One of the sweetest moments for any writer is when we receive letters from a classroom of students who have just read our book! I'm always reminded that children love stories as much as writers love to write them. What a lucky match-up! Thank you to these very sweet, thoughtful children from a grade 4 class in Ontario, their letters inspire me and remind me why I write.
I wrote back to them via their teacher, here's an excerpt from my recent letter to the class:
"Hello everyone!
I received your letters about THE LOVE SONG OF MR. BYRD today, and I was so delighted, I almost burst into song! Thank you so much for your wonderful thoughts and questions about the book. Your letters have made my day, and also reminded me that the next generation of young readers are very insightful and kind.
Many of you mentioned that the book helps you understand that our similarities are what matters, not our differences. That is definitely one of the main themes of the story of Bat and Mr. Byrd: it's our similarities that draw us together and help us the most.
A few of you noted that your class was the first to read it, and that's true! The world premier was right in your classroom! I'm SO GLAD you liked it. As a first audience, you were spectacular, thank you.
A few of you also asked why I chose to make a bat and a bird into friends? It's a good question. The answer is that a bat and a bird flew over my head one night when I was walking down the street, and I thought how unusual that was, then how special. I wrote the story by hand right away, and soon realized I was writing about two creatures who seem different at first but whose similarities make them friends.
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A few of you also asked if I'm working on another book, and the answer is YES! It's very different from Mr. Byrd's story, since it's about an experience my father had as a boy in World War II. It will come out next fall, September 2026, and it's for middle-grade readers. Stay tuned.
Thank you for all your great ideas for another book, too! You are wonderful writers, readers, and listeners, and I am quite convinced you also know how to be good friends to the people around you. Keep reading and writing, everyone.
Philippa Dowding"
Happy and Safe Holiday Wishes to all, and keep reading everyone!
If you loved a book (or even liked it), consider leaving a review somewhere or telling friends. Reviews & testimonials have never been more important for writers & publishers. See you in 2026!
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