Passing Down the Books to my Sister

Question:

I have always been a fan of reading but from the moment I opened up the first Alice book I was hooked. I own every single one, and as more books come out I feel as if I myself am growing up with Alice. You’re latest book touched my heart so deeply. I recently checked it out of the library, I loved it from beginning to end and finished it in a day as I knew I would. however it was the end that got me… I finished the book on 07.19.2009 exactly one year ago from that day my best friend Johnny was killed in a car accident. I had just seen him a couple days before he was fine laughing and joking..and that night he had said to me “Man why do you always hug me like its the last time you’re going to see me, I’ll see you later” but it was the last time I saw him. The way you portray Alice and every one grieving is exactly right. It is the hardest thing to have to do, bury your best friend and go on living knowing he never will.  My summers were consumed with Johnny he was just a part of the crew. Even a year later I’m still dealing with his death, but reading this book made me feel like I wasn’t alone. I know people die…but it was just so hard to deal with this time, but reading this last book made me feel better. I can’t thank you enough for your books, I am an aspiring writer myself and look at you and your books as a role model. Your books have helped me deal with so many things and have taught me so much more. I have already begun passing down the first couple Alice books to my sisters in hopes they get as much out of them as I did.
But more or less thank you for these great stories. I cant get enough.

Phyllis replied:

I really appreciated your letter.  This last book was a difficult one to write, and I still tear up at one of the scenes.  But these things do happen, and it takes time to get over them.  Reading emails like yours makes it all worthwhile.