Dear Alan Duff

Hello, how are you?  My name is Malissa.  I am 12 years old and attend Crawshaw School.

You are probably wondering why I am writing to you.  Well it’s because when you came to visit us a couple of weeks ago you told us some really fascinating stories about your life and I thought I should write a letter about mine!

Firstly, netball plays a major part in my life.  I have been playing for about 3 years and it has been great!  But this year has been the best because I was chosen captain of my team.

Have you ever read any Paul Jennings books?  Well, if you haven’t I think you should.  In each book there are about 8 different stories and they are the most entertaining stories I have ever read.  My favourite book so far would probably have to be ‘Uncanny’ because the stories are about ghosts, smelly whales and frozen animals.  It’s really weird!!!

Anyway, enough about me.  I think it’s great that you started Books in Homes because now-a-days a lot of children love getting brand new books to read each term.  It was a brilliant idea!!

I was wondering what made you change the way you lived from growing up in a violent household, to starting up Duffy Books and being an author.  I think it’s an awesome change.  If I was in your position it would be extremely difficult to switch lifestyles.

If you have any spare time after you have read this letter, would it be okay if you could write a quick, brief letter answering and talking about the things I wrote.

Much appreciation

Malissa