I’ve been following the discussions about the representations of slavery in children’s literature all day and have found much to think about and much I’d like to discuss with people who have thought about the issues of diversity in children’s lit for a lot longer than I have. So I’m very happy to know that there is an opportunity to engage this important conversation here in Portland. It’s free and sponsored by Portland State University. The panel discussion will be next week January 28th at 7:30 at University Pointe in room 102. I hope to see you there.
Your book “Heart of a Shepherd” which my oldest daughter gave me and her mom two years ago came in real handy yesterday when I was very depressed. I hadn’t read the book when she gave it to us and found it by accident last evening and began reading it and couldn’t put it down. I’m 74 years old and love to read and your book really had an effect on me. I actually finished the book in the early hours of this morning and thought it was both beautiful and sad. Have you ever seen a 74 yo man cry? Well I sure did especially at the end when this young man had to deal with the death of his grandpa. I’m a grandpa to 18 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. I loved this book and it brought me out of my depression and I look forward to reading more of your books in the future. I’m a born again Christian and truly enjoyed the references to God and how He takes care of us no matter what our ordeal, if we just give Him the time. Thank you so very much and may God Bless you and your family.
Thank you so much for getting in touch. Your words came to me on a day when I was in need of good cheer myself so I’m grateful. One of the things I love about writing is it’s power to uplift across many years and miles. And I’m glad that you found the references to God a comfort. It’s rare for a children’s book to take a child’s spiritual life seriously so I’m both astonished and thrilled that Random House took a chance on this story. Blessings on you, Vincent, and all your children and grandchildren.