Questions for Diana Wynne Jones

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Diana Wynne Jones

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Those burning questions ...

QUESTIONS FOR DIANA

These are all the questions about the Chrestomanci books which were posted between March and late July 2001. (There's a separate page for questions on other topics in the same time period.) Diana is answering these now, and her replies will be available on the website soon.

Questions sent by 10th November 2000 have been answered, and questions posted between November 2000 and March 2001 have been answered in 2 parts, Part 1 and Part 2.

From Alexander Lee

Diana, Thanks for your time, I was just wondering if you are planning any more books on Chrestomanci. They inspired me into reading a lot more and I wanted to thank you. A sequel to Charmed Life would be good like a story to follow on after Kat found out he was an enchanter, or any story from you would please me! Thanks very much :-)

I am 13, and love anything to do with magic. Harry Potter is also a great series. I live in Manchester, England, live with my mum and dad, have two cats called Bobby and Sparky (I wish i could talk to them like Tonino talked to Benvenuto in The Magicians Of Caprona!) and a dog called Boston. Thanks for your time, I hope you have a chance to reply, ALexander Lee

From Kenna

I adore your stories about Chrestomanci, but I have two questions about them: In "Witch Week," is Chrestomanci Cat or Christopher? And second, how did the whole world of Chrestomanci come about? Were you inspired by some particular idea or word, etc. Thank you!

From an adoring fan

Hello. I just read the Chronicles of Chrestomanci Volume I and loved it. I told my friend that it was good so she got it, and we raced to finish it. I won. She already has Volume II and my mom has ordered it for me. These books are so good. I wondered, is there, or will there be, a Volume III. Thank you for your time.

I'm an eleven year old high honor student, living in the swamps of Florida. I'm a very avid reader and only read the best, of course you're one of them. your book is one of the best I've read, I can't wait for the next!

From Erich

my name is Erich.I think that if more people in the U.S. knew about your book or at least in New Orleans ,where I come from, it would be out selling Harry Potter.I was wondering if there was to be another Chrestomanci book or if you could not tell just give a hint?And if you were fresh out of ideas I could give you some.Like at the end of some your books you said or rather Chrestomanci said that he would have to "personally" train and look over Cat,Tonino,Angelica.You could write a book on training them and suprise us by bringing back other young Witches and Enchanters that you did not tell us about. And I voted for you in the contest

From Janet

I see you have a lot of other questions to answer but if you have time please please answer mine too???? I just read Witch Week and I love it it was so funny!!!!! There are two things I want to know. 1. When you wrote the part about Charles burning his finger did you stick your finger in a candle too so you would know what to write? 2. I think the world for rescued witches is the same as our world and at the end of the book all the magic gets put back into it so why didn't Charles and Nan keep on being witches in the new world because all the magic was back in that world now??? from Janet

You are my favourite writer.

From Christopher Pilgrim

How on earth can you create such characters as Chrestomanci? Seems very hard. How do you create the atmosphere???????

I'm nearly 10 and I've just finished your fabulous book, 'Charmed Life'and I think you're a genius!!!!!!!

From Sasha

Hi! My name is Sasha and I am 11 years old. I love the books on the Chronicles of Chrestomanci (I'm sure I will love your other books too). I can't wait till the book ''Mixed Magic'' comes out. I have a couple of questions. My first one is where did you come up with the name Chrestomanci? Was it easy? My second question is how to do pronce the name Chrestomanci? I also have to tell you how munch I loved how you had cats featured in some of your stories in the book the ''Chronicles of Chrestomanci''. I thought Benvenuto was the best. When I read the ''Chronicles of Chrestomanci'', in my mind I could see the whole scene happening infront of my eyes. It was like I was there but I was not. I really want to read another one of your books but I don't know which one to read. They all sound good! Could you suggest one for me? I thought the book the Chronicles of Chrestomanci volume 1 and 2 were so great that I thought they were better than the Harry Potter books. Thankyou for your time. - Sasha

From Angelina Edwards

Mrs. Jones, you are the best ever! I love all your books and I own all of them too! My favourite is the Lives of Christopher Chant, and I was wondering if you could tell me what happens to Tacroy after the end of the book. Are you going to write more in the Chrestomanci series? I hope that you do, because they are amazing books, and you're an amazing author! Lots of love!

From Jocelyn Prong

Who is Chrestomanci when Tonino, his family and Anglah is at Chrestomanci Castal? I think it is Christopher because they are both tall. I wanted to be shore. thank you

11, usa, Tricities, wa

From Emily Sparapani

You are a very good author. I have read the Chronicles of Chrestomanci. I just finished the second volume today, The Magicians of Caprona and Witch Week. Will you be coming out with a 3rd Volume, and what made you want to write books about witches? I like fantasy books, I also read Harry Potter books because the front said, "Mad about Harry? Try Diana." I live in the US.

I am 12 years old. My friend showed me the Chronicles of Chrestomanci, and I LOVE them!!! I like Benvenuto, Throgmorten, Christopher, Eric (Cat), Janet, Paolo, Tonino, Nan, Charles, Nirupam, and Estelle, and others as well. My aunt is pure Italian, so she helped me pronounce some words in the Magicians of Caprona.

From Kenna

I have just finished Charmed Life for the third time (One of my favorites!) and I was wondering if it is possible to have a female Chrestomanci. He (Chrestomanci) says that they are nine-lived enchanters, but could there be a witch powerful enough with nine lives, or a female enchanter? Thanks! My other question has to do with the ranks of magic workers in the world of Chrestomanci. It seems witches and warlocks are the least powerful; enchanters are obviously the most. Where to wizards and magicians fit in? Whihc one is stronger? Are there female magicians or is a female magic worker just generically a "witch"? I would also like to know whether you are thinking of writing any more about Cat and Janet. I am dying to know what happens when Cat becomes Chrestomanci, and how Janet, Julia and Roger fit into the picture. I adore your books. It always make me happy to read them; they cheer me up somehow. Your characters are some of the most interesting and realistic characters I've ever read about, and your plots are always interesting. Your word choice and descriptions are amazing, too; the one that comes to mind is Chrestomanci sweeping out of the room "like a very long procession of one person." Wonderful! Thank you so much for writing these books. P.S. The way Cat signs his papers, with Europe/The World/The Universe is how I do it sometimes too!

15 yrs. Seattle, Wa, USA, The World, The Universe. (please, please, please come over to the States!)...I have been charmed by your books ever since "Dark Lord of Derkholm" and am now on a campaign to read and own every single one.

From Ceyenne brown

Hi diana. i was wodering who Chrestomanci was in the books Witch Week and The Magicians of Caprona. and will you write 'THE CHRONICLES OF CHRESTOMANCI, VOLUME THREE'?

born in the tri-cities i am ten. Love youre books

From tom woods

Will you do a Chronicles of Chrestomanci volume 3 with what happens to Gwendolen?

I like your books

From POLARGIRL38@AOL.COM

DeAR DIANA THIS ISNT NOT A QUESTION ACTUALLY BUT I JUST WANT TO SAY IM READING THE FIRST BOOK I'VE READ BY U AND I ONLY HAVE ABOUT 22 MORE PAGES AND I LOVE IT SO FAR THE BOOKS TITLE IS THE CHRONICLES OF CHRESTOMANCI VOLUME 1 ITS A CHARMED LIFE. MY DAD THINKS ITS CONFUSING BUT I UNDERSTAND IT SO I JUST WANTED TO SAY I LOVE YOUR BOOK AND LOOKING FORWARD TO READING VOLUME 2 VERY SOON! :) kEEP UP THE GREAT WORK! (ONE OF YOUR READERS)

IM A MIDDLE SCHOOLER AND IVE SEEN ALOT MORE PEOPLE READING YOUR BOOKS TOO GREAT JOB!

From ?

DEAR DIANA, IN YOUR BOOK IM READING(ITS A CHARMED LIFE) WHY IS THE BEGINNING THE BEGINNING I KNOW THAT SOUNDS WEIRD BUT WHAT I MEAN IS WHY DID U PUT THE STORY ABOUT CAT IN THE BACK PART OF THE BOOK IF IT HAPPENED LATER ON IN THE BOOK? I WAS JUST WONDERING.

From Meredith Lalande

Dear DWJ, I know this isn't a question but I've simply GOT to ask you. Could you please write more about Chrestomanci as a boy, mabe his adventures with Elizabeth,Millie and the other young enchanters? Please,please,PLEASE! Did you get the idea of Chrestomanci from Howl or visa versa? Because I notice simalaritys & I'm sure they both spend at least an hour on their hair.I LOVE YOUR BOOKS!

Age:13 (born on the 13th of July - Julius Caesar's birthday - at hours 13.13!)

From Kyla Tornheim

Having just reread Charmed Life (comfort book, much better than doing work), I found myself wondering how old Cat, Janet/Gwendolen, Julia, and Roger were. Is there a particular age group that you tend to put your characters in? I think I'm having trouble determining character ages because so many of your characters became familiar to me when I was about 8, and are even more familiar now that I'm 21. (However, I *could* determine ages in "Hexwood," and was quite amused to discover how it could happen that I was correct in thinking that Ann was two years older than her brother even though both of them seemed to be 12.)

My entire family has been reading and discussing your books for years (we talk about them over the dinner table, except when we've decided we need to be reading, in which case we read them over the dinner table), and has multiple copies of most "just in case." They get the place of honor in our house, in the easily accessible bookcase at the end of the hall.

From Jennifer Rowland

I'm aftraid this isn't a proper question, more of a beg. Will there be any more Chrestomanci books? My own dream is of an Elizabethan Chrestomanci, writing metaphysical poems and looking at malefactors over a ruff. (How long ago did that world and ours separate? *Was* there an Elizabeth, or did Richard have magicians on his side and win at Bosworth so that the royals are still Plantagenets? Do children in that world do Shakespeare at school?)

I'm 25 and have been reading your books since Charmed Life when I was about 10. One of the best things about them is how well they bear re-reading, you always find more in them. My favourite is Deep Secret- no, Howl must be it- no, Spellcoats- what about Hexwood? Anyway, whichever it is, thank you, not just for your own books but for introducing me to fantasy.

From Brian Huh

Dear Diana, When are THE CHRONICLES OD CHRESTOMANCI: volume 2 going to come out into the United States? Thank you. Sincerely, Brian Huh

From Kenna

Hello! My first question has to do with Janet's expletives in "Charmed Life"--they're wonderful, and they make me laugh all the time. For example, 'creeping antimacassars'; do people you know actually say that (England is so much more interesting to me than America!) or did you make them up just for Janet, or what? Speaking of which, I adore Janet, she's my favorite, although it's ever so hard to decide! I also wanted to know whether you have listened to the 1992 recording of "Charmed Life" by Chivers Audio (read by Tony Robinson)? I'm actually listening to it right now, as I do whenever I'm feeling bad(which is rather often, I'm afraid, because of the dreary weather). Your books always make me feel better. One more question. I'm always hearing about people finding magic things--to tie it to you, the times I read about on this site when you drove somewhere with the witch who fiddled with time, or the enchanter named Cat, or your travel jinx. It seems that nothing like that ever happens to me, and I wish it would! Anyhow, to ge to the point--is it better to seek magic, or wait for it, or what? Thank you! I love your writing!

15, loved your books ever since Dark Lord of Derkholm. I'm on a campaign to read and own all your books (guess where all my babysitting money goes...:)

From Lyra Stephens

Is there a sequel to Howl's Moving Castle, and Castle in the Air? If not, can you pleaz pleaz write one. And are you planning to write another chrestomanci book?

I think your the best author alive!Everyone says that your books are practicaly the same as Harry Potter, but I detest those, and I think that the creativity you put into yours is much more original.

From whiney

when is your next book coming out about crestomanci?

i'm 12 years old and LOVE your books!

From Alisha

Witch book was published first, "Charmed Life" or JK Rowlings Harry Potter books. There are alot of same things in the books. Your books are great!

Im 14 years old, and I love to read alot of different kinds of books!

From Emmanuel

First, I want to thank Diana for her answer to my preceeding question, on the possible inspiration by J.K. Rowling on her own writings. Speaking with friends about this possibility, I learned today that a writer called Nancy Stouffer is filing a lawsuit against J.K. Rowling for copying her book "The Legend of Rah and the Muggles", featuring a young hero called Larry Potter and published in 1984. An article on this matter has been published in "Le Voir" a newspaper from Quebec in Canada. So I just want to pass this piece of information to Diana for her reference.

From Robert Williams

Dear Miss Wynne Jones, I know you have probably read this question many times, but PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE write another Chrestomanci book! I took out Charmed Life about 2 weeks ago from my School Library, and I was hooked! I now own the whole series, and have read them all, and they were fantastic! Please satisfy a billion children by letting Chrestomanci live again!

Please? Sorry, I must sound desperate (well - I am!).

From Angel

Hi! First off, if this makes it to the site with an answer, I warn you- if you do not want any of Witch Week to be given away, don't read on. I must say, I love fantasy of all kinds, but out of the hundreds of fantasy books I must have read, yours are the absolute best. No kidding! Really! Anyway, I was wondering- will you ever bring Charles Morgan back? Anywhere? He is my absolute FAVORITE character and I think I'll die if I never see him again. I know it would be hard to bring him back, but I beg you! I'd love to see him with Cat and Tonino. And also- I thought it was horribly funny that it took me so long to make the connection with Asheth and Millie. Brilliant thinking, you do. And I noticed at the beginning of Witch Week, while acting out witch and inquisitor all the people who were actually witches turned out to do the best acting! Absolute marvelous thinking, really! And I laughed heartily with Charles Morgan's little "making the inquisitor funny" bit- it will probably always be my favorite book. And then, I saw this question was asked before, but I must see if you've made progress or changed your mind or anything- will you fill in the years with Christopher that we didn't hear about?

I'm 12 years old (13 on Friday, April 6th! Yes, and now that you know, I'm expecting a birthday card!) and your books are my favorite. And I'm horribly interested in acting out a part as Julia or Dulcia aka Nan if you ever decide to turn these into films. And I'm positive that the more books of yours I read, the more characters I will find that I'd love to act out. So please, if you ever come across a character in my age group that you're including in a movie, contact me- you'd be making every dream of mine come true. My dream is acting, my favorite books are yours- and the combination would be truly spectacular. I know I took forever, but there's so much I wanted to say. Thanks a lot! Lots of love, to you and yours!

From Angel (again)

Not a question, just a comment, I'd much rather you answer my other question than this. On the front of the compilations of the Chrestomanci books- Volume 1 and 2- it says "Mad about Harry? Try Diana." When I first picked up the book, I was intrigued by the cover. When I saw that quote, I knew in an instant this was the book for me. And it sure was- I've never heard a quote that speaks more truth. You'd think Chrestomanci had forgotten he was wearing his watch.

From Juliette Moore

I'm not really sure if this is a question or a comment but i'll say it anyway. First of all, I really like your books. They are my favorite along with His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman. I think your books are so much better than Harry Potter. Second, I have read some of your previous responses and I have so many ideas for more Chrestomanci and Howl books. I really think you should make them into movies, usually when books come out as movies they are worse than books, but I think it would be different. I think your books really do take people away from reality, but I think that is a very good thing, because not many people can do that. Anyways, pleeeeeeeese right more Chrestomanci and Howl books if you can, I know they don't just come in order, but maybe you could go to Wales or something and that would give you ideas. Or, here in toronto, Canada, where I live, there is a castle called Casaloma, which reminds me a lot of Chrestomanci castle espescially because of the tower where Christopher made his little sanctuary as a child,.

I am 13 years old and because of your encouraging books i get a+ on all my book reports. Thanx!

From Natsha Baranik

In the Lives of Christopher Chant there is the character of the Goddess. She liked the name Millie and Christopher called her that for a little bit. In Charmed Life, the Chrestomanci (Christopher) is married to Millie. Are they the same people or am I incorrect on some information and my question doesn't apply?

Age: 11 Sign: Gemini

From Amanda

When will volume 3 of The Chronicles of Chrestomanci come out, if it is already out, then where can I find it? Also, could you please tell me if there are other volumes to this, and, if so, where I can find them? If not at the same place of course. Thank you.

I am 12 years old. I have been addicted to these Chronicles for only a few weeks, but love them! They are fun and interesting.

From Mary Sturtevant

I am writing a report on you and your series, (mainly Charmed Life) and my teacher wanted us to send an e-mail to the author is the author was still living. Do you have any information which is not posted at this website that would help me make my report on you and your book Charmed Life more interesting and enjoyable for my teacher and my classmates? If you could send me an email back as soon as possible, I would appreciate it very much, thank you!

I am 28, female. a mother and a college student. Biology major.

From Emily Busch

Well, too bad about the third volume of the Chrestomanci series. I hope you will keep tring to get it published. I am looking forward in reading other books you have written. I was just wondering in the Chrestomanci volume 2 is it Chistopher or is it Cat as Chrestomanci? I couldn't tell but I think it is Chistopher. I was just wandering because I like both Chistopher and Cat. Have fun writing more books.

From Cheyenne Brown

Diana, how are you? when you wrote Witch Week how come no magic was alowed in the world they lived in? And what world did they live in? This is just an idea, but you could write a book about a guy who ran away from a house that noboby loved him and the book would be his adventure (just an idea).

i have 12 cats, 3 chickins, 1 dog, and 1 pig. i an 11 years of age and i am your #1 fan of chrestomanci.

From Alison

Hello, I just wanted to say I LOVE your books. I was going to ask about female Chrestomancis but then I saw that two other people had already done that. Oh, but I DO have a question. In "Lives of Christopher Chant" Christopher discovers some books by someone named Angela Brazil that come from world XIIB (a.k.a. us) Do those books really exist in our universe? I've never heard of her but then I live in the US and was only 2 when LoCC was written (though I did read a LOT of trashy books when I was younger). I think it's really cool and strange this stuff about your books coming true (all the interesting things happen to other people, of course) as it's never happened to me -- though once I did meet this guy who could have been one of my fictional characters, however that's another story. I am beginning to feel really bad about wasting your valuable writing time but that's the way I am so I'll keep on jabbering. I am one of the many people who have gotten crushes on Chrestomanci and Howl (and to a lesser degree Tom Lynn) but I think I'll pass up marrying either. Though I do know this guy who is like very Howl-ish in a way but I don't care for him as it's not like his heart is hidden... you know where (I don't want to spoil it for people who haven't read) I really want to hear about a teenage Chrestomanci -- I hope the idea for a book about that seizes you. And I find it hard to believe that Chrestomanci actually ended up marrying Asheth/Millie (they are the same, aren't they?) I wish this guy I was friends with as a kid would do that... but no. (I must sound VERY guy-obsessed but I'm really not. I just happen to know a lot of guys one way or another.) But anyhow I'll stop and get back to rereading Witch Week (cool book). How did you get the ideas for all the related worlds, and the serieses, and all?, anyhow

I turn 15 end of the month (April 30) and I've been a fan for almost a year. My favorite is Fire and Hemlock which I don't quite understand despite having read it three times (and rereading the ending more than that) but it's really cool.

From Lara

Dear Ms. Jones: I LOVE your books--at least the ones I've read (the Chrestomanci books, Believing is Seeing, Warlock at the Wheel). You are my absolute favorite author. I see that a ton of people have already asked the question that I was going to ask, about future Chrestomanci books. Next time I dream, I will find a future Chrestomanci book among all the funny dream-books for you. You have said that you started writing Chrestomanci books but they ended up being different books. Have you tried writing a book that starts out a being a different book, to see if it will end up as a Chrestomanci book? anyway, my question is (and if you have already been asked this on this website you can skip it and I will find it): What do you think of the Harry Potter books? I like them but I am bitter because in my opinion your books are better and yet, there is not all this fuss and resulting mass hysteria. But maybe you are glad that warner bros. has not asked for the rights. do any of your books have characters named Lara? just wondering

almost 19!, female from USA

From Brittany

What is the order of these books that I should read? I have these books and I would like to read them in the proper order. The books are: Charmed Life, Castle in the air, Howl's moving castle, the magicians of caprona, Mixed magics, Witch week, Eight days of luke, and the lives of christopher chant. Please reply.

I'm 11 years old and I love your books. I'm really a big fan.

From LeighAnna

Dear DWJ, I really love your books! The characters, especially Cat and Gwendolyn, are really funny. I was reading some of the other questions and answers from earlier, and had an idea. How about instead of trying to write another Chrestomanci book, go back re-read Volume One. I like to write too, and whenever I get stuck I just re-read what I've already written. I hope you come up with something soon!! (: You're books are some of the best I've ever read. Unfortunately, I haven't been able to get YEAR OF THE GRIFFEN or any of those. I hope to find them soon. Your absolute Number One Fan, LeighAnna

I'm twelve years old and I live in Missouri. Our school is really small, and we don't get many visitors for anything, much less authors! Please come!

From Jeremy Young

Dear Diana, I was coming here to demand that you write more about Chris Chant, but then I saw how everyone else was begging, too, and saw all your answers about how you'd like to, and books aren't written on demand. Might I make a suggestion? I just read The Lives of Christopher Chant again for probably the millionth time, and there is a horrible longing deep in me to see him again. And the Goddess. There seems to me to be such a discrepancy between Charmed Life And Chris Chant in the way those two WERE and how they turned out. Why did Millie turn out plump? Why did Chris tone his sarcasm down as he grew? Things like that. Yes, I can imagine the difficulties that arise when one writes a Prequal. Medium characters become much more interesting. It was wonderful!! And yet I LONG to know what happened in between.... And I think it's a perfectly lovely thing they get married, they suit each other! :) But seriously, I think you've got a male/female combination there about as strong as Sophie and Howl. And I shouldne't even get started on them, because I want to hear just as much from that corner as I do from the Chants!! What ever happened to Abdulla and Flower-in-the-Night? Oh there's so much I'd like to see, you can't ever leave this planet Diana!!

I've been a lifelong fan of your books, and hold most of them dear to my heart! Hexwood confused me, but maybe I was a bit too young and ought to try again! All the rest? - words cannot describe the joy!!

From Jessica Gamba

Oh wonderous writer of Terrific Fantasy, I have a question: In the book the Magicians of Caprona, which Chrestomanci is in office? Is it one that I may already know of, like Cat or Christopher Chant? Is he a Chant at all? Sorry if I missed it in one of the books or if I just can't remember. Can't wait to hear from you! Your newly recruited fan, Jessica Gamba

I'm 13 years old, and I have several fat wise cats that are very like the ones in your books. I also have three dogs, which of course doesn't please them very much ^_^

From Sara Krasner

I absolutely love Diana's Chrestomanci series! But I also love the Harry Potter books. Does Diana Wynne Jones ever feel uncomfortable having a little "competition"? Even if she does, I still think her books are wonderful.

I'm 13 and I really appreciate Diana's work. I hope she keeps on writing. She brightens the imaginations of her readers. Her books are definetly on my favorite books list!

From Brittany Chant

This is not really a question but I got Charmed Life a week ago and it freaked me out becouse my dads name is Eric and our last name is Chant. I also have a second cousin whos name is Gwendolen. She is not really a Chant but she has Chant blood in her. I also know a Mrs Sharp. So I do have a question for you, where did you get the name Chant from? Anyway I love your books and I read Charmed Life in half a day. My mum is getting a bit annoyed with me becouse I have been begging and begging her to get me the rest of the Worlds of Chrestomanci books.

I am 11 years old and live in Werrington (it is about 2 hours away from Sydney) NSW in Australia.

From Jordana

I really enjoyed the Chrestomanci Novels, especially The Magicians Of Caprona. I was wondering if you are going to write any more. I was so sad when I finished the series. They aremy favorite books and I tell all my friends to read them because I like them so much. I hope you write some more Chretomanci books. I am also reading The Dark Lord Of Derkholm and I really like it.

I am 12 years old.

From Crystal Roberts

I hope this isn't a time waster, but will there be a new Chronicles of CHrestomanci coming out? If so, when?

I introduced The Chronicles of Chrestomanci to my friend, and we both loved them. We started getting all of your books, but we still haven't read them all, but the ones we read, we really enjoyed. We also like the Harry Potter books, in a way your books are a lot like them, but I think yours are better. I hope you have time to answwer my question. Oh yeah, I'm 12, and so is my friend.

From Charlotte Lombardi

What was your inspiration for the Chrestomanci series of books? Is the character based on a real life person?

I am a big fan of your books; fantasy and science fiction are my favourites. I am going to be a famous author when I grow up. I am 8 years old.

From Libby

(Must start off with flattery...) I've just been reading the answers to the questions from March 2001, and I've noticed several times that you've mentioned things about your books coming true. Well, people always say "write what you know..." and I noticed that you gave Tom Lynn that gift in Fire and Hemlock. This wasn't a coincidence, was it? I loved F&H although it was so different from most of your other things -- took place in the "real" world (although we all know that it isn't the only one). Funniest thing happened -- I felt just like POlly -- I'd read the book last year, forgotten the title, and hadn't realized it until I started reading... So, was that jinx a coincidence, and will you be writing another part in the Chrestomanci series or the Dark Lord of Derkholm/Year of the Griffin series? S'il vous plait? Also -- who was the Chrestomanci in the Magicians of Caprona? Is TOUGH GUIDE TO FANTASYLAND available in the US? I haven't been able to find a copy. Thanks for listening to this loooong ramble! Thank you THANK YOU THANK YOU!! for writing such wonderful books.... don't ever stop. Know of a gateway to any related worlds in the Midwest US?

From Elizabeth Nelson

I've been reading along your most recent answers, and here's what I'm wondering: has there ever been a girl Chrestomanci? What would happen if there was? If I could write fanfic of your books, I would attempt this plot... sadly, your style is impossible to imitate. But I thought I'd leave my words of foolishness with you.

Almost 14 and have been reading your books since last year, when I ran across them by chance after having looked at them and shaken my head "no" for several years... when I was young and stupid... Love every one of them and encountered some problems when I couldn't put HOWL'S MOVING CASTLE down. Have you ever noticed that whenever you want a book from the library, someone has JUST checked it out, and it won't be in for 3 weeks? I'm too cheap to buy every book published (sorry -- don't have untold riches).

From ?

Can you write a 3rd volume of The Chronicles of Chrestomanci? The first volume was the best book i've ever read(and I read a lot of books). I'm really hoping you can.

From ?

There must be a spell on your books! I can't stop reading them. I really like Charmed Life and the rest of the Chrestomanci series. Please "conjure up" a few more!

13 years old, from Aberdeen Scootland

From mary floyd

hello, i just read the cronicles of chrestonanci and i want to tell you that i absolutly loved it! you know i have read the harry potter books and i have to give credit where credit is due but i liked your books soo much better. i am looking forward to reading the second book and others by you. i would just like to know how even though the magical scene is very common now you seem to be soo original. and on the cover of the cronicles of chrestomanci, is the cat for the boy Cat or the cat he gets from the godess? once again i love your book. one more thing, i am in the seventh grade and all my classmated wonder how i can read a book that big but it is really easy when its so good, i can read almost fifty pages to one-hundered pages a day.

i am 13 years old and live in oklahoma city oklahoma and i usually would rather read your book that watch tv, (big surprise from a seventh grader i know!) but i really enjoy your books!

From ?

Ms. DWJ I'd really love it if you wrote a new Chrestomanci book[oh, please!]. Is a 3rd volume coming out any time soon or are you possibly writing a 3rd one now? I'm crazy about the series. Maybe you could write about Christopher or Cat growing up in the castle. Or what happened to Gwendolen or Tacroy. Or how Gaberiel de Witt loses those seven lives left. The Chrestomanci before Gaberiel, Benjamin Allworthy? Those two growing up in the Chrestomanci castle? Possibally the mischevious Rodger and Juile in the castle. Maybe the everyday doings of the Chrestomanci. A female Chrestomanci seems live a magnificent idea also. What Chrestomanci was in Witch Week and what one was in The Magicians of Caprona? It's not that relevant to know, but if it's not much of a bother I'd like to know. I also want to mention how much better your books are then the Harry Potter ones, which I find particulary boring now. I think Charmed Life is the best book I've ever read[I read tons of books, at least one a week] and The Lives Of Christopher Chant following close behind. I just read The Chronicles of Chrestomanci, Volume I and II twice this week and really want to get your Mixed Magic book.

I'm 14 years old and I live in Washington. I think all your books are quite charming.

From ?

Did Christopher Chant end up marring the Goddess? Since in the Lives of Christopher Chant the goddess is called Millie, and in Charmed Life his wife is called Mille.

I love your books, please write more in the Chrestomanci series!

From Sara Saldivar

Dear Diana Wynne Jones, I read your book The Chronicles of Crestomanci Volume 1. I would like you if you could answer my question. Is Millie, the goddess, in the Lives of Christopher Chant, his wife when he is in Charmed Life? If you could tell me, I would be very grateful.

I'am 14 years old. It hard to read but your books help.

From Claire Meador

When my mom And I bought the two books of Chronicles of Chrestomanci it said that there was third one. I've looked all over and I can't seen to fine one. Was I mistaken that there is a third one?? Thanks for you time, claire meador

I am 12 years old I and I enjoy reading your books very much! I hope you have the time to write more.

From Francesca

Dear Diana, My name is Francesca Barrow and i am 11 years old (a very hard part of life!), I love the Chrestomanci series, i believe my element is most probably earth , I was wondering how you got the general idea for Chrestomanci? I mean the name and the whole thing is very hard to think of, although people who read it don't genenrally think of that, did you ever think of yourself of a enchantress like Millie, or a witch? Life is so strange that sometimes I think things can be quite magic! Please reply, I would love to read your answer! Your greatest fan.

P.s I've told all my friends and we play games with Chrestomanci!

From Cindy Sechrest

I was wondering if you have given any thought to re-printing your Chrestomanci series. I think it would be a HUGE hit with everyone who likes the Harry Potter series by JK Rowling. Chrestomance could be on the best seller list right along side Harry Potter if you would re-print them. I know I would buy the whole new series, I just love them. Cindy Sechrest. From Texas.

I'm 32 years old and simply love these books. I was never a reader growing up. Now I'm reading books daily. My husband is a HUGE fan of sci fi and fantasy books and got me into them. Between the two of us we have over 1000 books in our collection. I would love to see the Chrestomance series re-printed.

From Rob

Have you ever thought of making Chrestomanci into a computer game? It's the sort of thing people would love - adventure, action and... magic! Well - I would anyway.

I love your books - but I haven't read any others than Chrestomanci at the moment.

From Mary Beth Cubberly

Mary Beth Cubberly

I started reading your books last year when I was 10. Now 11/F/US OH

From Kate S.

I have read and loved both The Volumes Of Chrestomanci I & II. I think they are better than any other books I have read. I have lent them to my friend, Casey, and she loved them too. I especially loved The Lives Of Christopher Chant. I think it is so cool how you wrote the story so that every peice of information relied on eachother until it was so thick and heavy with small happeings that resulted in changing the outcome of everything else. I think our Chrestomanci books are really awesome. My friend Casey and I would really like to know wether you are coming out with any new Chrestomanci books. Thanks for your time!

11/female/fan

From Catherine T.

I just wanted to tell you I love The Chronicles Of Chrestomanci Books. Even if I'm only on page 194 out of 598 in the 1st book and I still have to read the 2nd book.I really like Eric or Cat! I like the twist when Gwendolen gets her magic taken away but still go to another world by magic! I really do love you're books a lot!

I'm 12

From Katy Davies

first of all I just want to say that the Chrestomanci series is the best books i have ever read in my life. i would put you first then jk rowling second. my question is to you is if you are going to write any more chrestomanci books? PLEASE,please please please please please please please please please please please please please please please please please please please please please please please please.

i am 14. and i really love your books. i really like Cat the best then i like tonino and thasper. i know all about your Chrestomanci books and they rule and they make Harry Potter look like a silly little storie that you know is unreal but when it comes to chrestomanci i feel as there is deffinatly magic out there somewhere.

From Iszy Siskin

Is there ever going to be a new Chrestomanci book, besides Mixed Magic? Why not a sequel to the quartets? That would be cool!!!

10-year-old

From Iszy

O.k. What is your next book coming out (if you're writing one) If so what's it about? I really want to read another book about the Series and worlds, and stuff like that. Is the world that Witch Week took place in our world? Do you believe in magic

I reeeeeaaaaaaaaaaallllllllllllyyyyyyyyyy looooooove your Chrestomanci books.

From Sue Marsden

Hello Diana. My questions are as follows. 1.How did Christopher Chant get to be Chrestomanci? Gabriel still had 7 lives left at the end of "Lives" so could this be the basis of another Chrestomaonci 'prequel'? (Or did they all die in quick succession of old age which would be very tame!) 2. Is the Milly who is Chrestomanci's wife in'Charmed Life' the same milly who was the Goddess in 'Lives of Christopher Chant' as her personality seems completely different, though I suppose poeple can change as they grow up! 3. How do you think up all the different names? 4. Did you get the idea for 'Dark Lord' after writing 'Tough guide to Fantasy Land'? Many thank for hours of enjoyment

I first came across your books when 'Ogre downstairs' was read on Jackanory, then went on th others. As I now work in Childrens Librarianship (School Library Service) I can call reading childrens' books "work" although in your case it is pure pleasure. However this meant that I did not know about you adult novels until a few months ago as my local branch library does not have them. I requested them all from the main library and have noe read the lot, so U am eagerly awaiting your new book. Meanwhile, I will try again to read 'Hexwood' which for some reason I was unable to get into a few years ago. I'm sure it was my fault!

From Meg Bétit

This is actually more of a request than a question...perhaps a plea, even. As of recently, I have been enthralled with your series The Chrestominci Chronicles. I have purchased all four of the books: The Charmed Life, The Lives of Christopher Chant, The Magicians of Caprona, and Witch Week. My request is that you right at least one more to this series--I simple can't get enough of them and am looking foward to reading them multiple times while I wait for another.

I simply adore Diana Wynne Jones books and have read a great many, including:The Charmed Life, The lives of Christopher Chant, Witch Week, The Dark Lord of Derkholm, The Year of the Griffin, and Fire and Hemlock.

From Chanelle Lammers

Dear Diana I am doing a book talk on Charmed life and I was wondering if there is going to be a sequel so I can find out what happend to Cat.

I am 11 years old and LOVE your books!!!

From jegs

My freshman english class has just finished reading Romeo and Juliet. As we were reading, I noticed a couple similaritites between that and Magicians of Caprona. The first is obviously the family fued in both stories. The second is that Magicians of Caprona was almost centered around the gloden statue guarding the city. In Romeo and Juliet, Montegue promised to make a golden statue of Juliet and place it in the city. I also noticed that some names sounded alike: like Verona and Caprona, and Benvolio and Benvenuto. Are these observations a coincidence or was Magicians of Caprona based on ROmeo and Juliet?

From Brittany Chant (again)

do you know were i can get Mixed magics from? love your books and can not keep away from them read all of them exep for mixed magics about 4 times.

From dulce barahona

june 06, 2001 Dear diana, i have just finished reading your book "The Chronicles Of Crestomanci"(vol. 1) in 3 days, i loved it! my question is in the lives of christopher chant, christopher is the crestomanci in charmed life right? im pretty sure he is but i just want to double check. thanks, dulce

i am 15 i love to read i want to cont. reading your great books.

From Alison

I have finished reading reading volume 1 chronicles of chrestomanci. I was wondering if any of your other chrestomanci books had strange creatures in them like Throgmorten?

I am age 8.

From Emily Busch

I have two to ask. My question is in your books Magicians of Caprona and Witch Week. Is it Christopher or Cat as Chrestomanci in them. I think it is Christopher but I am not sure. I love the books of Chrestomanci I hope they let you make a third sometime. The other is do people every send you their stories to see what you think of them or it get them published? Thanks!

From Susannah Frigo

I was just wondering if there will be a movie for each book in the series 'The Worlds of Chrestomanci'? If you did, I would make sure I saw them!

I love your books! They are the best books I have ever read! I have the all the books in the Chrestomanci series!

From Mary Beth Cubberly

First of all your books are the greatest. I've read the Chrestomanci books. They are wonderful. I hate be repetitive, but PLEASE write another one. In Mixed Magics, I loved seeing Cat,Tanio,Janet, and ( won't go on too long) Gabriel de Witt. I think it was neat how Christopher married the Goddess. Anyways, now I forgot what my my question is. Oh well. To close up, your books are so great and PLEASE keep writing.

I'm 11, a girl, and I live in the U.S. I love fantasy and sci-fi, and other than you, I read Tamora Pierce books(AWESOME) among others.

From Ven

Hello again, I've just read all the Chrestomanci questions and I have one no one has asked yet: What will become of all the babies from Stealer of Souls? (I'm going to try not to spoil the ending but please stop reading if you are afraid that I might.) There seem to be some interesting possibilties, like was it one or both of the twins? And some of the babies may have their own magic and some may have it but not seem to and vice versa. By the time they are about ten years old and going for testing at the castle it will be mayhem I'm sure. And will they suffer the same restrictions as those they, you know, got their magic from? I just thought of another question, just a little one -- is Caprona based on any Italian city in particular. it reminds me of Siena, but that's the only one I know at all well.

I've read the Chrestomanci books in order and the paperback of Charmed Life has now absolutely fallen to pieces, from reading it so often. Kate S said your books were "so thick and heavy with small happenings that result in changing the outcome of everything else." That's exactly how it is, your books are just so rich I can read them again and again and it's different every time, and i still laugh at the jokes. I've left questions before, I'm female, over forty and the proud possessor of a grand ginger cat, who could play Throgmorton in the film!

From Lorelei Chant

Actually I'm not certain that this will end up as a question (that's the way I write, I start out with one thing and end up on one thing that is totally another and quite often belongs to another thought or place altogether) but it is also an appology. You see, i wrote you another question before, as you probably remember, and I'm pretty sure that somewhere in it I pleaded to you to write another Chrestomanci book (and if I didn't I meant to.) Then I read other people's questions to see what others were asking you, and I realized that SO many other people wanted you to write another Chrestomanci book that you (I'm sure) would begin to get frustrated!! And here I am , appologizing for asking you to write another WONDERFUL Chrestomanci book! But i still am hoping you will, as are you from what i gather. Oh, a question has struck me. Do you write one or two of your characters like yourself? With a little bit of you in them? Or the way you wish you were?? That is the way that i write. And if you do to, what character do you put most of you into?( If they are not from the Chrestomanci books, please explain them, althogh i have high intentions to read the other ones I have only started reading them a few weeks ago and the Chrestomanci books are the only ones i've read)

i think i've said quite a lot. but i do have some suggestions for other Chrestomanci books if you might need a bit of help to get over a writers block. also, if i do become an author someday, i owe you quite a lot. thank you yet again

From Hope Weaver (11)

Hi. I have only just dicovered your books an I like to read books that follow on from each other. Is the CHRESTOMANCI series the only one you have done? Also my local library is having great trouble finding out the order that the books should be read could you clear this up please? Thanks from a new fan

From Erin

Will we see more of Cristopher and Cat Chant? I hope so, because I think they were the best stories.

I'm 12 and I love your books. I've never been into reading until about 2 years ago when I started reading Harry Potter books. I read all of them and I had nothing else to read. Then my mom got me your books and I'm once again into reading. Thank you!

From Ashi

HI! How can I write to you? I love your books so much and have so much to ask you! But one question now, is the goddess christopher's wife? Most of y friends and I have pretty much figured that out, you know, in The lives of Christopher Chant, but I just wanted to make sure.

I am 12 years old and love to write poetry and tories. Sadly, I have only finished one disorganized and jumbled book that pretty much will never see the light of day. I admire you because you have such a talent, and I hope to develope that talent some day with experience and knowledge. My favorite book of yours is Witch week, because of Nan's description with the rainbow among other things. Please get back to me!!! Email or something!!!

From Robin

Hello! I'm Robin. ::ten minutes later:: Okay, I'm also really bad at starting 'friendly' and 'cordial' letters, but what the heck, this may not even be read at all. Anyways, I have just finished reading The Chronicles Of Chrestomanci *Volume I*, and I have to say it was one of the most exciting books I have EVER read!!! (And I read a lot of books). Well, I'm wondering (and I'm practically writhing with excitment, and recieving *very* odd looks from my family) if there is any sort of follow-up on Cat Chant's life, and if there's some sort of 'Millie goes to school' type thing. Maybe a story about how Christopher and Millie fell in love? And, what happened to Gabriel De Witt? Alright, now I need to go re-read the books. Oh, and whatever happened to Gwendolyn, and Throgmorten? And Fiddle? This is very exciting! Please reply!! :o)

I am 15, a horrible speller, love to read, and tend to take myself entirely too seriously, and the rest of the world not seriously enough. And I'm rather silly.

From Kate C.

I guess wanted to say that I absoluely adore your books! I have just finished reading The Chronicles of Chrestomanci, Volume One. I enjoyed reading CHarmed Life because it had a realistic but magical twist to it. I could see everything happening in my own head. I must say that I disliked harry potter because the description wasen't interesting, and there wasen't much suspence at all When I was at the climax of Charmed life, I satyed up late at night reading it! I hope that your books keep coming to the USA! Thanks for giving me something to read, and be sure that I will tell all my friends about your books!

Age: 13 Location: Massachusetts, Usa Webpage: http://fly.to/fluffer

From Carly

In 'Charmed life', i was told that Gwendolen was spelt with a 'y' instead of 'e'. I checked and it was true. Which way is the right way???? I would spell it with a 'y', but it is only that on the back.

From Suellen

My son, husband, and I just finished reading "Charmed Life" and "The Lives of Christopher Chant." We've now begun "The Chronicles of Chrestomanci, Vol. 2," and while we are enjoying these stories, we also very much want to know more about what happens to Cat and Janet and the others from "Charmed Life." Is there any chance of a sequel to "Charmed Life"? Thank you for your delightful stories.

From alison

Dear Diana How Did you come up with the idea for other world with doubles and how did you think of the name Chreatomanci?I am a lttle confused about wicth week my sister once read it and said a man wrote it!I hope she read that wrong.

age 8 3grade

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