I am taking a blog holiday, but what I’ve done, is go through the archives and pick a few somewhat random posts that I thought you might like to see again. Enjoy!
Today’s Featured Author is John Rowe Townsend. I had the great joy of meeting him and his partner, (also a fabulous writer who I will feature at some point) Jill Paton Walsh, last fall at their home in Cambridge, England. John and I had been corresponding since 1991, when I wrote to him to tell him how wonderful of a writer he is. John and Jill have encouraged, sympathized and offered advice as I have worked my way along this writing path and I am very grateful to know them. When I was in Cambridge, Jill called me, “John’s biggest fan” and I have to say I was thrilled to hold that title! Thanks, Jill.
John is a storyteller. I think that is what I’ve learned most from reading his books. There are a lot of good books out there, but the ones that are stories in the sense that you would love to tell it to someone or would listen raptly if someone were telling it to you, are what the really intriguing books are made of. John is this kind of writer. His middle grade and young adult novels will draw you in and really never let you go. You’ll remember them long after reading them.
If you are not familiar with John’s work, it’s not your fault. While his books are not readily available here in US bookstores stocking new books, you can find most of them online and in used bookstores. Start here to see titles available. Also your library is a great place to find more of John’s work. For you writers, make sure you pick up a copy of John’s Written For Children. This comprehensive history of English-language children’s literature is a must-have. Visit John and Jill to learn more about them.
Just in case you’re wondering…I think my favorite JRT book is The Summer People. My copy got dropped in the bath, so if you find one in a bookstore, please feel free to send it to Joelle Anthony, P.O. Box…just kidding. I’ll get my own copy soon!
Hi Joelle,
I came across this blog of yours while I was searching for some more info on JRT. I first read The Summer People when I was about 19, and then again some 20 years ago. Now I’m 48, but still think of The Summer People as one of the dearest books I’ve ever read, and there have been so many. I am still intrigued by this book, what is it so special about it? Probably the present tense writing style which absorbs you into the story, the unpretentious realistic young characters, the summer holiday feeling with pending war in the air, and then the sad but touching twist in the end. All written perfectly in a kind of simple but deep unique style.
I just felt I need to share this with you. So you know there is a kindred spirit out there.:-)
Please don’t feel obliged to answer.
Kind regard,
Boris.