Kate DiCamillo is the best

One of my goals for 2023 was to write to six authors whom I adore.

I finally got around to it in November. I expected nothing in return. I simply wanted to express my appreciation for the joy they had brought to my life like so many readers have done for me.

I was paying it forward.

Last week, Kate DiCamillo, author of many books and one of my all-time favorites, “The Tale of Despereaux,” wrote back. The postcard below arrived at my home with words of kindness and inspiration on the back.

I couldn’t believe it. I was thrilled.

When I’m asked to recommend books, I almost always include something by Kate DiCamillo. I’ve even arranged to have copies of “The Tale of Despereaux” available for sale at my book signing alongside my own books.

Readers have, on more than one occasion, asked me to sign “The Tale of Despeereaux” while also signing copies of my books.

Sometimes, I sign Kate’s name on her behalf.

“The Tale of Despereaux” was also the very first gift Elysha ever gave to me, with one of the best inscriptions ever written into the pages of a book.

The arrival of this postcard was my first Christmas gift of 2023:

Completely unexpected. Absolutely unnecessary. Suprememly appreciated.

Kate DiCamillo – A real class act.

If you’ve never read “The Tale of Despereaux,” purchase a copy as soon as possible.

You won’t be disappointed.

And maybe take a few moments to write to one of your favorite authors. Emails are excellent vehicles for this sort of expression.

Physical letters, if you can obtain a mailing address (in the case of Kate DiCamillo, I sent my letter to her publisher, who forwarded my communication to her), are supremely better.