Sebastian Leroy's names? The only one I got was 'Lorelei.' Plus one little thing that is probably irrelevent: I've never been able to figure out whether the other members of the 'family' in Fire and Hemlock, the ones at the funeral, etc., are immortal as well. Since I'm a little obsessed with Fire and Hemlock, I spend a lot of my time musing about this and researching Tam Lin. Well, that's the end of my ramblings. Thanks!

I'm a sixteen year old who lives in children's book stores and endures odd looks from the sensible adults who step over her.

From lyn

Are there any plans to make any of your other books into film or television plays and if so how do you feel about seeing your characters come to life?

From moira

do plan on writing any more books that are set in the world of year of the griffin and dark lord of derkholm... i really enjoyed them and would love to see more

From Candice

Ms.Jones, I've asked a question already and another one just popped onto my head: Have any of your books been made into movies? If not, are there anyplans to do so? I'd love to know because I would DIE to be in one(not literally).Thanks a bunch!

I love u all! Oh, and I'm not crazy, just a 15yr old hermit from NJ who loves to read fantasy.

From Catherine

Dear Diana, When I read "The Crown of Dalemark" I was so in love with that book. I have read it so many times that I can practically recite it! I was wanting to know if you were planning on writing a follow-up book for it. At the end of the book, after Maewen receives Mitt's message from Wend it says, "She was going to get the train to Dropthwaite tomorrow, and somehow, she was going to find Cennoreth there." I really want to know if Maewen does find Cennoreth and is able to come in contact with Mitt again. I also wanted to know if at the end when Mitt comes back and destroys Kankredin, if Kankredin is gone for good this time or did he go back to those little "pockets." When the One said she could not stay with Mitt I like started crying! I love your books! You are such a genius the way you bring it all together. Thank you for reading this big, long message. Hope to hear from you! Thank you so much ~Catherine~

I am 14 and I am in the 9th grade. I live in Michigan, USA. I am a big fan of your books and I have recommended you to all my friends!

From Dawn Wylie

On a similar thread to some other questions! Was the Babylon hotel in Deep Secret based on your experiences anywhere? If not I can say with absolute certainty that I have stayed in a conference centre which behaved exactly the same way. It was in the middle of Warwick University and my firm was there as part of a training weekend. The rooms were incredible. When you were in the room with the door shut and locked(it only worked when the lock was engaged) you could hear everyone else in the building. You could hear the people in the bar which must have been about 3/4 of a mile judging by the endless corridors I trudged down. The signs for the rooms were idiotic to say the least, pointing in myriad directions and always managing to omit the room number I wanted. My room was at the furthest point geographically possible from the lifts and each time I turned a corner I felt sure that this had to be the end of the corridor........The strangest thing though was the total lack of sound in the corridors. The whole centre was blanketed in a sort of muffled silence so that I felt guilty tramping along the carpet. As I wandered I couldn't help the feeling that I was the only living person in the whole area. It was amazing. Dawn Incidentally, at the age of 24 I still adore your books and I am trying to collect those which are not commonly available. I first encountered them through the TV version of Archer's Goon. My favourite though is Fire and Hemlock which is simply astounding.

From Stephanie Ernestus

As I am a big fan of your books i finally came around to reading your dalemark quartet, and I thouroly enjoyed it. However i was confused when Mitt says at the end of THE CROWN OF DALEMARK that Maewen shoud wait 4 years, insted of 2 to allow for inflation. Can you tell me what he ment? Also what happened to Moril, Maewen, and Mitt. Also how did Mitt come to live so long? Thank you very much.

From Lorelei Chant

Do you believe that there are other worlds and anywheres out there for real that people could get to? And is it possible, do you think, for a person, highly intending to do so, to travel to the worlds?

My name isn't really Lorelei Chant. But I wish it was. i fell in love with te series of Chrestomanci books, much the way the Goddess fell in love with the "Millie goes to School" books. I am desperately hoping that you will write another Chrestomanci book. If you do write another, and it pleases you, if you could used the name "Lorelei Chant" I think it would fit well. Thank you for your time, and for your brilliant literature. Yrs ever, Lorelei Chant

From Rachel

Are there any plans for a dramatisation of the Dalemark quartet, and if so, in what form?

I'm 22, from Bristol (possibly the high point of my early/mid teens was discovering that a chunk of Fire and Hemlock was set in Bristol!)

From Emily Manley

Hi Diana! I just want to say that I absolutly love all your books that I have read! I especialy love the chrestomanci series and would like to know if you are going to write any more? Oh I am writing a book too and you are the one who inspired me to, but it seems to be taking me a long time to finish the first chapter. How long did it take you to finish your book? Thanks a lot!!!!!!

I am 12 years old. love reading. Love all of your books! I go to Parrs wood high school in manchester and am in year 8. I love English but think that we should be able to do more work on books eg..reading in class and writing more stories!!!!!

From Margaret

My favorite book of yours is Howl's Moving Castle. I've loved it for years and years. I have read the sequel to it and was wondering if you plan on writing another.

I'm 19 and am attending school in California. I am a music and technical theatre major. My mother is a librarian so you can imagine how early I started devouring books.

From Lisa Ward

Hello! I have just finished reading " The Crown of Dalemark" the fourth book. In the ending it sounded as if there would be another book. Is there? It was a great book so I will be very excited if there is. Thank you for your time.

From Sarah R. Cattell

Ms.Jones, My question is how long does it nomally take you to write a book once you have gotten the idea and put pen to paper?

I absolutally love your Chrestomanci books. Granted I am only just about done the first volume, I have hardly been able to put down the book so I can get back to work, and to what else I need to do. I am 19 years old and work at Wal-Mart in Prince Frederick, Marlyland.

From Jack Fotheringham

I was wondering how you first got into writing and if you could scan your signature and email it to me?

I a a ten year old and for christmas 2000 I got Fire and Hemlock and ever since i read it I have been hooked on your books. My friends think I am mad reading all these old books But they havent read any of your books From Jack

From Crystal Roberts

Every time I go into a new library or bookstore I go straight to science fiction or young adult. But there are some books that are never there and some books that are always there. I was wondering how I could get my hands on some of the books that I can never find. Thanks: Crystal

I'm 12 years old. I first descovered your books around last fall at a local bookstore. The only books I could find there by you were the chronicles of chrestomonci series. I loved both of the books and since then I have searched all over for your books.

From Mashael Zaidi

Hi! I absolutely love Howl's Moving Castle (so much that when I first read it 4 years ago from the library, I wanted it so bad so that I could reread it that I typed it up on my computer...everyone thought I was crazy) and I wanted to know more about (I know you haven't written the sequel for it yet but you might have some ideas) life with Sophie, Howl, and Morgan, as well as what Lettie and Wizard Suliman's child's name is(is it a girl or a boy?). Basically, I wanted to know if you had any ideas for what they would be like in the future, names, traits, anything at all:) I already read that Morgan would have his parents worst traits, which is the most perfectly lovable and hilarious idea:)

I'm an almost 18 year old about to head off to university and I've cherished your characters from Howl's Moving Castle since I was 14. I also have a special affection for Poly and Thomas, as well as everyone from Castle in the Air.

From Angela Nguyen

Hi! how are you? Well ive read your book called castle in the air and i'm doing a book report on that book and i would just like to know more infomation about. Anything will do just a bit more infomation will do. thank you. Angela

Well i just want to say i really enjoy reading your books. bye

From Emily Sparapani

Diana, I am so, so sorry to bother you, if that is how you may take it, but I was wondering...What do you think of J. K. Rowling's Harry Potter books? (They're personnaly my favorite.) What do you think of Americans? Do you practice witchcraft, or do you just write about it? What I personaly think of English people are proper, well-mannered people who happen to drink tea. A lot of us drink coffee, but I like tea. So does my mom. I've read some of your books. The only one I wasn't really fond of was Time of the Ghost, too much freaky witchcraft if you ask me. Please don't take it personal, because you have many other wonderful books. My ex-friend is into yours, too. Please answer my questions. What are your nationalities? Where did you originate from? Have a good day!

I live in Niagara, Wisconsin, USA. I have two sisters, my parents never split-up, and I have a good family and a good dog, a westie. She originated from scotland. I originated from France, Italy, England, Ireland, French-Canada, those are the main ones (oh, and Germany) other than that, bits of European countries.

From Tram Nguyen

How can i get intouch with you if i want to write

I'm twelve and a really big fan of yours when it comes to books, So i really hope you would reply to this

From Marnie Wooderson

Looking through this website has astounded me! I only discovered your books about 3 years ago (and I'm an English teacher, too!) but I was immediately spellbound by the power of your writing, and I now regularly use 'Charmed Life' with year 7 pupils. I have read all the Chrestomanci books (what a marvellous character - I wish I could have made him up) and quite a few others, although this site has made me realise I have many more to go. What bliss! My holiday reading includes 'Howl's Moving Castle' and 'The Time of the Ghost'. I found that family particularly fascinating; are they based on people you know? I think fantasy is important, too, and have always read lots of it. However, I think your books are some of the most powerful I have come across. I hope you write lots more.

I am 39 years old and teach in a very modest independent cathedral school in Hereford. My greatest wish is for kids to learn to love reading and I'm always looking for class readers that are going to grab a large number of them and that are not written like Point Horror!

From Katie

Is there any chance of another book with Howl and Sophie? (Howl's Moving Castle is my favourite)

I hope you do write another book with Howl and Sophie.

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