Guestbook entries before 2010

Jacob Calder Burby–-Utah

November 09, 2009 – 12:33

I am an aspiring author working on a YA Fantasy fiction piece for publication and just wanted to say a quick thanks for your work, Castle in the Attic.
This was one of the greatest and most creative influences of my entire life when I first read this as a youth and I wanted to thank you for the creative inspiration and jolt to my imagination and (hopefully!) eventual career in writing and creative work. It inspired my imagination, my love for the genre and captured a sense of fantasy and joy that I still feel every time I pick up my original dog-eared copy.
Thanks so much Elizabeth for the wonderful work you do and best of luck for the future.

Deb–-Indiana

November 06, 2009 – 14:25

Our class(5th grade) just finished listening to Counting on Grace. We loved it with all of its emotion, history and thought provoking discussion.

October 27, 2009 – 20:09

Dear Elizabeth,

I love the Castle in the Attic.I love when William turns Sir Simen back to life.Its the best book ever!!! My favorit charector is Sir Simen. I have never read such a good book.

your fan
Clare xxxxoooo-

Will Selissen–-Hudson, WI

September 23, 2009 – 17:14

Hi Ms. Winthrop,

My name is Will. I am 8 years old. I read “The Castle in the Attic” and just finished “The Battle for the Castle.” They are my favorite books. I was sad when it ended – I wanted to hear more of what happens to the characters. I read that you have a secret that you are working on when my mom and me looked at your guestbook and I really, really hope that it’s another “Castle in the Attic” book. Could you please tell me if you are going to write another one? I think you are the best author!

Sincerely,
Will Selissen-

October 11, 2009 – 18:53

Will, someday I may write a sequel to the CASTLE books. I never say never!

Thanks so much for your encouragement. It will spur me on.

Elizabeth

Hope–-Lake Oswego, Oregon

September 08, 2009 – 19:29

Dear Mrs. Winthrop,
I am an aspiring 10 year old author. I have written several stories on the shorter side (my longest being about 18 pages), and I have no idea how to show them to other people. My school doesn’t have a journal or a newspaper or anything, and I would love to show off my longer stories somehow. Can you help?-
Thanks!
Hope

October 11, 2009 – 18:58

Hope, try this website.
www.emtech.net
Look for other places online where you can publish your stories and get feedback from readers.
Write on!

Elizabeth

August 16, 2009 – 12:03

Dear Mrs. Winthrop,
This summer, I read your book The Castle in The Attic. I really liked it. How did you get the idea of a magical castle? Were there other books or an experience in your life that influenced you? If you can, please answer.
Joe Grudt, 4th grade, Island Lake, Illinois

janet–-alberta, canada

August 14, 2009 – 00:31

Dear Elizabeth,

Several years ago you submitted Mary Oliver’s poem Wild Geese to Poems for Life, an anthology assembled by the Nightingale-Bamford School. Thank you so much for that excellent choice. In creating a memory book for my sister’s 50th birthday last week, I sought a poem that would eloquently express for me everything that I wish for her; to be gentle with her true self, to embrace the adventure of the rest of her life, to know that she is at the heart of an extended family that loves her. Wild Geese expressed what I could not even articulate and I thank you for choosing it, making it possible for me to discover it.

Best wishes,
Janet Pelletier

October 11, 2009 – 18:55

Dear Janet,
Thank you for this comment. I myself love that poem and used part of it as an epigraph for my novel ISLAND JUSTICE. I’m glad it expressed your wishes for your sister.

Elizabeth

Kelley Fisher–-Florida

August 02, 2009 – 12:48

Dear Elizabeth,
Will there be any more adult books in the future? Years ago I read “Island Justice” and thought it one of the best books I have read. I also enjoyed “Counting on Grace.” Yesterday, I received a used copy of “In My Mother’s House.” I would assume this was your first adult book? Any short stories out there? I like your style of writing–straight forward, no wasted words. And best of all I CARE about the characters.
I do hope to hear from you.
Sincerely,
Kelley Fisher

October 11, 2009 – 19:03

Kelley, I’m working right now on two different adult memoirs. I can’t tell you how thrilled I was by your comment that you care about the characters. That’s what I work hardest on as a writer. If I the writer don’t care about them, why should you the reader! And you picked that up.

I did have a short story selected for BEST AMERICAN SHORT STORIES in the early 1990’s called “The Golden Darters.” You should be able to find that in a library.

Elizabeth

Kristine Slaughter–-Irvine, CA

August 02, 2009 – 09:20

To Elizabeth Winthrop (or anyone else wbeepknows the answer):

I sent to Publish-A-Book Contest for information for my twelve year old son wbeepwrites. I got it back from the post office as unable to be delivered or forwarded. I sent my inquiry to Publish-A-Book Contest, Raintree Publishers, P.O. Box 518, Milwaukee, WI 53201-0518. Is the contest still there?

Thank you,
Kristine Slaughter

October 11, 2009 – 19:01

Kristine, from all I’ve found, the contest has now been canceled. I’m so sorry. I hope he finds a way to publish his work either online or in print through his school or library or local newspaper contests.

Online he might try-www.emtech.net.

Elizabeth

Laura–-Houston, TX

July 16, 2009 – 15:08

Dear Elizabeth,

With all the hundreds of school visits you’ve probably done over the years, I know that you won’t remember me (it was nearly 22 years ago, after all) but you once visited Valley Oaks Elementary school in Houston, TX in the mid-80’s and it’s a visit I’ll never forget.

The Castle in the Attic was the very first book I ever read that wasn’t a picture book. My mother told you the little story about how we started reading it together a chapter at a time, and she found later that I couldn’t wait and had read the remainder in one sitting. I can’t remember if I ever got up the courage to say anything to you or not (I doubt I did, as I was a very shy child) but you did sign my book, and I still have that book to this day.

Closing in on 25 years later, I wanted to leave something here in the hopes that you’d see it: I wanted to leave you my thanks. Ever since that last page of your book, I’ve been a voracious reader and that’s never changed over the course of the years. There are some books that I read over and over when I’m feeling nostalgic, and yours is always at the top of the list.

Sincerely,
Laura Thompson

July 20, 2009 – 14:52

Laura, what a lovely letter to get from such a devoted reader. Thank you for taking the time to tell me the story of my visit to Valley Oaks Elementary School and for letting me know that it had such an impact you. It’s readers like you that keep me writing.

Best wishes,

Elizabeth

June 23, 2009 – 20:55

are you writing another adventure book?

June 15, 2009 – 13:23

are you making an another book

ham cravens–-ames, iowa

June 15, 2009 – 00:09

nice to see you and Jason this week end. hope we can get togetehr at some point in the not too distant future. your website is impressive.

ham

jessica–-wv

May 26, 2009 – 18:52

I bought the Biggest Parade for my son’s 4 or 5 months ago. It’s there favorite book now, every night they come with this book and know it by heart. They are 5 and 3, I had to look you up and see the titles of your other books. I look forward to getting them.

July 20, 2009 – 14:53

Dear Jessica,

Thanks so much for letting me know that your sons are enjoying the adventures of Fred and Harvey. There’s another book about them called DOG SHOW. Look for it online or in your library.

Best,

Elizabeth

May 20, 2009 – 14:12

Dear Elizabeth,
I came across an advertisement for Counting on Grace, in a North Carolina Conversations journal last night. I immediately recognized the little girl on your book jacket. Two years ago, I received a North Carolina Arts Council grant to collaborate on a ceramic tile mural with my fourth graders and artist in residence, Ray Moose. It is titled, A TRIBUTE TO TEXTILES, and chronicles the evolution of the textile industry through a series of sculpted tiles that my students created. We live in a southern mill town. Some teachers also created a tile. I was inspired by the photograph of Addie in front of her machine. I had read in an article that accompanied the photo that the little girl’s arm was misshaped or malformed, probably due to an injury in the mill. It had not been treated properly after the accident. It also stated that Addie appeared older and wiser than her actual age. I supposed her to be around the same age as my fourth graders and created a tile of her. I had also read Doug Marlette’s novel, The Bridge, while researching images for our mural. We were honored to have him speak at our unveiling! He encouraged my students to listen to the stories that their parents and grandparents shared with them and to tell them over and over so that that the stories, their history, would not be forgotten. I would love to email or send you a photograph of our mural and of my tile. You can see a photograph of the mural on Cabarrus County School’s website. Link to Mt. Pleasant Elementary, then to staff web pages, then to me, Beth Smithson. It will be under textile mural. Please let me know if you would like to see the tile of Addie . I can’t wait to read Counting on Grace!
Sincerely,
Beth Smithson
Art Teacher
Mt. Pleasant Elementary School
Cabarrus County Schools
North Carolina

July 20, 2009 – 14:55

Beth, I would be thrilled to see the tile of Addie. I’ll reply to your email soon. Thanks so much for being persistent…

Elizabeth

anna–-tallmadge, ohio

May 19, 2009 – 18:22

hi i usually am talking with stephanie but this time its just me i wanted 2 no if u r going 2 publish a book tht is a sequal 2 castle in the attic other than the battle 4 the castle if so can u let me no and u did help alot with our project thanks alot oh and i just wanted 2 no 1 more thing can u tell me and stephanie a summary of the batle 4 the castle book plz and thank u so much 4 the project u helped me with-––––––––-ps me and stef cannot get on email account grounded so just send it here thanks again bye-

July 20, 2009 – 14:56

Hi, Anna,

I’m not writing a sequel to THE BATTLE FOR THE CASTLE now, but am working on a different project. If I do write a sequel, I’ll be sure to let you know.

Elizabeth

Delaney Warters–-Davie, FL

May 18, 2009 – 20:08

Hi. I have been reading Castle in the Attic for school and we just finished it.It was so cool.My favorite part of the book was when William looked in the dragons eyes and saw the illusions.I was also wondering if you were going to write another book besides Battle for the Castle?

Please write back,
Delaney Warters

esmeralda–-???

June 09, 2009 – 21:07

I do not think she is going to write another book just look at my answer-–

Cathy Wood–-Overland Park, KS

May 18, 2009 – 13:35

Hello. My name is Cathy Wood and I am a theatre teacher at an Overland
Park, Kansas high school. My students and I are working on a benefit
performance of poems from The Cancer Poetry Project and we would like to
use your poem, Clay Pigeons. Please let me know if we may have your
permission. Thank you.

May 15, 2009 – 16:42

i have been reading castle in the attic 4 skool and it was a really great book.are u going to write any more castle in the attic books?-

John–-Tempe, Arizona

May 12, 2009 – 18:06

I’m a 64-year old male wbeepdoesn’t usually read fiction or childrens books but I was so taken with Joe Manning’s story of the search for Addie Card I can’t seem to get enough. In so many ways Addie was just a product of her age and a very ordinary person but the challenges she endured as a very young girl were those most of us living today have never experienced.

I enjoyed ‘Counting On Grace’ but it simply whetted my appetite for more information on Addie and her life. I assume from comments in your summaries you have more photo’s and stories of Addie and her families. Are you or Mr. Manning planning on publishing more about Addie’s life and times – nonfiction?

July 20, 2009 – 14:59

Dear John,

Joe Manning has published pretty much all we know about Addie. You can find any of his latest updates atwww.morningsonmaplestreet.com. Thanks so much for taking the time to be in touch and for your kind words about COUNTING ON GRACE.

Elizabeth

Rick–-Ray Middle School

May 12, 2009 – 14:49

I have used this picture for many years when I teach my class about the Industrial revolution. This year a girl in my class says that the girl is on the cover of a book called Counting on Grace, she thinks. I found your article about your discovery of the little girl’s life and thought it was great. I had no idea of any of this until today. I am going to share this with my kids in our next class. Thanks you so much, this is great stuff to both learn about and share with my class. Thanks Rick B.

May 04, 2009 – 10:05

Do u have an AIM if so i wanna im u!!!

May 04, 2009 – 20:07

No, I don’t have an AIM because I’m really oldfashioned and try to spend most of my time writing my new book! Sorry…but I am setting up a Facebook Fan Page soon….

Stephanie and Anna–-Ohio

May 04, 2009 – 10:01

HI we r doin a reading project 4 skool and we r reading The Castle in the Attic and we were wondering some Q cause we have to reasearch the Author 4 part of the project: what r some of ur hobbies? what were ur thought when u wrote this book? where and when were u born? what is ur current hometown (or state if more conforetible)
~Stephanie and Anna

May 04, 2009 – 20:09

Stephanie and Anna, you can find out lots about me on my website, especially on the Castle and Battle page. My hobbies are knitting, swimming, traveling and hiking. I was born in Washington, D.C. I live in Massachusetts and New York. Hope that helps with your project.

Elizabeth

Stephanie and Anna–-Ohio

May 19, 2009 – 10:01

Thanks so much we could of gotton a grade marked down if you didnt give us what ur hobbies and current hometown was I wish i could meet you do you know if your gonna do any book singings in Ohio in the Clevland area if so can you tell us like asap!! we are only 2 pages before chapter 10 and the book is sooo good BTW we are reading castle in the Attic. and the new book you are writing what is the name of it please tell us if not we will not be disapointed-
Thanks Again~
Stephanie and Anna
PS we are sorry we got the message so late we were looking for more info and started to read the comment page and that you replyed!-–––

Lion (not my real name)–-Miami,Flordia

March 10, 2009 – 18:58

Hi Elizibith Winthrop in school we are reading Battle for the Castle it is such a great book so far.Do you have any other books that are like Castle in the Attic or Battle for the Castle.Also are you planning to wright another sequel to Battle for the Castle?-

Georges–-Vacaville, CA

April 06, 2009 – 12:43

Hi Lion-
I have just written a 15 page prequel to Castle in the Attic for my homework assignment. Since you liked Caslte in the Attic, I am going to ask you a question. Would you like to read it and give me some proofreading advice in return. It is called Alastor’s Childhood. I am 10 years old and the paper is due on April 17. I can email it to you.
From,
Georges

Animal Lover (not my real name)–-Pownal, VT

February 28, 2009 – 19:14

My reading group at school read Counting on Grace and it was SUCH a great book.
I saw Elizabeth talk about Counting on Grace at Pownal, Vermont’s library and I really wish I had listened to it. I was dumb to not listen, because Counting on Grace is such an awesome book and I really want to know more about it! It was gross when Arthur cut off his fingers. EEW!! But other wise, GREAT! My favorite parts in the book were when Pepe died, from chapter 13 to. . . no idea.
I write lots of stories and this book was a great masterpiece and was very enjoyable.
My teacher told me to check this site out, and i am quite glad I did.
OMG! I know Mikayla Bentley and she was in my reading group and she made a comment on this site!!!! CCOOOLLL!!!!!!!
Hi, Mikayla!

February 27, 2009 – 14:27

Hello!
My students and I are trying to find a picture or video that explains doffing. We are enjoying Counting On Grace so much and are curious about this process.
Are there pictures somewhere we could explore?
Thanks!
J. Christman

Tiffany–-NY

February 24, 2009 – 18:13

Dear Ms. Winthrop,
First of all I want to thank you for writing the Castle books. It has been one of my top favorites since I was about the age of 9 or 10 and still is today at the age of 25. It was probably the first book that got me interested in reading.
I would love it if “The Castle in the Attic” was made into a movie but only if it stays true to the book. I read somewhere that it was going to be turned into a movie in 2010, is this true? I always wanted to try to turn the book into a screenplay but I am still a novice at writing. Infact i’m taking an at home study course on freelance writing.
If your books ever do become movies, I hope they stay true to the story you wrote so wonderfully. Thank you.
Tiffany

February 26, 2009 – 10:44

Dear Tiffany,
Thank you for taking the time to write to me. Walden Studios has an option on THE CASTLE IN THE ATTIC and THE BATTLE FOR THE CASTLE so perhaps a movie will be made someday. I’ve learned not to hold my breath while at the same time urging the screenplay writer and producer to hold true to the characters, especially William.

Elizabeth

Nolka–-MA

February 15, 2009 – 12:01

I love your book Counting on Grace. My friend Rose and I both adore it. I read the book in only one night. For a project at school I desided to study about Lewis Hine. I am using the facts in the back of your book to learn about him along with some things from the internet. I learned that his three siblings, his parents and he owned a coffee shop which they lived above. I wish you would write more books about Grace or maybe one of her children or grandchildren. As I said the book is amazing!

February 16, 2009 – 17:06

Dear Nolka,
Isn’t it amazing that Lewis Hine worked in his parents’ coffee shop? Did you know he was born in Oshkosh, Wisconsin and that he had to work in a furniture factory when his father died. He understood child labor better than most because of that.
I don’t have any further books about Grace planned right now, but I do miss her company so I could always change my mind.
Thanks for writing.
Elizabeth

February 10, 2009 – 19:14

Hello Elizabeth,

I just finished reading the Battle for the Castle with my fifth and youngest child just this afternoon. All of my children have loved the “Castle” books, and each one has asked on the day we finished if another book is forthcoming. We have grown so fond of the characters! Well, I have been saying ‘we shall see’ for a number of years now.-

It occurred to me today to look you up online, and much to our joy you are still alive and writing! Thank you so much for blessing the world with your WONDERFUL books! Thank you for sharing with all of your readers the wonderful gift you have for writing!

We’re wondering if you have any plans to write another “Castle” book? We are waiting in suspenseful hope!

Much love to you! Please greet William, Mrs. Phillips, Sir Simon, and Gudrin for us! Oh, and Tolliver, too!-

Julie (mom) and Sarah (age 9) Arend from Minnesota

February 16, 2009 – 17:02

Dear Julie and Sarah,
Thank you for taking the time to write to me about your love of my characters. I too have a huge affection for them so it means a great deal to me when I hear that readers have connected with them. Yes, I am still alive and still writing. Will there be another CASTLE book? I’m never sure where my creative energy will take me, but I never say never.
Perhaps your family would enjoy COUNTING ON GRACE which is a very different kind of novel, but one with characters I cherish as much as I do William. The whole family could listen to a reading of the audio book if that would save Julie’s voice!

Elizabeth

Karena–-Mayenne, France

February 07, 2009 – 00:53

Thank you for your books. Your bio is amazing, providing insight into your methods for inspiration. Just one thing. You wrote that your Maggy and the Monster had been translated into Danish and Japanese. It has also, at least, been published in French. I’m American, but my children are Franco-American and they receive a magazine called “Tralalire”. Your story has been translated and placed in the November 2008 series. It’s a great story. Thank you very much for your stories.

February 16, 2009 – 17:04

Dear Karena,
Thanks for alerting me to the Tralalire version of MAGGIE. I shall ask my publisher for a copy of the translation.

Elizabeth

Monique–-colchester

January 27, 2009 – 14:29

From what I have heard this book is really good. I can’t wait to read it with my class!!!!!!-–-It will be sooooooooooo-.

benbraverman–-Chicago,IL

January 26, 2009 – 11:33

How do you become a knight? I need to know for a school project.
P.S. I LOVE YOUR BOOKS!

December 05, 2008 – 23:12

Dear Elizabeth Winthrop,

My name is Sharlyn Nelson and I am a sophomore at Norco High School. I am currently working on a National History Day, the theme is The Individual in History: Actions and Legacies. I have chosen to do my project on Lewis Wickes Hine and have read your Time Exposures article on him. I was wondering if you would be willing to conduct an email interview with me as part of my research. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you,
Sharlyn Nelson

December 02, 2008 – 10:12

Dear Ms. Winthrop,
On behalf of the participating students and faculty at Highland School of Technology, I would like to thank you for your exceptional and informative presentation on Wednesday, November 12, 2008. We enjoyed and greatly appreciate the time and information you graciously shared with us. We also thank you for taking the time to answer our many questions.
As you may or may not know, the United States History as well as Civics and Economics classes read-Counting on Grace. We found it very interesting, with a remarkable purpose and a great storyline. We look forward to reading more of your work and seeing you again in the future!

Sincerely,

Blair A. Gibson

December 01, 2008 – 18:25

The Castle in the Attic is a fantastic book it’s funny, enjoyable, and makes you smile. Such great charecters William, Mrs.Phillips and Sir Simon are what make this book lovable. I’m only on chapter 6 but it keeps getting better-––––––

mikayla Bentley–-pownal, VT

November 26, 2008 – 20:56

Dear mrs. Winthrop
My class at Pownal Elementary School is reading Counting On Grace. I’m in the fifth grade in Mr. Partenope’s reading group and I really enjoying your book!--Do you have any more books with another person in Pownal if you I’m really intrested in the history of Pownal!!!!
sincerly, Mikayla-

December 01, 2008 – 13:22

Dear Mikayla,

I’m so glad you’re enjoying my book about Grace and thrilled that you’re interested in the history of Pownal. I think everybody should really want to know about the place where they are growing up.

That’s the only book I’ve written so far that’s set in Pownal, but I have published a book called DEAR MR. PRESIDENT, Letters from a Milltown Girl that’s set in North Adams, Massachusetts not too far away from you. Maybe you have a copy at your school or in your library.

Best,

Elizabeth

November 22, 2008 – 11:37

In Counting On Grace, what was your inspiration for French Johnny?

Brianna–-Gastonia

November 20, 2008 – 18:00

Dear Ms.Winthrop
Thank You for coming to our school cramerton! I really enjoyed your book. I was wondering if you had any plans to write other books about the mills?

Thanks,
Brianna-

November 20, 2008 – 20:35

Hi, Brianna:
I was glad to meet you and all the good people of Gaston County. At this point I don’t have any plans to write another book about the mill, but you never know where my imagination will lead me.

Elizabeth

luisa jona–-stockton-on-tees

November 16, 2008 – 23:12

I received the book, maggie and the monster as a christmas present when I was five/six and it came with a free monster toy. does anyone know where i can get a replica of the monster toy? i called my toy maggie and loved it so much and then my little sister took it off me and it eventually lost it’s head due to wear and tear. (still never forgiven my sister) my nana made a yellow version but if i could get an original monster toy for my sister as a christmas present would be so amazing! thanks xxx

November 17, 2008 – 11:21

Dear Luisa Jona,

Oh, how I wish that I too had saved the Maggie monster doll. I have only one and I treasure it. I suppose you have tried to find one on eBay. It’s the only source I can think of.

Best,

Elizabeth

November 16, 2008 – 19:11

hey i really liked ur book.it made me realize that i have a great life.that my parents have a great job to and that we dont have to work in the mills.that we can get a good education.

David Alsup–-Long Beach, CA

November 15, 2008 – 18:44

Ms Winthrop,
Your family history is held in the highest regard.

Due to AOL eliminating Family History pages, Henry Conor, “Keeper of the Alsop Flame”, has asked me to preserve a very important piece of Alsop family information. We have flipped your page link
to my master website, which will duplicate the information (Richard Alsop)which has been kindly contributed by you.
Please let me know if you wish to add or change anything.
Kindest Regards
David Alsup

November 17, 2008 – 11:20

Dear David Alsup,
Thank you so much for keeping me updated on the Alsop Family information. All looks fine to me and I appreciate the link back to my website.

Regards,

Elizabeth (Alsop) Winthrop

November 14, 2008 – 15:27

Dear Ms Winthrop

I just want you to know that I really liked counting on grace. I think it really lets us know what kids had to through back then. We get made when our parents ask us to clean our rooms, but thats not even half of what the children had to do.
I love the name grace, I want to know what gave you that name. I hope you write a sequel. Yours truly, Lacy

November 14, 2008 – 15:25

Dear Ms.Winthrop,
I have to tell you that when my teachers started reading Counting On Grace it made me think of how foutunate ,I am of not having to work in a mill.It made me think of how many boys and,girls like Grace are abused and,sufer.I would say that Counting On Grace changed my way of thinking and,being thankful for what,I have.One last thing,I would like to know in what way did Counting On Grace change your life and,your way of thinking?I look foward to a respond to my answer.Thank you so much for taking time to read my comment.BYE

November 14, 2008 – 15:23

Dear Ms.Winthrop,
I want to tell you that Counting on Grace is one of the many books that I have really enjoyed reading. Also that Counting on Grace has changed my thoughts to good thoughts on how I used to think about things that happened in the past,and I would like to thank you for that.
Sincerly,Alice

November 14, 2008 – 15:22

Dear Ms. Winthrop,
I really enjoyed your book Counting On Grace. Before I read this book, I didn’t really understand the life in the mills. But now, it makes me want to go do research on it myself. I am also glad you took the time to come to my school, Belmont Middle. God Bless!-

Lori Williams

November 14, 2008 – 15:20

Dear Ms. Winthrop,
I really enjoyed reading this book! I learned a lot about the mills and about the people that worked there. The way the people treated these kids in the mill was just unbelievable. The way they made them work,and on the most dangerous machines.How long they made them work for just little money a week was surprising.I really loved the way you wrote this book. It was really fantastic!!
-Lindsey-––

November 14, 2008 – 15:12

Dear Ms. Winthrop
I really liked your book couting on grace it was a good book.You did a great job on writing it. I really enjoyed reading it because it really made me think about how it would have been if i was alive.Well e-mail back thanks josh

November 14, 2008 – 15:09

Dear Ms. Winthrop,
I Enjoyed Counting On Grace. I Also Enjoyed You Comming And Telling Us What Inspired You. And How It Was A Life Experenice For You. Before I Read Counting On Grace I Thought I Knew Lot’s Of Stuff About Mill Life. I Did, But Not Half As Much As There Was To Know. I Knew About The House’s But Not Child Labor. Thanks For Comming And To Our Middle School And Sharing With Us.

Thanks,
Chelsea(:

November 14, 2008 – 15:06

Dear Ms.Winthrop
I thought your book was really cool. It was interesting to hear how all those young kids were forced to work in the mills. I also thought it was neat how you wrote a fictional story but added true people and events

November 14, 2008 – 15:04

Thank You for coming to our school yesterday, I really enjoyd talking to you and learning about what enspired you to write counting on grace

Thank You
T.J.

November 14, 2008 – 15:02

Dear ms Winthrop,
I sincerely loved counting on grace,it makes me realize how lucky i really am.I know you said your not sure about a sequal but I think it would be a great idea for you to do that.anyway i just wanted to say how much i liked the book and thank you for coming to my school.

November 14, 2008 – 14:58

this book made me realize that life was not easy back then and im thankful for what i have.like going to school and having a house and my parents that as better jobs as like the mills.

November 14, 2008 – 14:56

Dear Ms.winththrop,
i enjoyed the book counting on grace because it showed me how young the kids were that worked in the mills
caitlin-––––

November 14, 2008 – 14:33

Dear Ms. Winthrop,
I have sincerly enjoyed your book. It make me truely gracious that I have a chance at an education and I don’t have to work my fingers to the bone. Grace is an insprational character that can show you to truly be thankful for what they have; because after all life isn’t about what you have, *who* you know, or where you live; life is about love and compassion and to always give even if you don’t receive; and I think your character Grace is all about giving!

sincerly, your fan
Anthony

November 14, 2008 – 14:32

Dear Ms. Winthrop,
Reading Counting On Grace was very interesting. I enjoyed reading through Grace’s point of view, and I loved her speech and how she talked. Counting on Grace opened my eyes to see that there was child labor, and how lucky I am to be living now instead of back in Grace’s time. I’ve always known school was important, and I knew how kids were taken out of school at a young age back then, but this was the first time I saw it through a novel, and not a text book. When you came to my school, I was so impressed by how much research you did on mill life and the girl, Addie. I hope when I’m older, I can be half the author that you are.

~from Caroline-

November 14, 2008 – 14:31

Dear Ms. winthrop,
I have had the wonderful oppertunity to read counting on Grace. I was startled to read about the mill villages and how horrible child labor was. My grandmother was a millrat but i never thought about the life she had to go through. she now suffers from horrible athritis and troubling pain. Your writtings have really opened my eyes to see that children of our generation do not have to go through the excrutiating pain and troubling that Grace, Arhter, and Delia had to. Thank you for being such a great influence on my thoughts of mill life and child laboring.

Sincerely,
Elizabeth

P.S- Don’t you think its funny how we have the same names?

November 14, 2008 – 14:29

Dear Ms. Wintrop,
I have recently read your book COUNTING ON GRACE. It was a very good book. I like how couragefull Grace was and how she lived life as a mill worker. Sometimes it really makes me sick how thosse people had to live. Also the child labor is horrible. I also enjoy learning about the mills. Mr. Hine was a very neat man there should be more people like him in the world.

Thank You

-Camden

–––

November 14, 2008 – 14:28

Dear Ms. Winthrop,
I have sincerly enjoyed your book. It make me truely gracious that I have a chance at an education and I don’t have to work my fingers to the bone. Grace is an insprational character that can show you to truly be thankful for what they have; because after all life isn’t about what you have, wbeepyou know, or where you live; life is about love and compassion and to always give even if you don’t receive; and I think your character Grace is all about giving!

sincerly, your fan
Anthony

November 14, 2008 – 14:27

Dear Ms. Winthrop,
Counting on Grace was a very good book. It gave me a really good look on child labor. I didnt know that families sometimes lied about the child’s age, just to get them work in the mill. It is so very sad to hear that kids probably younger than me would be working, and cut off a finger, or hurt their leg and become a cripple. I would hate have injured myself, but they still come to get you back to work! How sad?! It really helped me understand the mills, and child labor. People were so desparate to earn money, that they would just throw their children- underage, sometimes- into the mills. How did it make you feel when you learned all of these facts about the mills?
Thank You
-Mary-–

November 14, 2008 – 14:25

Dear Ms.Winthrop

I really liked Counting on Grace. Grace reminded me alot of my grandmother. At first when my teacher handed me the book I thouht it would just be another boring novel we would read in class. But after reading a few pages I REALLY liked it and read the book at home that night.-

November 14, 2008 – 14:25

Dear ms.winthrop,
Counting on grace was one of the best books i have ever read.Im glad we had the oppurtunity to read it.I enjoyed having you come to our school.I hope I can read more of your books.

Sincerely,
Andrew

November 14, 2008 – 14:24

Dear Ms. Winthrop,
I’m so glad that my school had the opportunity to hear you speak about your book,”Counting on Grace”, when you came to our school, Belmont Middle. I really liked the book and hope there’s a sequel.
Sincerely,
Katelyn-

November 14, 2008 – 14:23

Dear Ms. Winthrop,
I personally LOVED Counting on Grace. It was a great book! I learned so much about mill life. I hope to find some more books that you’ve writen. Can you give me some of the titles of some of the books that you’ve writen that are exciting?

-Samantha

November 14, 2008 – 14:11

Dear Ms. Winthrap,
I have enjoyed reading the book, Counting On Grace, and I have learned alot about what happened in that time. It was a really nice book, and I loved the part where Mr. Hine meets Grace, and talks with her. We have really learned alot in my class while reading it, and I liked when you came in as a speaker and described to us the “behind the scenes”. I have really enjoyed this book and I hope you will make a sequal.
Sincerly,
Ashraf.-

November 14, 2008 – 14:10

Dear Ms. Winthrop,

I have recently read your book, “Counting on Grace”. I must say that I throughly enjoyed this book. In the time I had spent reading your book I have come to realize how truely fourtunate I am. The child labor issues in “Counting on Grace” are sickening. I hope you realize that your book has affected me in a way that I hope will change the child labor that we have going on today. I (so to be a future adult) will stand up for children’s rights world wide. So I guess what Im trying to do is express my gratitude towards your book and the meaning behind the subject.

Thank you very much, I hope to be reading more of your books in the future.

-Kristin

November 14, 2008 – 14:08

Dear MS.winthrop,
I realy enjoyed reading the book counting on grace when i took the test on the book i made a 100% and at the end i put that it was one of the best books i have ever read.I hope u write another counting on grace book to coutine the story i would probly read it was a very very very good book.
sicirly,
Brian

November 14, 2008 – 14:07

Dear Ms. winthrop

I really liked ur book, in was deffanitly one of the best books i have ever reed-
It changed the way i thought of my life. I thought i had a bad life, but after reading this book i ike life the way it is now. I would hate to live the wat the kids lived back then.

senseraly
Preston

November 14, 2008 – 14:05

Dear, Ms. Winthrop
I really enjoyed your story about Grace. She is an amazing character that really speaks to the reader and she makes you think. She is relatable and she has a voice that speaks clear and true! You are very talented. The way you ended it was perfect! It gives you enough information to give you a clue to what may happen next but not enough to resrict our own imaginations wonderings. I myself have a passion for writing and hope to be as successful as you one day. You have inspired me to connect to my characters in a different way, to get to know them the way you know Grace.
Addie would be proud to have inspired such a moving story. I think in a way she would have wanted the story of a mill child to be told! You amaze me with your dedication and love of writing! Keep it up! I will be sure to look for what ever comes next!!

-lauren-

November 14, 2008 – 14:03

Dear Ms. Winthrop,
We read Counting on Grace in school. At first I did not think I would like it. I changed my mind after the first couple of chapters. It was a very good book.

November 14, 2008 – 14:01

Dear Ms. Winthrop,
I realy enjoyed your book Counting on Grace. I thought that it was a great book and that it was very informative about childlabor both back in the the early 1900’s and childlabor today. I’m realy glad you took the time to come to our school and tell us about Counting on Grace and all the research you did. I hope that you do come out with a sequel.
-Becca-

November 14, 2008 – 12:33

Dear Mrs. Winthrop,
I liked your book a whole lot. At the beginning, honestly, my friends and I hated it. But in the end, I thought it was very informative since we live in what used to be a mill town. I also liked the way it ended. I don’t have any questions for you but you are a fabulous writer.

Sincerely,
-Kevin-

November 14, 2008 – 12:32

Dear Ms. Winthrop,
I liked the story of Grace and her friends and family. It sounds to me like a real story and that it actually happened. I do hope that you write another book about Grace and tell what happens to her/Arthur. This book taught me a lot.

-Andrew-

November 14, 2008 – 12:30

Dear Ms. Winthrop,
I loved the book Counting on Grace. I like to learn about the mills and interesting history like that. Thank you for coming to the school and talking to us more about the book. I hope you write a sequel because I would like to know what happens to Arthur, his mom, and Miss Lesley. I would also like to see what happens to Grace if a new teacher comes and takes her place as the permanent teacher.
sincerely,
Ashley

November 14, 2008 – 12:29

Ms. Winthrop,
I enjoyed Counting on Grace. It was a good book and explained a lot to me about the early 1900’s. I feel very lucky to be living in the time period right now. I feel sorry for the children back then and angry that there weren’t many people like Lewis Hine. Thank you.

November 14, 2008 – 12:28

Dear Ms.Winthrop,

I just finished reading your book Counting On Grace. I really enjoyed this book. I did not know much about child labor in mills or just mills in general when we started the book but now I feel like I know a lot more and can teach people about children that used to work in the mill. It changed my life in many different ways. I realized just how lucky we now are. We are not forced to walk around barefoot and we are also not forced to work in mills. Thanks for writing such an inspiring book!!!
Sincerely,
Maddie-

November 14, 2008 – 12:25

Dear Ms.Winthrop,
I really liked your book Counting on Grace. To me, it taught kids these days to appreciate school and the privelges that we have now. Alot of us are ungrateful for the things we have and reading how life was in the mill in the early 1900’s really helps you realize that. I love Grace’s character and the way she deals with her issues. Are you going to write a sequel?

Kristin-

November 14, 2008 – 12:22

Dear Ms. Winthrop,
I think your book was great. I really enjoyed reading it and I hope you will make a sequel.

November 14, 2008 – 12:15

Dear Mrs. Winthrop,
I really liked this book. In the beggining I thought I was not going to like it, but then when I started reading it I thought it was a great book! Iwould like to know some things about Adelaide card. How did you feel when you found out that her name was actually Adelaide Card not Annie Laird? Why were you so interested in mills? Did you ever think to give up on Adelaide? How did finding out about her change your life? Were you relieved when you finally finished the book? How long did it take you to find Adelaids grandchildren? That is alot of question and I hope you can answer them. Thank you and good bye.

November 14, 2008 – 12:14

Dear Ms.Winthrop
I enjoyed reading your book and listining to your speech. This book opend my eyes’ to the horrible mistreatment of people, especialy children, not just in mills but all over the world. I can’t understand how people can be so greedy that they force children to waste any chance for a better life just so they can save money. I hope your book helps people see just how much still needs to be done to end child labor permanently. Keep it up!

Sincerely,
a concerned student

November 14, 2008 – 12:13

Dear Ms. Winthrop,
I really enjoyed your book “Counting On Grace”. It showed me things that I had not know before. To be honest, I never really cared much about child labor i just was happy that I wasnt working. Now i think about what they went through and how they didn’t get to grow up with the nice things we get to. The hours and constant working would be horrible, not to mention the possible diseases. Your book was different from the other ones i have been reading, it was a good change.
–Mitch-

November 14, 2008 – 12:11

I loved the book counting on Grace!!! It taught me so much about what a childs life would be like worked in a mill. I wish Auther didn’t have to move away, because now grace has no friends, I hope you write a secule to the book,and bring Auther back to Grace. I have one queston about the girl on the front cover why did they take away her baby?

Please write back
from Stratford

November 14, 2008 – 12:10

Dear Ms. Winthrop
I loved Counting on Grace. It has all the qualities of a good book! This book made me look at child labor a whole different way. It makes me feel angry and sad that kids didn’t have a chance to get an education like i have. When you came to talk with us i was very impressed how much research you did. You really knew your facts. I also have one question for you. How many copies of Counting on Grace have you sold?????

November 14, 2008 – 12:08

It was a great book and it taught me alot about the mills in the early 1900s. It was one of the best books I have read.

November 14, 2008 – 12:07

Dear Ms. Winthrop,
You recently came to our school and you talked to us about your book Counting on Grace. We read your book as a class and it was very good. Your stlye of writing is so unique. I thought that the way you make the characters connect with the reader was amazing. I could just imagine everything that happened in my head and it was easy, flowing reading. I am going to see if our library has any of your books. I wanted to let you know you changed the way I saw the past.
Thanks,
Maddy-

November 14, 2008 – 12:06

Dear Ms. Winthrop,
Counting on Grace was a great book! I loved it, its probably my favorite book becuase I like that time period. My favorite parts were when Lewis Hine came and stayed with Grace, and also when Arthur and Grace split the photo. I enjoyed you coming to our school, and hope to read more of your books in the future!!!-

November 14, 2008 – 11:31

dear ms.winthrop

i really loved your book it was very sad but good.

November 14, 2008 – 11:30

Dear Ms. Winthrop,
What I liked about Counting on Grace is where grace was trying her best to get out of the mill.

Are you going to make a sequal?

November 14, 2008 – 11:28

Dear Ms.Winthrop,
This is Haleah and i really enjoyed you coming to my school.I really like your book COUNTING ON GRACE!!!! My mom aslo worked in the mill and i think she can relate to what you were writing.She said that is was very hard to work.I am pretty gald that i wasnt born durin that time cause it ws hard.I have a question…..Have you ever work in the mill during your child life?I really did like your book and i am going to keep reading all your books I can find out there.Well keep on writing!!

HALEAH

P.S:I hope we read another on of your novels and you can come back here--Haleah

November 14, 2008 – 11:23

Dear,Mrs Winthrop

I loved your book. I would like to see the move,But idk if there is one.my favorite pert was when Lewis Hines entered the book.It was weird how he could tell the kids hight. The amazing part was how sneekey he was.Well anyway thanks for coming to our school Belmont Middle School. ;]

November 14, 2008 – 11:17

Dear Mrs. Winthrop I really liked your book (counting on Grace).
My favorite part in the book is when Grace got to see herself in a photo for the first time.I like the fact that you used really people in the book like Grace,Author,and Delia.I hope you make a second book to see If Grace is Stii teaching And if Author had to work in another mill.
sinecrely,
Danielle

November 14, 2008 – 11:09

Hello, this is Heather i am one of the 8th grade students that go to Belmont Middle School. I just wanted to say that i am very happy you got the chance to come to belmlont middel school. Counting on grace is one of the best books i have ever read. Its a very great book and i enjoyed it. I think that it is just so cool that you actually had real characters in that book. The main thing i have to say is that counting on grace is a great book.
-Heather-–

November 14, 2008 – 11:08

Dear Mrs. Winthrop,
Thank You for writing this incredible book Counting On Grace and coming to our school BMS! Your visit was a wonderful experience, and I have learned so many new things about the Mill Life and those wbeeplived it. The question I would like to ask is how did you come up with the whole setting of Mill Life and how it interested you? Thank You again and I hope that you enjoyed us at our school.
Sincerly,
Cynthia

November 14, 2008 – 11:06

Dear Miss Winthrop,
I enjoyed your book.I learned that child labor was used back then and still today.I also learned about the mill and the mill village.I didnt know that you had to work at a young age

November 14, 2008 – 11:05

joshua dover–-belmont nc

November 13, 2008 – 19:59

hey this is joshua dover i am from belmont nc and u came to my school to belmont middle school.I liked your book counting on grace that is a good book.I really enjoyed it and what made u to decide to even write this book because u did a great job on it.I would like to get a letter from u so here is my address 3470 Boat Club Rd. 28012.

November 06, 2008 – 20:47

Hey, My friend, Angelica and I are doing a research project on Lewis Hine; we have known that you know much about him and wish that you can help us maybe find some information on Lewis Hine. Thank you so much and I hope you reply to this. Email me back if you could-

Linda Deal–-Ketchikan, AK 99901

November 04, 2008 – 14:53

Wbeepwould have thought all these years later, we need a hardbound copy (1980) of Sloppy Kisses. Our 5 year old grandson decided he was too old to kiss his Mom goodbye at school just last week. I said, I have the perfect book…only to find our that our 29 year old, veternarian daughter had osbsconded with our copy. It was her favorite childhood book. Do you have any idea where I could get another copy???? I appreciate your help, Linda Deal

Douglas Clapp–-Rochester, NY

November 03, 2008 – 21:34

Dear Ms. Winthrop,

My Dad says he knows you from living in New York City. Now we live in Rochester, NY and I am reading your book Castle in the Attic in my third grade class at the Harley School. Also in second grade I read Halloween Hats and Bumpy La Rue. I really liked your books. We just started Castle but so far so good!

I think my brother read those books too. He is in fourth grade.

So thanks for writing your books.

Your reader friend,

David Clapp

(Yep, it’s true. I’m back in Rochester, married with two boys 8 & 10. Drop a note if you have a chance. I assume my email address is visible to you? Regards, Doug.)

November 14, 2008 – 18:32

Hi, David, my reader friend:
Nice to meet you. I’m so glad you’ve been reading my books. Hope you enjoy them. There might be a movie of THE CASTLE IN THE ATTIC one day so stay tuned.

And say hi to your father.. so glad to hear from both of you.

Elizabeth

Julie Mahaffey–-Springfield, Missouri

October 28, 2008 – 13:42

Ms. Wintrhop,

As you know “Counting on Grace” has been nominated for the Mark Twain Award in the state of Missouri. A Missouri school librarian has created a blog for the Mark Twain Award nominee books. My students are participating in the blog and I’m hoping one of the authors of the books nominated will submit comments on the blog for students to respond to. If you have a minute please visit the blog at the link below.

Thank you in advance.

November 02, 2008 – 20:22

Dear Julie,

I left a comment on the blog as requested. Please encourage your students to write me their feelings about COUNTING ON GRACE on my website guestbook. I’d be very happy to know what they think of the book and the characters.

Thanks for all you do to bring my books to readers.

Elizabeth

October 28, 2008 – 10:27

We are reading your book Castle in the Attic in our Grade 4/5 class. We think it is very good so far.

Margot Lindgren–-Australia

October 28, 2008 – 06:14

Hi Elizabeth

WOW you commented on my blog… you are almost the first person to do this… YES I do love ‘Sloppy kisses’ such a lovely gentle message about peer pressure and love and family life I really treasure my library copy and my personal copy. The ending of the story is just fabulous!!!

What can we do? – I want to start a world wide movement for the identification and re-publication of books like yours – kids need to hear them.

I am speaking at a small conference here in Sydney early next year. My talk is entitled “The hidden 100 a guide to the special treasures of your library.” I hope to talk about books like ‘Sloppy kisses’ that my colleagues might have in their collections but may not have read.

Thanks again the internet constantly blows me away.
Margot-

October 28, 2008 – 10:30

I am a student in a Grade 4/5 class that is reading your book called Castle in the Attic. Is it fun writing books? I really like your book.

November 02, 2008 – 20:10

Margot, please let me know how the conference goes. What a thrill it would be for me to have SLOPPY KISSES re-issued. But times in the publishing world are tough these days all over the world so I’m happy to know that readers and booklovers like yourself still find the book and take it to heart.

Elizabeth

November 02, 2008 – 20:12

Yes, I love writing books. It’s fun to create characters and then get to know them and follow them through their adventures.

Elizabeth

Joan Arth–-Liberty, MO

October 22, 2008 – 17:51

Ms. Winthrop,
A group of students in our school just finished reading your novel Counting on Grace. It is nominated for our state book award, the Mark Twain Award. We thoroughly enjoyed the novel and have enjoyed learning about Addie and her life story. We particularly enjoyed listening to your radio interview. The book falling off the shelf at just the right page gave us all goosebumps.
The students really would like a sequel because they felt like the book left them hanging. We really care about Grace and her family. Since you know how Addie’s life turned out, would that effect your decision to do another novel? You could write more about Arthur or Miss Leslie or Grace’s life as a teacher!
Thank you for writing such a great book.
Sincerely,
The 4 & 5 grade students at Alexander Doniphan Elementary

November 02, 2008 – 20:27

Dear 4th and 5th Grace at Doniphan Elementary,

Thanks for taking the time to tell me your ideas about Grace and Addie.
They are two very different people for me. I invented Grace inspired by the photograph and Addie was a real child wbeephad a very tough life.
if I were to write a sequel, I would follow Grace’s story. And yes, I think she would remain a teacher her whole life. I worry a lot about Arthur though. He’s smart, but he gets himself into trouble easily. And now Miss Lesley is out of a job. Where will she end up?
The characters do live on for me and I’m glad they do for all of you too.

Elizabeth

October 20, 2008 – 13:01

Elizabeth:

As my freshman-level Social Studies class begins to read Counting on Grace, I just wanted to tell you how wonderful the experience has been for the last two years as we’ve done so. I’ve only been teaching a few years and this is the only novel I’ve ever included in one of my hstory courses. The acceptance is remarkable. Even those that moan when they learn we’ll be reading “a whole book!!” end up enthralled. My biggest challenge is in keeping them from reading so far ahead as to spoil some of my lessons..I could do a lot worse, though, huh??
Thanx.

November 02, 2008 – 20:31

Dear Mike:
What a thrill it is for me to hear a story like yours… when I’m writing a book, I become completely engrossed by the characters and their stories, but it’s especially gratifying to know that the same thing can happen to readers…

Thanks so much for taking the time to tell me about your experience with the book in the classroom.

Elizabeth

September 26, 2008 – 08:20

I just wanted to let you know that both my friend, Kay, and I took your suggestion and have now read Counting on Grace. She has taken time off from her blog, but she left a long, thoughtful comment on my “book report” about Grace. You may read the report and her comment here:
lettersfromahillfarm.blogspot.com

September 26, 2008 – 08:22

The whole address didn’t appear so am trying again. If it isn’t all highlighted, you may copy and paste.

lettersfromahillfarm.blogspot.com
/2008/09/book-reportcounting-on-grace.html

Jeff Cash–-Cherryville, NC

September 20, 2008 – 14:44

Great book! I came from a textile heritage and textile town. I worked in a textle plant! I totally was able to relate to Grace and her family. Thanks for bringing her to life for me!!

October 10, 2008 – 21:36

Jeff,if you live near Gastonia, N.C. If so you might be interested in hearing me speak about COUNTING ON GRACE on November 12th at Unity Place in Gastonia. You can get more information atwww.elizabethwinthrop.com.

Hope to see you there.

Elizabeth

Brooke–-Orlando, FL

September 19, 2008 – 16:24

It so nice to have found you. I know my son is going to love Castle in the Attic as much as I did when I was little. And Thank you for Halloween Hats as well. What a great Halloween treat!

You make it easy to raise young avid readers!

Brooke

“When I get a little money, I buy books. And if there is any left over, I buy food.”

Deciderius Erasmus-

September 10, 2008 – 09:50

Hi Elizabeth, I have been meaning to pass along an interesting web link for readers, but life distracts me. My daughter Karen hooked me up with this site and several of my friends, including book club, use it for reading ideas. Karen was visiting this weekend and commented that a book she posted had no ratings or comments when she posted it and now (a month later) it has an average rating. This suggests to me that if a book is widely read the book might reach more of an audience through this network. At any rate, if you have not visited this site, as an author, it might be interesting.

Also I hope your weekend talk at the House of Local History was well received. I had planned on attending but did not write the date down. Several of my mother’s friends planned on attending.

Cindy

Sheila Larson–-California

August 08, 2008 – 20:40

I visited Pownal, Vermont in October 2007 to conduct a family history project. I ended up by the river in Pownal, saw Addie’s photo on the sign at the site of the old mill, and decided then that I had to read Counting on Grace. Loved the book! Of course, upon finishing the book, I had to know what happened to Addie which led to an hour of internet research. The book took me back in time and made the history of Pownal come alive for me. I can imagine much of what you describe in Grace was true in the mill at Pownal. Thank you.

August 09, 2008 – 14:00

Dear Sheila,
How lovely to know that you “walked through Graceland” as I’ve come to call it. And yes, after my research, I do believe that Grace’s story was not too far from Addie’s.

I wish you luck in your family history project.. that can be fascinating as I’m finding myself.

Elizabeth

Roger Smith–-Utica NY

June 26, 2008 – 11:42

Are there guides for youth for journaling? I teach journaling for adults but am working with 13 – 18 year olds currently. Other’s experiences?

June 24, 2008 – 13:59

Elizabeth – I am an elementary school teacher/librarian in Phoenix, Arizona. I am so pleased that “Counting on Grace” was selected as one of the nominees for the Grand Canyon Reader Award. Each year I form a book club of intermediate students to read the nominees and then vote for their favorites. I, of course, must read all the nominated titles. I loved the voice of “Counting on Grace”. I was totally enthralled in her story. It took me several days before I could pick up one of the other titles that were nominated because they just don’t have the substance that your story has. I can’t wait for my kids to get a hold of your book! Thank you!

July 03, 2008 – 11:25

Mariann, we writers count so much on the enthusiasm of teachers like yourself Thank YOU for putting-Counting on Gracein the hands of readers…

Elizabeth

Betty Blanton–-Roane County, TN

June 23, 2008 – 10:41

I really loved Counting on Grace. I was fascinated by the story and then enchanted by the background information about how Addie was found. I am developing a traveling trunk for our county on this wonderful book so I can share her story with students and teachers alike.

July 03, 2008 – 11:23

Betty,

Thanks so much for your kind words about Grace. I’m fascinated to know what a traveling trunk for the county is and what it might contain. Could you elaborate?

Elizabeth

Angie Hamilton–-alabama

June 17, 2008 – 12:56

For a few years now i have been reading books in the teens section in the library and really enjoying it. I’ve just finished “The Castle in the Attic” and loved it and looking forward to read “The Battle for the Castle”, and more books by Elizabeth Winthrop.

June 18, 2008 – 12:01

Angie from Alabama,

Thanks so much for your kind words about CASTLE. You might also enjoy my newest novel, COUNTING ON GRACE.

I’m always thrilled to hear from my readers. It keeps me going.

Elizabeth

May 31, 2008 – 12:23

Dear Ms. Winthrop,

I listened to-Counting on Grace-and was so touched by Grace and Addie’s stories that I googled Lewis Hine to see more of his work. (Oh, the little barefoot newsies! They have stories, too!)

I loved Grace’s voice and knew exactly what Miss Lesley meant when she told Grace that she writes just like she talks. (I also really enjoyed Lili Gamache’s verbal portrayals of your characters. Isn’t there an award for audiobook narrators?)

I didn’t realize that you’d also written-The Castle in the Attic-until I visited your website. My son read it last year when he was in second grade. He’d come home excited to tell me about what new development had taken place. (He also had his gramdma read it b/c it was “such a good book.”) Neither he nor I knew about its sequel until today. He’s looking forward to getting his hands on it!!

All the best to you with your writing. I’ll check back occassionally to see if there happens to be any news of a sequel about Grace, Arthur, and Miss Lesley.

Sincerely,

Lisa Amoroso-Johnson

June 04, 2008 – 16:10

Dear Lisa A-J,

I completely agree with you that the Lilli Gamache reading of COUNTING ON GRACE is so right. She captured my characters perfectly and listening to it moves me so much that I forget sometimes that I wrote the book. There is an award for audiobooks and her reading is the Winner of an AudioFile Earphones Award. For those wbeephaven’t heard Lilli, you can click here to check out a clip.
https://elizabethwinthrop.com/newsandevents.html

As to Lewis Hine, you should look at a website by my friend and researcher, Joe Manning.http://www.morningsonmaplestreet.com
Joe is finding so many of the descendants of Lewis Hine subjects including some of those little “newsies” you mention.

What a lovely story about THE CASTLE IN THE ATTIC… You might want to check back occasionally to hear news of a possible movie of that book and the sequel, something that’s more likely to happen sooner than a sequel about my dear Grace.

Elizabeth

June 08, 2008 – 16:21

Dear Elizabeth,

Thank you for responding to my e-mail and referring me to Joe Manning’s website. I visited the site and thoroughly enjoyed learning more about Addie and other children from Lewis Hines’ work.

It’s disturbing to think that conditions like those that Hines photographed still exist for children in some parts of the world today. I’m hopeful that social change will happen for them, too.

Also, my son inhaled with excitement when I told him that there might be an upcoming movie about-The Castle in the Attic. How fun!

Have a wonderful summer.

Lisa

Ray McGinnis–-Vancouver, Canada

May 21, 2008 – 14:44

Hello Elizabeth,

This is a very belated note. I enjoyed meeting you at the Writing the Sacred workshop I led at First Congregational Church in Williamstown, Mass back in May 2007. At the end of the workshop you gave me one of your postcards about your books.
Since that time I have visited your website and arranged for the librarian at the congregation I attend in Vancouver to order a copy of Counting on Grace for the church library.

I wish you continued success with your writing. Have you had time to write any spiritual poetry/psalms since the workshop?

Best regards,

Ray McGinnis

May 26, 2008 – 22:35

Hi, Ray:

Thanks for ordering my novel COUNTING ON GRACE. I very much enjoyed your workshop. Since January, I’ve been writing a poem a day and some of them are laments, others blessings, others a form of psalm.

Best wishes,

Elizabeth

May 15, 2008 – 22:43

Hello i need to do a biography on you can i have some info??
~Connor~

May 15, 2008 – 22:02

Thank you for the advice, and it worked! My father gave me “what if’s” and im working on a story called “What If?” pretty plain name but im almost done.=)=)
~Connor~

May 14, 2008 – 18:05

1. What is your country of orgin? Where do you currently live?
2. What books have you written other than The Castle in the Attic?
3. What comments do you have on your books?
4. What is two interesting facts about you?

Thank you for your support!

May 26, 2008 – 22:37

i was born in America and live here still.
You must look at my website for my other books. I’ve published over fifty books for children and adult readers.
I love to write stories and I hope the readers enjoy reading them as much as I love writing them.
I love to knit. I have five brothers and no sisters.

Dylan–-Old Bridge, NJ

May 04, 2008 – 10:03

Dear Ms. Winthrop,

My name is Dylan. I am nine years old and in third grade at M. Scott Carpenter School in Old Bridge, New Jersey.

The Castle In the Attic-and-The Battle for the Castle-are two of my favorite books. In school, our class read them both together. We had an assignment to write a third book, and I wrote my story, which is called “The Return to the Castle.” It is not as long as your other books, but I think it’s a good story.

If you have the time in between writing your amazing stories, I would be so happy if I could send you my book and you could tell me what you think of it. If you ever write a third book, maybe you could use one of my ideas. If you are interested, you can email an address to my cousin, Rachel. I would be so flattered if you do!-

Thank you for taking the time to read my note.
Sincerely,
Dylan

P.S. This is Dylan’s “grown-up” cousin, Rachel. I would love to help Dylan send his story to you. (It is really quite wonderful! I give it 5 stars.)

May 09, 2008 – 16:27

Dear Dylan,

I’m so happy to hear that my CASTLE books are some of your favorites. What a thrill it is for an author to know that.

I wish I could read your book, but because of legal complications these days, I’m extremely careful about reading any work that takes off from my characters. I need to really keep my head clear of other writers’ ideas such as your own when I’m working on my own stories. But please know that I’m thrilled you wrote The Return to the Castle and I hope you will keep on writing stories with your own made up characters in them.
And good luck to your cousin Rachel in her movie making work.

Best,

Elizabeth

Justine–-Fayettveville, AR

April 27, 2008 – 09:07

Just wanted to say how much I enjoyed these books when I was younger. They were two of my favorites. Thank you for such wonderful memories!

Justine

May 09, 2008 – 16:30

And thanks to you, Justine, for writing.

Elizabeth

norma–-new york

April 26, 2008 – 23:28

I am looking for the book you published called, Sloppy Kisses.
It was one of my daughter’s favorites. She recently became a teacher and I would like to give her this book for her new classroom. I can’t find it anywhere. Can you tell me where I can locate a new copy? I would greatly appeciate it. Thank you, norma

April 27, 2008 – 09:19

Dear Norma,

Oh how I wish I could find some new copies myself. The book is out of print so your only hope is out of print, online bookstores. SLOPPY KISSES is one of my favorites too. I’m so glad your daughter likes it.

And good luck to her in her new teaching career.

Elizabeth

Lindsey–-Sterling Heights, Michigan

April 26, 2008 – 14:38

How do you fin the publishers address to send them the book?
Do you just send an idea of a book first, before you actually write it to see if they like it?

HELP!
Lindsey

April 27, 2008 – 09:17

Lindsey, your librarian can help you find publishers’ addresses. But first you should be writing lots and lots of stories and keeping a journal. And reading. Publishing is the last thing you should be thinking of now. Just enjoy the writing process and learn what you’re good at and what you could do better.

Eventually, you might want to look at sending your stories to online websites that are looking for stories by kids. Launchpad is one.-www.launchpadmag.com

Elizabeth

April 22, 2008 – 13:52

Whats you favorite color?

April 25, 2008 – 16:18

My favorite color is deep purple.

Elizabeth

April 21, 2008 – 13:31

Dear Elizabeth,
When did you write your first book?
What year did you get married? What was the year of your childrens births?
Rachael

April 21, 2008 – 17:38

Dear Rachael,

I wrote my first book when I was twelve but I lost it on the school bus so it never got published. I published my first book BUNK BEDS in 1974.
I was married for the second time in 2005.
My son was born in 1977 and my daughter in 1974.

Best,

Elizabeth

April 03, 2008 – 12:35

For all of you aspiring writers, here’s a link about submitting to a new magazine called LAUNCHPAD on the web written and illustrated by authors and illustrators ages 6 to 12.

Aimee–-Maryville, MO

March 28, 2008 – 03:23

Dear Elizabeth:

My sister is in seventh grade and raves about the Mark Twain Award Books each year. She was able to visit the Children’s Literature Festival this year (something I did 12 years ago.) When I was in middle school,-Battle for the Castle-was on the the Mark Twain Award list and I recommended both it and-Castle in the Atticto my sister last year. Both of us are in love with the books and I am very pleased to see that a book of yours is once again on the MTA list!

Thank you for writing such wonderful stories and sharing them with us all.

Aimee (and her little sister Carla)

P.S. I dreamt up screen plays for both-Battle for the Castle-andCastle in the Attic-and hope to one day see them on the big screen!!!

Elaine–-Pennsylvania

March 26, 2008 – 00:43

My son had to read ths book and do a scrapbook project. It was such great fun . If there are teachers reading this they might want to try a project like this. I was happy to see my son reading but honestly i couldnt wait for him to set the book down so i could have a turn lol

Connor–-New Jersey

March 19, 2008 – 11:28

My name is Connor and my 6th grade class just finished reading “The Castle in The Attic” and i was wondering, Can you give a i dea for something to write a story about because i jus finished a book and i want to start a new on.

March 28, 2008 – 09:15

Connor, get out a piece of paper and a pencil, close your eyes and ask yourself this question: WHAT IF? What if a dragon walked in the room? What if your teacher was floating around near the ceiling? What if your father turned into an elephant?

What if is a great way to find ideas…

Elizabeth

Jill–-idaho

March 19, 2008 – 09:38

Hello, i really want you to answer me. It would be awfully nice. So just please take time out of your busy schedule to talk to me. It really would be highly appreciated. About Castle in the Attic… I absolutely loved it!! But Sir Simon should have gotten married to Mrs.Phillips. That would be a great ending to the already great book. Thank you so much,
Jill from Idaho

March 19, 2008 – 10:38

Jill from Idaho,

Wbeepknows what might happen in the future between Mrs. Phillips and Sir Simon!

Elizabeth

March 19, 2008 – 09:36

Hey Elizabeth,
I am in 6th grade and our class just read The Castle In the Attic. I really wished that Mrs. Phillips would stay with William, but too bad she didn’t!! Anywho, I am a young writer myself and my teachers ‘admire’ my work. Tell me some advice!

-Bonnie 6th grade

March 19, 2008 – 10:41

Bonnie, simplest advice is READ and WRITE…
You can also go to website again and click on the Advice to Young Writers Link…

Elizabeth

March 17, 2008 – 18:38

Hello,
My name is Alexis. I am 12 years old and in 6th grade. I love your books and am a writer myself. I have a few stories written and my family is so proud of me. No one else in my family writes. I read your advice for young authors and I am not going to give up. My teachers are fond of my skills. I was just wondering if you had any personal pointers or tips to help me along my way. If you do, that would be really great. I have never really been able to talk to anyone about writing that actually understands. I am really a fan and would be amazed if someone like you (no offense) would actually be nice enough to take time to read and respond to this email.

March 18, 2008 – 11:34

Dear Alexis,

Writing can be a lonely profession, but I love it when I have a story going because it means my characters will keep me company.

Be sure to keep a journal and write down how you feel not just what you see or hear or do. Try writing poetry because it can often tell you what you care most about. Share your stories with another writer, one that you trust. Ask them for what you want. For example, you could say, could you please only tell me what you liked or what you remember once you’ve read my story. I’m not ready right now to hear what doesn’t work. I’m very specific when I ask for feedback from my fellow writers. On the internet, I expect you can find lots of online writing sites that will consider publishing your work, but make sure they are legitimate and respectful of your writing and you as a writer.

I started writing when I was your age, 12 years old, but I didn’t publish my first book until I was 26. That’s when I was finally ready. Publishing is wonderful, but writing gives me the greatest pleasure of all.

Hope that helps.

Elizabeth

Mrs. Knorr’s Class 2A–-Austin, TX

March 17, 2008 – 13:45

We really, really liked both books!

Please make another book about William and Jason and Gudrin and Tolliver and Sir Simon.

The second graders of Mrs. Knorr’s class, St. Theresa’s Catholic School, Austin, TX
–

Joshua L.–-Columbia, Tennessee

March 17, 2008 – 13:00

I haven,t even read that book (the castle in the attic) in a long time. I cannot even remember if I was in elementary school or middle school but all I remember was this was the first book of this length that I could stand to read. The descriptive writing was great and it put me right in the story. I am going to try to find this book on E-bay or something so that I can read it again. I am 20 now so I wonder if it will be different but I would still like to experience the adventure I felt reading it for the first time.

March 18, 2008 – 11:39

Joshua, I’m always thrilled to hear when someone still remembers my book even though he read it when he was much younger. I hope the adventure with William and Mrs. Phillips and Alastor this next time around is as exciting for you as it was the first time.

You should be able to find THE CASTLE IN THE ATTIC and THE BATTLE FOR THE CASTLE at most bookstores as they are both still in print and widely available.

Elizabeth

kaitlyn–-texas

March 19, 2008 – 09:40

You spelled everything in that horrible paragraph of yours wrong.. What is wrong with you. You are in the presence of a great writer and you can’t even use a grammer check? I mean seriously what is wrong with you.

Kaitlyn.

Lisa A-J–-Stow, OH

May 31, 2008 – 12:04

Dear Joshua,

I cringed when I read Kaitlyn’s response to you. Please don’t let such harsh words stop you from connecting with others. From what Ms. Winthrop wrote, it’s obvious that your message, not your spelling, was powerful in and of itself. I hope that you thoroughly enjoy rereading-The Castle in the Attic. Did you see that there’s a sequel, too?

Sincerely,

Lisa A-J

Robert Duncan–-Bowling Green Ohio

March 16, 2008 – 00:53

i loved your book castle in the attic and battle for the castle i am 25 and i still ready them at least once a month and just one question if i may i wrote a couple of short children storyies and i was wondering what they best way to get them published would be any ideals that would be great thanks

March 18, 2008 – 11:29

Dear Robert Duncan,

Thank you for your kind comments about THE CASTLE IN THE ATTIC. How wonderful to know that you continue to read the book even now.

Why don’t you show your children’s stories to your local librarian or enroll in a writing course in a nearby college or writing center. And be sure to read everything you can get your hands on, especially those books that would help you learn more about writing in the area where you want to publish. You might take a look at the magazine HIGHLIGHTS as a start. And your librarian will have lots of other ideas.

Elizabeth

March 11, 2008 – 21:11

Hello Mrs. Winthrop,
I love your book The Castle in the Attic. I think it is genius. I have some few questions to ask you. First, when William shrinks himself why doesn’t his dad start looking for him or calling the police saying WHERE IS MY SON YOU HAVE TO HELP ME LOOK FOR HIM. Second, in the end what does Mrs. Phillips do to Alastor? Last whenare you comming to Georgia for that book confrence that you’re going to speak at? I want to Know because our above and beyond class wants to come and see you and I know that Rahul already emailed you but he never told me what did you say so I would be very happy to tell me about the book confrence.
Thanks
Daniel Wu

P.S. Plese write me back-

March 16, 2008 – 10:49

Dear Daniel Wu,
You need to look at the book again to see the answer to your question about William’s father not looking for him. It’s all about the trick the token plays with time.
If you want to know what Mrs. Phillips does to Alastor, read THE BATTLE FOR THE CASTLE.
I’m coming to Atlanta in early May of this year and so hoping I can meet your teacher and some of your class too!

Elizabeth

Jacques-Paul Marton–-South Burlington, Vermont

March 09, 2008 – 19:46

Dear Ms. Winthrop,
I have written a short story entitled: The Legend of Jump’n Jim Cannon. My story is based on a real person, Jim Cannon, whom I met two summers ago while working at Shelburne Farms, in Shelburne, Vermont. Jim is a native Vermonter in the classic sense; when born and raised in Vermont, as I have learned from being called a “flat lander” from New Jersey, you become a part of a special inheritance, an ancestral bond formed out of the mountains, valleys, forests, farms, soil, communities, and generations of Vermonters past.
James Augustus Michael Cannon, in my mind, embodies this unique spirit of statehood -of the feeling of belonging to a special place -Jim’s character was truly formed from the mythical rock and soil of Vermont.
I think the story has great potential to reach out to young people and inspire them to follow their own heart throughout life. Sometimes, it’s not the college or type of work you choose that makes for a succesful life, it’s the special people wbeepyou meet along the way, at each significant phase of growing up. Jim taught me that to become a real person, being always true to yourself, is a hard thing to accomplish; and is probably life’s greatest accomplishment in the end.
I write poetry, mostly, and am most comfortable in that style of expressing myself. But I would love the opportunity to share my short story with you. I am a Janitor by profession. I work at the Davis Center, at the University of Vermont. It would be an honor to speak with you. I believe that with some help -maybe in the form of collaboration, the story of The Legend of Jump’n Jim Cannon could be a grand success.
Sincerely,

Jacques-Paul Marton

March 11, 2008 – 09:30

Dear Mr. Marton,

Your story does sound interesting indeed, but you are the one wbeepmust write it. If you wish, show it to a professor at the University of Vermont wbeepis involved in the writing program. Or go to a one day conference on writing in the Vermont area and read your story in a workshop. Or take it to your local librarian and ask them to help you get it read more widely in the community.

I am always honored when I am asked to collaborate on a project, but I have so many stories of my own pressing to be written that I must attend to them first and I expect they will take the rest of my life to get written! A fact which makes me happy as I’m sure your poetry and story makes you. Writing is good company.

May all the best happen for you.

Sincerely,

Elizabeth Winthrop

Alexa Martinez–-Nashville TN

March 09, 2008 – 19:31

Dear Elizabeth Winthrop,
I am doing a book report on “Battel for the Castle”. I loved it so much!!!! So for my book report I have to be the author!!!--Which means I need to know some things about you. So I would like if you can reply and give me some important details. Your book is amazing and i am proud to pertend to be you on March 12, 2008!!

your bigest fan,
Alexa Martinez

March 05, 2008 – 20:53

Hi, Katie:

Thanks so much for writing. I think a book club is a great idea.

I spent some time by a river where I could see rats running in around the rocks.
You and Josh keep on reading.

Maybe when you’re finished with BATTLE, you might want to read my novel THE RED-HOT RATTONS which is about some good rats!

Elizabeth

March 05, 2008 – 19:31

Dear Elizabeth Winthrop,
My friend and I (Josh) started a book club for your book ‘Battle of the Castle’. We really are enjoying it. We loved that part of the fisherman and the giant rats. How did you think of a huge rat as the animal? Thanks to you and your book I will not stop reading. The book is so good – I will not put it down! And it was the best book ever. Josh and I love it. So, keep writing!
Sincerely,
Katie Latack