There should be a law against reading comments written about good reviews! The article itself is great. Would that one could stop right there.

The tone of many of the comments is petty, occasionally mean, and in some instances defensive. But you know all this and still it is dispiriting.

I hardly ever post on Facebook any more because whenever I do, a certain person comments. No matter what is said, I feel slimed.

I’ve been reading an article by R. Gustav Niebhur in the HDS bulletin titled, “Choosing Words Over Bullets.” Son shows how it can be done – life-giving inspiration that our world desperately needs.

My wish is that you feel gratified that what you have given touches so many hearts.

Love the image of “the NYT lining the bottoms of birdcages everywhere.”

I just read the article in my Sunday New York Times and walked away thinking it was an interesting article and a great review for Son. I had no idea of the controversy before I'd read your post and am surprised by it. I haven't read the online comments and have no need to - I guess it's just a reminder that there is a lot of negativity out there.

I read The Giver trilogy to my boys and we've always wanted a story for Gabriel, so ... THANK YOU. I've also read and enjoyed The Hunger Games (not just for the storytelling, but for the questions it raises), but absolutley respect opinions of those who don't. How boring life would be if we all held the same viewpoint.

I can't wait to read the book and hope the debate settles down or is, at least, easily ignored. Thank you for all the wonderful treasures you've given to children's literature!

I hope you are at peace now Lois. You don't have to make excuses for yourself whatsoever. Read what you want. Write what you do -- the combination must work because your books are so moving. Why do people insist on judging people? You are doing great work. Don't let others get you down. Wow, what an incredible writer you are. Maybe because you read primarily adult books you can bring a depth to your children's books that wouldn't be there if you only read kid books....

Good afternoon!
I am sure you are wonderfully busy with your tour, but my daughter is doing a presentation for her senior creative writing class in high school all about you and your life! She would be honored if you might answer a couple of questions. If you might have the time, that would be great.
Thanks so much!

Sincerely,
Kelsey and Pam Powell

If your daughter emails me (click EMAIL on my website) I will try to answer her questions briefly