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Name: Christine
Location: TX USA

Hi Mr. Coville, I just wanted to say that I'm so anxious to read the book, The Last Hunt. Why does it always take so long to make a single book? I hope that you reply soon. -Christine ❀

Tuesday, March 16, 2010 at 6:45:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Wednesday, March 17, 2010:

Hi, Christine -

Well that makes two of us who are anxious, because now that the book is finished I'm dying to find out what the readers think of it!

There are a whole pile of answers about why it takes so long to make a single book, and they vary greatly from book to book, so I don't have much useful to say on that point right now.

Hope you will like THIS book when it's finally available!

All best,

Name: Elizabeth T.
Website: http://www.myrealpet.com
Location: Perkiomenville, PA USA

Hi Bruce, Its Elizabeth again! I forgot to mention one thing! I write to, of course my books will never be as good as yours, but i have been writing for a lot of time now. I don't work on my books a lot, but i am working on one called A Million Ribbons, its about a girl (no goal yet) who has some medical family issues. I also have a project for school about poetry and for my bio poem i wrote about you! I am pleased with my outcome but i don't think some of my facts are straight. Yet again i have to leave, because homework calls! Eager for your reply, Elizabeth :)

Monday, March 15, 2010 at 1:47:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Monday, March 15, 2010:

Elizabeth -

Oh, please do not say that your books will never be as good as mine! Don't underestimate yourself. You have no idea how much you might do, how far your talent might stretch, if you just keep at it.

Name: Elizabeth T.
Website: http://www.myrealpet.com
Location: Perkiomenville, PA USA

Hi Bruce! Let me start off saying that it is so awesome just to even be able to say hello! I am such a big fan! I have read a lot of your books, my favorite are the unicorn chronicles and the monster book, green cover 7 monsters i think (sorry i forget the name) I cant wait until the next book in Unicorn chronicles comes out, or if it has come out then i cant wait to read it! Unfortunately Middle School West doesn't have unicorn chronicles because the elementary school has it so fortunately i will be able to get it from them when they get it. I cant wait to get your reply. I would write more but Alas! with middle school comes homework. :P Bye, Elizabeth ;)

Monday, March 15, 2010 at 1:40:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Monday, March 15, 2010:

Hi, Elizabeth -

Thanks for the message.

It kind of bugs me that the middle school doesn't have the Unicorn Chronicles. The later ones, especially, are definitely suited for middle school.

Alas, homework is with us always . . .

Name: Jaelee
Location: USA

Hi Mr. Coville, I'm so excited to see that The Last Hunt will be out five days before my brithday!!! I totally know the perfect 21st birthday gift now, thanks. I have loved the Unicorn Chronicles as far back as I can remember. In fact the other day I was clearing out old school supplies from ten or so years ago and came across the pop up book report I did for it. Hehe. I'm really happy you're continuing on with the books. I've read this series for over half my life now and it just keeps getting better, even when I go back and reread and find things that little-me might not have noticed or understood. Thanks a lot. --Jaelee PS, the snow on the website is pretty cool.

Monday, March 15, 2010 at 12:30:00 AM

Bruce Coville replied on Tuesday, March 16, 2010:

Hi, Jaelee -

You gave me a big smile with this. Hope you get your birthday wish! ;>

Glad you're still with me!

PS: I thought the snow was fun, too. But spring has come early to Syracuse, so the webmaster just changed it. I think the new look is pretty cool, too.

Name: Maya
Location: USA

Hi Mr. Coville! My name is Maya and I'm 16 years old. I was (and am) a huge fan of "The Unicorn Chronicles" when I first discovered the series at my elementary school book fair when I was 9 years old. Upon cleaning out my room the other day, I rediscovered my copies of "Into the Land of the Unicorns" and "Song of the Wanderer". I can definitely say that I didn't get much more cleaning done after that! I'm about to go and get "Dark Whispers" from my local library and I am very excited to read "The Last Hunt". Who says that you have to grow up?

Sunday, March 14, 2010 at 2:47:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Tuesday, March 16, 2010:

Hi, Maya -

I love messages like this. I keep telling my publisher that there is a huge hunger for this book among people in their teens and even their twenties, and that if they don't market it so that folks like you can find it they'll be making a big mistake.

Will they listen to me? Eh. Who knows. Publishing is a weird business. But it sure pleases me to know that folks like you are still finding the books.

Who says you have to grow up? I dunno, but I can guarantee it wasn't me!

Name: Leah
Location: Free Country USA

Hi- it's me again. I have actually been thinking about writing a series Mystic Horses. It may sound a little kooky, but it is coming to be a great series. In the second book, unicorns are going to play an important role. It is taking place in a parallel universe where many thought to be fake creatures roam. I have gotten some inspiration from Narnia and The Unicorn Chronicles. By the way, thanks for the writing tips! P.S. Any plans for coming to Minnesota?

Saturday, March 13, 2010 at 6:27:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Tuesday, March 16, 2010:

Hi, Leah -

I think "Mystic Horses" is a pretty cool name for a series. Getting inspiration from other books you've loved is part of how this business works. I have a long list of titles and authors that have inspired me.

No plans for Minnesota right now - though I made a one-day business trip there just a few weeks ago!

Name: Rachel
Location: Oswego, NY USA

I love my young adult literature class and I am hoping to take another course that is sort of a sister-course to the one I am taking next semester. I have never taken a college class where most of what we did was read young adult books and then discuss them; it is literally the perfect class. I get credit for reading The Golden Compass--how awesome is that? Although, for next week, we are reading novels in verse, which is not altogether my favorite genre.

Saturday, March 13, 2010 at 3:53:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Tuesday, March 16, 2010:

Hi, Rachel, you Oswegonian, you --

THE GOLDEN COMPASS is one of my favorite, favorite, favorite books ever. (And I'm very proud to have been coproducer of the audio version). I'm not crazy about novels in verse, either. At least not usually. But local writer Ellen Yeomans wrote one called Rubber Houses that I thought was so good we decided to record it. Go figure...

Hope it's as springlike there as it is in Syracuse!

Name: AJ
Location: Hudson, USA

Hey Bruce! I am very excited to get my hands on a copy of The Last Hunt this June! I've read some of the samples on the Unicorn Chronicles page and I am blown away! You always leave your readers guessing.(Good thing :)) The last time I signed the guestbook, you gave me some GREAT advice. You said that I should try to get the character I'm writing about into trouble. It worked out perfectly! I've been writing up a storm since then. Thank you, AJ

Saturday, March 13, 2010 at 9:35:00 AM

Bruce Coville replied on Tuesday, March 16, 2010:

Hey, AJ -

Been a while since I heard from you. Glad you're eager to get that last book.

Also glad to know that the advice worked for you. Writing up a storm is a good thing!

Name: Mallory
Location: Willow, Alaska USA

Dear Bruce, I just wanted to let you know how much I adore your writing. I've been a fan of yours for years, and I can only imagine what kind of mind it must take for you to create so many different, amazing worlds and characters over the years. I've been reading your books since I was 9 (I'm 16, now.), and am even now a fan of the Unicorn Chronicles. Now that I'm older, I've been reading aloud your stories to the kids I babysit, and am fast creating more fans for you. :) When I was in 4th grade, I was absent from school for a day. When I came back, I found that the teacher had instructed the class to choose their favorite author to write a report about. My classmates all informed the teacher to put your name next to mine on the chalk board. Everyone knew who I would pick, without me even being there. When I was younger, you opened me up to new worlds, and further inspired me to create my own. I am now a talented writer (I'm not bragging here, just stating the facts *wink*), and have big plans for my life. I'm going to become a nurse, join the Peace Corps, and travel the world gaining new experiences to put into my books. Thank you for all your unwitting help over the years. ;) I look forward to your latest works. ~Mallory~

Saturday, March 13, 2010 at 1:14:00 AM

Bruce Coville replied on Tuesday, March 16, 2010:

Hi, Mallory -

Thanks for this. I loved the story about your classmates making sure that your teacher listed me as your favorite author even though you were out that day.

Your plans for how you want to move through the adult world are highly admirable. Good for you!

PS: Keep writing, too!

Name: Paul and Mason MacKenzie
Location: Dunfermline, Fife Scotland

Dear Bruce, Please could you write a Russell Troy, Monster Boy 2. We have been reading your books and they are great! Thankyou for writing such wonderful books Paul and Mason

Thursday, March 11, 2010 at 1:45:00 AM

Bruce Coville replied on Tuesday, March 16, 2010:

Hi, Paul and Mason -

Glad you're enjoying the books!

Back when I first published this book (it's called THE MONSTER'S RING here in the states) I very much wanted to do a sequel, but my publisher wasn't at all supportive of the idea. But I loved the Magic Shop too much to let go of it, so I came up with the idea of doing other books that used the same shop but had different characters in the lead roles. Actually, at first it was going to be short stories, but I got carried away . . .

Which is a long way of saying I don't have any plans to do a sequel to RUSSELL TROY right now. However I have sometimes thought about doing a book that brings all the Magic Shop kids together in one big adventure. Might be kind of fun!

Thanks for reading.

Name: Jennifer
Location: knoxville, tn USA

I was amazed to see Dark Whispers in my local library tonight. I am nearly 24 years old. Song of the Wanderer and Into the Land of the Unicorns were two of my favorite books when I was young. I finally gave up hoping for a sequel. I thought perhaps you had just tired of the series. I am thrilled to see that even after a nearly 10 year break you are completing the series, and not only will I be reading the next two books, I will be able to introduce my young cousin to the series.

Wednesday, March 10, 2010 at 5:51:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Tuesday, March 16, 2010:

Hi, Jennifer -

It was readers like you who helped me keep from giving up on these stories. I had not tired of writing them, I was just struggling to find the story, and might have given up if I had not felt that I truly owed it to the series's fans to come up with an ending. I hope you'll find the wrap up to have been worth the wait. I'm pretty excited about it, and now I'm dying to find out what all of you who've been waiting for it for so long think of what I've done!

Thanks for introducing the books to your young cousin. I love being multigenerational!

Name: Julia C.
Location: Basking Ridge, New Jersey USA

Thats ok. I hardly have time to go on my computer anyway. Did you know my aunt is an author too(Cindy Handler). Sadly she has never gotten any books published. But she wrote a paragraph in the New York Times so thats good.Your friend Julia.

Wednesday, March 10, 2010 at 2:10:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Tuesday, March 16, 2010:

Hi, Julia -

Nope, didn't know about your aunt. Hope she'll keep at it. Hitting the Times is no small thing.

Name: Ann
Location: Michigan USA

Hello, Mr. Coville! I'm 14 and I love your stories, and I just recently started rereading the Unicorn Chronicles, which I loved when I was little! I like to consider myself an avid writer and I just finished a fantasy story that I'm starting to edit, so if you don't mind my asking, where do you get your story ideas from? How do you keep motivation? Do you have any advice for a teen writer? I know it may not be possible, but if we could somehow be "pen pals", that would be, frankly, so cool! But if you can't, I understand. Anyways, I'm a big fan! Sincerely, Ann

Wednesday, March 10, 2010 at 8:57:00 AM

Bruce Coville replied on Tuesday, March 16, 2010:

Hi, Ann -

Thanks for this message. Thanks for coming back to the Chronicles. As to story ideas, they generally come when I am doing something else. The important trick is to write down the idea when it comes to you, because they mostly come on their own schedule, not when you want them. On the other hand, I do sometimes just brainstorm -- say to myself, okay I need an idea for a story that is both funny and scary, then start writing stuff down. The trick to that is to KEEP writing. Your first idea might be good, but more likely it will be the 10th, or the 15th, or the 20th that has the most originality.

Pen pals, alas, is not possible. I can't even keep up with this guestbook!

Name: Lauren S.
Location: Basking Ridge, NJ USA

Mr. Coville, I sent you a message after the first one about you bumping into me in the cafeteria. I haven't seen a response yet, so I'll just retype some of it. After about 30 seconds after you walked out of the door, I regretted not opening my big mouth like I should have. You see, when I meet someone important or someone I am just meeting, I tend to be WAY more shy than I usually am - I am usually NEVER shy. I am glad that you had a great time because you were like the star of the show that day. Well, i have to go now, so bye!!!! Lauren S.

Wednesday, March 10, 2010 at 5:18:00 AM

Bruce Coville replied on Tuesday, March 16, 2010:

Hi, Lauren -

I know what you mean about the regrets. there are too many times in my life when I should have spoken up but did not! I had a great time at the school, and my only regret is that I did not get to say hello to you personally.

All best,

Name: kaitlyn
Location: basking ridge, nj USA

dear mr.covile youwere at me school yesterday you were awesome!!! You got so many laughs. I wrote to you a while back. i wish i could have introduce myself i was in the wayyyyy back. I love your books espeically monsters ring and jermey hatcher. You are so hilarous! You are awesome!

Tuesday, March 09, 2010 at 6:03:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Tuesday, March 16, 2010:

Hi, Kaitlyn -

Glad you enjoyed my visit. I had a great time being with you guys - you were a great audience. (One of my life goals is to be hilarious, so I'm glad you thought I was.)

Name: jack hansen
Location: basking ridge, New Jersey USA

you just came to our school on tuesday the 9th. for me the coolest author in know and the funnest i know . and why did you write jenifer murdlys toad. i read it for my schools Battle of the Books. I love the book jermy thather dragon hatcher. you write the coolest books ever.

Tuesday, March 09, 2010 at 5:24:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Tuesday, March 09, 2010:

Hi, Jack -

Thanks for the kind words. I had a GREAT time at your school today.

I wrote Jennifer Murdley's Toad because I thought it would be funny. I love to make people laugh.

Cheers,

Name: Julia C.
Location: Basking Ridge, New Jersey USA

Hi again,its Julia.The kid who sat next to you.Can I just say it was sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo cool to meet you!Do you want to be pen pals?Oh! That reminds me are you friends with any other authors?

Tuesday, March 09, 2010 at 4:13:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Tuesday, March 09, 2010:

Hi, Julia -

Glad you thought it was "so cool" to meet me (sorry for leaving out some of the o's...) Alas, I can't be pen pals with anyone - I can barely keep up with this guest book as it is, and I have hundreds of unanswered letters in my office!

I am indeed friends with many other authors. Most of my closest pals are writers. People like to hang out with other people who have the same kind of job, so this only makes sense.

All best,

Name: Julia C.
Location: Basking Ridge, New Jersey USA

Hi,Bruce Coville!My name is Julia and I love your books!You are so funny to!I had lunch with you at my school, Oak Street School.If you don't remember me I was the one who gave you a chocolate pretzel. P.S.I can't think of any thing else to write so I'll click the button that says Sign Guest book.

Tuesday, March 09, 2010 at 3:41:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Tuesday, March 09, 2010:

Hi, Julia -

Oh, I absolutely remember you. And that lunch thing was fun.

Glad you thought I was funny.

PS: Thanks for the pretzel!

Name: collin
Website: http://collinsite5.webs.com
Location: basking ridge, new jersey USA

hi! you came to my school (liberty corner) on the 8th. your really cool and funny. and...yeah. the story about why your favorite book is Sarah's Unicorn is halarious! my favorite book of yours is Monster's Ring. heres a book i'm writing: Swords --[===== Written By Collin Montag Chapter 1 The sword glinted in the harsh ray of moonlight that streamed through a hole in the cave wall. "It must never be found," a voice decided from the shadows. "I know," another one said. They walked out of the cave and sealed its entrance with a tarp that cleverly concealed it. "If someone does find it, they will have the choice of good or evil. If they choose good, the world will bloom and all will unite. If they chose evil, the world will fall and all will crash." "Well, at least that's what the prophecy predicted." "The prophecy is always correct." "Yeah, I guess." They walked along the moonlit path which swirled up to an old hut. When they stumbled in, one of them moved a wooden panel from the wall and slid a switch behind it. An old stair case came into view under the floor as a hidden door slid away. They both walked down and appeared in a large room underground. The room was made of stone with large holes in the walls in some places. They both walked into separate holes and slid a curtain across the entrance. Each then laid down in a cot and drifted off to sleep.

Tuesday, March 09, 2010 at 2:22:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Tuesday, March 09, 2010:

Hi, Collin -

I had a great time at your school today.

As to your writing clip -- I'm very impressed. It's very

evocative, very interesting. Great start!

Name: The Amazing Lauren
Location: PA USA

hello again it is i the amazing Lauren. . . well remember how i said my sister thinks some of ur titles are corney, well she says "It's not that they're corney its just that they're extremely hularious which makes them corney." (shes saying they're corney) anyway,..I started to read one of your other books "Aliens ate my homehork", but i had to stop reading it cause in english class were reading "Romeo and Juliet" (I dislike reading two books at the same time)to my surprise Romeo and juliet is kinda good?(I'm curently on act 2) did u read romeo and juliet? if so did u like it? -The Amazing Lauren P.S.this is weird when i write to u i always have a funny story...i don't have one...next time i write i shall have one!

Monday, March 08, 2010 at 6:55:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Wednesday, March 17, 2010:

Hi, Lauren -

Thanks for clarifying. Your sister has an odd idea of what "corny" actually means.

Did I read "Romeo and Juliet"??? Heck, not only have I read it, seen it, and acted in it, I did a picture book adaptation of it!

Name: Chelsea
Location: Belmopan, Belize

Hi Hi again.From Chelsea in Belize oh gasp mien. do you know that i read jennifer murdleys toad in like um 1 day.And i read the monsters ring at school in 2 periods. yeah thats like 80 mins. yup in my spanish and social studies class.blahh your book was more interesting than the teachers words. Even though i got a detention from my social studies teacher, i was so damn happy to serve it . well i hope i can meet you soon. <3 Chelsea In Belize:D

Monday, March 08, 2010 at 6:37:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Wednesday, March 17, 2010:

Chelsea -

This made me laugh! I'm sorry I got you in trouble, but I love the way you blazed through the books.

(Well, I sort of love it. It is kind of distressing to spend several months writing something and knowing that the reader can get through it in a day!)

Cheers,

Name: Chelsea
Location: Belmopan, Belize

Dear Mr.Coville. i really enjoy your books.Especially Jennifer Murdleys Toad & The Monsteers Ring.We as Belizeans would say "dat da bombshell big time".Yeah i know it sounds very freaky but yeah thats what we call the Creole. I really hope you can come to Belize sometime.It is in Central America.Very tiny country.Only English speaking country in C.A. Well Bye For NOW Your Fan From Belize ��Chelsea��

Monday, March 08, 2010 at 6:24:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Wednesday, March 17, 2010:

Hi, Chelsea -

Thanks for this. I think it's the first message I ever got from Belize! I know where your country is, and have some friends who have visited and raved to me about how beautiful it is. I hope I'll have a chance to visit myself some day.

Name: Gabi
Location: USA

Hi I really love your books but I was left hanging at the end at Dark Whisperers. When is the fifth book coming out????? Do you ever visit Colorado because it would be so cool if you spoke at my school! Bye

Monday, March 08, 2010 at 4:59:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Wednesday, March 17, 2010:

Hi, Gabi -

I'm happy to report that Book 4 will be released on June 1 of this year. And this time it will not leave you hanging. This is the big wrap up to the whole story. Hope you'll enjoy it.

I speak all over the country, so I'd be more than happy to come to Colorado if your school wanted to arrange something.

Name: Lauren S.
Location: Basking Ridge, NJ USA

Mr Coville, It's Lauren again. I'm answering from my previous message. After about 30 seconds after you walked out of the door, I regreted not opening my big mouth like I should have. Not to be braty or anything, but it would have been so much easier to open my mouth and introduce myself I have gotten the chance to spend real time with. The PTO have been organizing things for the school the the teachers and faculty members were not able to do this year. I am glad that you had a great time to because you were like the star of the show today. Now, I regret every second that I thought I couldn't introduce myself before you left. I hope that I can be one of the rare people who you send personal messages to - because that would be so cool! I think you are a very funny, entertaining, wise man who caught my attention with the first few words of the presentation. Well, I have not much left to say about my great experience with you,so I will type you back when ever you answer this message. Bye bye!!!!!! Lauren S.

Monday, March 08, 2010 at 4:17:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Wednesday, March 17, 2010:

Hi, Lauren -

Sorry not to answer this earlier. Once I left your school I had more traveling to do, plus being on the road means I get behind on almost all my work and correspondence.

It is too bad you didn't speak up at the end of the day, but you can chalk it up to a learning experience and hopefully next time something like that happens you won't let the chance slip by. I know that's not much consolation (and "learning experiences" can be a giant pain). But it's nice to think you can get something good out of it!

Name: Kaitlyn C.
Location: Baking Ridge, NJ USA

I am a 5th grader at Liberty Corner School. You were GREAT today. I while ago I posted that I cant wait for you to come. You are so funny. You made the whole 5th grade laugh!! I wish I could sit there all day. It was so funny!!!!!!!!!!! I WISH YOU CAN STAY LONGER !!!You are like the best author ever!!!! My teachers were even laughing at your jokes. Are you going to make more magic shop books? They are awesome.

Monday, March 08, 2010 at 3:16:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Wednesday, March 17, 2010:

Hi, Kaitlyn -

I'm glad I made you guys laugh. I LOVE making people laugh.

I have another Magic Shop book planned, but I don't know if it's going to happen or not. I'm having some serious problems with the publisher. In the meantime I'm working on a book about a baby who turns out to be a monster. Literally!

Name: Lauren S.
Location: Basking Ridge, NJ USA

Mr. Coville, Hi again, it's Lauren. I am so glad I got to meet you today at our school. I had a lot of fun, and I'm pretty sure everyone else had a good time considering how many chuckles you got today. I guess you had absolutely no clue where I was today. At the end of the day, you bumped into me as you left the cafeteria with the librarian. I hope you had a good time with the people that won the contest. I am in aftercare right now and we are about to go outside now so, I'll talk to you soon. Bye!!!! Lauren S.

Monday, March 08, 2010 at 2:03:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Monday, March 08, 2010:

Hi, Lauren -

Oh, gosh - why didn't you introduce yourself when you saw me at the cafeteria.

I did have a wonderful time at the school. You kids are great, and the teachers and librarians and PTO moms did a super-terrific job organizing things. It was one of the best school visits I've had in a while.

Name: kwanukwan
Location: stilling, DK

hi bc im from Denmark and i love your books mabye you could come to my country sometime!!!!!!!! anyway can you mabye write a story about Denmark if you aren't working on anything.It would mean soooooooooo much to me since Denmark isn't that popular.Well you can mabye write about my country and saing the world you can searh more about denmark on your free time if you want.well thx mabye i still have hope. love Kwanukwan and yes its my real name aka NOT MADE UP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

Monday, March 08, 2010 at 1:23:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Monday, March 08, 2010:

Hi, Kwanukwan (cool name!)

I would love to visit your country sometime.

I did write one story set in Denmark already. Well, sort of. I adapted William Shakespeare's HAMLET to picture book format. I love this play, and have read it many, many times.

As far as writing a story that connects to modern Denmark, I would not feel comfortable doing that without having visited. I like to incorporate my foreign travels into my stories - two of the most important characters in the upcoming THE LAST HUNT came from my visits to China and India.

All best,

Name: Emily
Location: USA

Hi bruce. I have alot of your books but do you think you could sign one when you come to my school. PLEASE!!!! I just absoulutely LOVE your books!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Please! maybe you can. I'll bring my bookand maybe you can sign it. thanks. emily. by the way my school is oss. ( oak street school)B)

Monday, March 08, 2010 at 5:07:00 AM

Bruce Coville replied on Monday, March 08, 2010:

Hi, Emily -

I'll see you at Oak Street tomorrow. I'm sure they have things set up for a book signing, and I will be glad to sign your books while I am there.

I was at Liberty Corner today, and had a great time. I expect to have a great time tomorrow, too!

Name: Emily
Location: basking ridge, nj USA

I love your books! they are awesome. I read 17 already. I look forward to you coming to my school and the new book you wrote, The last hunt!!!! and do you know tamora pierce? I like her books to. And particia c. wrede. you did the full cast studio with them right?????

Monday, March 08, 2010 at 5:02:00 AM

Bruce Coville replied on Monday, March 08, 2010:

Hi, Emily -

Glad you like my books. Not only do I know Tamora Pierce, she lives across the street from my office and is one of my closest friends. I know Patricia C. Wrede as well, and she is fun to hang out with.

And, yep, I have recorded four of Pat's books and about a dozen of Tammy's books with full casts.

Name: Chrissy
Location: NY USA

You and Mike K are not alone...I really want to see the animated Monster's Ring too! I looked on the net for it as well. They really need to put that show on DVD!

Sunday, March 07, 2010 at 7:33:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Monday, March 08, 2010:

Hi, Chrissy -

I am in complete agreement!

Name: Zachary
Location: Basking Ridge, NJ USA

I am looking forward to having lunch with you at Oak Street School. I hope you like our school.

Sunday, March 07, 2010 at 2:41:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Sunday, March 07, 2010:

Hi,Zachary -

I've been to your school before. Based on that experience,I'm quite sure that I will like it this time!

See you soon.

Name: Mike K
Location: Long Island, NY USA

Hey Bruce.. I am dying to see the animated CBS StoryBreak episode of "The Monster's Ring" is there ANY chance that you or someone you know has that on video. I can't stop thinking about it. I'm 29 years old and it has been a long search for this cartoon. Great story, awesome animation. Please help!! thanks! Mike

Saturday, March 06, 2010 at 7:35:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Sunday, March 07, 2010:

Mike -

Sorry, but I have to disappoint you on this one. I have searched the 'net many times looking for the availability of this show, all to no avail.

Just so you'll know you're not alone - I've never seen the animated version even once.(The local CBS affiliate showed bowling the day it was supposed to air!)

Sorry I don't have a better answer - I'm as frustrated about this one as you are!

Name: Jillian
Location: Basking ridge, New jersey USA

I love your books soooooo much!!! I think I will start the Unicorn chronicles because by the time I finish the third book, the last hunt will be avalible at our library! I also can not wait until you visit our school next week!!!!!!!! Your friend, Jillian

Friday, March 05, 2010 at 3:35:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Wednesday, March 17, 2010:

Hi, Jillian -

Well, I hope you enjoyed the visit. I sure had a good time. Your school is pretty cool, and you kids were a GREAT audience!

Name: Emily J.
Location: IDYLLWILD, California USA

Hello, As you may remember, I've signed the guest book before... LOL. I just wanted to say that I am looking forward to "The Last Hunt". I'm going to order it as soon as my mom lets me, LOL. I got the last three books all for Christmas, and it was one of the best Gifts ever. I read one of the other submissions in the guest book, and also wanted to say that it's your books -and a love of books in general- that made me want to write. Right now a friend and I are co-writing a fantasy story. Thanks for your time, Emily

Friday, March 05, 2010 at 8:20:00 AM

Bruce Coville replied on Wednesday, March 17, 2010:

Hi, Emily -

I think it's cool that you got the first three books and were able to read straight through them (think how much luckier you are than the girls who got book 1 when it first came out and had to wait 14 years for book 3!)

It delights me to know that I've inspired you to write. Good luck with the story.

Name: Clarissa
Location: USA

I absolutely LOVE your books!!!! They're actually part of the reason why I love to write. I remember going to the bookstore at least 5 times before I was able to buy Song of the Wanderer and into the land of the unicorns as one book. I read it in almost 2 days! I was waiting forever for the next book!!! Thank goodness it finally came out! And now I can't wait for the final book! (I know, I'm using a lot of exclamation points, but I feel like using them :) ) anyways, thanks for writing!!! :D

Wednesday, March 03, 2010 at 5:35:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Thursday, March 04, 2010:

Hi, Clarissa -

Thanks for this message - I'm delighted to know the books mean so much to you.

Also pleased to know that they are part of why you love to write, since it was the books I read when I was young myself that led me to become a writer.

Hope you'll enjoy that last volume!

All best,

BC

Name: Thomas Liss
Location: Basking Ridge, NJ USA

I love the website! Looking forward to your visit at our school!!!!

Wednesday, March 03, 2010 at 7:04:00 AM

Bruce Coville replied on Wednesday, March 03, 2010:

Thanks, Thomas. See you soon!

Name: Marichelle Duke
Location: Phoenix, AZ USA

Thank you for continuing the Unicorn Chronicles. Your stories gave me a much needed comfort as a child and I was thrilled to finally find Dark Whispers on the shelf. I'm now 19 years old and all these years I've been searching for the next part of the journey. Finally my mind can continue with Cara on her journey, little did she know that she would be helping me on mine. Thank you so much

Tuesday, March 02, 2010 at 10:48:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Wednesday, March 03, 2010:

Hi, Marichelle -

Thank you for this. It means a great deal to me to know that these books have been part of your life, and that we are still journeying together.

Name: Rachel
Location: Columbia, SC USA

When I was younger, my parents would only let us watch one TV show a day, so I spent ALL my time reading, especially during the summers. I devoured every book in our town's library that had your name on the cover. At the time, there were only two books in The Unicorn Chronicles, and I was dying for more. I was so excited to discover (even at 20 years old now) that there already is a third book, and that the fourth is being published this summer! I plan on ordering copies as soon as possible, your books were magic for me 10 years ago, and I have no doubt that I will still find them as enchanting as ever! Thank you for some of the best fantasy/scifi books EVER! I hope that one day I'll have kids of my own that will enjoy your books as much as I have!

Tuesday, March 02, 2010 at 5:38:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Wednesday, March 03, 2010:

Hi, Rachel -

Thanks for this message. I'm not sure how you felt about it at the time, but the fact that your parents restricted your TV viewing that way was quite a gift. My own kids remember most fondly the years we didn't have a TV at all.

I hope that you'll enjoy returning to Luster. I've really enjoyed being back in that world for the last several years myself (though I'm relieved to have finally finished this story...). The world becomes more real to me with each book that I write.

Name: Julia
Location: Basking Ridge, NJ USA

Hi, Bruce! I love your book Jeremey Thacther Dragon Hatcher, My Teacher is reading it to us in School. Your coming to my school for Wizards of Words on March 9th,But unfortuately, me and my family are going skiing. I have one question about your series 'the magic shop books' What inspires you to write those series? I want to be a writer when I grow up do you have any advice? Your Friend, Julia

Tuesday, March 02, 2010 at 3:41:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Wednesday, March 03, 2010:

Hi, Julia --

I'm sorry to hear that you won't be in school the day I visit.

As to the Magic Shop books, here's the first thing to know: that shop is the shop I always wanted to find when I was a kid myself. Since I never found it in real life, I decided to write about it instead!

There is a whole page of writing tips on the website -- just look at the buttons that run across the top of the home page.

Have a good skiing trip.

Name: Chrissy
Location: NY USA

I know it won't be out for awhile but when the Goblins in the Castle sequel comes out I want to buy it. I have the first book. I can't wait for The Last Hunt!

Tuesday, March 02, 2010 at 2:26:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Wednesday, March 03, 2010:

Hi, Chrissy -

Thanks. I can't wait to get to work on that GOBLINS sequel. Having spent years on THE LAST HUNT it's really fun to be working on other projects now.

Name: Lauren S.
Location: Basking Ridge, NJ USA

Hi Mr.Coville, It's Lauren from Liberty Corner. Today our library teacher shared the winners of your contest. I wasn't one of the people that won. Although I was upset, I realized that when you want something, sometimes you have to accept the worst. At least I still get to see you in person anyway. I don't know if I am allowed to share the winners with you so I won't bother. Thank you so much for the experience and thank you for helping me see the joy in reading. Well, I have to go now. I can't wait to see you around next week! Bye!!! Warm regards, Lauren S.

Tuesday, March 02, 2010 at 1:11:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Wednesday, March 03, 2010:

Hi, Lauren -

Oh, I'm sorry to hear you were not one of the winners, for I know you were very excited about this. But you are wise to realize that we don't always have our hopes fulfulled. I do hope you will have a chance to say hello next week.

All best,

Name: Rachel
Location: Oswego, Ny USA

I actually just found out you were an Oswego graduate today. I am in a young adult literature class and we were discussing science fiction and fantasy, which is my personal favorite genre, and since the Unicorn Chronicles was on my mind recently, I mentioned the series and some of the other ones I used to read when I was younger and my professor mentioned that you were an Oswego graduate. I mostly like Oswego--when the wind is not blowing ice/snow/rain in my face.

Monday, March 01, 2010 at 10:45:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Tuesday, March 02, 2010:

Hi, Rachel -

I know exactly what you mean about the wind and the snow up there in Oswego. Even so, I have very fond memories of the place, and most especially of my own children's literature teacher, Helen Buckley Simkewicz, who was a wonderful supporter when I was trying to launch my career.

Glad the Chronicles are still on your mind!

Name: Erin
Location: CT USA

Hi Mr. Colville, You were one of my favorite authors growing up (I read the entire "My Teacher is an Alien" series many times over) and your books inspired my second graders to read science fiction of their own volition. Thank you for writing!

Monday, March 01, 2010 at 7:12:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Tuesday, March 02, 2010:

Hi, Erin-

Thanks for this message. As a former second grade teacher myself, one who loved reading to his kids, it delights me to know that other teachers are now using my books in their own classrooms.

Name: Collin
Location: Midvale, Utah USA

I'm wondering if we are going to see any more space and aliens books in the near future. Love the snowy website.

Monday, March 01, 2010 at 2:05:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Tuesday, March 02, 2010:

Hi, Collin -

Hmmm. I don't have any more alien books lined up right now -- the next two things I'm writing are a monster story and then a sequel to GOBLINS IN THE CASTLE. But this is a good question. Maybe I should start thinking about another trip to the stars sometime soon!

Isn't that snow thing cool? I was really happy when my webmaster showed it to me.

All best,

Name: Kmf
Location: USA

Hello, Please schedule a book signing within three hours of Grand Rapids Michigan. If you do My mom and dad promised I could go!

Sunday, February 28, 2010 at 12:21:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Tuesday, March 02, 2010:

Hi, KMF -

I'm delighted that you would travel all that distance for a signing. The thing is, I don't usually schedule book signings myself. That is something done by the publisher. In truth, most of my signing is done during school visits.

All best,

Name: Emily

Sorry that I can't write a long message, but here's a preview of my rough draft for chapter 3: Their clothes and skin started to glow as the two girls and Pierre were out of range. Sarah turned golden, Brittany was bluish-silver, and Nora was silver. In total so far, I've written (including title)2,864 words,15,530 characters including spaces, 2,829 spaces,322 lines,8 pages, and 110 paragraphs. I hope to come up with 50-100 chapters (for a challenge). The next book will be called 'Future sight'. I hope all of you're fans will carry on loving your books (my favorite series is the unicorn chronicles).

Sunday, February 28, 2010 at 11:42:00 AM

Bruce Coville replied on Tuesday, March 02, 2010:

Hi, Emily -

Wow, you're really moving! Keep up the good work!

Name: Kmf
Location: USA

Hello, I was wondering if you are having any book signings in Michigan when the Last Hunt comes out.

Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 10:12:00 AM

Bruce Coville replied on Sunday, February 28, 2010:

Alas, nothing scheduled right now...

Name: A person
Location: Port Murry, NJ USA

hi i LOVE your books you are my favorite author in the whole world. i was wondering, what was your favorite author of all time when you were a kid?

Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 6:36:00 AM

Bruce Coville replied on Sunday, February 28, 2010:

Hi, Person -

Well, I was a kid for a loooong time, and my favorites changed during that period. But I will name two authors that have stayed with me always: Eleanor Cameron and Hugh Lofting.

Name: raymart c.
Location: cavite, philippines

Good day... Its been a year since I first read the first and second book of the unicorn chronicles. I'm in search for the third book in about a year and couldn't found a copy, even an old one. I wonder if it was already available here in our country. I shared the books to my friends and everyone who have read it, became crazy about it. I'm still looking forward of making the chronicles a movie. Thanks a lot for being such a good inspiration to me and my friends.

Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 2:23:00 AM

Bruce Coville replied on Sunday, February 28, 2010:

Hi, Raymart -

Thanks for this message. I'm delighted that you and your friends are so taken with the Chronicles. Alas, I have very little control over the overseas publication of my books, so I do not know when various titles will be available in the Philippines.

I shall try to continue to be an inspiration to you and your friends.

Name: Emma
Location: Melbourne, Victoria australia

i love the book song of the wonderer so i am going to have to find the rest of the seris and can't wait till the last one comes out!!!

Friday, February 26, 2010 at 7:40:00 PM

Bruce Coville replied on Sunday, February 28, 2010:

Hi, Emma -

Glad you're loving the Chronicles - hope the Grand Finale will live up to your expectations!

All best,

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