A few weeks ago I got my first, actual, real-world fan letter. Somebody who bought one of my books from a local shop decided that they wanted to take time out of their day to write me and say how much they like the story.

I think I’m going to frame the letter. Eventually. I have it now, tucked on my bookshelf, but when I have time and mental space, I’m probably going to frame it.

As a way to say thanks for writing, I sent them back a free copy of one of my other books. I doubt they’ll like it as much as the first, which they picked up specifically because it had pirates in it… my other books, as much as I enjoy them, don’t feature pirates quite as prominently as “The Hunt for the Wind’s Howling Rage” which, at its core, is all about pirates.

The one I’m writing right now has pirates. But I’m not done it yet, so I couldn’t send that.

Anyway. I signed the book, and then in a moment of insanity, I decided to personalize it a little. I just put the fan’s name (Zoe), and then something like “May you never lose your way.”

Knowing your way is something I struggle with constantly. I don’t know what I’m doing, or why, or even for who. Just… I like to tell stories. I like trying to make other people feel better. I hate feeling useless and alone, and I spend the majority of my life feeling either one or both of those things. And so if I can make other people feel… less useless, less lost, less alone… then to me, that’s a useful way to spend my time.

Is it? Is it really? I dunno. But since I don’t know, I figure it’s as good a thing to do as anything.

Hope everyone out there is staying safe and healthy!