OKay, the email function on the new website is now up and running and I have spent a number of hours replying to the accumulated emails, and all is well. Alfie has been at the doggie spa all day and is home with a shampoo smell and a nice haircut. A friend is due soon to have dinner and watch the Sox game tonight, an important one, so hand-holding is necessary.

I have just received the first copies of the illustrated gift edition of THE GIVER....here's a sample. The illustrations are by the incredible Bagram Ibatoulline and I could not be happier.  This book, with its gorgeous jacket, (and some additional material inside), would be a perfect Christmas gift.  It will be available in late October.