My journal is plump from this year’s adventures with The Clay Girl-— from book clubs to festivals, libraries to conferences…
“Ari sees all the good that comes from the other people around her, like her teachers, aunts and sisters. This book shows the reader how to be optimistic and how to have empathy for others.” – Aaron
Connecting with readers delights me, always.
A recent invitation to a secondary school, gender studies class inspired me.
That they chose the Clay Girl was, of course, awesome.
That I spent an afternoon with insightful, invested teens, exploring ideas and discussing their thought-provoking questions was spectacular.
And… that the story engaged them in such a way that they were compelled to do something-— raising awareness about family abuse, giving students tools to access help and raising funds for a local shelter-— was and is so inspiring. Thank you!
Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. ~ Margaret Mead
I had some Ari-ish fun in my journal capturing the unique, creative spirit of the class. The earth is under their feet and the world is in their hands, and that makes me very hopeful!
Photo by Mary Leach
I’m sure they found you as profoundly inspiring as your book.
That’s awesome! I loved the Clay Girl novel. I plan to get my daughter (17) to read it too. I enjoy reading Canadian literature. It was extremely insightful and beautifully written. Created a lot of insightful discussion at our book club. Looking forward to the sequel. Wondering what adventures await Ari.
Thanks, Gillian. I’m delighted you enjoyed Clay Girl. Ari’s journey will continue in Cracked Pots. I’ll let you know when it’s on the horizon then maybe I can wrangle an invite:) I love connecting with book clubs.
Heather, your Clay Girl is remarkable. Ari reminds me of a friend I had in the 60s. She was so much bigger intellectually than her petite frame would let on. She was an actress an author a professor a traveller and a mother. Years later I contacted her and we discussed her family. It was a very different relationship that she described than the one I remembered. I look forward to reading more from you but thank you for Ari.
I just finished Clay Girl!
Cooking turned to take out, laundry left undone, dishes laid in wait and bathes were extra long. Every thing and every body waited the 48 hours I spent engrossed in the novel!
Just so so so good!
The writing of ugliness wrapped up in such beautiful writing! You are as master and a marvel and left me wanting more of this story! Please! And thank you!!
Thank you, Cathie for your encouraging words. The nicest gift any writer can receive. I’m delighted you enjoyed the story. More of Ari’s journey is coming in Cracked Pots. It will be released in October.