2011 Entries
Awaiting details of Southern Writers Tea on January 14. Would love to meet with you and Dorothea Benton Frank, two of my favorite authors.
Dear Mary, Your Christmas e-mail was lovely. I appreciated the message also about past, present, and looking to the future. My book club has enjoyed several of your books-Sweetgrass and our November choice (which was mine) was The Butterfly's Daughter. I love the way you weave nature into your writing. We have a cottage in Northern Wisconsin where we are thrilled to watch eagles, loons, hummingbirds, etc. The monarch's journey so beautifully woven into your last book brought stunning pictures to mind and reminds us of all the changes in our lives and the courage we muster to go through them. I wonder if you know a singer by the name of Janna. She is out of Nashville and has some beautiful songs incorporating the monarch butterfly in the lyrics. I think you would enjoy them. Merry Christmas! Looking forward to more of your books!
Thank you Mary Alice for years of curling up with your Books..Happy Holidays.
Have only read two of your books but am now hooked! Just finished Swimming Lessons and can't wait to read The Butterfly's Daughter. You are a marvelous writer. Thanks.
Dear Alice, Hi, How are you, I am sure you are preparing for the holidays. I wanted to wish you a merry christmas and a happy new year. My name is Susan,I wrote a review on Butterfly's Daughter this past year. Of all the books I read, beside Looking For Cee Cee Honeycutt, The Butterfly's Daughter affected me so much, probably for my life time. There is always a question when talking about books and your novel, did affect me, and probably for a life time. It took me half a century to find that book, and The Butterfly's Daughter was so magical for me. I just wanted to tell you that. I have never read any of your books before, and The Butterfly's Daughter affected me, so much. I wanted to also ask you, if you are interested, I would love to review your next book. I heard it is coming out next year, 2012. Have a Merry Christmas Susan at http://susansliterarycafe.blogspot.com
I have enjoyed all of your books so very much. Are you working on a new one and can I be notified when it is available? Thanks so much for your time.
When is your next novel coming out?
ANSWER: May 2012, BEACH HOUSE MEMORIES
I picked up The Butterfly's Daughter at the library and since have bought myself and friend a copy,and have ordered four more of your books from amazon. Just finishing The Long Road Home. Each story ending has brought me to tears. Love love love your writing.
Fascinating website combining nature and writing - two of my key interests.
Just finished reading The Butterfly's Daughter. What a pleasure! It is well written, poetic, an easy read, provoking, surprising - overall an enjoyable enriching book. Thank you for sharing. I look forward to reading another of your novels. All my best, Debby
I recently read "The Butterfly's Daughter" and have to say that I loved it! I am amazed by butterflies and their innate ability to migrate to Mexico. I enjoyed Luz's travels across the United States to "take Abuela home" and the friends she meets along the way. Today I came across the Nova special about this very topic and thought you might be interested in watching it! Thank you for a fantastic novel with an intriguing topic and complex family dynamics. http://video.pbs.org/video/1063682334/?utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium=fanpage&utm_campaign=pbs
love all of your books. planted your butterfly milkweed this year me & my mom were out in the backyard this summer and a Monarch was playing in the water we were spraying on each other with the hose to keep cool. it was such a beautiful feeling
Dear Madam, We are from, Coalition for Advocacy of Sea and Coast of Aceh, called “Jaringan KuALA”. Jaringan KuALA is a umbrella-organization for 26 NGOs in Aceh, Indonesia, with work focus on conservation of coastal and marine ecosystem in Aceh. I’m Arifsyah. As program manager of Jaringan KuALA. Jaringan KuALA has been working with few local persons from beginning (January) 2011 in Lampuuk, Aceh Besar on patrol and monitoring of sea turtle eggs in a nesting beach: called “Pasie Lange”. Awareness of local community is very low. Until know there are several local “hunter groups”. In this area, there 4-5 sea turtles (from Leatherback and Green Turtles) that landing for nesting in Pasie Lange each year in period November till March. This month we would like to do the training and field activities involving some from “local hunters” about why we must save the sea turtle eggs, and in how to conduct protection until ‘small turtles’ will appear and can back to their nature, to the sea. This the first step and we try engage local agreement for minimizing threats. We hope you would like to support us in joint-funding the activities. Sure the ToR as a proposal will be submitted if you want to know more about this initiative and would like to support. Thank you for any response and help.
Organizing a tea in June with women leaders of Mental Health. Thinking of using the word "metamorphosis" and butterflies. Would like to know if Mary Alice Monroe would consider speaking in Columbia at this event?
My first read was The Beach House, I loved it and I was so excited when I found the sequel Swimming Lessons. It was a great read as well. There has to be another sequel to Swimming Lessons, with Toy's new romance and maybe a beach wedding with all the turtle ladies, and Cara and Brett trying to have a family. I really enjoyed these two books and I have a couple of more to start reading.
Thank you for The Butterfly's Daughter. It is among the most beautifully written books I've been fortunate enough to read. I learned so much I didn't know about the monarchs and was reminded of much I do know about life cycles and goddesses. You weave a wonderful story. I hope you live well and long and please, please keep on writing.
Dear Mary Alice: I love your writing and have read all of your books. My favorite was Time is a River. When will your next book be coming out? Soon I hope.
Hi Mary Alice. I am a teacher on John's Island. I received some information on Monarch Waystations when I visited Lawrence, KS a couple of weekends ago and am planning to start a Waystation on our school grounds in the spring. I was hoping to get your input about the best time to plant milkweed and information about when we could expect to possible see Monarchs in our area. I teach Biology and will start the Waystation with our Horticulture teacher at the school. Any input you can offer is greatly appreciated! Thanks!
I LOVE your books! I heard a movie was made based on your book The Beach House. Is this true and if so where can I purchase a copy?
I have read several of your books. Your commitment to teach us about human nature woven together with conservation is why I like your books. The dolphins will be fun to read. I just returned from Hawaii and swam with the dolphins. I also, swam and saw many sea turtles.
Mary Alice, I have enjoyed and shared every one of your books and was privileged to hear your talk about "Time is a River". Your butterfly book has reminded me that I would like to invite you to visit to our 10th Tatting Convention in Taccoa Georgia September 7th and 8th, 2012 where "Butterflies are still free". We tat thousands of butterflies and other items and give them away at the SC State Fair each year. We would love to have you meet tatters from around the world. Just let me know. Thanks for all you do!
The Beach House has me reading again, barely taking a breather. I am also writing which has been my lifetime dream. Mary Alice Monroe's books have lifted me to new heights. Turning 60 now feels like a new beginning.
Thank you, thank you, thank you for your wonderful books. I thought your book Swimming Lessons was my favorite because it taught me about the glorious sea turtles and the hospital at the Charleston Aquarium. I never would have known about rescue attempts and the hospital without your book and two months ago I did take the private tour at the Charleston Aquarium. NOW I just finished Skyward and my next trip at Christmas to the SC coast I will have to visit the raptor center you wrote about. Since you have so many books devoted to conservation efforts I would like to tell you about SC C.A.R.E.S. in Georgetown, SC. They are a non-profit, strictly volunteer organization that rescues animals from roadside zoos and circus's as well as what people bring in. Most are larger animals like horses, llamas, a small deer herd etc that live on 45 acres of land. These animals will never be able to be adopted out due to either physical abuse or psychological trauma so will live here for the remainder of their lives or until quality of life is no longer. I know the couple (Skip & Cindy) who own this property. They were neighbors on High Rock Lake and moved to Georgetown after selling boats, cars, homes etc to start this up. They also own Sweeties Chocolate Shop in Georgetown to help defray expenses. SC CARES runs on donations of hundreds of people. Their website is http://sc-cares.org/ (you may have to cut and paste into your browswer). Perhaps you may get an idea for a book from these wonderful people. Zelda Nichols Lexington, NC & Garden City Beach, SC
Very impressive site! Well done and good luck!
I found your web through the NCR for the very first time and have been inspired by what I have read. I work with children with neurological disorders at Camp Winston in Toronto/Kilworthy Ontario. In the past 5 years we have an organic garden in which the children are learning to appreciate our plant sisters and brothers along with the 40 some animals we have in the Nature program. I have been aware over the 20 years that I have worked with Camp Winston that there are only 2-3 milkweed plants around. We only have 5 acres with lots of buildings but I really would like to get more milkweed plants growing. Do you have any suggestions? I would also like some seeds.
PS. I do my best to plant heritage seeds and have never seen any milkweed seeds in the stores. Thank you very much.
I have been a fan of Pat Conroy's books since reading 'Prince of Tides' about 20 years ago. I recently bought the book 'The Beach House' after being intrigued by the blurb. Imagine my pleasant surprise when I saw that Pat Conroy had written a recommendation for the book. I just loved reading and learning about the loggerhead sea turtles in the Carolina lowlands while being drawn into the emotions of the beautiful characters in this story. I can't wait to purchase and read another one of your books. Thank you for being so good at what you do. Regards, Sandra :) Moama, New South Wales, Australia.
I am delighted to be getting to know you. Anyone with a caterpillar farm is a kindred spirit.
Love your books. Just finished "The Long Road Home" and this morning purchased three more of your books. I am excited to find that one of the books I purchased today (Last Light Over Carolina) has McClellanville as its setting. As you can see, my last name is McClellan. My husband and I are active in Clan MacLellan of America and we were among those of this clan who donated $ for McClellanville after hurricane Hugo devastated that beautiful area. We have yet to visit, but look forward to when we can go there. Thank you for your beautifully written books. They speak to me. You must have a beautiful soul and spirit.
Thank you for opening my eyes to turtle rescue in your amazing book Swimming Lessons. Although we live in NC, we have a beach house in Garden City Beach and on our last visit a few weeks ago took the "behind the scenes" tour of the turtle hospital at the Charleston Aquarium. What a fabulous experience, I never would have known about it if it wasn't for you. I also want to thank you for writing such captivating books about relationships and the south. Thanks to you and several other Low Country authors I am learning history that is not taught in schools.
Looking forward to meeting you/reading with you at the Miami Book Fair next month! ~Sandy Barron
I very seldom write to authors but after just finishing your book "The Butterfly's Daughter" I had to write to tell you how much I loved it. We have had two experiences with migrating monarchs. Once in our backyard in IL where they roosted on a weepilng willow tree and once in a park in TX. Very educational and interesting book!! Loved it.
mary alice, i've just finished the butterfly's daughter and i loved every minute of it. i just need to go back and read each heading about the monarchs to get each stage straight in my mind. i was just at edisto island where i own a share of a house in wnydham. i was on the beach yesterday and there were bunches of wildflowers on the 33rd beach access and you wouldn't believe the monarchs that were nectaring on those flowers. i guess they're feeding for their journey to mexico. what a wonderful sight! i think i've read all your books now and i cant' wait for the next one. my favorites are the one about the turtles and the raptors. by the way dubose griffin moylan is my goddaughter and her mother, jessamine is my very best friend. thanks so much for the wonderful books. never stop writing. i look forward to the next book! with love, emily morgan
Would love to get some milkweed seeds as mentioned in the article in the P&C. I have a garden with a lot of wildflowers and I get plenty of butterflies and moths, but I do not have milkweed and have not seen monarchs. love your books! thanks.
Hi Mary Alice, I would like to obtain milkweed seeds for spring planting. Where can I find them? Should they be planted indoors for the winter and then moved to the garden in spring? Thanks so much,
"Sweetgrass" is probably my alltime favorite book. Love anything from the low-country. Will be searching for more of your books. Thanks !!
I want to order Milkweed seeds. Have read The Beach House and Swimming Lessons. The Butterfly's Daughter is next. Thanks for all you're doing to keep our endangered animals here for the next generations to enjoy.
Thank you for your letter to the editor today. I would be glad to plant milkweed and would appreciate a packet of seeds. I will be happy to reimburse you for postage. Thanks again!
Mary Alice, I read your article in the Charleston Post and Courier in regards to the monarch butterfly. I would willingly plant some milk weed seeds if I had them. Also, I am a kindergarten assistant at Fort Dorchester Elementary. We are in the process of planting gardens in conjunction with Katie's Krops, a non -profit organization that feeds people. Is there any chance that I could be given seeds to share with the school, too? We have a small butterfly garden to attract them and to assist in the beautification of our school grounds. Thank you.
Dear Mary Alice, Thank you for a wonderful talk. We all enjoyed it as well as the discussion afterward.
Could you please let me know your favorite authors. Thanks
Dear Mary Alice: Time is a River was the first book I read of yours. I read it because I have breast cancer. I would like to someday fly fish. Your books are so inspiring. Keep up the good work.
Dear Mary Alice: I am such a fan of your book. I just found u a couple months ago and I down to just 2 books to read Sweetgrass and Skyward. But the real reason for the comment is your books on tape are fa-nominal! The Butterfly's Daughter was great. You haven't measured up with any other writer. But I do enjoy Sue monk Kidd, I think she is the one that recommended me to you. Take Care. Get to writing more books.
Hi Mary Alice, Any chance 'The Butterfly's Daughter' might be made into a movie. I think it would be spectacular!! As I was reading your book, I visualized America Ferrera as Luz. Of course, she'd have to wear blue contact lenses! :)Marcia Fife
Hi Mary Alice! I just finished reading The Butterfly's Daughter and want you to know that I enjoyed it immensely. I could not put it down! I can't wait to tell the manager of the Lady Bird Johnson store all about it and suggest that he invite you to come for a visit and a book signing. Just yesterday, as I strolled through the gardens at the wildflower center where I volunteer, I appreciated the beauty of the monarchs as they enjoyed nectar from the Gregg's mistflower. And after reading your book, I'm encouraged to plant more milkweed. A severe freeze last February killed a lot of the milkweed in the area. I'd like to add that I really appreciate the way you began each chapter in your book with factual information. It adds a lot to the readers understanding of life in the world of the magnificent monarchs. I haven't witnessed the migration through Austin this year. I suspect that many of the delicate creatures succumbed as a result of the severe drought we're experiencing. However, almost two weeks ago, we had a good rain and flowers in the wild suddenly bloomed. It may have come too late for the monarchs, however. I discovered you recently when I read The Four Seasons. I enjoyed it so much I went in search of others. That was when I found The Butterfly's Daughter and decided to read it next. I read Winter Garden by Kristen Hannah during the same week as The Four Seasons and I was struck by many parallels. The two would make for an interesting compare and contrast assignment. Thanks again for your wonderful books and keep on writing!
Hi Mary Alice- We met standing in line waiting for Ann Patchett to sign our books at the Nashville Writer's Festival. It was a pleasure to meet you and I look forward to reading your books. I would love to look you up when my husband and I visit Charleston on some future adventure. By the way we watched 4 Monarchs flitting around in our front yard today enjoying some of the last flowers blooming in our garden. I suppose they'll be on their way to Mexico very soon! Warm regards, Lorraine Yeomans
I just finished reading "Time is a River". I started it this morning, and could not put it down. What an amazing story, filled with such real characters that I feel like I know them one and all. Please keep writing, I'll keep reading. Now I'm off to find another of your books.
Nice to meet you yesterday at Southern Festival of Books
I just love your books !!!
Hello! My name is Stephanie Henderson and I am a teacher at Ashley Ridge High School in Summerville. My 12th grade students are required to complete a senior project, and one of the components includes job shadowing. I have a student who would like to pursue a career as a writer. I read the article about you in the Azalea magazine and I immediately thought of Molly! Will you be attending any book signings in the near future? I thought perhaps she could attend one with you to pick your mind and discuss what it is like to be a best-selling author. Any help would be appreciated!
I just finished reading The Butterfly's Daughter. It was a beautiful story against the backdrop of the miracle of nature and the Monarch butterfly. On my morning walk yesterday,October 8, a Monarch flew out from some bushes right in front of me. I probably wouldn't have thought too much about this, but by being in the midst of reading the book, it gave me a moment to ponder and marvel. I hope this one will meet up with others in the journey south!
I LOVE your books. The details you provide are awesome. I wanted to learn to fly fish, go see the turtles, check out the birds and get involved. I was blessed to work with Horseshoe Crabs for years with a BioTech. I got to spend a lot of time with schools and doing talks about the crabs and how important their blood is to science. The most interesting thing for must was the crabs were never harmed and were released always back to the ocean. I would so enjoy a book in your stlye about them, maybe one day you will consider it. Thanks for all your wonderful books to, look forward to more to come.
Had to drop a line...never have before. My first read was The Butterfly's Daughter...I LOVED IT...two books later and I am totally hooked. Thank you so much for such WONDERFUL reading. May God continue to bless your gift!
I have just finished ‘The Butterfly’s Daughter”. Words don’t describe my joy reading this book. As a Midwesterner, the Monarch butterfly is the first one most children can identify. Even though I have taught many young students, participated in the “Journey North” program, I learned many things I did not know about the Monarch. My garden always has at least one milkweed plant up until the last few years. I need seeds to start again. Thanks so much for the renewal story.
The publishers of Minx, a new publication in Charleston to help women become empowered over their lives and build their self-esteem, will be having a authors conference for women. It is about sending out a positive empowering message to women. It will be in January 2012. We would like to know if you are interested. Please either email or call me. Sincerely, Lisa Moorer co-publisher, Minx
It was great to meet you at the Charleston Center for Women's event (Sept 18). I just finished reading The Butterfly's Daughter. Awesome!! Thank you for sharing your talent.
Just wanted you to know that I just finished The Four Season's and loved it. The book I read previous to this was Time is a River. You are now my new favorite author!!! Keep writing please!!
Hi Mary Alice, I just finished reading your new book 'Last Light Over Carolina'. It is a wonderful book as all of yours have been. I look forward to the next one and thank you for all the enjoyment you have given me.
I got your Butterfly's Daughter book signed at the Moveable Feast along with seeds & wanted you to know that I grew 9-10 plants from those seeds. I gave 2 each to other people in the neighborhood. Some time ago, there were butterflies around and they obviously laid their eggs because I counted no less than 8 caterpillers chewing the plants down to nubs! They have gone off to form chrysalises; I have found 3 and expect to see monarchs hatching late next week. It has been an interesting process and I thank you!
Hi Mary Alice, I just finished reading your new book 'Last Light Over Carolina'. It is a wonderful book as all of yours have been. I look forward to the next one and thank you for all the enjoyment you have given me. Sandy
I find your books wonderful and informative. Keep up the great work!
Thanks to you and VickiJo Brozovic (for recommending your books) my love for reading has been renewed after having gotten lost in several of your books. It has been a long time since I have been able to let go and completely emerge myself in a good book. I find myself sitting for hours not wanting to put your book down. Thank you for creating such wonderful stories.
I wanted to send a quick email to let you know that I have almost completed my first book of yours, and I am anxious to read the next one! I work for a children's home, Eagle Harbor, in Summerville, SC. We, at Eagle Harbor, have children (boys) that come from all kinds of abused and neglected backgrounds. In fact, I was with one of our children at a doctor's appointment at Mental Health and the doctor told me that your husband works with children. I believe she either knows of him or worked with him at some time. I have been reading Skyward, and have enjoyed it very much. I, of course, was drawn to the hurting children (Marion and Brady, in particular) in the book and I know how frustrating it is to see and deal with parents who don't care for their children or who put other things in front of their children. Thank you for bringing to your reader's attention to the plight of not only hurting birds/animals, but also of hurting children. If you would ever like to tour or visit Eagle Harbor, I would love to show you around! Thank you so much!
On page 438 of "The Long Road Home", 4th line from the bottom, it should read 'froze as she perceived a figure on the deck, not desk'.
I have just read 3 of your books and I am now addicted!! Our little library,in Shalimar, does not have any more but maybe they will soon. I am really addicted!!!!
The first Mary Alice Monroe book our book club read was THE BEACH HOUSE which we all loved. We have read SWEETGRASS and THE BOOK CLUB. Now I am looking for another book and it is hard to choose!
One of my teaching friends introduced me to your books after I visited my son in South Carolina. I must say, I AM HOOKED. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you! I have now gotten my daughter reading your books and enjoying them as much as I am.
Thank you, Mary Alice for inspiring me to begin writing. I have completed and illustrated "Loretta Caretta Loggerhead", first in a trilogy. It's a factual, fiction about Loretta and her offsprings' adventures. I've been a volunteer turtler here in Florida and borrowed your book from a fellow volunteer. I'm hooked on your writing and have begun collecting your work. I plan on publishing Loretta with a local co-op publisher and am presently saving money for that. Meanwhile, the second "The Journey" is being written. Thank you so much for you hard work with the turtles and I know firsthand how rewarding it is.
I am continuing my journey, and you are on my path.
I am absolutely moved to a sacred place by your writing. As I drive an hour to work, I've listened to Time is a River and am on disc 9 of Sweetgrass. You have certainly filled my days with wonderful people, good heart, and laughter and Love. Thank you, Karen
I have read all your books and look forward to your next one. I have one milkweed plant from my seeds, but it is really growing fast.
Dear Mary Alice, I feel like I know you. I have recently discovered your delightful books, especially the books with the very earth and sky as characters. You write like a Goddess!! You are wonderful and I love your books so much!!! I am reading The Butterfly's Daughter now and enjoying it, trying to make it last. When I read your books I exist only within the world you reveal to your readers. PLEASE WRITE SOME MORE BOOKS, YOUR ADMIRER, THANK YOU LINDA MALONEY
Would love some milkweed seeds. Thanks
Dear Mary Alice, I have started the chapter of Casting for Recovery in NZ. But I need to share with you how fly fishing saved my life as a long haul flight attendant for Air NZ after 911 (twenty years of service) and the hours I spent on the river bank and in the gently flowng waters down in New Zealand. Please be in touch. Respectfully yours. Sherrie
Hi Mary Alice- I'm a friend of Leigh Anne Hoover's in Kingsport, TN. She introduced me to your books, and I've already read "The Butterfly's Daughter" and "Sweetgrass", and enjoyed both of them very much! I just started the "The Beach House", and understand that your next book is a prequel to this one. I'm looking forward to your Book Tour in May, and hopefully an event with the Literacy Council in conjunction with your tour, here in Kingsport! Thank you so much!
Mary Alice, This summer I have read "Sweetgrass" and started "Time is a River" this weekend. My mother had breast cancer but unfortunately was not a survivor. She died at age 63. I have missed her so much over the past 17 years. Leigh Anne Hoover and I keep finding so many connections with your books. My husband has wanted to take up fly fishing for many years. I believe the man will receive all the equipment he needs and a willing fishing partner. We're sitting right on the TN/NC state lines and have lots of spots in TN. One of our Literacy Council students fishes and told me that we have an excellent spot to learn to fly fish about 2 miles from my house. And, to my surprise, you have a character in the book with my name - Nada. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the story. We're sharing your wonderful books by passing them around to our volunteers and friends. I also believe I have one or two going to the book stores to purchase them.
The very first book I read of yours was "The Beach House" - I just loved it - I also love the entries about the sea turtles
Just finished reading your book The Butterfly's Daughter I truly loved the book, looking forward reading other books by you. Thank God for your precious talent and for sharing with us. God Bless you indeed!
Mary Alice, I just finished reading (at 1:30 a.m.) your wonderful book,Sweetgrass. This was my first time to read a book of yours. Leigh Anne Hoover introduced me to you. On a personal note, I find it interesting that the only book my library had by you (on the current bookshelves) was Sweetgrass so I checked it out. I could not put it down...I was amazed how much I related to that book...I realized when I finished reading that God does indeed, work in mysterious ways. I needed that book at this time in my life to heal some personal wounds. I truly hope you are able to come to Kingsport next spring...I can't wait to meet you and express my appreciation to you personally. Best wishes, Carol Robinette
Hi Mary alice I just read The Butterfly's Daughter which is a fascinating tale-I especially like the Goddesses. I am an artist and I am especially fond of the goddesses I do. One in particular is an Aztec goddess. If you want to take a look, go to: deepintheheartart.com. Thanks for your writing. Ruth
Have read all of your books and thoroughly enjoyed each and every topic.
I must tell you that last week, my mother passed away. As she lay in hospice, she said, "My butterflies!" She said they were monarchs. I went and got your book for myself, my daughter and daughter-in-law. How precious it is to us at this time. Thank you.
Hello! I have never written to an author after reading their books. This time is different...I just read The Four Seasons...it touched me more than you will ever know. I was a pregnant 17 year old (also named Jill) and put my baby up for adoption - last year (24 years later) I met my birth son for the first time. It was life changing and so emotional. Like Jilly in your book it was 20+ years of feelings tucked away neatly. I am sending the book to my aunt who had a similar story - in which she was "sent away" - but never has found her daughter. Amazing how one book of fiction can really touch a person. Thank you for writing a book and following 3 women on a wonderful journey. a NEW fan!
WHEN IS YOUR NEXT BOOK COMING OUT? I LOVE AND TREASURE EACH ONE OF YOUR BOOKS. THANK YOU.
I just finished Time is a River and wow I loved it. Thank you so much for a beautiful read. Is there another book about Mia and Stuart?
I love your books, I learned a lot about turtles from you, thank you! Waiting for the next book
Mary Alice, I was looking for a read and picked up Skyward at the grocery store. I read through that book so fast! I enjoy how you intertwine useful info and facts into your stories. I learned alot about birds of prey. Just finished Time is a River. I too, hope there is a sequel! I live in the mountains, but I love the low country too!! Hope to meet you some time! Beautiful writing!
I love your books and writing style. Thank you for my first visits to South Carolina and for the heartfelt stories you write. Your characters are so real. I hope to visit your state someday, especially your beaches. Thanks again!
Hello Ms. Monroe! I hope you are having a great week! I was referred to you by Clara Heinson, PR and Volunteer Director for Charleston County School District. I work with Junior Girls Day Out Community Project, which provides educational, career, personal, cultural and social development programs for girls ages 7-12 throughout the Charleston area. We are launching our literacy program this fall. One of our program components will be a Reading Beach Party (Isle of Palms) sometime in October before it gets cold. During this event, we want girls to learn about sea life, living on the coast, etc. Ms. Heinson suggested you because she said you wrote a book on sea turtles...and we want girls to learn about sea turtles at this event. If you are available, we would love for you to participate by coming and sharing your experiences and knowledge about sea turtles. I actually attended the sea turtle release this afternoon at Isle of Palms. At your convenience, would you please call or email me. I would love to share more about our program! Thanks so much and I hope to be hearing from you soon! Have a wonderful weekend!
I just found you. I have the book Time is a River. I have breast cancer, and going thru chemo. I picked your book up from the library. I can't wait to get started and read the rest of your books. I just found Susan Wiggs and on her webite she has her favorite authors and books. Could you let me know what you like? My parents live in Beaufort, SC on Cat Island. My mom has read your books and I can't wait to get started. Your covers are beautiful. Have a great day.
I have always marveled at the monarch butterfly migration. Your book, "The Butterfly's Daughter" was so enjoyable. I liked how you blended the journey of self-discovery of the young woman with the migration of the monarch. I could not put the book down and look forward to reading your other books.
Mary Alice I loved The Butterfly's Daughter..touched my heart as a good read can. I have met you several times..once at Pawleys Author Luncheon and once at a writer's conference in Charleston. I am also involved in conservation on a public and private level...mostly in creating and conserving native habitats for the flowers and insects of South Carolina. We don't see many monarchs, but I have a great photo of one on the milkweed in my backyard garden. Also have a photo of a fritillary emerging from its chrysalis. Maybe I will try to post them on facebook..if I can figure out how. I wrote a children's book this year called The Butterfly Adventure. We have a newly formed Turtle group here in our community as there are two nests on our town beach. Love that so many of us receive so much from our beautiful earth!
Mary Alice, I just finished reading The Butterfly's Daughter & getting ready to start The Four Seasons - so i'm pretty sure i've read everything you've written & love your intelligence, & the caring way you write about all things, both human, animals & nature. Such beauty you bring to mind in your books ! Please keep me informed when you have new books released. Sincerely, Lorna Shaffer
I read The Beach House. a beautifully crafted story that weaves in the (plight of..and helping save) sea turtles and the bond between mother and daughter. A very good read. Looking forward to read your other novels too. Best Wishes Rajat Bakshi Kolkata(Calcutta),India
Just finished The Butterfly's Daughter. Powerful!! My very favorite.
Hey Mary Alice, Yes, I am a big fan of yours. I am a third grade teacher currently getting my masters in environmental science. I am doing my thesis on loggerherad conservation. In the process, I have been out on the beaches taking pictures,(no flash photography!) I couldn't get the pic to post here though. Good one of mama turtle's tracks. Anyway, I have written several children's books; the setting in all is Charleston, SC (You can view one on Amazon.com (Joe T. McNab) I was raised on Isle of Palms. I started the song about me... I am coming home, but one night after doing a lot of research for my masters class (turtle conservation research)I jumped out of bed and screamed...oh my gosh, that song is about the turtles coming home!!! I have a question. This song I wrote refers to loggerheads, I wanted to see if you knew of any way I could get it published or a singer that could put lyrics to it, or you knew of someone (like you) that could use it. It's beautiful in script with the picture behind it. I would love to mail you a copy if you like. I live in Lexington, but I am on the island every weekend. My fiance lives in Mt. Pleasant.
We had talked a while back and you said you had the sequel to The Long Road Home stuck in a drawer somewhere LOL. I told a friend about the book, who told a friend, and about 40 friends later, you get the picture. They all want to know if you have decided if the sequel will be written. I am waiting to get a copy of The Butterfly's Daughter. Then your shelf of keepers will be complete until the next book comes out.
Your book, "The Butterfly's Daughter," really touched me. I especially liked the respect you showed for the cultural identity of the Mexican people, and the way that you weaved such a touching tale of a family and myriad friendships. It was the first book of yours that I have read, and I would like to read others now. Thank you for a real literary treat!
The first book I read was The Beach House,I loved the book! Now I keep looking for my library to get your audio books in so that I may read them!
Loved meeting you last night at the Turtle Team watch on ave 52....now delighted to follow up with learning all about you on this wonderful website. Tickled you've got a blog-can't wait to read it. And looking forward to reading The Beach House soon! See you soon, perhaps at a future turtle nest as we watch the babies make their way to the sea. Bests and blessings.....Lauren
I met you this morning at the inventory of the turtle nest. It was an amazing experience. I just enjoyed reading your blog from July 23rd. Funny story and great photos. I am hooked on turtles and your writing! I also have been a birder all my life and loved the excerpt from Skyward. I look forward to all your books.
I have read and loved all of your books, but THE BUTTERFLY'S DAUGHTER is the best! What I love about your work, besides the great stories beautifully told, is learning new things that, as a life-long resident of New York City, I would not ever see. Loggerhead turtles, raptors - now butterflies - Thank you.
I just finished reading Time is a River (2nd time) on my Nook. Love it and hopefully you will consider doing a sequel so I can see what happens to Mia and Stuard and fly-fishing. Do you have a book-club? If not I can still get my books from Barnes and Nobles.
Hi I have just recently picked up your books at the library. Skyward was the first and The Long Road I have just started to read this evening. I read the preview of this book in Skyward (I think) and picked it up because this story resembled my own a few years back with some minor differences. My ex husband fled and hid from creditors. unbeknownst to me had embezzled thousands and hundreds of thousand of dollars from customers and companies and left me with zero. I went from surburbia to the ghetto in 3 days. I had been married 20 years and a fulltime mom who had just begun her university education in her thirties -parttime. We moved to another province - I live in canada and one day he just called and said he "did not want to be with a family" and hung up. I have fought my way out of poverty and 2 weeks ago finished my social work degree. I am still in the poorhouse and have not yet applied for a job but "the wheel of poverty is hard to shake off". I do not have any parents and my sisters and I are estranged . I was physically and mentally alone. I went from a 350 thousand dollar home to living to getting social assistance and living in housing _ In your country its called "the projects". I found a mate who helped me finish my degree and is very kind man. But he is a drunk and narcissitic. i know this may sound strange as I said he is kind - but that too itself is a long story. I live in the country now and have chickens but I want to have my own farm and live my life away from any male. I know I would do well but have no neither the fiancial means or credit history. As I was in a traditional marriage in always. So its difficult to climb out of this cycle. Your books are well written and invite me to dream and long for what I could have or might one day have. Your books touch me and I hope with your success that you will stay grounded with regular women issues and see the complexity of gaining your success without familial or fiancial support. This is by no means a critcism but I find many authors attempt to write women issue novels but write from the perspective of emotional comfort - meaning familial, husband and fiancial support. Sometimes one has to be thrown from the glass tower to truly understand the plight of a "regular woman". Keep up the good work, Ms.Monroe Vi
I enjoy your books tremendously! Just read "The Butterfly's Daughter;" my only disappointment with with your description of McAllen, TX as a little dusty bordertown. I winter there, and it is NOT a little dusty bordertown! Population of the metropolitan area is 774,769 (McAllen, Edinburg, and Mission); Mcallen's is 129,877. McAllen is the 187th largest city in U.S. and the metropolitan area is 70th larges in U.S. It is the largest shopping/ business area in a 150+ miles radius. Monterey, MX is 150 miles; Corpus Christi is almost 200 miles and San Antonio is 235 miles.
I just finished The Long Road Home. Awesome book! One day a year or so ago I was waiting to get my meds. and decided to have a look at some books because I was out of reading material. Now I have read all of your books but 2. I will never get enough of your books. You have me right there and I can see everything , the landscape, the people, the shops, the sheep, offices and I can't wait to get my hands on another book. I was about to start reading my books I already have a second time when I found this book. Thank you and I can't wait to get the next book.
Having just discovered your books this past year, I am a fan forever! You are living the 'charmed' life in my estimation, living in the lowcountry and being a writer.
Just finished reading The Butterfly's Daughter which I began this morning. I'm a mother of a daughter, who is pregnant, and for some reason I think of the baby-to-be as "butterfly". So I was drawn to the book's title. What a gem! Thanks for the beautiful story and the wonderful women depicted. I hope the generations of women in my family are able to foster traditions and create our own stories of strength and deep, satisfying love. May you be blessed as you continue to write stories from your heart.
I just finishing reading Time Is a River. It was EXCELLENT! Is there a second book that goes with this? I hope you will write one.
I picked up "Time Is a River" to take on my ten day vacation. What a wonderful read....it took me only three days to read. I just couldnt put it down! I can't wait to read more of Ms. Monroe's books. Just need to find a book store in Northern Michigan where we are vacationing!
I work in the Down Syndrome Center at Hope Haven Children's Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida. We do evaluations (OT, PT speech and educational) for children with Down syndrome. We have families who come to our clinic from all over Florida, from the Bahamas, Trinidad, Washington state, Pennsylvania and more. We are having a silent auction in November and we are adding an "Author's Corner" this year. We have several autographed books donated so far and would like to add one of your books to our corner. If you would like more information about our clinic you can go the web site: www.hope-haven.org. I can also send you more information by mail if you would like. Thank you for your consideration,
Just finished reading "The Long Road Home," which kept me up past midnight until I finished it. Great reading. However, I still prefer your Lowcountry Books such as The Beach House and Swimming Lessons (looking forward to the prequel) and The Butterfly's Daughter (met you in Myrtle Beach). Keep writing.
Greetings, you're a wonderful writer. I finished reading Swimming Lessons 10 minutes ago. I often visit Charleston, and you made me feel present and aware of that beautiful place I call my second home. I'm a fan. I appreciate your art. God Bless you, Miss Mary Alice Monroe!
Just finished The Butterfly's Daughter and just loved it. An enlightening and inspirational book. Thank you for once again providing a story that educates and entertains. Can't wait for your next book. Best wishes from a Fan from New Zealand
Hi Mary Alice! Your no. 1 fan here. Thank you for The Butterfly's Daughter. I always learn so much from your books, and beside the Monarch butterfly information, I discovered what it must be like to have a daughter! I can only aspire to show the kind of love that Esperanza gave to her daughter and granddaughter. The seeds are now plants in my garden, and Michoacan is on my bucket list. Hope to see you again soon, Vanessa
Loved The House and Swimming Lessons. Spent last week in the Charleston area and had to visit the Aquarium and see the turtles. I have being a Turtle Lady on my bucket list. I want to do that so bad. Read Last Light over Carolina while on vacation and loved it as well. Can't wait to read more of your books.
Dear Mary Alice, While on a trip to Kiawah Island, I purchased your book, The Butterfly's Daughter. My daughter Melissa was diagnosed with breast cancer when she was 25, passed away 2 days before her 31st birthday Jan 3, 2009. I visited a medium the following summer, who told me she would be sending me butterflies...and did I get butterflies!!! I am also a librarian in an elementary school and I came back from spring break to 350 butteflies in the library. They remind me of MY daughter. Hence, my attraction to your book. Which touched my heart. It reminded me of HER journey. She started a blog after her first reoccurence (in her lungs and bones) and continued to write until a week before she passed away. I am bound and determined to write her story - or have her blog published. She was an AMAZING young woman. Would you consider reading her blog? The first one is www.fortscancersux1.blogspot.com She shut that one down while applying for jobs (six months before she passed away). She didn't want anyone to know she had cancer. She landed the job of her dreams at the University of Cincinnati 6 months before she passed away. After she got the job, she started up the blog again at www.fortscancersux.blogspot.com I would so much appreciate any guidance you could give me...I believe her story can inspire other young women who are fighting this horrible disease. Plus I don't want anyone to forget her...I miss her every single day. Thank you for listening, and for writing The Butterfly's Daughter - it reminded me so much of her... Sincerely, Pam Fortener (Fort's mom)
I just read your book Time Is a River as I've recently been diagnosed with breast cancer. I enjoyed the book was disappointed when I read page 209. Your depiction of treatment is incorrect. You write that hair loss came after radiation. This is incorrect as it is the chemotherapy drugs that cause hair loss. I was disappointed to read this error and I think it affected my feeling of the book. Was this an oversight or were you given misleading details.
As a breast cancer survivor this book had a very special message of dealing with the fear and moving on to a full and active life. As I was reading I could almost feel and smell the forest and the river. Could not put the book down so I'm off to the bookstore for another Mary Alice Monroe book!
You are one of the most talented writers that I have had the pleasure to read. I have read all your books and thoroughly enjoyed every one. What authors would you recommend to explore?
Thank you so much for your patience last week. We loved seeing you and seeing the nest inventory! Our trip last year was to see you in Aiken. This trip we didn't even plan to see you! The hospital tour was great with Barb and seeing the baby turtles was something all four of us still can't believe we did! I'm sure we are driving everyone crazy with our stories! We all agree that this trip will be hard to beat! We laugh because we are 4 women in different stages of life, but are so close! Erin is expecting her 1st child . Michelle has a daughter turning into a teenager. I have a 19 year old son turning into a man and Kathy has grandchildren! We all read your books and we all get really excited about your causes! We read Turtle Summer and Carolina's Story to our kindergarten class every year. Now, we have a great story to tell them and shirts to match! lol Thanks again for all you do and for being so kind to us last week! Please let Barb and the other "turtle ladies" know how much that morning meant to us! Thanks!
Dear Mrs. Monroe, I am just writing you to let you know how I deeply enjoyed reading your recent book "The Butterfly's Daughter". I love butterflies and the story was easy to get involved in with inspiration that let you know no matter where your are in life, there will be different people with all kinds of personalities, and backgrounds that will enrich your life, if you will remain open-hearted. These characters and butterflies research really gave me a deeper insight in mother nature and personal experiences in which any season a person may be entering at times. Thank you. May God Bless you and your family. Sincerely, Nichelle Maria Meadows
I just finished my first book of yours, Sweetgass & loved it. I am hoooked now on your books. It was amazing. Love your writing. Have a great day.
Read Swimming Lessons and then The Beach House (wrong order I know, but I've just discovered you); awaiting prequel. We live in Myrtle Beach and are planning a trip to Charleston and Isle of Palms to see loggerhead turtles. Eggs hatching in North Myrtle Beach; I told her about you.
Would The Butterfly's Daughter be appropriate to read to my 7 year old and 10 year old daughters? Enjoyed your interview on The Big Picture. From what I heard, I thought it would be good to read to them. We like turtles, too! Thanks, der
I have read most of your books and have really enjoyed the characters and the relationships they share. I enjoyed the turtle ladies and the lessons they taught. Looking forward to reading the books I missed.
I just finished reading Sweetgrass, The Butterfly's Daughter, and Time is a River. I have truly enjoyed your writing. You have truly encouraged my soul! Thank you for sharing!
I first fell in love with your stories with The Beach House. I have a home on the Isle of Palms across from the beach. Then, I was to die for your new book, The Butterfly's Daughter. I had no idea that you did your research on the trip with Susan and Trecia!! I have also been with them to the sanctuaries. Our trip, however was the year of the flood and so I am sorry to say that we were not able to go to the Angangueo site. We did visit the others, though. Your book was almost like I was reliving my trip. I loved it. I now raise monarchs at my school in Atlanta, in the fall (not as expected). We have tagged them as well. I feel such a kindred sprit with you in so many ways. Thank you for your works. I look forward to reading all of your books.
My mother, sisters, niece and daughter read The Beach House a few years ago while on our annual vacation to North Myrtle Beach. Last week while on vacation, my oldest sister, a retired middle-school science teacher ran in, out of breath. A turtle nest was found by our place on the Windy Hills beach. The volunteer turle brigade was there along with a ranger to move the nest. We were so excited, especially because of the bond from reading your book. It was a very special moment for us. I came home and just finished reading it again, enjoying it as much as the first time. Thanks, Paula
I just read the "The Beach House" and had to write to thank you. It was a beautifully well-written book and I look forward to continuing the story in "Turtle Summer". I imagine that I will be reading all of your books. Also thank you for allowing them to be read on Kindle version. Not every author does this but it keeps down the number of books I need to keep around the house. Instead I can just carry them with me! Thank you so much again and keep writing!
love your books...just found you...first read The Beach House was great, just finished Swimming Lessons...would love to know if there is a follow up to this one...want to know more about the Turtle Ladies and their men....love the Carolina's this makes me want to visit the coast again very soon.... Elizabeth (Chris) Starke
Dear Mary Alice, Your generous response to my recent note is much appreciated. Thank you for sending the bookplate and packet of seeds Best wishes, Ann
Hi! My husband and I just came home from vacation. We traveled by water from the carolinas to abacos. On our way home I read "Sweetgrass" thru South Carolina ICW. Thank you for such a wonderful story. Karen
On my first visit to South Carolina this July I discovered your name in a travel magazine.I decided to buy your book Last light over Carolina. I spent my week reading your book. I could not put it down and finished it in less than 4 days. You have a gift for writing great stories. Thank-you from Maria Brossard Canada
Hello Mary Alice, I represent the Topsail Twp Friends of the Hampstead NC library. It is my job to have author events each year and I would love for you to respond to me about possibly speaking at an event for our library in early October of this year? All we can offer you is either lunch or dinning however, you would be able to sell your books and we would love hearing you speak. If you are interested, please let me know at the above email. I will then provide you with the details of our event. We enjoy your books so much.
I agree there should be a sequel to The Beach House and Swimming Lessons. I fell in love with the characters and want to read more about them. The end of Swimming Lessons left some dangling ends that I was sure there would be another book about these wonderful people.
Hello My book club loves your books. We have read two so far, The Butterfly,s Daughter and Time is a River. We would love to have some book plates, please let me know how I can get some.
Mary Alice, I am enjoying my summer reading which has included The Butterfly's Daughter, Sweetgrass (while on vacation) and Skyward (this weekend). Leigh Anne Hoover recommended Skyward to me and it was very personal since I have a 7 year old grandson, Mitchell, who is Type I diabetic. We caught his at age 4 and he is a real trooper and is now on a pump. I also lost my father in January and reading the book reminded me of the many times he would point out a hawk in our West Virginia hills or we would sit on the porch and listen to the owls. One night he spotted one roosting on our outside cellar door latch and brought my sister and I outside to shine a light on it so we could see it. Thank you for a wonderful reading experience. I also love baskets and intend to find a sweetgrass basket to add to my collection.
I just read The Beach House and Swimming Lessons! You are such a talented writer and I enjoyed them both so much. Please tell me that you are planning a sequel about these four wonderful women! It was truly fascinating to learn so much about the loggerhead turtles.
What a wonderful book to begin my retirement! I am the "butterfly chairman" for the Spartanburg Garden Club Council and your wonderful book, The Butterfly's Daugher, will be a huge topic of conversation when meetings resume this fall. I also plan to challenge all the members of my local garden club to to read your dear book. Thank you for your terrific combination of art and science...that's quite a special gift.
I look so forward to your books, and again, I have gone on a new journey reading THE BUTTERFLY'S DAUGHTER. I have read all your novels, and each one has taught, inspired, and entertained me. Congratulations on another hit!!!
Mary Alice - you can write so much better than The Butterfly's Daughter. I've have your books and have read them all but this one was all about empty spaces filled with little story that dragged on and on. This book is far from your best(s).
Our Book Club is reading and I'm reporting this month. We have a butterfly person here who sets out the cocoons for us all to watch as they hatch & are released. Hoping to read your latest about the journey of the Monarch.
Dear Mary Alice Monroe, I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Butterfly's Daughter during the past week. One of my friends is making changes in her life based on the life of the butterfly. For her birthday, I will give her a copy which I purchased at Barnes and Noble. Every page reminds me of her journey. Also, I have recommended your book to several people, on the basis of the beauty of the story, involving the characters and the metaphor of butterflies. As a poet, I appreciate your descriptions, sensory imagery,and poetic prose. Thank you, Ann DeVenezia
I have read every one of your books. I am so excited about The Butterfly's Daughter, as i spent two weeks in Guanauato, Mexico for two weeks to study the Mexican education system-I am a teacher, 8th grade English and came back very excited about exposing the mexican culture with my students.I also have an idea for your next book, but don't know how to get the idea to you. It is set on Oak Island, NC and is about the Marshland being a "Nursery" for the sea. My mom and I just left there after a grieving trip over the loss of my dad. It was to be their 50th wedding anniv. That night we set over the marsh and watched the sunset and listened to the sound of the marsh. It was a life-changing experience. Each chapter could begin with something related to the marsh and life. We talked about reed being the only wood that would float and Moses being sent down a marsh in the reed basket. The clams, oysters, baby fish, a doe walked out and stared at us- majestic and magical. Anyway, just an idea. My mom is 68 and maybe it could be based on her journey back home after a loss.
Thank you for "The Butterfly's Daughter" story. I became so engrossed in the familial realtionships that I read it in one day. I felt their pain, their happiness, I even felt the Monarchs' presence. Your story renewed my hope in life. May millions read this book. May we all be where we need to be...
I saw your book in a store today. Something urged me to pick it up. I wasn't familiar with you or your work. I live in Tampa,Fl.,but grew up in S. C. I've just had my first novel published, Butterfly Messages. Let me know if you have any tips for a beginner. Thank you.
Ms. Monroe, I recently saw an interview with you on PBS. I thought your name sounded familiar so in searching my book case I found your book "Sweetgrass" and have been hooked on your books. I live in the upstate and the books about the low country leave me longing for the wonderful beaches of South Carolina. Thank you for writing about such beautiful low country places.
We enjoyed meeting you Sunday on the beach during the turtle patrol spotting of a nest. It was a pleasure to meet you. My mother-in-love and I would love to get some info on the milkweed for the butterflies.
Am loving your books and can't wait to read them all!
I recently checked your book The Butterfly's Daughter from the public library in Miami-Dade, FL. I am now on chapter 16. I am enjoying the plot of the story. Luz has really encountered a lot along her path.
Hi Mary Alice, I just discovered your books...I've just read The Beach House and Swimming Lessons and can't wait for more. I hear you are writing a prequel, which I look forward too... But there are many others I plan to read them all as soon as I can. I grew up in the Myrtle Beach area so was attracted to the low country theme. Love the info about the loggerheads, and loved the story line. I love another sequel, 5 years later when Cara has adopted a couple of children and Toy is expecting... Thank you for your contribution. I'm off to see what else I can find to order today...Thanks again.
Your stories fill my heart. I live on Maui and we have an abundant sea life. My favorite sea creatures are the green sea turles and the monk seal. Thanks for writing the book "The Beach House". I have passed this book around to all of my friends. I love that there is a group of people that protect our turtles and I wish we had a club here on Maui. Much Aloha to you and mahalo nui loa! Deb
I am the Library Media Specialist for Brockman Elementary School in Columbia SC, a Montessori School. Our curriculum teaches children to appreciate their environment. We would love to explore the possibility for a school visit to share your experiences with our students. Please share visit cost and availability.
Dear Ms. Monroe, I just finished "The Butterfly's Daughter" and I loved it. I have already recommended the book to my sisters and friends. I will be reading all your other books too. Thanks for sharing your talent.
I just finished reading The Butterfly's Daughter. I love the way you entwined nature- the monarchs' journeys- into the book!
I am now planning my butterfly garden!
Thanks so much for a wonderful read.
Hello Mary Alice!
We met in Naperville at Anderson's Bookshop in May during your recent book tour. (I love the book, by the way!!) My husband and I mentioned to you that we'd be vacationing again at IOP (We've been coming since 2004). We're headed there this Saturday, the 2nd, for a week. Is there any chance you could let us know of any turtle happenings? I would love it! I absolutely love all your books!
Thank you,
Beth Ann
rstname Hi Mary Alice,I am a fan that really admires you and all you have accomplished.I have a disability that limits my walking so i will probably never have the pleasure of meeting you.so I would love to have an autographed picture would you PLEASE send me one it would mean so much to me.Could I purchase a signed copy of your book or send you one to autograph and return to me.PLEASE let me know and thanks so much,sincerely your fan Dennis
Hello Mary Alice! How wonderful that you were involved in creating McClellan's sea turtle nest and helping her "lay" her eggs for safekeeping. Saw your photos on Barbara's Facebook page! I have met you with my friends Mary Edna and Marjory. Take care. Maria
I have just finished reading “The Butterfly’s Daughter” and had to share with you the totally unexpected experience it has brought to my life. I am a high school Spanish teacher and am naturally drawn to the Mexican culture that runs through the book. As I read along links to other aspects of my life surfaced. When I read about the migration of the Monarch butterfly I realized that I must have experienced a phase of that back in the 80’s when I traveled with another Spanish teacher to the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. We hired a driver to take us from the colonial city of Merida and set out across the countryside heading toward the Mayan ruins of Chichén Itzá. Suddenly a dark cloud appeared on the horizon and it was moving quickly in our direction. In just a few moments thousands of Monarchs engulfed our open jeep. It was an exciting and beautiful experience. Of course, the driver assured us that they “only wanted to die in our arms”. I remember this now and realize that it must have been part of the migration. Additionally, I had a Mexican-American friend who passed away several years ago whose memory I hold dear. I think of her often at unexpected moments. Now, because of your book, I think of her immediately when I see a butterfly. I look forward to the fall when I plan to share with my students the story of the migration and mine as well. Thank you for reviving these wonderful memories.
Wow! I thoroughly enjoyed your photos, especially the birds of prey. Thank you for sharing them. I recently had the pleasure of taking some photos of a red-tailed hawk, after it caught a small mouse; it was at a park in downtown Greenville and it was just by luck that I caught it on film. Do you have any tips on capturing birds like this on film? -Nate
Sorry I have not written you sooner. My husband has cancer and my time is filled with hospital, doctor visits, and so much extra to do. I am so very thankful that two dear friends told me about your appearance in Monroe. You are an absolute delight! Over the years I have lost my love of reading. You might just have fanned that spark to new life. I have just started reading The Butterfly's Daughter and will be traveling with Luz while my husband has a PET scan tomorrow. I traveled to El Rosario in 1993 and feel as though I am about to revisit that glorious mountain. My last monarch hatched from the chrysalis yesterday, but he cannot fly. His abdomen is enlarged as though it still has fluid in it. There have been a dozen others that had the same problem. They seem to be too heavy to fly. I have been looking at parasites and diseases to try and discover the problem and see if I might do something to remedy it. I shared more monarchs this spring than any season before, causing quite a stir in all the doctors' offices and the hospital. I now have a few fritillaries in an aquarium, however a few monarchs linger in our yard. Two years ago I had them in some stage all summer long. I really appreciate you taking the time to look at my little book. If you think a publisher might be interested, I would appreciate any information you can send me. I am extremely excited about your book and look forward to exploring your other works. It was such a joy to meet you and hear you speak. Thank you, Marsha
Dear Mary Alice, Our book clubs would absolutely love to have you speak to our annual joint luncheon Tuesday or Wednesday, October 25 or 26. The three clubs are the 100 year old Shandon Book Club, the Wildewood Book Club and the Novel Lovers Book Club. Please consider us; we're anxious to hear from you.
I enjoyed The Beach House so much that when I finished, I turned to Page One and started over! Thank you for a very charming story and characters I came to love as friends. God bless you.
The Beach House was the first book I ever read by you (and I've since read them all!) I am so thrilled to learn that you are writing a prequel! It was one of those books where I didn't want it to end...I had dreams about the characters, wanted to crawl into the book to live for a little bit, and it made me fall in love with the sea turtles. Thank you for revisiting my "friends"!
Having just finished your book, The Book Club, and having the honor of meeting you via Skype, I can only tell you that you have inspired all of us in your group and we are forever grateful. It was a wonderful book; a wonderful meeting, and we plan to read all your works in the future. We want to skip your latest only so we can go back and read all the "hints" you so graciously provide in each stepping stone book before. We are all looking to find them...and the answers to many questions on life and nature and people and love and forgiveness. Thank you again. Sandi
Thanks so very much for this book. I learned so much on many levels. I have always seen the Monarchs around my home but didn't think to much about them until I read your book. I will never look at those beautiful butterflies again without thinking about their journey. Also, I appreciate the story of Mexican heritage and realized how little I knew. I supposed much of my ignorance is based on the stories I hear and read of immigrants in our country and our towns. Mine included. I think sometimes we look at the people and only see an immigrant and not a person. I know for certain that this book made me stop and think and feel for this granddaughter who was not so different from any of us who have lost a beloved grandparent. I loved reading about her journey and the people she befriended along the way. I wonder how many of us would have the courage she did.
I have always appreciate how you incorporated real subjects in your books. I want to go the beach and count sea turtle eggs and stand watch over them. I want to learn to fly fish and make baskets from sea grass and I even have a different perspective on the raptors. Thanks again for a lovely new book.
Dear Ms. Monroe,
I just received you summer newsletter. I am anxiously awaiting the prequel to the Beach House. I am wondering if you are planning any sequels to Time Is A River or perhaps the Long Road Home?
Hi Mary Alice,
I had already emailed you with my thoughts and praise on Butterfly's Daughter. I'm sure you've received many and may not have been able to respond to mine. As a librarian, I am now recommending the book to my patrons. I live in Jacksonville Florida and have yet to see any viable turtle eggs. The last time my group collected, none had made it. Glad to hear you were able to collect some. Have you ever seen them hatch? Keep writing! I have Skyward at home and look forward to the prequel to Beach House.
I am half way through your new novel and enjoying every page. Butterflies have for some time brought messages to me - sometimes good and sometimes mysterious. Living in NC I have seen the migration of butterflies. Beautiful sight.
Your novels are always a joy to read. Learning about nature and our environment is a bonus.
Hope there is another novel in the writing....
Diane Martin
PS The first novel I ever read by you I found in the bookstore near the market in Charleston, SC. Since then I've eagerly anticipated each new release.
Hi Mary Alice:
I wanted to share a butterfly experience with you –
I had a little yellow/white kitty cat named Minor (so named because we had 2 cats and he was the “minor” one of them as he was smaller) – anyhoo – he got feline leukemia and I had to have him put to sleep as it was unable to be treated. I went in with him when he was put to sleep and I cried and cried for days afterwards – he was the sweetest kitty cat ever.
It had been about a week or so after I had buried him when I was sitting on my screened in back porch when suddenly this huge yellow butterfly (I believe they’re called Swallowtails??) came in and landed on the arm of the swing – it was the biggest butterfly I’ve ever seen my first thought was “oh my God – Minor???” – he always loved to chase butterflies and I honestly believe that it was his spirit coming back to see me.
I know this sounds crazy and trust me – I didn’t tell anyone about it at first for fear of them carting me off to the asylum - but every time I see one of those butterflies I always think of him.
Thanks again for such a beautiful story – you always not only entertain me but also inspire me!!
Good luck with this year’s Turtle season – we’re up to 85 nests so far on Jekyll – we had 140 last year so we’re on track to meet/exceed last year’s numbers!!
I can’t tell you how much I’m looking forward to the prequel of The Beach House!!
Mary Alice, we were getting ready to leave the Outer Banks after a vacation and we noticed that there were many monarch butterflies on one particular kind of plant. I don't know what the plant is but here are a couple of pictures. I have never seen so many butterflies at one time.
Hello Mary Alice,
I am overjoyed that Skyward is being re-released. I have a great love of birds of prey and stumbled across Skyward as a Kindle book. I thought it was one of your best books and wanted others to read it. Alas, I couldn't find it!
Now, I can give it as a gift to those I wanted to read it.
also, I am planning a visit to IOP this fall and will visit the Birds of Prey Center.... what a wonderful place. I am from the upstate SC area near Lake Jocassee and this morning my husband spotted and positively identified a youngish golden eagle. We frequently get them as visitors because of our proximity to the lakes, mountains, and the river that we live on. I never tire of the thrill of realizing that is what I am looking at....
am looking forward to reading your current book. wish you could come to Greenville. I see where you will be in Spartanburg in September... perhaps I can make the trip!
have a happy summer with your toes in the sand,
I just started Butterfly's Daughter and I can't put it down! I'm a retired Spanish teacher and have visited Spain and Mexico five times each. I am LOVING the characters of Luz, Ofelia, and abuelita. I feel like I'm back in Mexico again. Thank you for writing such an inspiring novel.
Wonderful meeting you in Myrtle Beach. "Butterfly's Daughter" was great! "Swimming Lessons was my first Mary Alice Monroe book; now I have to read "The Beach House" and await the sequel. Just got "Sweetgrass" from the library. You and Dorothea Benton Frank (now reading "Folly Beach") are my favorite southern writers. Keep 'em coming.
Hello Mary Alice, I met you at Brookgreen Gardens on May 29th at the Monarch Butterfly release. My friend Jayne McMurray and I were visiting friends near Myrtle Beach and got to the gardens too late to hear your talk. I asked if I could buy a book from you for my friend but you didn't have any. You said if I purchased a book and emailed you, you would send a personalized book plate for Jayne who is an avid reader. I did buy the book for her birthday and am now requesting the bookplate. Thank you in advance. Sincerely, Joanne
Mary Alice, I have just finished reading Time Is A River for the 4th time. I am a Caplain,often find myself recommending the book to people that I council. I feel like there are so many life lesson included in those pages. Your insight and knowledge of psychology and spirituality is quite incredible. So I am quite a fan of your writing. I must say that when I first read the book I felt cheated because I would never know how their relationship evolved. Darn It All!!! But my thoughts have progressed on this matter and now I must tell you I feel that the continuation of Mia story is a rich opportunity and necessary for the continuation of those life lessons and enjoyable reading. Please, Please, Please more of Mia and Stuart
Mary Alice, Welcome home! We hope to see you and Markus soon. I was delighted to see that you had done the audio version of the book. We want to talk about that. I have started reading and enjoying it . . . and was interrupted by work on two other projects (editing and ghostwriting), so I'm eager to finish it. Beautiful story well written. Bonnie
I've enjoyed your books through the years but I just finished reading The Book Club and have started the Butterfly's Daughter. AWESOME! I love your works, please keep them coming.
Ms Monroe, I loved, was swept away and captivated by "Time is a River". As a woman flyfisher and one who helps with Georgia Women Flyfishers' Casting for Confidence for women breast cancer survivers, I wanted to run to a river when I finished your book and just breathe in the wonder, the special, the mystery of the hunt. Thank you! Kindest regards, Diane Minick
The one thing that I enjoyed most in your newsletter was your comment "a cup of coffee." I so needed to read that. I have grown tired of "a cup of tea" in so many of the books I have read recently. I say out loud each time, "she needs a cup of coffee!" Also,I Read "The Butterfly's Daughter" and enjoyed the story so very much. I think I am up to date with your writing. Pleased to know you are working on a new book.
Hi Mary Alice ~ I sure did enjoy reading The Butterfly's Daughter ~ it was an excellent book ~ Billie Jo bought it for me for my Mother's Day gift. I was wondering if you had any signed book plates? If you would let me know I would send you a SASE for some for the books I haven't been able to get signed. Thank you. Can't wait to read the next book. Mary Ann Barnes
Forgot to ask, are you going to bring out a sequel to Long Road Home??? I am hoping you will Bertie
Can't wait for the prequel to Beach House
Loved your interview on NPR. Attempting to attract butterflies and bees to our property. Would like to know how I can get some butterfly weed seeds. Keep up the good work!! CC
Thank you so much for your writing! I just finished reading Last Light Over Carolina and it was enlightening. Being only 14 it is good to know that there is that kind of love and passion in the world that I can look forward to. Thank you for giving me hope! -Dominique
Dear Mary Alice, I was fortunate enough to "see" you today as you Skyped to my book club the Well R.E.D. ladies from Oswego, IL. Thank you for taking the time to share your writing process with us. I found you fascinating and can't wait to read more of your books! Again, thank you! Mary Heldt
Burpee does not seem to have milk weed seeds. Please help. Thank you.
MAM SUGGESTS WWW.LIVEMONARCH.COM FOR MILKWEED SEEDS AND STARTER PLANTS.
Hello, I can't seem to find milk weed plants/seeds in the Conway/MB area. So, I think I will order them from Burpees. What type should I order? I belong to OLLI and mentioned you and your love of monarchs this morning at our garden meeting. Thank you. Jayann
mary alice i have your turtle book bag made and ready for you. email with a mailing address.
Dear Ms. Monroe, I have read many of your books and plan to read many more but currently I'm reading "The Butterfly's Daughter" and although I'm only up to page 50 I must tell you that I've already been in tears. As a child my Mom's nickname was Butterfly and she always loved them so much. When she died in '93 I was so devastated that I, like Luz, looked for a sign that her spirit was still around me. I didn't have to wait long. Butterflies soared all around me that summer -- more than I've ever seen at our home and I was thrilled and overwhelmed. Thank you for this book and all the others I've had the pleasure of reading. I look forward to more.
Love your books!
The Butterfly's Daughter was okay, but I am disappointed that you chose to portray the heroine as sleeping with her boyfriend. I would expect something better. No more of your books for me.
Hi Mary Alice, We met at the Hilton Head Island Coastal Discovery Museum. I am headed on a year-long RV Tour in an Airstream to promote my new book, Seeds of Freedom: Cultivating a Book that Matters. It's my journey from stressed-out executive to enlightened woman living a life on my terms -- and I did it by planting a garden. I would love to talk with you more about your book tour and conservation efforts to see if there's a way I could support you. Also, a tactical question. Do you have a good PR person in the area? I haven't found the right person and think someone locally would be better suited for me on this tour. Thanks and congratulations on such a successful book tour! Heather Wilson
I just finished the firt book I have read by you, The Beach House. Something compelled me to pick it off the shelf without ever reading the synopsis. My mom is in the final stages of lung cancer, and I've already lost my precious sister to the disease. The comfort I found in this book is not to be conveyed by words. You understand. Thank you so much for the gift of your work.
In the past 3 weeks I have read 8 of your books & am now a big fan! The only ones I haven't read are "Secrets We Keep", (have not been able to find it), & "Butterfly's Daughter", (next on my purchase list). I have fallen in love with the Lowcountry, my husband & I plan a trip there next month & hope to visit all the places you wrote about!
Thank you for such wonderful "clean" adult book. I grew up in South Carolina and the journey you take me on through the Low Country is simply priceless. Please keep writing and I'll keep reading. Thank you, again. Bee
The Butterfly's Daughter - Beautifully written Mary Alice. Loved making the trip in the bug. Can't wait for the next book. Take care of the turtles. Bev
Just finished The Butterfly's Daughter. Loved it. All your books are great.
Loved The Butterfly's Daughter...I really thought you only wrote about SC coast etc....but was pleased to read this on a friend's recommendation....I think this is a much better novel than a beach read. Keep writing...I am going to check out some of your other works.
Can't wait to start Butterflies. It was so good to see you at the Garden Party/Book signing here in Wild Dunes. You're an amazing person.
Mary Alice, You signed a quilt block for me when you were at Barnes and Noble, in Mt. Pleasant and I have had to redo it. Might you drop by there in the evening on Wednesday, June 8, in support of Mary Kay Andrews? It would be great to have you sign the new quilt block. Thanks.
Just finished "The Butterfly's daughter" and loved it! The roadtrip was a great metaphor. Who doesn't have a roadtrip of discovery story of their own? It was a great connection to the reader. Well done. I can't wait for the next one!
love your books set in our great state
Met you at the Silver Coast Winery in NC on Friday June 3. Wine was good, but your talk was excellent. I await the prequel to The Beach House. Thanks for writing and sharing. Sherry Jargo
Love your book! How can I receive some milkweed seeds? Thanks!
Would like milkweed seeds..THX Saw you at the winery yesterday..thx
I enjoyed listening to you talk with Dr. Walter Edgar today on his "Journal." I would love to have some milkweed seed. Please let me know what I need to do to receive some. Thank you for an entertaining and educational hour today.
Your books have given me hours of pleasure. Thank you so much.
Dear Ms. Monroe, Yesterday Amazon delivered The Butterfly's Daughter - it is a selection of our book club (April 2012). I am looking forward to reading it for a number of reasons: At this very moment I am listening to you and Walter Edgar; I have a butterfly garden with a lot of nectar type perennial plants; and I have enjoyed some of your other books. I don't know if I have milkweed so I looked it up and found that there are over 200 varieties. So does the Monarch like them all? (You just said "tropical" milkweed.) Will it grow in Edgefield? You just mentioned Evanston which is where my father grew up. Did not mean to go on so long. If you were serious about sending seeds, I would love some, particularly for the association. But I am happy to purchase the seeds or plant if you will tell me which one. Sincerely, Henrietta Humphreys
Mary Alice, I am writing on behalf of Animal Advocates in NC. We are holding our largest fundraiser of the year to provide continued support of our rescued animals and community animal programs and as part of that fundraiser we are featuring a silent auction. I very much wanted to include a basket of books, all written and autographed by area writers and was hoping you might consider providing us with an autographed copy of one of your conservation-minded masterpieces! We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and you can see more about us on our web site www.aamcnc.org. Thank you for your consideration and I look forward to hearing from you, Most Sincerely, Susan Vance, President AAMC
Enjoyed the High Point presentation...planting those Milkweed seeds today!
Just finished reading The Butterfly's Daughter that you signed for me at Litchfield Books. It was most enjoyable and entertaining. I learned a lot about butterflies from this reading and will appreciate them more now. Hope to get a signed copy of your next book.
I received a copy of The Beach House for an anniversary present and I read it over Memorial Day weekend at our family beach house in OIB. It was an amazing and perfect book for the occasion and I could not put it down! I loved it so much that I went out and got three more of you books today! Loving your work!!
Saw monarch butterflies with you today at Honey Horn. Wonderful presentation.
Just read The Butterfly's Daughter - loved it. Saved several quotes. Time is a River is my all-time favorite book!
Thank you. We enjoyed seeing you today at the Brookgreen gardens.
In her stained-glass glory The monarch inhabits our yard. Gathering warmth from a midday sun, She performs her ritual Of gliding, dipping and dancing Like a beautiful ballerina in a play. From cosmos to zinnias, to impatiens and others, She samples sweet nectar from flower beds around. With renewed energy, her delicate wings lift her skyward. Ever so gently, he taps her velvety wings. She responds by playfully dancing with him on nature's stage, Spinning, turning, waltzing, Until she sweeps away, inviting him to follow. Together they stop at the table of raindrop-shaped petals, Sipping nectar from the inner circle of star-shaped flowers. Soon she will lay her eggs on a milkweed plant, Passing along her magical mystery to her offspring.
Mary Alice, I was overjoyed when my sister came back from Hilton Head with the gift of your newest book, The Butterfly's Daughter. Many thanks for your autograph and the milkweed seeds. What a great idea! I taught a unit on the monarch to my third graders. I know I learned as much as they did. We raised and released 6 newly hatched monarchs. You would have loved the scene. We drew the name of the child who would release the butterfly...named it after that child who would help it out of the cage and the whole class ran right along waving good-bye as it flew off. Every once in a while I am inspired to write a poem....hope you enjoy it. I love your books. Betty Smith
I just finished reading "Time is a River". I really liked it. I'm searching for a book for my book club to read in mid June and talk about at our meeting in July. And this is my pick! (I'm looking forward to reading your other books.) If you'd like to join us, the meeting is scheduled for July 9th. We're located in Augusta, GA. I'd love to have you as my guest.
I love your books. I am looking forward to The Butterfly's Daughter as it has much that I can relate to. Please keep on writing!
I just finished "The Butterfly's Daughter" and wanted to tell you that I thoroughly enjoyed this story. I loved how you blended the story of the butterflys with Luz's journey. I also enjoyed learning about the Monarchs. You are one of my favorite authors.
Dear Mary Alice, We met at a writer's conference in Chicago several years back as I stood in line with your brother. In March last year I was at the Virginia Aquarium in Virginia Beach where they have a huge sea turtle tank. I told the docent about your sea turtle books, and she was surprised that she had missed them and was interested in picking up a copy. Although these turtles were permanently unable to return to the ocean, it was great to see them up close. I hope she enjoyed your turtle books as much as I did. Sincerely, Marie Donovan
I love butterflies. Shortly after moving to SC in 1998(following a rather traumatic event in my life) I witnessed a butterfly (a black swallowtail)in a battle for its life. That moment inspired a poem, words that came from my heart and I thought meant just for me. However, I soon discovered that the poem was truly meant for all women who face struggles in their lives, and I have been blessed to give my butterfly poem to so many women needing encouragement. I am looking forward to meeting you at the Brookgreen Gardens book signing,and especially thrilled about the Monarch butterfly release. God sure creates beautiful creatures and we are especially blessed with butterflies!
Mary Alice I heard you speak at Ga. Center for the Book in Decatur last night. You were superb. I hated to leave my book with a friend to get you to autograph for me, but had another commitment. I was so inspired by your talk I actually went out today and found some milkweed already growing and planted it in my small garden spot. I don't know if I remember exactly what else you told us to do but I will keep searching for info. Hope I can do this. I have been to the Pacific Grove monarch garden and that was amazing to me so I can only imagine the experience in Mexico. I have loved every book of yours, and most of all the knowledge I have gained from each one. You are a true inspiration.
Hello- My name is Lisa Matthews and I am the Special Projects Coordinator for the Robeson County Public Library System. Our community is the third poorest county in the United States making us the poorest in North Carolina. Our adults are the ones doing without. Your books would be perfect for our adults giving them something to look forward to at when they come into the library. Our budget is very limited and we are in a very poor county. Would you ever consider donating any of your books to help us? Tax letters will be sent out. Thanks so much for your time. If I have emailed you before disregard this email. Also we are having a literacy event on feb 25, 2012 called the Bookem. If interested in coming to this event go to the bookemnc.org site and register. Thanks so much.
The Butterfly's Daughter is another inspiring novel. Loved it so much I wanted to share it with my daughter. So I sent her a copy. So much wisdom in nature. Thank you!! I'm waiting for the next one.
I enjoyed reading The Butterfly's Daughter. Will be reading more of your books.
Per my questions to you earlier regarding your familiarity with Vermont, you mention the house is on your website which you write of in "The Long Road Home". To no avail have I been able to find it. I am very curious and would love to see it. A fan with regards, Deanna Ewing
ANSWER: See a photo of the real farm house in "The Long Road Home" book trailer posted on website.
Mary Alice - I enjoyed your book signing this afternoon in Austin. Glad that I heard about you on NPR. Good luck on the rest of tour!
Regards, Ravi Subramanian
p.s. Just finished The Butterfly's Daughter. (So much for savoring it for the week...) Enjoyed it!
We loved the book signing at Anderson's loved everything you had to say about your new book. Thanks for the great reads.
Read "Time is a River" followed with "The Long Road Home". I am a new fanatic fan of your writing. My sister lives in Middletown Springs, Vermont(owns a B & B) and I've been to Rutland and Poultney many times. I have introduced your books to her and she is very interested in the setting of Vermont which you use in "The Long Road Home". We both guess that you have certainly spent time there. Were you from the area at one time. Can't find the info on your bio. Would love to get the answer to this question for the both of us.
I wanted to say how lovely it was to have dinner with you in Dallas. I really enjoyed it, and hope we can do it again really soon. Thank you so much!
I just love your books and look forward to every Spring/Summer when you come out with a new one. I am in the middle of The Butterfly's Daughter and as usual am not disappointed. I just escape when I read your books. and I love the line "you make your friends your relatives". When will your next book be coming out and the name of it? I cannot wait. I rush the year looking forward to your books. Keep up the good work and stay well. An Avid Reader.... Rosanne
It was such a pleasure meeting you at Anderson's Bookstore in Naperville tonight. I am so glad I came to this event! I can't wait to talk to my sis, Andrea, about it. Look for her at Brookgreen Gardens.
Love your books - what's out that is new
My name is Amelia Albanese and I work for a small online e-bookstore called EZ Read. Our company provides short interviews of authors on our website, and I was wondering if it would be possible to have you be one of them. We would be honored to learn more about your writing career and promote your creativity. An author like you undoubtedly has a busy schedule, and I don’t want to take up too much of your time, so I would conduct the interview through a single email exchange of no more than 10 questions, to be convenient. You can view our most recent interviews on our "Meet the Author" page . Please get back to me with any questions of your own that you may have. I would be grateful just to know if my request is feasible or not. Thank you so much for your time. I look forward to hearing your reply.
Mary Alice, You were such a hit here in Pinehurst that people are stopping me on the street to talk about you. Thanks so much for supporting the Given Library and I loved your book. Buzzy did a great job.
I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO READING YOUR BOOKS, THE BOOK CLUB SOUNDS REALLY GOOD.
We so enjoyed getting to know you yesterday in Pinehurst-I planted my seeds today! I look forward to reading The Butterfly's Daughter!!!!
My first book of yours was "Time is a River." Since I am a flyfisherman myself, I loved the story and setting. Then I read your next one,"Last Light over Carolina." Another great one. I am from the south and I missed it so much, but you bring it a little closer to me. Thank you.
Loved meeting you at the Pinehurst Members Club. What a lovely lady you are and I have read every book and love them all. Keep writing and I'll keep reading.
Mary Alice is was a pleasure to meet you in Hartsville today. I enjoyed your talk about The Butterfly's Daughter and The Beach House.
I had the occasion of seeing you at the recent Moveable Feast. I so enjoyed your talk and was inspired to read The Butterfly's Daughter. I absolutely loved it. Thank you for a lovely introduction into your lovely writing. I'm hooked!!!!
We last saw a Monarch butterfly last year when we still lived in Ohio. It was flitting all about my daughter Riley's head as we explored Inniswood Gardens. We have yet to see another though I was able to get some lovely photos. I am dying to read your newest book and we look forward to meeting you at Brookgreen at the end of the month(My 6 yr old wants nothing more than to become an author). Take Care!
I saw a monarch butterfly just yesterday. A co-worker and I were standing outside and I saw it and told her, "Look.. a monarch butterfly." She told me that meant goodluck. Since I saw it first but we were both there I told her we could each have a "wing" of luck and if we had to, we could fly together. It was just kinda fitting for challenging day I was having. Then this morning I heard you on the radio. I really hope to read your book very soon. Thank you for sharing your gift with the world.
Just read "The Beach House" again! We love the turtles,too! I am a great admirer of your writing style and the way you weave your personal value into the stories. Now reading "The Butterfly's Daughter".
My Springfield Mommy sent me! Your book looks really good and I can't wait to read it :)
Looking forward to your Dallas signing. Met you in Mt. Pleasant for signing of LLOC. The Gordon in that book is relative. Started TB'sD and so far you have not disappointed. Safe travel.
What a joy to meet you at Moss Creek last week.I have long enjoyed your talent and appreciated your research. Now, having met you and and shared your beautiful spirit and graciousness,I have enjoyed your new book even more. I can't believe you took the time to sign all my books and pose for two pictures because the first hug was missed. You're a gem!
I can't remember the last time I saw a Monarch. I will be watching since the butterflies are becoming active right now. I suggested that my book club, The Happy Bookers, read your book, Last Light Over Carolina. I will be leading the discussion Wed. May 11 at Gilligan's Seafood restaurant. We will order WILD SC shrimp caught by WILD Carolina fishermen. Hope to see you Sat.in Columbia at the book fair.
I just discovered your books during the holidays! Yey! I have so many to enjoy!
You have become an inspiration to my wife. We have been vacationing on IOP for about 8 years now and your books have been amazing for her and us. For mother's day, we got her The Butterfly's Daughter and she does not want to start reading it because then it will be that much closer to the end of it...I am sure she will start tonight. We live in naperville and I told her that you will be about 5 blocks from our house at Andersons on the 17th. We are excited to meet you. Thanks for the great writings! They have had an amazing impact on my wife.
Met you yesterday at Bonefish Grill. Great time. I am now reading "Swimming Lessons" and read this morning in the "Sun News" that six injured turtles had just been released back into the ocean from the Aquarium in Charleston. Your book is real life!
Hello, How happy and joyful you made us all feel at today's gathering at Bonefish. You were terrific. I saw you at the Conway Library about 3-4 years ago. Since then, I have read most of your books and have sent your books on CDs to my mother in MI. She has mascular and your stories enrich her days. Thank you so very much. Jayann (in Conway, SC).
Today, Friday, May 7th attended you book discussion at Pawley's Planation. What a lovely morning. Truly enjoyed your presentation and your love of butterflies. Tagging butterflies was a project my library did one year in conjunction with a local butterfly center. How rewarding and made us part of something global. Thank you for years of joyous reading and sharing in the lives of women role models. I wish these women were real. But I do consider them friends. Met a guest at your luncheon from Canada and we are now book buddies. Thank you for sharing your imagination and interests in life. Sincerely, Janine
Mary Alice, Your talk at Moss Creek was wonderful. This may be very presumptuous of me to suggest you consider the horseshoe crab in a future book. Come to Daufuskie with Al Seagars and do some research. I won't even tell anyone you are coming, so you can have some quiet time now that you are such a star!
Mary Alice, I cannot remember the last time I specifically saw a monarch butterfly, but I am definitely going to be on the lookout for one in my garden this year! Thank you for such lovely stories we can drift into and live in for a while. I treasure your books. Melanie
Won advanced copy of The Butterfly's Daughter---starting today! Do you have bookmarks and bookplates? Would love to get some!
You're one of my favorite authors! Thank you for the giveaway of your new book at My Springfield Mommy blog...I can't wait to read it!
Ms. Monroe, It was such a wonderful afternoon at Wild Dunes Resort yesterday listening to you tell of your experiences researching the Monarch butterflies. It was an educational, as well as, a most enjoyable afternoon getting to hear you and speak with you again. As I said to you yesterday, I first met you at a book signing at Freshfields in 2005, where I was able to talk with you at length. You impressed me then and continued to impress me now as being a very special person. Your dedication to informing others of environmental concerns and your efforts in those areas are inspiring. And your books bring such pleasure to all who read them. I wish you continued blessings to further educate and entertain all who have the pleasure of meeting you and reading your books
I loved "Time Is A River". I used to live on Sullivan's Is., then moved to Sylva, N C. After hiking every week I became interested in fly fishing. I took classes at the Pisgah Ed. Center and my teacher was Linda Michaels. She mentioned working with you on your book. She had great things to say about you. It added a personal touch to your book. Good luck on your new book, Carolyn
I soooo wish you would come to Maui! I have never seen a monarch butterfly that I know of. Can't wait to read your book so that I can befome familiar with them!
Hi Mary Alice!! So looking forward to your visit in Chicago. I've ordered Butterfly's Daughter and am waiting for delivery. See you either in Winnetka this trip.
Good Morning from Pawleys Island, I know you will be visiting our beautiful area on May 6th. I had planned to come see you and get your latest book, however, I will be getting my three month PET/CT scans in Charleston that day. I am in remission from cancer, doing well with the help of your wonderful books. I have read most of them & the way you bring your characters to life is just such a talent and so enjoyable to the reader. I guess my favorite is Sweetgrass and also The Beach House, Swimming Lessons, oh and I loved Skyward and Last Light over Carolina.....I love them all and want to thank you for sharing your love of the Low Country with your readers. I have to read books with happy endings and you have not failed me yet. I hope you will have a great turn out for your latest book and you can bet I will be in Litchfield Books on Saturday to pick up a copy of The Butterfly's Daughter. God Bless you Mary Alice. My very best for you, Rebecca King
Love your books!!!! I read any of your books I can get my hands on!! Just wish you wrote more!!!!!!
Love your books! Keep up the great work!
Love your books!!! I met you at Vero Beach Bookstore in Florida and planning on seeing you again May 9th at the same place. I teach 8th graders and am always open to writers' ideas and voice such as yours.
Love all your books and can not wait to read The Butterfly's Daughter. My book club just read The Book Club for our April selection!
I am having a really hard time trying to find your book The Long Road Home in the local library here. Can you help me?
Can't wait to read your new novel. I love how you teach environmental lessons as you tell your beautiful stories.
I have read all of your books with the exception of Skyward. I especially liked Beach House and Time Is A River which prompted me to write you at an earlier time. I received an advance galley of The Butterfly's Daughter from Goodreads on Facebook and thought I would send you a copy of the review I published on Goodreads and on Simon and Schuster as a thank you. I really enjoy your writing. Thank you, Sue
The Butterfly’s Daughter is a story about family, the fragility of relationships and the courage to invite change. To honor her grandmother, Luz Avila embarks on a journey that will permit her to discover more about herself and the family secrets that have defined her life. As she finds her way to her family’s beginnings, she is also tracing the annual migration route of the monarch butterflies¬—which have meant so much to Luz and her grandmother. The blending of this natural wonder with Luz’s self discoveries makes her question how her life will unfold.
Ms. Monroe once again paints characters which are rich and complex. The women you meet could be your neighbors, your family, your friends—the women that touch the texture of our own lives. Ms. Monroe also successfully blends nature with stories that engage you and then move you to help our delicate ecosystem. This is a book well worth reading!
"Life is more about the journey than the destination." ----- That is my motto this year! Well, actually it's "Enjoy the journey" but I like yours too. I have to remind myself to slow down and enjoy each step along the way.
We discovered your books on our annual trip to Charleston & we fell in love with the stories. Myself, my sister, my mother, my daughter & now my grandson have been coming to beautiful Charleston every year for 16 years! We read your books while in NC but we feel like we are in the lowcountry!! Thankyou!!!!
I have enjoyed your books many years and re-read them too. I wish I could come to a book signing with my sister whom I have introduced your books to as well. We read them together and discuss them. Your new book will arrive this coming week and can't wait. Thanks for your beautiful stories and facts. Grace
Love your books and pass mine around to friends and relatives!
I love all your books and always look forward to your new releases. I live in Concord NC and Monroe isn't too far away so I hope to get to see you then.
Loved all your books and learned about things I didn't even know that I was interested in (sea turtles, baskets,fly fishing etc.) I can't wait to read The Butterfly's Daughter.
I have read all of your books and anxiously await reading The Butterfly's Daughter.
Read all your books! They are informative and entertaining! Please keep them coming!
Can't wait for TURTLE SEASON!! Hope to see you real soon.....hopefully in Wild Dunes!
I am looking forward to seeing you at your book signing @ Book Exchange Marietta. Can't wait to read THE BUTTERFLY'S DAUGHTER !!!
I have all your books and I am looking forward to the newest. You have educated me on so many of our "SC treasures". Thank you and you are always welcome in Aiken. Sandra
Love your books, can't wait to read this new one!!!
I love your books! I have family that live in Mt. Pleasant and whenever we visit, I make sure to head to Isle Of Palms to walk the beach, I just love it there. Every time I read a book of yours I love to explore where ever it takes place. makes me feel as if I am in the story.
Mary Alice~~~beautiful caterpillars on my milkweed plants!!! Can't wait to see the butterflies! Wonder if my baby plants will make it??? Looking forward to your new book!!! Blessings to you on your upcoming tour. Hope to see you in June on Edisto~~~
Are any of your book tour stops in Ohio or near Cincinnati? We are planning vacation on Isle of Palms In July. Have a great tour.
I absolutely love your books!! I have searched used books and bookstores to make sure I have every single one. Thanks for writing such educational as well as wonderful stories. My only problem is I've read them all and it's too long a wait for the next one :)
I love to escape into your books!! Thanks.
I love loved your books and can't wait to read this one. Keep up the good work and always look forward to your next novel. Thank you for taking me away when I read your books. Take care Rosanne
I love your books. Can't wait for the new one. Hooray!!
Way to go Mary Alice! Keep the great reads coming our way!!!
You are my MOST favorite author. My all time favorite novel is The Beach House, but Time is a River and Last Light Over Carolina are also great reads. Actually, I've read all of your books except Girl in the Mirror (I think that's the title.) Since you've brought it to my attention, it's been a long while since I have seen a Monarch butterfly. I'll be planting milkweed seeds this weekend! Continue updating us and keep writing!
I can't wait to read "The Butterfly's Daughter." It's been too long since your last book.
Cannot wait to read the book. I have all of Mary Alice's other books.
Love all of your books!!
Terrific writer. love the books!
Love your writing!!
Last August was the last time I saw a beautiful Monarch Butterfly...hovering over my husbands beautiful flowers. Mary Alice, you are a fabulous writer and I love the environmental research you do with each novel... can't wait for THE BUTTERFLY'S DAUGHTER
Love all your books and look forward to this new one.
I saw a Monarch butterfly yesterday in my lilac bush next to my deck. It visited for quite a while. I sat and smiled because it so reminded me of my late father-in-law who had a butterfly pin on his lapel at his funeral. Everytime I see one, it's a memorial visit to me. So looking forward to your new book! I have read them all.
Looking forward to your new book. You are my favorite author, and I enjoyed meeting you in Myrtle Beach.
Your brother Greg introduced me to your books! I'm loving what I read. If you get to the St. Louis area, we have a Butterfly House in Chesterfield! Might be a great tie-in for your book tour.
Can't wait for this book to come out ~ I'm sure Billie Jo Will buy it for me for Mother's Day ~ I won't get to see you on your tour but I wish you a safe journey on all your travels. Mary Ann Barnes
I love reading your books! You are a great writer.
Love your books!!!!!!!!!!
Dear Mary Alice, I had the wonderful opportunity of meeting you in Columbia, SC with my friend, Lorraine White. We are both so excited about your new book! May 3rd can't come fast enough! Thank you for making our lives richer with your beautiful stories. Be safe as your travel to promote The Butterfly's Daughter and I hope to see you again soon! Best wishes! Jan
I'm going to buy the re-released book today The Long Road Home
Thank you! I just received my copy of The Butterfly's Daughter that I won on goodreads.com. I've already started it and have read all of your books. Thank you! Angie
Thank you for posting your videos on u-tube. Being in Indiana means I probably would never meet you in person. Watching you speak in those videos makes me feel like one of the audience members. It is another way of getting to know you and your books.
I would LOVE some milk weed seeds!! My 10 year old daughter and I love our gulf fritllary butterflies that we have discovered come with our passion vine. We now let the vine overcome our garden every year because of the pure pleasure we recieve. Sarah now loves letting them fly off her finger for the first time. She learned how in an apple orchard in NC when they allowed her the honor of assisting in the tagging and then releasing a monarch. What a joy!!! Can't wait to read your book and I am sure that she will be enjoying it as well!
I am a teenager and LOVE your books! I have a passion for your beach stories!
what book do I need to read after Swimming Lessons ? I loved the Beach House then also Swimming Lessons !!! Does your books have an order to be read ? Thanks
I just finished LAST LIGHT OVER CAROLINA, and I am hooked! Will order TIME IS A RIVER, as I am an avid fly-fishing person. And, the Monarch Butterfly has been of great interest to me for quite a while-- will order that too. I am a widow, 86+ years, of good health and still travel and fish. Would love to make some sort of contact with you. Look forward to hearing from you Nancy
In reading about The Butterfly's Daughter I read where you said the butterfly has a history of a connection to the afterlife. We lost our son and he has visited in the form of a butterfly and also through other means. On one particular day I was in my yard in a garden my son had planted for me. His favorite flower was a stargazer lily. There are two in my garden, one his sister gave me and one a friend gave me. The one from a friend has 19 blooms. The one my daughter gave had only 3 blooms. A large butterfly kept flying around me face and eventually landed on the lily from my daughter. The butterfly was unusually large. One wing had a large piece missing, which reminded of how sick my son was but still beautiful and loving in his illness and how he squeezed out all the love and life he could from the time he had. The butterfly nestled in the center of the flower and stayed there for a long time while I photographed it. It was interesting to me that it would not light on the lily from the friend which was loaded with blooms, but the one his sister gave. I believe, no ,I know, that this was a visit from my son. I look forward to reading The Butterfly's Daugher and to meeting you on the tour. Anne Baldwin
Mary Alice, I have just finished reading Last Light over Carolina and not only did I enjoy it I learned a lot. For some reason since I took up photography shrimp boats around Georgetown and McClellanville have been one of my favorite subjects and for that reason this book really interest me. I am not sure why they eppeal to me but I realize that I needed to capture them now before they disappear, the same reason you realize that now was the time to write about this way of life. The Beach House is one of my all time favorite books. I look forward to meeting you in Hartsville on your tour. Butterflies are also one of my loves so I look forward to reading Butterflies Daughter. I appreciate you beautiful stories that you tell so eloquently and it is such a pleasure to read good novels without vulgarity. See you in May, Anne
I have been on vacation at home - reading your wonderful books. Thank you for the wonderful south carolina vacation.
I applaud your efforts in bringing back the Monarch population! Thank you !
So interested in your article about the Monarchs. It said we could get seed by going to your website but I have no idea where. Checked under conservation and that didn't work. any ideas? thanks!
I live on Seabrook and have a lovely meditation garden with butterfly bushes and pashion flower vines. Mary Alice suggested we contact the website for milkweed seeds to enhance butterfly production. I would like to participate as I read her latest book on my hammock. Thanks for your part in conservation. Kathy Maher
Monarchs are my favorite. I first became enamored with them while fishing and shrimping here in the lowcountry; watching them flit about over the creeks and rivers, wondering how they ever got on course. As a forester, I am aware of plants and trees but have not seen milkweed in the lowcountry, only as far south as Allendale, Bamberg. Would like to introduce here on Edisto Island. Jon
Hello, Do you ever come to the West Coast for appearances? I live near Seattle and have passed your books along to friends, they love you stories too!! We would love to have you visit the Pacific Northwest. Thank you, Robin
I LOVE LOVE LOVE your books. I stumbled onto The Long Road Home at a wholesale club and now I'm HOOKED! I've read most of your books and when I get to the end I find myself missing the characters. I just finished The Four Seasons and I'm hoping there is a sequel. I'd love to know how Jilli, Birdie and Rose are doing a decade later! I'm going to go and get comfy now and start The Book Club. Thank you for writing such great books!
I am near Pawleys Island- I cannot be at the moveable Feast as I but would like to know if I could stop in to get the new book signed x 2- And will the books be there for sale that day? This event is on May 6th. Please let me know Thanks Kathleen
Answer: The Moveable Feast and book signing event are hosted by Litchfield Books. Please contact the store for details.
Thank you for posting the drawing to win your newly to be released "THE BUTTERFLY'S DAUGHTER" at Good Reads. I received an e-mail yesterday saying I won a copy. I am very excited to read it and review it. I must admit the review will be biased, due to the fact that I am a fan of your books.
I have read many of your Wonderful Books..And If I can Join The Book Club I will..Thanks..Susan ,,Vermont
After reading (and loving) "Time is a River" and learning about Casting For Recovery I sent in a CFR application for my wife. She was selected for the Gatlinburg, TN retreat held this past weekend. She was absolutely thrilled and awed with the retreat, and she actually enjoyed the fly fishing! I am over joyed and have you to thank. Your book is life changing. God bless you and we are looking forward to reading more of your works. God bless you greatly, dear friend!
Hello I'm from Brazil and I write a novel too, would help me...thank you...your fan from brazil
I found your books when searching for Southern authors. The Beach House was the first I read and I was hooked. I have finished 4 - just started Time Is a River. As a breast cancer survivor, I am really looking forward to this one.
Hi, Mary Alice. I'm writing to invite you to promote The Butterfly's Daughter at RomCon's blog. You would have the option of offering an original blog, or a sneak peek of your new release to our avid romance readers. If you're interested in scheduling a date, please contact us. Thanks! CJ Snyder
WILL THERE BE ANOTHER SERIES BOOK AFTER "SWIMMING LESSONS"?
Answer: If you enjoyed reading THE BEACH HOUSE or SWIMMING LESSONS, you'll be happy to know that there will be a new book about the secrets surrounding Lovie Rutledge and the Primrose Cottage. Stay tuned!
Mary Alice, I have not finished your novel (THE BUTTERFLY'S DAUGHTER) yet. But, I usually don't post my thought on a book until I have totally finished and aborbed it. But, I was surprised by your writing style. You see I thought you were not a literary writer but chick-lit. I was flabbergasted with great excitement reading your novel. I am only on page 60. But I am mesmerized by your story. Here is my blog post at http://susansliterarycafe.blogspot.com. I don't think I have your assistant's email. Can you send this to her. Also I wanted to know if you would do a guest post or a Q/A post? It would probably be a good idea to do it now. Before your book tour. If you are interested let me know. Thanks again, and thank you for this lovely and touching story. I am going to let my book club members know about your book too, and spread the word to everyone.
My 3 favorite books: Skyward, Beach House, and Sweetgrass.
I love your books, because the detail of the NC and SC coastal areas is so vivid with detail, beyond what most of us are familiar with. Your history of the areas is like reading it for the first time. I'd like to request that you consider writing books about other coastal areas, such as Virginia, i.e., Chincoteage and Assateague islands, Georgia's St. Simons island, and the Florida coast. Thank you!
Just being diagnosed with breast cancer, reading Time is a River has really hit home with me as my husband is an avid fly fisherman. He would love to volunteer for Casting for Recovery. I am so enjoying the book and the references to the low country as we live in Hilon Head. I cannot wait to read more of your books. Thanks for the hope, Amy Key
I read your book Time Is A River...Wow....All I can say...Great book...Will there be another one? I enjoyed it very much...Looking forward to reading some more.
Leigh Anne Hoover introduced me to Mary Alice Monroe's novels this past year (The Beach House and Swimming Lessons). I received Last Light over Carolina as a Christmas gift this year along with several other books. It was the first book that I read from the whole stack! I'm now looking forward to reading The Butterfly's Daughter.
I just finished listening to your book 'Sweetgrass' on tape. It was absolutely wonderful. A lovely story told in such a beautiful way, with such rich characters. I can't wait to read/listen to your other books!
I am so excited to hear you have a new book coming out in May 2011. I can't wait to read it! Is there any way to be informed when new books are coming out? What does being a member of the book club entail?
Answer: ALL NEWS RELATED TO MARY ALICE'S NEW BOOKS WILL ALWAYS BE POSTED ON THE WEBSITE, FACEBOOK, TWITTER AND BLOGPAGE.
Hi Mary Alice! I did not know how else to get in touch with you but you said to "email" you...I loved your presentation at Kings Daughters on Edisto. I loved hearing about all that you are involved in related to your wonderful books!!! Thank you! Now...hear is my request...milkweed seeds/plants...how could i get them??? I think I shared that we have 70 acres...several acres of open fields as well as woodlands with 2 ponds. I would LOVE to help grow the monarch population along with all wildlife. My husband plants crops for the deer, turkeys, etc. Would love to hear from you. THANK YOU for all that you do!!! Blessings, Martha
I have recently read Sweetgrass, The Beach House, Swimming Lessons and just finished Time is a River. I REALLY hope you write a sequel to Time is a River..... I LOVED the book and it seems like there is so much more story to tell about the people in Watkins Mill... Having lived in SC for the last 30+ years, and being familiar with the Low Country, I really enjoyed your books about the Low Country- it was very easy to envision exactly where you were talking about. I can't wait to read the rest of your books. Thanks for writing some beautiful and meaningful stories.
I work as a Companion at a long-term care facility in London, Ontario (Canada). For the last few years we have raised Monarch butterflies and it has really enriched the lives of our residents. Last year we raised, named and released 52 butterflies. We are looking forward to the return of the Monarchs and to your new book! Happy Spring!
I just finished "The Long Road Home" and wanted you to know how much I loved the book. Thanks so much for it. I have read most all of your books and do love them. I hope the next one comes soon. Terry
I had to write to you and tell you how much I enjoyed 'The Beach House'. It has become one of my favourite books. I love your writing style. I am an aspiring author, and over the past twelve years I have studied the craft of writing with a passion I have never felt for anything else. I read your book as a reader and a writer and feel, apart from becoming totally immersed and losing myself in the story, 'The Beach House' was a learning experience for me as well. Thank you so much. Your book has inspired me to finally commence work on my own novel. Yours in writing, Michelle Sheldon.
Will you have any book signings in the Charleston,SC for your new book?
Answer: Yes! The book tour schedule will be up soon.
i have read all of your books so far i love them very much thank you for being such a great writer ,sincerly vicki miller
I love all your turtle stories. I lived in Charleston in the 1980's and would have loved to have known about the Turtle Watch people. I used to hang out on Sullivan's Island and Island of Palms before work. Thank you for all your wonderful stories.
Very nice post, good luck! ;-)
Just finished "Time is a River" and loved it! (Pocket Books, 2009 ed.) Two questions: on p. 374, next to last line, "Anyone who believes they may be able..." I don't think that the relative pronoun to go with "Anyone" would have been "they" in 1929, but rather "he." Didn't "they" become acceptable in the Feminist period of the 1970s and after? Also, on p. 465, para. 4, lines 6 and 7, say, "Side by side they moved in tandem." Wouldn't "in tandem" mean one behind/in front of the other? This would be awkward for two fly-fishers casting in the same direction. Side by side would be more suitable. This was a beautifully written book that I've recommended to all my friends. Cheers! -Frank Trice
I'm reading The Beach House now and I absolutely love it. I've spent many summers at the Isle of Palms and everytime I open my book it takes me back there. Thank you for the memories.
Mary Alice, First I wanted to say THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart. The Books made my day. I just finished The Long Road Home, and wanted to know if you were planning on a sequel to it? I along with some other readers would love to read more about Esther and the rest of the Johnston family. And how about poor John Henry?? Once again thank you for the books. When I was reading The Long Road Home, my grandson looked at me and said, " It must be good grandmom because your eyes are smiling." Now if that is not a compliment to your writing I don't know what is. LOL Bertie Welck
Are you going to be doing any appearances in the Charleston area during the week of March 28? We are finally going to visit the area and would love to sit in on one of your book signings.
I just finished The Beach House! What a wonderful book! I read your Sweetgrass book twice because it was so good. I will be starting on the Book Club next. You have a new fan!!!! Love the way you make your characters "alive". I really have a hard time doing my chores because I just want to read the next chapter-----and on.
I have just been introduced to your writing by reading my first book of yours. I was in Barnes and saw Noble and "Time is a River" on sale. I purchased it and fell in love with your writing. Needless to say I am hooked and will pursue reading more of your works. "TIME IS A RIVER" SHOULD BE MADE INTO A MOVIE! Have you considered this? It would make an awesome movie. I would love to see it done. Thanks for sharing your talent. A new avid fan, Janice Boyter
Please tell me, when a new book will be transleted in german. I love your books.
I OWN AND LOVE EVERY BOOK THAT YOU HAVE WRITTEN AND CAN HARDLY WAIT TO READ "THE BUTTERFLY'S DAUGHTER" COMING IN MAY. THANKING YOU IN ADVANCE FOR ANOTHER "GREAT" BOOK.
I just finished your book, Time Is a River. Just wonderful! This is the first time I have read anything you have written, picked it up at Dollar General for $1.25. Will now read all of your books! I loved the story and all the characters. I will recommend you to everyone.
I discovered you when I read Time Is A River, then went on to Swimming Lessons and just finished Last Light Over Carolina. I won't gush about how much I love your books (and I do) but do want to tell you how much you have taught me and will be inspiring me. I was brought up fishing on Long Island, NY but have always felt the South in my blood. My husband and I have a lake house now in NC but thanks to two other Low Country authors read before I discovered you, we too fell in love with Low Country. We have just purchased a beach house that will be a rental property in Garden City Beach called the Sand Turtle. It is listed with a property management company but we will be designing a separate website for marketing purposes. I will be writing the introduction for the cover page and it is Swimming Lessons that taught me about sea turtles. I will start out by saying "Of course there is no such thing as a Sand Turtle but sea turtles do come ashore to build their nests and lay their eggs. I will be mentioning sea turtle rescue and sequeing into "If you are interested in learning more about sea turtle rescue, take a day to visit the aquarium in Charleston where it all happens". I will then give the link and also the link to your book. I will be taking it to leave for renters to read but I am sure someone will love it enough to walk away with it and that's ok because it's educating them too. Each of your books has meaning for me. Time Is A River hit me hard because of my years of fishing and all the cancer victims in my family. Last Lite In Carolina taught me all about the shrimping industry which is new to me. Up north on Long Island it was all about clamming and oysters. I can't wait to read every one of your other books. I'm sure I will be as caught up in the charactors, stories and being as educated as these last three. You are as amazing author along with Dorthea Benton Frank and Ann Rivers Siddons. The three of you have brought Low Country to life.
I became acquainted with MAM when I saw one of your books displayed at our local library. Loving the beach and longing for an opportunity to retreat to the coast for a much needed R & R, I settled instead for a good book and chose The Beach House because of its title. I have since had the privilege and experience of enjoying your wonderful gift and talent many times over, and look forward to more from you. I knew we must have a common thread (other than literary)and having read today that you have 9 brothers and sisters made me smile. I am the 9th of 13 children...and there is nothing in all the world to compare with being part of a very large, loving family. Maybe we read when we seek to find some sense of privacy among so many around us all the time! I am mother to 7 and grandmother to 13 beautiful children/grandchildren, so the beat goes on! Reading time is a luxury, and I grab my moments whenever I can find them. Thank you for filling those moments with a quiet pleasure and refreshing my thoughts about the world beyond our own very busy lives!
Ms. Monroe, I have read most of your books and loved each and every one of them. I just started The Beach House. I can't believe how close it is to my life story at this time. In June I found out I had colon cancer, in July half of my colon was removed. Started chemo in August finally stopped it in the beginning of December. I didn't like not being able to enjoy my family, because I was always so weak and uncaring. I am going to finish The Beach House and then start on Swimming Lessons. I wanted to say thank you for bringing so much enjoyment into my life as well as so many others.
p.s. I meet your brother Greg on pbs fantastic person to know.
I would like to read the novels you wrote under your maiden name I believe. I do not know the names of them or where I could find them. I use to have the info but in a move a couple of years back they got misplaced. Can you please help me? I have read all of your books and looking forward to your new one in May.
Uur bookclub "Between the Covers" has chosen 2 of your books to read this year. Four Seasons and Last light over Carolina. I have already read The Beach House and loved it. You came to Borders in Snellville,GA and my girlfriend got me a signed book from you. I had had surgery and could not be there. Please let us know when and where you will be close to us so we can come and see you. Until then I will just keep reading your books.
Loved The Long Road Home! Is there going to be a sequel?
I am interested in hosting Mary Alice Monroe on May 4, 2011 at our 9th Annual Pink Ribbon Luncheon. This is very similar to the Pink Ribbon Luncheon at Wrightsville Beach that I believe you have also spoken at in the past. We would love to have you come in on May 3 and be a special guest at a cocktail reception for all of our sponsors and special guests. I look forward to hearing from you.
Mary Alice, Talk to you soon and best wishes on your new title The Butterfly's Daughter!!! Donna Williams