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When I created the new videos about “my writing life” for my website, my plan was simply to answer the questions I’m frequently asked, so that when readers email me with those questions, I can point them to the videos for the answers. I was so pleased to learn that frequent blog commenter Brenda is using them with her students. Now I’ve learned that she’s not the only teacher to find them valuable. I received emails today from three teachers in three different parts of the country who plan to use the videos with their students. I’m thrilled! Here’s a bit from one of their emails:

 I thought it was time I wrote to tell you how you’re helping me teach my high school students. I’ve been a reader of your books for more than ten years, and when I read Before the Storm, I knew it would be an excellent book for my students to read, not only because it contains teenaged characters but because it deals with serious issues in an engrossing way. I knew my “kids” would be caught up in the story and not even notice that they were learning at the same time. Although I teach creative writing and English, this book has taught them bits and pieces about geography, psychology, health and, above all, values. When I saw the videos you now have on your site, I was over the moon! I’m developing new lesson plans using them, and I just wanted to take this time to thank you for creating them. (I need to add that I had to get parental permission for the students to read your book. It’s a little spicy and salty for this age group, but every one of them agreed to let me use it!)

Isn’t that cool? A big “hello!” from me to these teachers and all their students. I look forward to hearing from more of you.