We're pleased to post this wonderful email letter from Charla Miley, an old high school friend of mine and a MonsterGrrls reader in Jackson, MS. Last year I attended a high school reunion and brought a copy of The MonsterGrrls to show the class of '86. Her email was titled "Monster Girls Rule!"
John,
Hey there! Tom Beck sent me a list of NE emails last week, and I was so glad to see yours on there. I ordered your book right after the reunion, and I have to tell you, I think it is absolutely amazing. No kidding, I was into it right from the beginning. I was excited about the thought of reading something that someone I knew had written, but I was not prepared for it to be so good. I loved the pop culture references. I don't know anything about monster/vampire lore, but I was certain that your references were hilarious to anyone who did.
I think the biggest evidence of praise is that my younger brother loved it. He called me laughing his head off about the part where Emily and Theo say they want to rule the world. That reference had escaped me, but apparently my brother was a big Animaniacs (I think that is the show, right?) fan. The only problem is that he took my copy and "loaned" it to his brother-in-law, who is a teacher a SEHS. He is teaching on Mississippi authors, and has apparently been referencing your work in his class. Maybe it'll translate into some sales. At least it will for me, because I don't think I am going to see that copy again. Not to inflate your head too much, but the book was very, very good. I can't wait for the second book to come out. October, right?
Your website is great, too. By the way, which teacher did you ask about doing the werewolf paper for--Mrs. McCraney or Mrs. Boyd? I just laughed imagining either one's reaction!!
Anyway, I just wanted to pass this along to you. You are very talented, and I can't wait to see what you come up with next.
Charla
I appreciate Charla's kind words very much. Any other readers of the book are welcome to share their thoughts at fangclub@netdoor.com, or post a note on our guestbook at www.monstergrrls.com.
Pleasant screams, everybody...
