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Your Submissions

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From Montana in Utah:
"I just finished your book Dreamsleeves .  I loved it!  I am not a big cryer; I can watch things like Titanic and The Fault in Our Stars and not even feel like crying, but your book pulled at my heart strings.  This is the first book I've read of yours and it will definitely not be the last. I just loved this book so much.  Thank you for writing it."

From Julia in Massachusetts, Valentine's Day:
"I grew up reading the Wedding Planner's Daughter series and always connected to Willa; I, too, loved reading.  Willa by Heart inspired me to read Our Town, which, over the years, has become my absolute favorite play.  I recently found an old journal entry that I wrote on July 2, 2011 after meeting you at a book signing in Mashpee Commons.  I shared with you my love of writing and you encouraged me and gave me a hug.  That experience really touched and inspired me.  I even cried a little out of pure joy and happiness.  I'm now a high school senior planning to double major in English and Theater in college, and it is still my dream to be an author when I grow up.  Your books and your kinds words to me when I was younger really inspired me to pursue this dream and I will forever be grateful for that."  
Thank YOU, Julia.  Perhaps one day you will play the role of Willa on stage or in a movie. :) 

Catherine from Delaware came up with this quote after reading From Willa, With Love:  
"Take your mind away from the stress and sorrow.  Put it in your heart and give your love to others."
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“First of all, I just want to say  that I LOVE your books and have decided, at ten years old, to start writing
novels. I have written one already but am still revising.”   Hannah

"The Willa Club," NJ
I am so excited about the new Willa book coming out!  When I read your books, I feel like the characters are in my room talking to me.  My friends and I have a book club on the Willa series.  We pretend we are the characters and pretend the dialogue in the books are our scripts.  We can't wait until the next book comes out!
Love the idea of a Willa club!!  Coleen 

Macy from Oregon
I just LOVE your books about Willa!  I own all six, but I am wondering if there are more.  I am DYING to know what Sam's book is about!  Who does Willa end up with, JFK or Jesse?......Don't stop the Willa books.  Keep them coming for me, my friends, and anyone else who loves them!!!
Hopefully and sincerely,
Macy -- (BTW, if I ever have a daughter, I plan on naming her Willa :))

Mary Kate, 12, NJ
I recently finished Wish I Might and I loved it.   I feel like Willa is my best friend.  When I read your books, I can't put them down.  Thank you so much.

Raeli, 8th grader, Arkansas
I'm going to start off by saying thank you.  I appreciate all of the books you have written about Willa Havisham.  I have absolutely fallen in love with the characters you have created and I like to think that this series has been placed in my hands by God, or whoever, whatever you believe in.  I'm writing to ask you a favor.... please write more!  I hope you realize how many people you have changed for the better.  

Gracie from Florida
I never liked reading till I read Forget Me Not.  Now I've read the whole series and I hope there is more to come! PLEASE!  My Mom jokes that if you don't write another book I'm not going to get my reading points, because I only read books from you.  So far my favorite book is Dreamsleeves.  It's the best book I have EVER READ,  Please write another book like that or another Willa book. Thank yo for making reading happy and exciting for me and probably for a lot of other girls. 

Sarah from Missouri
I hope you never ever in a million years stop writing the Willa books!!!!!!!!!!

Melanie from New Jersey
You continue to inspire me each and every day through the Willa books.  I write every day with pure joy.  I started by own Pix List and I'm keeping a journal like Willa would have written.  I have ordered FIREFLIES.  Writing makes me feel happy, set free to dream.  You inspired me to write and that was the best thing you could do for me.  Willa is my inspiration.  You are Willa. 

Taylor from Texas
I love your series about the wedding planner's daughter.  It is very funny and inspirational.  I hope you get this. Bye!
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Dani from Nebraska
I love your books. They inspire me to be more interacted with people and doing more community work.  

Hailey from Alaska
I love your books.  They make me want to read more and more and more :)

MaKenzie from Tennessee
PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE NEVER STOP WRITING WILLA HAVISHAM BOOKS!!!

Alisa from North Carolina
Please make more willa books!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  I love them!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Liv from the U.S.
Your books the wedding planners daughter have been such a help to me through sixth grade. Willa has inspired me so much and I feel a real conection between us. 

Jocelyn from NJ
I recently came across your book Forget Me Not from the life of Willa and I could not put it down. I read the second and Third book and I was wondering because there is no The End in the third book were you going to write a fourth book because I really want to find out what happens next or it could end like that but I believe it would be a great series of books. 

Frances from Connecticut
I remember in the summer of 2009 my cousin had given me your book, The Wedding Planner's Daughter and I fell in love with it. I read the whole series and even emailed you when I was finished with it. TWPD along with rest of the Willa series has served a permanent spot on my book shelf at home ever since as my favorite series of all time, to put it bluntly. This past October I went on a day trip to Block Island, RI (one of my favorite places in the world) with my friend Melonie. I don't know if you have ever been to Block Island, let alone in October when the island is practically empty, but there is the most peaceful little clearing there called The Labyrinth. When we visited The Labyrinth, all I could think about was the page in TWPD where Willa describes the Poet's labyrinth in his backyard. The first thing I did when I got home that day was grab TWPD off of my book shelf and flip open to that page (page 62-63 btw) and reread it about five times. Since my mom has shipped me off to the library for the day to study, I decided to look for my summer reading books for the upcoming sophomore year. As I was walking down an aisle, I saw the Willa series on the bottom most shelf. I took the first three books out and started reading the first book of the series. Then I remembered the aforementioned email I wrote to you in the summer of 2009 and decided to write you this one after finding and reading our email thread from five years ago. I have always thought of reading as an escape from the world around me. I just wanted to let you know that ever since I have owned your book, The Wedding Planner's Daughter, it has been the first book I grab off of my shelf to get my mind off of things. I feel like that book is only mine sometimes, whether it is the was it is written or the fact that not many of my friends even know I read it constantly. For that, I want to say thank you.

Sharon from California
You have been such an inspiration to me! Ever since I began reading your books, I've been inspired to try new things. For example, I started my own "Willa's Pix" of my favorite authors. Of course, you were on top of the list! I've also discovered that I have some things in common with characters. I sometimes like to smell the books I read, and I also have a great sense of humor. I've read many books you've written, The Wedding Planner's Daughter series, The Funeral Director's Son series, and The Sunny Holiday series. Several books still await. I'm also planning on becoming a writer someday. For now, I'm focusing on a series called Berry, based on a girl around my age called Berrica Simpson. I'm still finishing the first book. Anyways, I hope you continue to write more amazing books, because I just can't get enough of them! And I hope people in the future will feel the same way

n Ohio! I just finished the book and I'm awaiting your next one. I read feedback that your coming out with a book in may of 2015. Is there any way you can come out with it any time sooner?? It would make a fantabulous Christmas present! P.S I think Willa should stick with JFK because he really loves her. Lol.  Awaiting your next book!!

Aislinn from New Jersey
I loved reading dream sleeves. I felt like I could really connect to the book. Aislinn went through difficult times with her dad and so did I. Sadly my difficult times resulted in my dad passing away from terminal depression. Anyway thank you for inspiring me to feel like I am not alone.

Eliana from California
Hi Coleen,  I grew up reading your Wedding Planner's Daughter series. I remember being so excited whenever you published another book in the series. I'm now 16 and still yearning for more additions to the Willa collection! I don't think i could ever tire of Willa's story and Cape Cod. I do hope you never stop writing those books but i noticed you haven't published one in a while and i haven't heard any plans for another one. So i was wondering if that was the end of Willa? Do you think you will write any more Wedding Planner's Daughter books?

Veyanna from Montana
i love your book dreamsleeves!!! it really touched me. i laughed and cried and really enjoyed this book!!i really liked the part when aislinn went to the party and kissed mike under the willow tree...so romantic and cute! im almost thirteen and i would love more teenage books. thank for the pleasure of reading dreamsleeves:)
love your biggest fan, veyanna

Mary from California
I bought some cherry cordials on sale today, and while I was pulling them out for dessert, my daughter, Sarah, pulled all of your Wedding Planner's Books out and started reliving all of Willa's adventures. :)  I am a third grade teacher in Sebastopol, CA. Your books are a hit a hit with my students, too. I was just wondering if you ever come to CA for author visits, book signings or classes.  Thanks,  Mary


Allie from Ohio
Hi! My name is Allie. I'm twelve years old.   I just wanted to tell you what an AMAZING writer you are. "Forget Me Not" is my favorite book EVER, "Dreamsleeves" a close second.   Willa is a wonderful inspiration. She always follows her heart and is a great role model.   Aislynn is my age which makes her very relatable. I love that your stories are written in first person. It makes me feel like I am inside that character, feeling what they feel and seeing what they see (which, I believe, is a quote from "Forget Me Not").   Aislynn's (well, I guess the idea was yours) idea of Dreamsleeves really works! I tried it with a book I wanted; your "Wish I Might." It was great! My mother relented the second she saw it.   I was wondering if you would be able to tell me if there is another book after "From Willa, With Love"? I feel as though it ended on a bit of a cliffhanger; I want more, more, MORE of Willa! I would really appreciate your response.   Thank you for such entertaining books and such inspirational characters.   Love,  Allie  Age Thirteen


From Paige
I just wanted to let you know that I have lately been getting back into the Willa series and I can NOT put the books down!!!! I can't believe how good you make the reader want to finish the book and not put it down!!!! I have never been loving reading more with your books!!! I finished 1,2,3,4 now onto Wish I Might!!! SO EXCITED!!!!!!!!!!


Lillian from Nevada
Hi, Coleen! I loved the book Sweet And Sunny. It's one of my favorite books.Thank you
Thank you for sharing that with me, Lilian.  Smiles, Coleen 

Barbara from Georgia
Hi! i'm a school library media specialist and i'm a huge Willa fan! Are you planning to write any more Willa books? Thanks!
Hi, Barbara,
I LOVE hearing from Librarians.  Thank you so much for sharing my books with your students.  A new spin-off series of Willa books, Always Willa, debuts this summer 2016.  The first title is ROAR LIKE A GIRL.  Please be sure to email me and let me know what you think.  Hope you love it!
Smiles,
Coleen 

Marigold from Northern California
Dear Coleen, You really have inspired me to become an author. Thank you so much! I've always loved reading and writing but not as much before I read The Wedding Planner's Daughter. God has really given you an amazing gift and I know you'll continue to inspire more and more children. You're heart is woven into each sentence, every page. Now that's a true writer, clear that everyone can see! ~ Marigold p.s. My name isn't really Marigold. It's just a pretty name, isn't it? It's actually Jacqueline. p.p.s. Are you making a movie out of The Wedding Planner's Daughter? Oh, how I wish! p.p.p.s. Yellow is my favorite color. Isn't that yours? I'm just judging from all your pictures. You wear yellow a lot, and your website's main color is a sort of golden-honey yellow. And Willa's favorite color is yellow. Yellow, yellow, yellow! XO
Dear Jacqueline, aka Marigold,
I love both of your names.  Wow.... you have such a writer's voice -- it sparks off the page.  I hope you will keep on writing.  I do love the color yellow although lately I'm wearing more pink.  When you read the new Willa book, ROAR LIKE A GIRL, this summer 2016.... you'll see that Willa is loving this pair of pink Chuck sneakers.  I bought a pair to match.  Smile.  Hugs, Coleen 

From Ashley
I just love The Wedding Planners Daughter series ;] The plot is amazing and I can't wait for the next book! I've read this series like a thousands times because I love it so much. Is another Willa book coming out soon? I hope so!
Hi Ashley,
Yes!  A new Willa, ROAR LIKE A GIRL, will be out this summer 2016.  Let me know what you think!  Smiles, Coleen 

Brook
You met me at Pleasant Avenue Elementary School and I read dreamsleeves. It was amazing
Dear Brook,
Oh, I'm so glad you enjoyed it.  Thank you for telling me.  Smiles, Coleen 

Elise from Ohio
I had just read From Willa, With Love and could not keep my mind from going back to that book! I truly adored the book and I am going to beg my mother to buy me the rest of the Willa books. I have learned so very much from Willa on how to help others through what I love. I am truly amazed that one person could write such a loving, caring, adventurous, and fun book. This book is my new favorite book and is, in my eyes, worthy of winning the Nobel Prize! You better write the next book! Quick! Elise, 12 P.S. I hope she figures out whether she likes Jess or JFK better!
Dear Elise,
Thank you for your kind words.  I am honored.  Regarding Jess vs JFK.... big changes are in store in the new Willa book, ROAR LIKE A GIRL which comes out this summer 2016.  Just wait until you read!  Smiles, Coleen 

Clare from Arizona
I just want to thank you for the Willa books. They are most definitely my favorites and I love them so so so much. Willa and JFK and Sam and Stella and Nana and Mum and Suzy Jube and Will and Mariel and EVERYONE in the books are my favorite characters ever. Are you going to write any more Willa books after From Willa, with Love? I really hope you do! The Willa books have inspired me to write a journal. Thanks you again!!! Please write more Willa books!!
Hi, Clare,
I'm so glad you are writing a journal.... that's how I started out.  Enjoy, enjoy, enjoy!
Coleen :)

Tricia from Manila, Philippines
Hi Coleen! I really love all of your books and they're just AMAZING! I wanna be a writer one day and I've practiced so many times but it's pretty hard. How do you keep the plot of the story good and how do you deal with writer's block? I'd appreciate your advice! Thank you so much :)
Dear Tricia,
The best way writing teacher is reading.  Each time we read a great book we learn about plot and characterization, voice, pacing, all of it, by osmosis if you will.  Good books soak into us and shape who we become as writers.  Write what you know about, write what you care about.  Hope that helps!
Smiles,
Coleen 

Claire from Michigan
Hi! My name is Claire and I am in love with the Willa series!!!! I own and have read each one of your books a million times:) I was just wondering if their might be another book on the way?!?!? I love your writing and how it just transports me right into the story!! I was just hoping that there might be another book but it is ok if not! Thank you for the great reads!!!!!!!!!
Hi, Claire,
I love your enthusiasm.  Thank you.  A new Willa book, ROAR LIKE A GIRL, will be out in May 2016.... the first in a whole new Willa series called, Always Willa. 
Smiles,
Coleen 

Leslie from New Jersey
Dear Mrs. Paratore, I think that your book Dreamsleeves is one of the most influential books that I have ever read. Dreamsleeves has the ability to empower the readers to pursue their dreams instead of just wishing for them to happen. Your book is a book that everyone should read because it helps them advertise what they want instead of keeping their dreams to themselves. Aislinn was entirely right when she explained that you need people's help to achieve your dreams. Even though your book was a fiction book, the idea of Dreamsleeves could go so far in the world. I think that you should really consider making Dreamsleeves a real product. The character Aislinn is probably a fictional character that I will remember forever because she is so may things at once. To many people she is a shy girl with many siblings, whose best friend is Maizey, but while reading the book I realized that this one character has so many layers of personality to her. Aislinn has an alcoholic father, a crush, and so many responsibilities for a twelve year old. She also is so mature and went through a lot of hardship throughout the book, but she pulls through everything no matter how painful it is. Your character development is sublime. Dreamsleeves, in simple, is a book that gives people hope for a better day. Since I have read the book, I have reread it multiple times because it is the type of book that makes you feel good inside. I may not have any labels to wear on my sleeve, but now if I wish for something I tell someone so that they can help me make my wish come true. Thank you for writing such a phenomenal book and I plan on reading some of your other books. 
Dear Leslie,
Your letter brings me such joy today.  Dreamsleeves is fiction but very closely drawn from my own teenage life.  I have just written another deeply powerful book like Dreamsleeves (this about a girl who's Mom suffers from mental illness) which my agent is currently reading.  Fingers crossed for a contract soon.   In the meantime, I hope you enjoy my Willa books.  The seventh, ROAR LIKE A GIRL, will be out this summer 2016.
Your friend in reading,
Coleen 

Caitlin from California
Hi coleen i love you willa series i have read all the books and i love them so much! I was wondering if you are going to be writing any more willa books for the series? If so i would love to read it! Thanks, Caitlin
Thank you, Caitlin.   A new Willa book, ROAR LIKE A GIRL, will be out this summer, 2016.  Hope you love it! xo, Coleen

McKenzie
I would love it if you would make another book after From Willa, with love
McKenzie.... already done... ROAR LIKE A GIRL will be out this summer 2016.  Enjoy!!  Smiles, Coleen

Madison from Pennsylvania
I started reading the willa books in sixth grade and ive continued to read them throughout the years as they continued to come out. And here i am sitting here as a freshmen in high school and wondering if there's more books to come.  My childhood books have always been my favorite and i love reading series because feel as if the story never has to end, and if truth is told, in a way i become so captivated in a story that the fantasy world soon becomes reality. So pleaseee tell me that your just taking a break and more books will soon come, but if not im still glad that i got to take an adventure to cape cod Thank you maddie
Dear Maddie,
Oh I'm so happy to hear that the Willa books continue to bring you joy.  A brand new series, Always Willa, debuts this summer with the release of ROAR LIKE A GIRL.  Willa's going in to her sophomore year in highschool now.  Hope you love the new book.  Be sure to let me know.  Smiles, Coleen 

Brianna from West Virginia
Dear Mrs. Paratore, Hi. My name is Brianna and I love your book, A Pearl Among Princes. I have read it at least 4 times and plan to read it even more. I love your vivid descriptions and how it just leaps off of the page. I had a question for you. I am an aspiring author and have made a big dent in a book I am writing. I know you have probably heard this countless times but I was wondering if you could give me any tips on writing or publishing a book. Thank you for your time and have a blessed day. Sincerely, Brianna Butler
Hi Brianna,
My best advice is to write what you know about, write what you care about..... if you want to be a writer, WRITE.  The more you write, the better the writing gets.  Enjoy it all,
Coleen 

Ashlyn from Missouri
 I have read your entire series of the “Wedding Planners Daughter”. I am now starting to re-read all of them. I think that my favorite book that I have read of yours is either “Forget Me Not” or “Wish I Might”. My favorite part about those books is that is about the dog named Salty, I thought that part was funny and interesting. I like your books because they always make me want to read more and they interest me. I don’t like to read but your books take me to another place. I love books that take place in the 21st century, that have romance, also have the beach incorporated in them and that is exactly what your books are. I always wondered how Will was Willas brother? Billy died like the day after Stella and his honeymoon, and at that time Stella was pregnant with Willa. I hope you keep writing because your books are amazing. Sincerely, Ashlyn
Thanks for your lovely letter, Ashlyn.  Please keep on reading.
Happy wishes always,
Coleen 

Elise from Michigan
Hi! I love your books! I was wondering when the next book in the Willa series is coming out. I love the series :) from, Elise R
Hello, Elise,
ROAR LIKE A GIRL debuts this May 2016.  Enjoy!!!!!
Smiles,
Coleen 

Talia from Florida
Dear Ms. Paratore, I love your books from The Wedding Planner's Daughter series! When I read your books I felt as if I were Willa and as if I were really in Cape Cod. I'm 13, and I feel like I can really relate to Willa and her problems. I've always loved reading just as much as Willa, and these books are for sure in my top 10! Thank you for giving me the chance to read these books! Sincerely, Talia
Thank YOU for your beautiful letter, Talia,
xo,
Coleen 

Susan from Pennsylvania
I was going through my bookshelf the other day and saw the Willa books. I started reading them when I was in 4th grade and that is when I developed a love for reading. When From Willa, With Love came out, I was so excited to read it. I am in high school now, but still always think about how much I LOVED those books. My favorite books are still the Willa books, and all the Nicholas Sparks books as well. I was just wondering if there are going to be anymore Willa books. I hope so:)
Dear Susan,
Happy News!  A whole new Willa series called Always Willa starts this summer 2016 with the book, ROAR LIKE A GIRL.  Just like you, Willa is now in highschool.  Hope you love it!
Coleen 

Macie from Texas
Hi, I would just like to say that I am completely in love with Willa. She is so cool and inspiring. I hope you will make another one. My favorite one is from willa, with love. I hope you continue her story. Your #1 fan Macie.
Dear #1 Fan Macie,
You sound very cool and inspiring, too!!
Smiles,
Coleen 

Caitlin from California
I read every willa book and i absolutely LOVE them!!! Willa is so inspiring and if i may ask is there a certain person that you based the character willa on or did you just think of her and want her to be like that? I love willa so much she inspires me to read more and maybe i will start leaving books around my town with stickers on them!
Dear Caitlin,
There's a lot of me (well, who I was as a teenager) in the character of Willa -- her LOVE of reading... how she keeps a journal.... how she's a sweetly romantic person.... loves her family, friends, teachers.... candy :)
I LOVE that you are leaving books about town like Willa.  That's awesome!!
Smiles,
Coleen 

Ligia from California
is there going to be any new willa books coming out in 2014? if so i cant wait! i love willa!
Ligia,
The next Willa book, ROAR LIKE A GIRL, comes out in summer 2016.  Enjoy!! Coleen 

Jennifer from California
Hi Colleen! I was wondering if there is going to be another book in the Willa Havisham series? I absolutely adore your books, especially this series and I would really like to see a new book in this series. I have so many questions that have been unanswered and I would really like it if you would write another book to end the series or possibly continue it. Thank you for your books. They are truly amazing :)
Thank you, Jennifer.  I left lots of questions unanswered as I hope Willa's story continues on and on for years :) A new Willa series, Always Willa, debuts this summer 2016, with the release of ROAR LIKE A GIRL.  Hope you love it!
Smiles,
Coleen 

Ashley from California
Hi, Ms. Paratore! I've loved your Willa books since I was young - I would like to ask you, will there ever be a 7th Willa book? Thank you! :)
Yes, Ashley.... there will be a 7th, 8th and 9th (at least:) in a new spin-off series, Always Willa.  The first release is ROAR LIKE A GIRL which debuts in the summer of 2016.  Hope you love!!  Coleen 

Vimala from Malaysia
Dear Coleen, I'm 15 and I love your books so much! The Wedding Planer's Daughter books are my favourite. Willa has had me hooked from the first page of the first book. I recommended your books to my friends and they love them too! My favourite characters are Willa, JFK and Sam. I have read almost all the books on Willa's Pix but Willa's story is still my favourite one. No other books can make me laugh out loud or shed tears as much as your books do. I can read them over and over again and never get bored. You have inspired me to write stories as well. I'm currently writing a book and your tips to get published are very helpful. I dream that someday I can be as good an author as you are. I hope to meet you one day. Please don't stop writing. Thank you so much!
Dear Vimala..... You and Willa sound like kindred spirits indeed.  I'm so glad you are writing.  Keep at it, okay?
Smiles,
Coleen 

Kelsey  from New York
I Love your book Dreamsleeves. I'm doing that book for my Book talk in ela
That's great to hear Kelsey.  Thank you,
Smiles,
Coleen 

Karli from Alabama
I Looooveee your books! And i love you! Im only 11 years old and i wanna write books all because of willa havisham! I think willa havisham would be a great movie! Please write more! I have never been so into a book your writing is a miracle. Write a willa book during christmas i wanna know what would happen on the cape during christmas. Oh and i almost forgot, how did you get the idea to write the willa books? ~your #1 fan P.s. please write back and i dont mean to bother i really dont!
Karli,
You aren't bothering me at all.  I am thrilled that you are enjoying the Willa books so much. And I LOVE your idea about setting a book during the holidays.  You've got me thinking!  Thank you!!  Smiles, Coleen 


Anna from Montana
me and my friend were talking one day and she was like "dude this book is so good, like the best!" then i was like oh coll i never really got the thought to read but then again i never really thought that would ever talk to an author before sooo......... Dreams really do come true! So my friend said that she was super inspired by your work and one day she asked me "Hay anna what is your dream???!" and so i told her. She wrote it down on some type of paper and stuck it on my sleeve and on it it said dreemsleef. INSPIRATION TO READ YOUR BOOOOOK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Veyanna from Montana
i love your book dreamsleeves!!! it really touched me. i laughed and cried and really enjoyed this book!!i really liked the part when aislinn went to the party and kissed mike under the willow tree...so romantic and cute! im almost thirteen and i would love more teenage books. thank for the pleasure of reading dreamsleeves:) love your biggest fan, veyanna

Eliana from California
Hi Coleen, I grew up reading your Wedding Planner's Daughter series. I remember being so excited whenever you published another book in the series. I'm now 16 and still yearning for more additions to the Willa collection! I don't think i could ever tire of Willa's story and Cape Cod. I do hope you never stop writing those books but i noticed you haven't published one in a while and i haven't heard any plans for another one. So i was wondering if that was the end of Willa? Do you think you will write any more Wedding Planner's Daughter books?

Dallas and Sutton from Virginia
Hi! My daughter, Sutton, and I have been reading The Wedding Planner's Daughter together before bed for the past few weeks. Your writing has sparked a myriad of conversations between us. When we read the quote from the The Tempest, we both looked at each other and shrieked. That's my favorite Shakespeare play, and my husband and I took her to see it last March. It was her first one, and I hope it will be her favorite. From your page I learned of the other Willa stories, and we will start reading those next. Thank you so much for sharing Willa with us. It's a lovely story that one can read over and over again and learn something new.

Mimi from New York
Dear Mrs. Paratore, So I've read all the books From The Life of Willa Havisham and I've recently finished From Willa, With Love and was dying to know if thre would be another book to come or if it just ended like that... Your books have changed me and I aspire to be an author myself thank you so much mrs. Paratore! I'd love to here back from you it would itself be an honor! Yours Truly, Mimi, 13

Kayla from California
Hello! I started reading your books who knows how long ago. I am currently a SOPHOMORE and still want to continue reading your books. Ive read all the books in the wedding planners daughter series. Along with dreamsleeves. Im happy to say they are in my top favorite book series right next to Percy Jackson and Harry Potter. I became an avid reader because of your books and desperately want more. My old school had a yearly book sale where i was able to purchase your books every year. Since i went to high school i haven't been able to check if your books are there. I also noticed that there may not be new books since i left for high school and that makes me quite upset, well maybe not upset but sad. I really hope you continue these series. Id also love to know if there was a way to get a subscription of your books. Thank you very much, Kayla

Erin from Kentucky
I love your Willa books and you are a great, inspiring author, so I check your website every so often to see if another novel has been published/will be published. Will there be any more Willa Havisham books in the near future? Thank you, Erin

Schuyler from Texas
I loved your book Dreamsleeves! I just couldn't put it down!It had a great plot and characters.I cant wait to read another book of yours, when you get a chance could you tell me what book you recommend me to read.I have chosen you to do an author study about you because you are by far my favorite author. Love to hear from you. :) Schuyler


From  Marion
Hi Coleen.  I took your "Birthday Book" class at the Art Center, and my daughter was in a class you visited at PS 16 (and loved the Wedding Planner's Daughter series).  I just finished Dreamsleeves and wanted to tell you how much I loved it.  I cried--with sadness and joy, many times. My dream in life (since you are in the business of dreams) is to write and publish a book that makes people cry.  Thank you for inspiring me.

Ashley from Canada
I am a huge fan of yours!!! Your books are so amazing!!! I love how Willa has grandparents who own a book store and candy store in one! Although it is sad when one of them passes away. I also love how Willa played cupid getting her mom and Sam together. I love the hotel and how Willa helps out with it too! My favourite though is how Willa makes a difference in every book let it be saving the library to the coin jars!! Willa has inspired me to make a difference too! I like how Willa reads so much (like I do) and how you put a list of them in the back of the book! In one of the last books in the series I love how she found a dog and found out she had a brother! I love how you ended the book on that! I had been reading the entire series from my local library and they didn't have the last book in the series (the one after Willa finds out she has a brother) so I asked them to order it in I was so excited to read it!!!! When Willa and JFK fall for each other in the barn its like a magic spark!! I loved it !!!! Thank you for writing such an amazing book!!

Julia from Ohio
I just wanted to let you know how much I have appreciated Willa. With all her reading and love of the Cape (and candy), I almost felt like I was reading a book about me. I sadly don't live in Massachusetts, but my family has visited and I was overjoyed at the mention of The Sundae School! I heard it was being made into a movie and I was curious to see if you had any news. 
 
From Dorothy  
I finished reading The Wedding Planner's Daughter series and Life of Willa Havisham a while ago and now I'm rereading it. Can you please write more?!? Your books are so enjoyable and inspiring! And I find alot I have in common with Willa. Please write more, or just one more.....maybe a movie.........

Misaki from California
Hi!  I am currently 12 years old right now, and I just finished reading Dreamsleeves. It is an amazing book, which I can completely relate to. It can help a help a person to follow their dreams and give them the courage to do want their heart wants. Dreemsleeves is simply amazing!

Rachel from North Carolina
I started reading the Willa books in 4th grade, and I absolutely LOVED them! I have read them over and over again. I love Willa's character and personality. Reading about her makes me feel...safe. It hey are some of the first books I pull off my shelf on a rainy day, or when I'm having a bad day. The other day, I went to e library and discovered Forget Me Not( I own the first three already). I felt a connection with this book. I love the connection between Willa and Salty. I too have a golden retriever, and I can very much relate to her in this story. I also love how you added the pet spa next to the bramblebriar. It reminds me of funny memories. When I lived in California, their was a pet hotel with a swimming pool, canopy beds, and limos that would drive your pet to McDonald's! Hearing about this place and No Mutts About It made me laugh out loud.
I love this series because I feel as if any girl who reads them can relate to any character. My favorites are Nana, Mama and Papa B, and Sulamina Mum. They all make me laugh and each remind me of a certain person in my life. Thank you for writing these books! They have made my love for books even stronger than ever
before!!!

Kayla from California
Hello! I started reading your books who knows how long ago. I am currently a SOPHOMORE and still want to continue reading your books. I’ve read all the books in the wedding planner’s daughter series. Along with Dreamsleeves. I’m happy to say they are in my top favorite book series right next to Percy Jackson and Harry
Potter. I became an avid reader because of your books and desperately want more.   My old school had a yearly book sale where I was able to purchase your books  every year. Since I went to high school I haven't been able to check if your  books are there. I also noticed that there may not be new books since I left for high school and that makes me quite upset, well maybe not upset but sad. I really hope you continue these series. 

Erin from Kentucky
I love your Willa books and you are a great, inspiring author, so I check your website every so often to see if another novel has been published/will be published. Will there be any more Willa Havisham books in the near future? 

Ashley from the U.S.
HI, I’m Ashley, and I'm 11 years old. I LOVE THE WEDDING PLANNER'S DAUGHTER SERIES! Every time I read a book, I get seriously slaphappy. I got your book from Willa with love from a book order. I started it from, like, the end and found out it was a series. I finally read all the books, and I fell in love with Willa. Thank you so much for writing these amazing books! You have inspired me sooo much! Thank you.

Kaitlyn from Utah
I love the Willa books! I just finished the last one, last week! I need more! haha. I really would love to get another book from this series! I also would really love to go visit Cape Cod now! It seems like a wonderful place to be. Thanks again for the wonderful books you've written, and the wonderful messages you have shared. 

Madelynn from Maryland
I just wanted to say I love the Willa books! I’m still trying to find the second one at a store or library and im so excited to find it!  Thank you so much for writing these books!

Tricia from the Philippines
Hi, Coleen Paratore! I want to thank you so much for making such an amazing book. It's a book I've been looking for that's really perfect! And I can relate to Willa a lot with her love for books and her dreamy-personality :) Thanks for inspiring me with such a fantastic character! I was also wondering if there is another book after From Willa with love (the 5th book I think). Thank you so much! Every chapter of the book makes me smile and that's what I look forward to in a book :D 

Caitlin from Utah
Hi, my name is Caitlin, I'm 15, and I absolutely love the wedding planner's daughter series; and the 'from the life of Willa Havisham' series that follows it. Those books are gold. I have read them over and over. Unfortunately I haven't quite finished the series yet. Anyway, you have inspired me to start my own series. 
 
Liz from Wisconsin
I have always loved to read, but when i first read The Wedding Planner's Daughter when I was about 10, I knew I had found a gem. I rarely reread books, but I have reread the Willa Series more times than I can count. I am sixteen now and still in love with these books. When I read them, I feel like I'm in Willa's world. I relate to her so much. When I was younger, I saw Willa as almost a storybook version of myself. Now I'm rereading them yet again and she's like a little sister. You and I must be kindred spirits. I've also had an intense amount of pressure on me lately, entering my junior year and all, about the future and occupations and such. When I was younger I wanted to be an author for years, but more recently I haven't had much time for reading and I had almost forgotten about that dream. Now, though, I've been reading some spectacular novels this summer and yours particularly have sparked me to reconsider writing. So thank you. Thank you so much for the wonderful impact you've had on my childhood, the comfort your books have always brought and will always bring me, and the incredible inspiration you give me now.

From Natalie
Hi! My name is Natalie. I'm 15 years old and I've always loved your books The
Wedding Planer's Daughter. I was wondering if it's going to be a movie? It really suits the type of book to become a movie. And I would gladly audition for a part in that case (which I'm sure many other people would too).

Evergreen from Rhode Island
I just want you to know that your books are truly amazing and inspiring to me. I truly Love reading your books! I was distraught to learn that there was not another Willa book waiting for me after I finished reading 'From Willa, with love'. Please write another Willa book if you have the time!   I know you are an author, and probably a busy one at that; but if you don't write another Willa book, I know that there are going to be some very sad girls (including me).

Emily from Hudson, NY
Dreamsleeves shook me to the core.

Emilee from Ohio
I  got finished reading the book Dreamsleeves.... Needless to say, it was the best book I've ever read. It should be made into a movie! If it ever is, it would be an
amazing honor if I could star in it, even though it's a long shot.  Thank you for being an amazing writer  ;)

Sky from California
Hello Coleen! I wanted to thank you for your wonderful books! I read "The Wedding Planner's Daughter" in the third grade and I still love it now that I attend middle school. You inspire me so much with your amazing stories and awesome characters(like Willa!!)!! I just wanted to say when I grow up I would like to become an inspiring person like you, and that you have a young fan that always cheers for you! :)  Thank you! 
P.S.  When I first got your book, I chose it because it had lots of
pretty dresses on the front cover!!(My dream was to become a princess back
then!)              

Sarah from North Carolina
I am a HUGE fan of your books. Willa is one of my all time favorite book characters. I can relate to her SO much. I have a brother who acts just like Will! I love writing just like you. I feel like writing is a way to be VERY creative. You are a big idol to me!

Payton from Texas
I love your books. But I am just finishing From Willa with love. And I also realized there is only one book left in the series  PLEASE WRITE MORE. Thanks :)

Savannah from Alabama
I was wandering if there is gonna be a 7th book in the Willa series? I'm hooked
on it and I'm 11 I love it so much!! I hope their is because these books are one
of the best things that have happend to me and I really wanna know what happens with JFK and Jess and Willa and how Rosie is doing and if mum turns out ok!!! I love this so much! It's amazing! Please respond cause I really would like to
know, also if there is what will it be called so I can look for it and when will
it come out?

MaKenzie from Tennessee
PLEASE,PLEASE,PLEASE NEVER STOP WRITING WILLA HAVISHAM
BOOKS!!!

Lydia from Pennsylvania
I really love all of the books about Willa and the Wedding Planner's Daughter.  I really felt like I was in the story and when something bad happened I felt like it happened to me and I was Willa, so when I had to stop reading, I almost had to remind myself that my life was fine and it was Willa going through something difficult, or sweet or whatever the feeling was.  I haven't finished the series, but I plan to read all of the books!  I LOVE them!

Jaime from New York.
HI! I'm Jaime im 8 years old I know it sounds crazy but I have your book sunny holiday it's really cool and funny.  i really like it. Your a great author.

Marilyn-
Your books inspired me to start writing! My teacher and school librarian introduced me to your books! I love them and I'm trying to take out as many of your books as I can. My class is reading one of your books for read aloud and when my teacher puts the book down, our whole class whines and begs her to read more.  When she replies no, our class is disappointed and wants to keep reading! Thank you so much for inspiring me!!!

Diane from Albany-
Hi Coleen--I just finihsed three of your books--all suggested by Margy at The Book House. and I loved them..Gave the "younger" ones to an eight year old but keeping Dreamsleeves for me. You did a beautiful job of describing he inner and out life of a girl in an alcoholic family and gently introduced AA and Alanon. Bravo! and thank you. 
 
Jessenia from Florida-
I love the book 'forget me not', it is the first that I read by you, I also liked the 'Pix List' it was FANTASTIC!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! And I hope you make a fourth book,
too!

 Sofia from New York-
Hi Coleen! Sofia here, your little screenwriter! Who, actually isn't so little anymore (17 in may) and the only screenplay I will write is the one for Willa. But hopefully, next fall I will be attending Marist College for business administration so that I can become a wedding planner, minoring in journalism and writing of course. Your books have influenced me so much, and I just wanted to thank you. Hope all is well. 
 
Grace from Maine-
Hi! I feel like for some reason I have heard rumors that the wedding planners daughter is coming out as a movie or already has. I was wondering where it is avaliable or how I can access it! Thanks!!! P.S., Thank you so much for giving my nana your books for me to read, it has been a great pleasure reading them over and over!!! (Starboard Lane?)

Alisa from North Carolina-
Pleaseee make more willa books!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I love them!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! thanks

Kylie from Florida-
I really love your "from the life of Willa Havisshasm" series, by the way i'm kylie 10 years old. So I really like that sreies I just finished "From Willa,With Love" And i came here to your wen site to see if you had more willa books after the ones i read. I didn't see any books after the one i had just read. so i'm wondering if you could write a another one where it left off at. like to see if Willa stays with JFK(joey) Or Jess Or takes a break from LOVE. I REALLY, REALLY, REALLY, want a another Willa Book Pleeeease.

Ashley from Pennsylvania-
I cannot express how much I love them (the Willa books), even as a college student. They have inspired me to visit the Cape, not far from where my ancestors stepped foot in the 1620s and 1630s. The Willa stories absorb my soul to let me feel as if I am Willa herself. 

Briana from New York-
Dear Ms.Coleen Murtagh Paratore, This is Briana . I'am really enjoying your books already! Right now I'm reading Dreamsleeves and Wish I Might. I'm not finished with your books yet but I will be soon if I keep reading like
this.

Lavonna from New York-
 It was a pleasure to meet you at the Author/Illustrator Day. My daughter really enjoy reading your books. Good Luck!

Sierra from Arkansas-
I am thirteen and live in Arkansas. I got your first Willa book from a friend. When i started reading it i was hooked. Now I have read all of the Willa book's so far. I simply cannot wait for you to write the next in the seris! The Willa Havisham books are the kind i like, the kind that makes me cry at the sad parts, makes me think about what will happen next when i haven't even finished the chapter, the kind that makes me beg and plead with the charector when they must make a big decision. Like when Willa was trying to decide between JFK and Jess. ( I hope she chooses JFK) The "Willa's Pix" list's in the back of the books have led to some GREAT reads! It's SO hard to explain how i feel about these book's. And i can't put my feelings into words very well. I'll just have to suffice with this, "Your book's make ME want to be an author!" I wish i could put my feelings into better words but i am at loss on how to do that. In conclusion, I love all of your books and cannot wait for more! I plan to visit Cape Cod one day, and please excuse my "Old Timey" speech. My friends say i read to much Anne of Green Gables.  

Dulce from New York-
I love all your Willa Havisham books

Dani from Nebraska-
Dear, Coleen Murtagh Paratore I am in love with your books "from the life of Willa Havisham". They really inspired me to do more community work with my church. But let me get to the point, I wish you could make movies of the "from the life of Willa Havisham" books. I know my Friend Larisa wrote you about this but I if you make a movie from thies books could really inspire many young teens like me. And when you make your movie I know where you can get your "Willa Havisham". Me because I love acting and I always
wanted to be in a hit movie. I am going to be 14 this July 4th. I have read all
your books about her and I know all about her. I love the beach and I wake up early to like she does in the books. But I really would enjoy watching your
books in movie with me staring in it. Right now im staring in the music man at my high school. in 6th grade I was an orphan in Annie at my high school play school. and during the summer I was a munchskan at the pine wood bowl going from my 6th to 7th grade years. bake to the point I would really love, love, love,  love, love, love, to be the main character in your movie. Please don't decline  my request from Dani, With love

 Anna from  Ohio-
Dear Ms. Murtagh Paratore, I really love your  books. I love reading them over and over again. I was wondering how many Willa books are you planning on writing? Also when is the next Willa book coming out? 
  
Hannah from  Georgia-
I am a big fan, I love the Willa books. I was  wondering about if there would be a book after From Willa With Love? I am just  wondering. Anyways your writing is  wonderful.

Audrey
When will you write the next book in the series after From Willa, With Love.I have been waiting forever, own all you books, read them a lot, and I would like to know If you won't be writing another one. Thanks alot, Audrey P.S. I love your work!!!

Dear Coleen, I'm a librarian at Saint Ann's School
in Brooklyn, and I wanted to thank you for writing Dreamsleeves; the students have chosen it as one of our Mock Newbery Committee finalists this year! Last week, in preparation for voting next week, the students wrote comments about each of the finalists. About Dreamsleeves they said things like: "Well-developed and interesting characters" "I thought the characters' personalities were very believable." "It is realistic and great!" "This is my favorite book. It's realistic and super original." "I love how she calls herself 'A' and her brothers and sisters B, C, D, and E." Again, thanks for writing! -Hannah M. Saint Ann's School

Charlotte-
hello! i just finished reading the Willa books and i was wondering when you were going to make a new book? I really love them and the latest one is just making me want to read more! I really cant read any other books until another one comes out because "From Willa, with love" is one big
cliff hanger! Please let me know when a new one is coming out! Thanks,
Charlotte

Grace-
I LOVE the Willa books!!!!!!! PLEASE tell me there are MORE to come in the NEAR FUTURE!!!!!!!!!!

Maddie-
Hello! My name is Maddie. I am 10 years old and in the Fifth grade. I love your book Dreamsleeves. It is my all time favorite book. It inspired me to write my own stories. Whenever my friends are looking for a good book I always say "you need to read Dreamsleeves. It is the best book ever!" By the time they are in the 5th chapter it is all ready on the top of their Top Book list. My dream is to be an author just like you! Thank you for inspiring me!

Jadine-
Hi Mrs. Paratore, I'm emailing to let you know how much I love your Willa books! I first read them in fourth grade and now I'm in high school and I still like to go back and reread them. Willa and all of your other characters as well as the whole layout of Bramble are described wonderflly. At this point my copy of The Wedding Planner's Daughter is falling apart and has tape on the spine, but I like it better that way because it reminds me of all of the times I've read it and how the sea and JFK and everything else make my feel warm and happy. Your book will always have a special place on my bookshelf. Mainly I just wanted to say thank you for bringing Willa to me. Also, I'm looking forward to reading Dreamsleeves, which I haven't gotten around to yet. I hope you're having a nice holiday season! 

Karina C. -I really love your books! Though, one question. Can you please write more stories about Willa and her life on cape cod? That would be really cool! You are soooooo amazing! I'm am addicted to the wedding planner's daughter series! Please, write way more! I would wish that they would never end!!! :)

Megan O. -My name is Megan Alice O. and I am thirteen years old. I love your books because they are so good. I have read so many of your books but the one I like the most is "The wedding planner's daughter" I would love to hear from you back as I am trying to write a book but I don't know where to start. I want to be a good author like you. Thank you. Bye x

Jadine S. -Hi Mrs. Paratore, I'm emailing to let you know how much I love your Willa books! I first read them in fourth grade and now I'm in high school and I still like to go back and reread them. Willa and all of your other characters as well as the whole layout of Bramble are described wonderflly. At this point my copy of The Wedding Planner's Daughter is falling apart and has tape on the spine, but I like it better that way because it reminds me of all of the times I've read it and how the sea and JFK and everything else make my feel warm and happy. Your book will always have a special place on my bookshelf. Mainly I just wanted to say thank you for bringing Willa to me. Also, I'm looking forward to reading Dreamsleeves, which I haven't gotten around to yet. I hope you're having a nice holiday season! Jadine S.

Persis -why did you let Willa choose JFK in the end of FROM WILLA,WITH LOVE?

Persis - Are you ever going to stop the Willa series and do you ever plan to make JFK and Willa break up?

McKenzie -Hi! Ms.Paratore, I truly love your books! I spent Christmas Day reading "From the Life of Willa Havisham"series. I spent so much time reading your books that what I really want to know is if there will be another book! You're one of my favorite writers! Thanks so much for taking the time to read this! Sincerely, McKenzie P.S. "Little Women" is one of my favorites too. :)

Victoria-Please write another wedding planners daughter book don't end the series.its one of my favorites ive read all the books and has been there from the.start waiting for each book to come out I love them thank you for some amazing books

Laura-Are you going to make more Willa books? It would be amazing if you do! Your books keeps me reading, Im 14 and i read them. I started when i was 12 but looking back through them, i just want to know more. I love them. I want to vist Cape Cod whenever i read it. I hope you do write more :) –Laura

Raiyaaanah - I am you biggest fan! I love dream sleeves i hope you write another book that is like it or something.I just finished it yesterday ,but I just couldn't stop reading it.well that is it. ~Raiyaanah

Mackenzi-Which of the 3 books of "from the life of Willa Havisham" is the first book? I have read Wish I Might 6 times!

Hannah -The wedding planners daughter totally changed me.it was just a dreary day last year when I had ran out of things to read. Then I saw it under "new books" on the library. I grabbed it, and was hooked from page 1. Then 2 months ago I saw the wedding planner's daughter on a book shelf in a used stuff store, and ran to buy it. I've now read it 6 and a half times, and I'm trying to find Willa by heart , Willa is so realateable, and her life is realistic to girls my age. -hannah,11

Stephanie -I just love your willa books. After I read the first one I loved it and read it over andover. But it was not till a couple of years ago that I found the rest of the series. My Grandma, Uncle, and my Mother had to use ebay and other sites to find the rest of the serie but when they did I went on a week long reading marathon. I can not wait to find out what happens to Willa and her halfbrother Will and JFK. Please keep writing Willa books. Merry Christmas! Sincerly Stephanie, 14

Kylie- Hi! I'm 15 and from Galveston, Texas. I started reading your books when I was in elementary school and now I'm a sophomore. Is the Willa series over? I hope not!

Safa- how do you get along with people

Kaitlyn- Where do you get your inspiration for books? What genres do you use? What are your hobbies? What awards have you won? I need to know them for a project im doing about you!:) Thanks

Ally- Hi Coleen I started reading the willa series acouple years ago and I can't tell you how much I loved it. I read the series 3 times and still want to read it again. I think you are a great author. The other day my teacher gave me an assignment to get some information about my favorite author so I was wondering if maybe you could give me some information about you that would be amazing. Thanks, Ally

Katie-I really loved your books from the beginning that I started reading them. I hope you will write another one soon and I think JFK and Willa should be together

Olivia- Dear Mrs. Paratore, Recently I made a mistake by reading From Willa, With Love before Wish I might. Oopsey!But after I overcame my disappointment and decided to contact you. PLEASE write another book to finish Willa's series off. I'm BEGGING you to! Also, I applaud your ability to write. I too am writing and I was wondering if you had any tips for either getting published or ways to help get the juices flowin'...if you know what I mean. Farewell and I hope to hear from you soon. Sincerly, Olivia

Emily- I am a huge fan of your books! I love The Wedding Planner's Daughter series! Willa reminds me so much of myself. I, someday, want to be an author like you. You and so many other authors have inspired me to never give up. Writing is tough, but it will pay off in the end.

Lilly- I LOVED YOUR BOOK!!!! I think that is is so repeatable to. i just got the second and third book of forget me not. i cant wait till you make another one. Please email me!

Hannah- You are my favorite writers. When i read the books about Willa i knew i was addicted. Your are so wonderful, i hope to be a future writer myself my goal is to be half as good of a writer as you. Not to rush you but when is Willa going to continue her story or when shall you continue it.

Natalia-Hi Coleen!!!! I love your books! You are one of my favorite authors!! I read all the books in you series : From The Life Of Willa Havisham I'm also from Massachusetts! So I found that really cool, I was wondering, are you going to write another book? Sincerely, Natalia, Mass age 11

 

Stacey- Hi. My daughter just finished reading Forget me not. Is there a sequal? Please let me know. Thank you.

Julianna and Molly- Hi! We are huge Willa fans! We have read all of the books and we love them. Willa has inspired us to become better people. Once we started reading these wonderful books, we were instantly connected with Willa. I go to Cape Cod every summer and I feel like I have entered her world. I also use Willa's Pix List for book suggestions. At my book birthday party, I had my friends dress up as book characters. I dressed up as Willa and my best friend Molly dressed up as Tina. They are our favorite books ever! Thank you for bringing such joy to reading for us. :) Willa has become almost real to us now. You are one of our favorite authors so it would be a dream if you responded. Please write more Willa adventures soon! :) Julianna and Molly from CT

Makayla- I love the Willa books! I can not put them down! My favorite one is "From Willa, With Love". I fell like I am there with Willa, waiting for JFK to come back from camp. It makes me want to visit Cape Cod, too! THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR WRITING THESE AMAZING BOOKS! ~Your Biggest "fan", Makayla

Madison- hi Ms murtagh I love your your first novle The Wedding Planner's Daughter .I'm so happy to read all the other books in the serious.I'm 9 years old.I live in Plymouth MA.Thank you so much for taking the time for reading my e-mail. Pleas write back!

Audrey- I was wondering when the next book after from Willa with love is oming out Thanx, Audrey

Hanna- Ms. Paratore, I just finished "From Willa, With Love" and I LOVED it!! I'm probably a little old to be reading the series, but I have read it from the start and I always look forward to a new book coming out. Now my question is...Is there another one ?! I am just dying to know what happens with Willa, JFK, and Jess. Do Mum and Mrs. Sivler get better? What about Will and Tina? So many questions! You are a fabulous writer! SIncerely, Hanna

Debbie- Can't wait to see you again next year at the book festival. I can't wait to have you autograph your new book BIG. It is GREAT! Take care.

Isabella- Dear Mrs. Coleen Paratore, Hello! You just stopped at my school the Byram Intermediate School I was in the seventh grade group, I came and saw you afterwards. I just wanted to say hey. I wrote my notes from your speech in my personel notebook. I was embaressed to raise my hand when you asked if anyone had a journel. I was sitting next to We-think-we-are-so-cool boys and they were making me a little uncomfortable. Anyway, I hope you get this e-mail. You were so cool and fantastic! Hope to talk to you again!

Kathy- Coleen- Read your book "Dreamsleeves" and LOVED it. I thought you captured the time and locale perfectly having been in the area around the same time at a similar age. I was at the local chapter of SCBWI in Guilderland last month and brought your book with me as an example of a good summer read. Looking forward to seeing you at the Nov. meeting. PS -Building my platform brick by brick and found your facebook page. Saw that you like Chiselhead Guitars. Well it's funny but my husband is the keyboard player in the same band that Bret plays in.

Rachel- i love yoour books about Willa!! when is your new bookon the life of Willa Havisham coming out?!?!?

 Jacqueline- When I first opened your book The Wedding Planner's Daughter, I knew it was my path to my new favorite story. I could tell when you write your books you really put your heart and everything you have into each and every sentence to make us happy. Your books are the only books I would want to read over and over again. The moment I finished the first book of the series I knew there was the next one waiting for me to buy it. I've shared this book with many of my friends and now they take it as "the best book EVER!"

Emma- I love your books.My favorite is From Willa With Love.I hope you never stop writing you have a true talent.Your books have made it fun to read.I hope one day I can be a great writer like you.Emma

Emily- The Wedding Planner's Daughters Series has inspired me greatly with my current story. I even named a character after Willa. I love your work. I read that series every summer. You have inspired me to become an author also. I've started to put quotes at the beginning of every chapter and have them be related to the person somehow. Thank you so much for everything!

Natalia- amazing i love sunny holiday

Raiyaanah- Okay I just finished your book dreamsleeves it is amazing I think you should make a second book.Aslin reminds me of my self,except my father divorced my mother but i got over it. I put a dream on my sleeve one day at home then everyone started doing it.

Nemesis- I love your books as well.I like the most is from willa,with love

Safa- I loved reading sunny holiday because I love the way M.S PARATORE THINKS and write it with happyness.

Jeannie- I love the book Sunny Holiday. It's a book that gives you creative ideas. I love to read and this is one of the favorite books so far. The comments I read in Willa's fan page make me want read the books.

Amani- Dear Coleen Paratore, I love your books!!! And I have already contacted you but I don't know if it had gotten sent to you, but I was just wondering if you were just going to at more extraordinary written books to your series the wedding planners daughter series. They are just wonderful and I can't find a book that's as fabulous as yours, and they just draw me into them. I would greatly appreciate it if you could answer me as quickly as possible. Thank you and hope to hear from you soon! Sincerely, Amani

Camila- i love your willa books . they are so great i can totally relate to them never quit as a writer your words they are something else!

Kayla- Dear Ms. Paratore, Hi, my name is Kayla. I am in 7th grade and attend Chardon Middle School. Two facts about me are that one, I enjoy snowboarding and playing volleyball because they are activities I can do with my friends and family. Another fact about me is that my favorite subject is math because it is easy, but also challenging at other times. I just finished reading your book “Forget Me Not” which I enjoyed a lot. I enjoyed your book in lots of different ways, one is that there was lots of description. On page 30, you stated “A very small sailboat next to that very big sea. The sail is red-and-white striped , with a black fish on top.” I aslo liked how you put in all of her diary entries. It made me feel like I was actually her writing in her diary as I read. Last, I loved how you put in quotes about each chapter with the chapter title. It really gave me a heads up for what was going to be in that chapter that I was reading. I really loved “Forget Me Not”, I cant wait to read another one of your books. My favorite character in the book is JFK. He is romantic and sweet. For example, when he took Willa on the boat ride on the sunset. Also he always told the truth to everybody. Last he is friendly to all the people in their town. For example, when Tina needed a job and he gave her one. I had many different favorite characters, but JFK was my favorite out of everybody. Lastly, I have two questions to ask you. One is,why did you make Willa’s mom be a wedding planner? Last, why did you make JFK leave Willa for a month to go to Florida for baseball? Thank so much for your time. I look forward to hearing your response. Sincerely, Kayla

Amani- I am one of your biggest fans! I have wanted to be writer when I grow up, and you helped me figure this out even more. I was wondering if you are writing any more the wedding planners daughter series? Please say you are! They are fantastic. I can't even pick my favorite because they are all so well written. I feel as if I am in the book. Please write more! We NEED these books!!!!

Gillian- I would really like if you would continue the Willa books.

The Writer- I was just wondering are you going to write anymore "The Wedding Planners Daughter" books anymore? Please Do! I love these books and can never get enough of it I feel like I'm in Bramble. If there are more what's the next one?

Caroline- My favorite book that you have written BY FAR is Pearl among Princes. My mama and I read it together when I was 10 years old. That would have been around 2 years ago. After reading Pearl among Princes that Inspired me to start writeing. I have writen 6 books and I am working ona another one currently. There titles are Twelve, The Frost, The Stone, The Spark, The End, Inner Beauty, Remember Me, and I am currently writeing Dear Eleanor Grace. Sadly none of them have yet to be published. I just want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for helping my 10 ear old self realize who she wanted to be, and figureing out now, at 12, just how much I owe to you. Sincerely, Caroline
Dear Caroline... oh, I can tell that you're a writer.  Keep on going!!!!  Coleen :)

Scmap- i love your books! they are so like my life!
Thank you!  Smiles, Coleen 

Mrs. Holmes- I am so excited for you to come visit our fourth graders in Troy again this year!!
And I cannot wait to be back in my beloved hometown Troy schools.!!  Coleen 

“I have read every one of the Willa books at least 3 times. I  feel like I am really there in Bramble. Do the world (and me) a favor and never  ever stop writing these books!!!!!!!!!!”  Caroline, 11, “a hopefully future  writer”
Caroline... I can already tell that you're a writer.   I will write about Willa's life as long as I get contracts to do so.  I would love to write her life right through highschool and college till she opens her own wedding planning business.  Thanks so much for writing to me, Coleen 

“I read The Wedding Planner’s Daughter and loved it at once.  When I read that book, I became Willa. I loved her character, and her story was  absolutely poetic! It is one of the few books that I have loved enough to read
over and over again.” Jodi, writer and aspiring Broadway actress
Dear Jodi.... perhaps you will play Willa on stage or screen one day.  The books were twice optioned for a movie, but plans fell through.  Hoping for a new film offer soon!!  Smiles, Coleen 

“I  just discovered your fantastic books, but I wish I’d found them earlier as they bring me so much joy. The first book, The Wedding Planner’s Daughter, only took  me a day to read. My head was stuck in that book all day! I became so attached to the characters, especially Willa and Sam.”  Jo, 11,  England
Dear Jo..... I love that my books bring you "joy."  Oh that makes me smile.  Hugs, Coleen 


“My daughter purchased your book--“Forget Me Not --at her  school’s book fair and she absolutely loved it! I am an avid reader and was  truly hoping she would get the bug soon. Although she read books from her
library at school she mainly did it because she was required to for homework and  to take the “AR” tests. She was so involved with Forget Me Not I actually caught  her staying up late in bed with a flashlight reading it. That was something I  used to do as a kid and get in trouble over. I just wanted to say THANK YOU! I  am so very happy that my daughter has developed a love for reading. You and your  books were a big part of that. I cannot thank you enough.”  Kelly, mother  of 11-year-old Avery
Kelly..... your letter makes me so VERY HAPPY.   Thanks so much for sharing this.  Smiles, Coleen 

“My name is Willa and I’m 14 years old. I love your  books about Willa Havisham. I guess all I want to say is thank you. Thank you  for writing these books. You have added something to my life in a way that no  other book has ever done. There is a depth to these books that it seems is  getting harder and harder to find. Thank you for teaching me about life. I hope  you will write the next one soon.”
What a lovely letter, Willa.  Love your name.  I just finished writing the 7th Willa book and I'm on to number 8.  I hope you enjoy them.  Smiles, Coleen 


“My name is Victoria and I am  from Toronto, Ontario. I am currently 14 years old and would like to thank you.
If it wasn’t for your book The Wedding Planner’s Daughter I read when I was  younger, I probably wouldn’t like reading today. Your books opened a world of  opportunity for me, and made me happy. They give me a comforting feeling every  time I look back on them. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!”
I'm so happy I had a small part in nurturing your love of reading... it is truly a life-long gift.  Thank you, Victoria!
Smiles, Coleen 

“Last  summer I moved to a new state. I was having trouble adjusting to a new place and  I hadn’t written a story or a long time – I used to write stories all the time.  And then I picked up The Cupid Chronicles. As I read your book, I was inspired to write stories again. Then I started at the new school. I was feeling very  lonesome. I started reading The Wedding Planner’s Daughter all over again. The  book was like medicine for a cold, or a bowl of warm soup on a chilly day. It  really helped me feel better about life. I love Willa, and I love the books you
write about her. Please continue writing her stories!!!”  Carina 
I will, Carina.  The 7th book about Willa's life, ROAR LIKE A GIRL, comes out this June 2016.  I hope you enjoy it!! Coleen 

“Willa Havisham has inspired me to truly be myself, and has helped me to  reach out to others and inspire them also. I have gotten all my friends hooked on Willa. I have made copies of all the Willa’s Pix lists and sent them to all my friends. I am working on reading them all. Willa has opened my eyes to a whole new level of books, but most importantly, she has opened my heart to know and understand myself and others more. I simply cannot thank you enough. Willa  has been my best friend ever since I opened that first page of the first book in
  5th grade (I’m in 8th grade now). I have read the series more than 10 times.  Thank you for your gift to the world- and also for the gift of Willa.  PS.  I’ll try to read all the classics while I’m young. I promise.” Jenna, Michigan
Jenna.... thank YOU for the "gift of Jenna".... I am deeply honored by your words.  Big hug, Coleen 

“I love the Willa books. It’s funny, when I read them I almost don’t  feel like I am reading a book, I feel like I am in the book. I love that.”   Annie, Cape Cod, Massachusetts
What a lovely compliment, Annie.   Thank you for sharing that!  Coleen 

“The Willa Havisham series is amazing. I  bought all of the books (instead of going to the library to borrow them) because  its one of those series you want to read over and over again until the next one
comes out. Someday I really hope I can meet you!”  Natalie, Toronto 
That would be wonderful, Natalie.  Ask your school, local library, or bookstore to invite me.  I'm up for that! Smiles, 
Coleen 

“I wish you could visit Huntington Beach California. You are my  favorite author not including Judy Blume. When I grow up I want to be a writer  just like you. You are my inspiration.”  Priscilla, 13
Priscilla... I am honored by your words.  Perhaps your school will invite me for a visit.  I would love that! Coleen 

“I love the  Wedding Planner’s Daughter series! I started reading them when I was 10 when I  got the first book for Christmas. Then I had to wait (for what felt like years!)  until the following May when the second book appeared on the shelves, and every  May since then, I’ve bought the next in the series. I also have to thank you for
the brilliant idea of including a “Willa’s Pix” in every book! It is now one of  my goals in life to read all the books on Willa’s lists. And the lists have  pushed me to read classics too, like Alice in Wonderland, so thanks for that,
too!”Ciara, Ireland
Ciara, thank you for sharing this with me.  My grandmother was born in County Cork and my grandfather in County Mayo.  I love Ireland and I know my girl Willa would too.  Good luck with your goal and everything you wish for.
Your friend in books, Coleen 

“Before I never liked to read, but when I was in  Barnes & Noble your book The Wedding Planner’s Daughter caught my eye and now I am on book number 3! I used to want to be a lawyer, but this book made me
think you have to love what you do to achieve it. You are a great author and a  wonderful motivator.”
Breanne
Breanne..... Keep following your heart.  You sound so wise.  You and Willa are kindred spirits, indeed.  Smiles, Coleen 

“I just thought you should know that I  am in 7th grade at a school in Tennessee and have never enjoyed reading that much, but I loved reading your book Forget Me Not. My Mom hopes your books will  help me love reading. All I can tell her right now is that I would love to read more of your books.”  Macey
Well, Macey.   That makes me VERY HAPPY to hear.  I will do my best to keep writing books you will truly enjoy reading.  Smiles, Coleen 

“I am a very big fan of your books. My  absolute favorites of all times though are the Willa books. I just finished
reading the latest one, Wish I Might, and I couldn’t get enough of it! It was  such an exciting read! One thing I really love about the books is the setting in  Cape Cod. Bramble seems like a majestic and peaceful place that anyone would  dream of living in. I can’t even tell you how much I enjoy reading your  books!  Emily, 12  PS Will there be more additions to the series? I  really hope so!!!!”
Hi, Emily.... YES!  A brand new series, Always Willa, debuts this June 2016.  This first book is called ROAR LIKE A GIRL.  I'm sooooo happy to be writing more about Willa's life.  She is the daughter I never had.  I love her so much.  Coleen

“My name is Danielle. I am twelve years old. I  e-mailed you last August right after I read the Wedding Planner’s Daughter  series. My heart stopped when I took out my laptop one September night and saw  your reply in my inbox. I was literally in tears. So, hear I am, thanking you  for taking the time out of your busy day to read my letter and reply. I really  can’t tell you how much that meant to me.”  Danielle, Nanaimo, BC, Canada
Danielle,  It is I who thank YOU for letting me know how much my book meant to you.  I am honored.  Coleen 


“I have been a big fan of yours ever since the 3rd grade when I picked up The Wedding Planner’s Daughter at my school book fair. I’m 14 now. Willa was  my favorite character...funny, witty, and smart....something some girls are
  ashamed of nowadays. I loved how the characters cherished what they were  reading. It got me thinking how our society has forgotten just how important  reading truly is. The Willa books have changed my life in many ways.... they  turned me into a reader and by becoming a reader I became a better writer. I  actually won a state poetry contest. But they also made me realize something  else. I want to be an actress. The books made me realize a whole other side of  my emotions. I felt empathy for the people in the story and I decided I wanted  to be able to portray characters like that! You also made Willa relatable. She  wasn’t some extraordinary person that had fought off vampires or something. She  was ordinary! She looked ordinary. She looked like me........So, here I am,
  years later after that day at the book fair and what do I have to show for it?  A love for love, a love for books, a blossoming acting career (I was just in two filmsJ), an empathetic manner, and a memory of the most amazing series  that I truly think was ever created.”  Forever a fan, Kayla
Oh, Kayla.... I am so excited for you.   Keep on following your dreams.  Smiles, Coleen 

“Thank  you for writing about Willa. When I discovered her, I was going through a tough  time & I could really relate to her. My only friends seemed to be those in  books. Things have improved a lot since then, but I still love rereading Willa’s  stories over and over again. I couldn’t possibly tell you how many times a day I have to repeat the quote from Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland that was in  chapter 28 of the first book. I just wanted to write and thank you again for  inspiring young readers & writers like myself. You are amazing!”    Macayla
No, Macayla..... YOU are amazing.  Thank you so much for writing to me.  Smiles, Coleen 

“My name is Hayley and I am 13 and I live in South Florida. I  literally just finished your book Forget Me Not and I was wondering when the  next Willa book is coming out. I think you are the most unique writer since Edgar Allan Poe (that was a compliment).”
Oh my gosh, Hayley.  This is, indeed, a compliment.  There are now 6 Willa books out in the world with a new one coming June 2016. xo, Coleen 

“My daughter Harriet is an  avid reader. She is 12 on the 15th September. I bought her the Wedding Planner’s
Daughter books, and when she had finished them, she said ‘mum, I know this  sounds weird, but I feel as if when I go in to school tomorrow, Willa will be  there – she feels so real, as if she is my friend.’ She has never said that
about any other book.”  Cindy, UK
Cindy, thanks so much for sharing this with me.   I am honored, truly.  Coleen 

“Because of your books I started  to love reading again.”  Laura
Oh, Laura.  This makes me so happy to hear!!  Coleen

“Thank you for writing one of the  most amazing book series I have ever read. I could not put a Willa book down
once I picked it up. You have inspired me to be a writer myself.”  Alyssa
I'm so happy to hear this, Alyssa.  Write on, write on, write on.  Coleen :)

“My name is Reegan and I am 11 years old and I live in Oklahoma City.  Ever since I read your first book, The Wedding Planner’s Daughter, in 4th grade  I’ve been hooked! You and Willa make me laugh every time I read one of your  books! You have given me so much inspiration to become a writer. I adore your  books! ”
Thank you, Reegan!!  Smiles, Coleen 

“I am from South Australia and I have to wait SIX WEEKS until  the next Willa book comes and I just cannot wait that long! By the way.... your  writing has inspired me to write from my heart.”  Madeleine
That's the key, Madeleine.  Write from your heart!  Coleen 

“I just  finished reading Willa by Heart and let me tell you something. I LOVE IT! Your  writing inspired me to make a change like Willa, you made me believe, you had my  full attention. I was in awe. You captured my heart and made it soft as snow,  and I thank you for that. I wrote a 5-page letter to my teacher explaining why I  loved this book and I told him it’s because you really inspired me, you changed  me, you made me look at things differently, just through your book. I felt like  you were talking to me. I felt like I was standing right next to Willa watching
Mum go away in the truck waving. You made me laugh and cry. Thank you for  inspiring me, thank you for listening to me, and thank you for writing this  book!”Rania
Rania... I think you are going to be a writer. :) Coleen 

“...if I could live one life in the whole world, it  would be Willa’s! I just love how she has so many people who love her.”   Caroline
I'm sure lots of people love YOU, too, Caroline!  Coleen 

“I just finished reading Forget Me Not. I feel like I am in  Bramble, Cape Cod when I read about Willa and her life. I have finished every  one of the Willa books in a day. I read them over and over again, one by one. My  favorite part is that love that everyone shares in the community of  Bramble.”  Courtney, 13, Georgia
Yes, Courtney.   My favorite part is all the love, too.  Thanks for writing to me!  Coleen