Books are not merely products; they are civilization's lifeboats. Kathleen's line about books outlasting elections and wars— that's not just pretty sentiment; that's historical fact. Wars end, politicians fade, but Pride and Prejudice endures, Beloved endures, The Trial endures. This is why we do what we do. Publishing isn't just a business; it's a sacred trust. We are the keepers of humanity's dreams, fears, hopes, and memories.
Thanks for this on a day when I'm questioning if there's any value in continuing to write fiction. I've always believed so, but so many beliefs were shaken in the past 36 hours. It's good to hear voices other than my own doubt-filled internal one.
Thank you, Kathleen. I arrived at my writing desk feeling shaken and at a loss for words. You're absolutely right. Books stand the test of time. They're echoes of the past and letters to the future. My favorite authors have gotten me through some troublesome and challenging times--and so has my own engagement in the writing process. I'm reminded that as writers and artists, we're being called to lean into our craft, if for no other reason than to attempt to make sense of a world that doesn't make much sense right now (for some of us anyway). I've shut down most of my social media accounts to care for my nervous system. However, I'm finding a sense of solace connecting within this particular ecosystem. Writers and artists often have that effect. Thank you for showing up for us today. You gave me a shot of courage and hope in a dark moment.
Indeed, we have to believe in books and fight book bans. Bans are the hallmarks of bad things and bad actors we know from history. We also need to keep reading, keep buying books, and keep reviewing books and posting reviews to support authors. Make books hot conversation right up there with the football team's scores. Reading has to be championed much more as a valued activity for all. Wouldn't it be great to have a book talk every Sunday from Howie and the panel before the game began?
Thank you Kathleen. I have PR clients in both early childhood literacy and a large literary arts organization and love your reflection this morning. I needed to hear this and will do all I can to keep ideas and words flowing in my community. Thank you!
EXACTLY why I wrote Sexism & Sensibility and my editor and I busted our asses to get it out before the election. I hope every single parent reads it so they know exactly how to talk about what’s happening to their children and why. So they can motivate them, not scare them. Books matter!! Thanks for the tiny bit of hope I've been unable to feel Kathleen!
Books are not merely products; they are civilization's lifeboats. Kathleen's line about books outlasting elections and wars— that's not just pretty sentiment; that's historical fact. Wars end, politicians fade, but Pride and Prejudice endures, Beloved endures, The Trial endures. This is why we do what we do. Publishing isn't just a business; it's a sacred trust. We are the keepers of humanity's dreams, fears, hopes, and memories.
Thanks for this on a day when I'm questioning if there's any value in continuing to write fiction. I've always believed so, but so many beliefs were shaken in the past 36 hours. It's good to hear voices other than my own doubt-filled internal one.
Me, too. Writing about fictional disasters seems like a hollow endeavor today.
Thank you, Kathleen. I arrived at my writing desk feeling shaken and at a loss for words. You're absolutely right. Books stand the test of time. They're echoes of the past and letters to the future. My favorite authors have gotten me through some troublesome and challenging times--and so has my own engagement in the writing process. I'm reminded that as writers and artists, we're being called to lean into our craft, if for no other reason than to attempt to make sense of a world that doesn't make much sense right now (for some of us anyway). I've shut down most of my social media accounts to care for my nervous system. However, I'm finding a sense of solace connecting within this particular ecosystem. Writers and artists often have that effect. Thank you for showing up for us today. You gave me a shot of courage and hope in a dark moment.
Indeed, we have to believe in books and fight book bans. Bans are the hallmarks of bad things and bad actors we know from history. We also need to keep reading, keep buying books, and keep reviewing books and posting reviews to support authors. Make books hot conversation right up there with the football team's scores. Reading has to be championed much more as a valued activity for all. Wouldn't it be great to have a book talk every Sunday from Howie and the panel before the game began?
❤️
Love you so. Thanks for the reminder how books matter. I better get on writing my next one…❤️
Thank you Kathleen. I have PR clients in both early childhood literacy and a large literary arts organization and love your reflection this morning. I needed to hear this and will do all I can to keep ideas and words flowing in my community. Thank you!
Me tooo! And the healing of America that must come before change will, most certainly, be aided by books. Thanks for your encouraging words.
Thanks for looking on the bright side. Every little bit helps.
EXACTLY why I wrote Sexism & Sensibility and my editor and I busted our asses to get it out before the election. I hope every single parent reads it so they know exactly how to talk about what’s happening to their children and why. So they can motivate them, not scare them. Books matter!! Thanks for the tiny bit of hope I've been unable to feel Kathleen!
I needed that today. Thank you.
Yes.
Well said Kathleen 🖤 Thank you for this!
Ok this made me cry. Sharing with my inconsolable friends.
Me, too.
Me 2! Thanks for reminder.