There are storytellers...and there are writers. But, how many notable authors can write exceptionally well and tell an exceptional story, simultaneously? As a well-read fan of fiction, I can safely say that not many authors achieve this.
Judith Henry Wall is one of those authors that does achieve this!
I am proud to say that I have had, and still do have, a "close encounter" with Judith Henry Wall (www.judithhenrywall.com). After reading her novel My Mother's Daughter, I got an overwhelming urge to make contact, and I did just that via the channels available through her publisher, Simon & Schuster. Though it took weeks to get a response, Judith agreed to an on-line chat with my reading group, The Reading Meadow, about this wonderful story since it had been chosen as a monthly selection.
Fast forward......that encounter eventually led to Judith's endorsement of my own novel, The Great Pretender--nothing could've made me prouder about my work and my ability to tell an engaging story! I do not consider myself to be a writer as much as a good storyteller. Judith Henry Wall is a writer and one of the best storytellers I've ever read. To have her relay to me that my book engaged her as it did was absolutely amazing!
Judith did have opinions about the actions of some of the characters and she invited me to call her up if I wanted to argue with her about them! Of course I did, and what a treat it was to engage in a dialogue with one of my most precious writing idols! It was an unforgettable experience! And the best part is that I get to look forward to her unbiased opinions on whatever I continue to churn out!!
In closing, I'd like to say that there are plenty of commercial bestsellers out there, and it would seem that most people find the stories implausible, insulting to the basic intelligence of the reader, largely predictable, etc., yet they can't print them fast enough because of the popularity of their authors' names. What a refreshing change to pick up an author that remains true to the reader's intelligence, true to the human condition, and above all still manages to entertain the reader...because that's what you're in for when you pick up a novel by Judith Henry Wall.
Have you had a close encounter with your favorite author? If so, please contact us at ReadersRoom2@aol.com We'd LOVE to hear your story!
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