Letters
 
 

Even unknown, working writers get letters -- and most of them are fantastic. I've included a few of them here. Thanks to everyone that takes the time to write to me. It means the world to me, every time.

Kelly

 
 
Seth and Melonie, two beautiful kids!
 

About My Books

April, 2007

Hi Kelly,
I got my Tales of the Cryptids and Mummy Kids today. My son came home and I read the Imagine...page. He looks at me and says, "let's start reading!" So we looked through the books for over an hour together (I admit we didn't read everything yet) but he took Cryptids to his room and shut the door. Both those subjects are totally interesting to him. The work and time you must have put into these overwhelms me to even think about. Congratulations on both jobs VERY WELL DONE! Also, I saw your little intro video idea on the web, way cool. Now I really can't wait for Wild horses and Dinosaur Parade. I now have a shelf in my library for KMH books...and proud of it.
Your pal,
Susi



September 21, 2005

Dear Kelly,
I just spent the past two evenings pouring through Wild Dogs. It's amazing! :-)
Really, really amazing! It should win the Siebert! I would love to do an interview with you for my blog/site, centering on the book and perhaps sparkling in a few more questions about your writing life. If you're interested, just let me know. If not, again please accept my thanks for such a wonderful book and for considering this request. Bravo!
Warmest Wishes,
Cyn
http://cynthialeitichsmith.blogspot.com/
* * * * *

May 20, 2005

I was inspired by your book, "Albino Animals". My name is Erin and I am nine years old. i read your book. I was very interested in it. So I did a report on it. I really learned alot and I taught all my friends about it. Thankyou for writing that book. Now I always imagine if there will be any albino animals at any zoos in CT, my home state. I also thought about "Ghost Boy" who lived in the San Diego zoo. I always am checking that website to see the "webcams" of all the animals and I never realized something like that could be there.
Thank you again for all of your help!
Erin age 9 of CT

February 8, 2005

Kelly,

I just returned home from the SCBWI conference in NYC.  I was hoping to run into you there. Anyway, a guy from the Scholastic Book Fair was there and he did a session on Book Fairs. He held up your Albino Animals book and used it as an example of what type of books he wished for. He was absolutely gushing over your book! He went on and on about the attractive cover and the albino gorilla on the back cover. He said the information was great. The lay out invited the reader in. He went on and on about what a terrific book it is! Isn't that great. I felt like yelling out--I know her-It's Kelly's book. But don't worry, I kept control of myself. I just wanted to say congratulations--I was so proud of you and Darby Creek. I just wish you and Tanya could have shared the moment.

Talk to you soon,
Nancy

* * * * *


January 28, 2005

Kelly, I am a writer and library media specialist in Salt Lake city. I work in a private elementary school. Last October I bought your book, Albino Animals, at my school book fair. I knew your name from SmartWriters and the Yahoo Children's Writers listserv so I figured I would buy it in support of a colleague.

As soon as I opened it, I knew it would be popular, but I had no idea it would be such a hit. It is never in the library. There are lists of kids who are waiting for it. It is the nonfiction equivalent to Lemony Snicket. Now I do not mean to compare you to him other than to say, WOW, your book is popular. Congratulations.

Becky Hall
A is for Arches
Rowland Hall- St. Mark's School
Salt Lake City, UT

* * * * *

December 3, 2004

Hello my name is Brandie! Just today at my daughter's book fair our librarian said we needed a book. The title read Albino Animals. We got it and it has been great for our children to look at! You see we have our own albinos! Melonie is 7 and Seth is 4 ! They were happy two look at these pictures in your book that you have shared with us! They are getting a chance to see other species with the same special traits they have themselves!  They are not yet having to face the cruel part of our world that different is not accepted! I hope that with caring people such as yourself they can be educated so they are not scared of the unknown! They are as perfect as you and me! Well, except for a little bad eye sight! I'm going to send a picture of them so you can see my beautiful babies! Again, thank you for all the wonderful pictures they get to enjoy.

The Boyd Family in Oregon             

* * * * *

August 11, 2004

[In reference to the new WILD DOGS cover]  Awesome Kelly, I love your site too. Kayla (3 1/2) came into the room as I was pulling up your site. I thought she might be scared by the dog. She saw it and said,"That doggie has lots of teeth. His Mommy must make him brush them because they are healthy. But somebody better tell him not to use his mean smile because the other kids will think he's not nice and won't let him swing."
And her comments on the mouse [ALBINO ANIMALS] were "He is cute. His eyes look like candy. But mices are bad because they ate through Grandpa wires and he has to fixes them. "
So now you have the Kayla wisdom for the day. She is a very opinonated child, but then look who Grandma is. LOL  We are just waiting to hear the stories from Preschool. She starts in a little over a week. Fortunately, the teacher goes to our church, and will understand the dynamics.
Great job and continued success.
Dara
* * * * *

January 3, 2004

Good time to bring up that my 7 year old daughter picked up Kelly's Dinosaur Mummies for the first time over the holiday break. She's quite a "girly girl" and never showed any interest in dinosaurs before. She lay on the couch and read... and read... and read. She was fascinated with it and she's been re-reading over and over.  She loves it, it's been great!!! 

Julia DeVillers
www.girlwise.com

* * * * *

December 14, 2003

Hi Kelly,
It was wonderful to meet you yesterday at the Children's Corner Bookshop.  You really made Lucas's day!  He is still talking about you, your book, and your terrific exhibits.  He is indeed still talking about the raptor claw, so if you would be so kind as to let me know where we might find one, we would be much obliged. 
Your book is great.  We have been enjoying it continually since we left the shop.  It's very well designed; we love the main story line, the sidebars, photos and illustrations.  The information in the back is so helpful -- and so thorough!  We'll refer to this book for many years to come, I'm sure.  What a thoughtful, beautifully organized book!
Thank you very much for indulging Lucas for so long yesterday with all of his questions.  I am sure you know as a mother that it is experiences such as the one he had with you yesterday are part of what can cement a lifelong love for learning.  Lucas thinks it's pretty cool that he got to "meet the author."
It was a pleasure to meet you.
Kelly M.
RESPONSE
Please tell Lucas the pleasure was all mine. Part of the reason I write for kids is the remarkable enthusiasm they have for learning and imagination, if we as adults give them half a chance to express those things.  You are obviously a WISE mother who values her young man's potential. How do I know that?  Lucas  isn't afraid to ask questions or to wonder aloud. It's terrific to see that. So thank YOU for bringing him and for buying the book. I'm so pleased you both enjoyed it. That's exactly why I do what I do. 
As promised, I tracked down a reasonably priced raptor claw you can get via PaleoClones. You can find more expensive casts at Skullduggery and other retail outlets, and maybe when Lucas is a little older, you'll make that investment. But I'd recommend this $8.00 version for the next few years. It's the version I bring to schools and bookstores so I can let them touch and explore without hesitation. And it's authentic enough not to misdirect.
This link will bring you right to the Utahraptor claw. But you'll see there are LOTS of other options to consider.
Again, thanks SO much for stopping by the Children's Corner on a snowy day -- and for buying the book. Don't hesitate to write again if there are any questions I can answer for your or Lucas. You three also made MY day. : ) 
Best wishes,
Kelly
* * * * *

October 15, 2003

Our library finally received three copies of your new book [Dinosaur Mummies] and it is wonderful!  My children (?) are 25 and 20, but I took it home to show them and my son wished thee were books like that when he was in school - lots of pictures and facts, but light on the text - and what was there was so easy to read and understand. Thank you for a wonderful contribution to the ever-popular topic "Dinosaurs."
Kathi Kelley
Burlington County Library

* * * * *

March 3, 2003

Hello, Kelly!

I haven't read your book but I almost flipped when I saw it.  You see, for some reason, my husband's pet name for me is "Baby Chicken".  We don't have children, in fact are newlyweds, and I thought what a great 1st Anniversary present would be your book.  Of course, it wouldn't be all I would get him.  Anyway, 1st Anniversary is paper.  I was wondering if you are doing any book signings?  Or mabye if I could mail a copy to you with return postage that mabye you could sign it?  We plan on having children in a few years and it would be a great start to a library for them.  I am an avid reader and hope my children will be. Please let me know if you are signing anywhere or send an address where I can send you my book (which I haven't gotten yet but will)?  I can send it in care of someone and you can be on the lookout for my name.
Thank you so much!

Stephanie H.
Vinton, VA 

To my great delight, Stephanie DID buy a copy of BABY CHICKEN. I signed it and it's on its way back to Virginia as we speak. What fun to be part of a love story.  Sigh.... <g>   ~kel

* * * * *

January 25, 2003

Dear Kelly,
I was trying to find out about Darby Creek Publishers, when your web site came up.  Do you know if they publish children\'s picture books, and if so, do you have any contact details?  I cannot find them on the web.
Thanks,
Roseanne Greenfield
Hong Kong

Roseanne, I tried to respond by email, but the email bounced back to me...UNKNOWN SENDER. So I'll answer here and hope you'll check again.  Darby Creek is so new, they don't have a website YET. But they are a delight to work with. Here's the contact information, and yes they do publish picture books...DINOSAUR MUMMIES is a nonfiction picture book, in fact. Good luck with your submissions.    ~kel

Tanya Dean, Editorial Director
Darby Creek Publishing
7858 Industrial Parkway
Plain City, OH  43064

* * * * *

June 8, 2002

Kelly:  My daughers are still in love with I Bought A Baby Chicken. Especially my soon to be three year old.  She has it memorized--really and truly she does--and I have to read it every night at bedtime.  She counts the baby chickens on each page.  She can already count to 50 thanks to your book!  I hope that cheers your day!  And I'm looking forward to hearing more about your many book projects!
Georgann S.


* * * * *

June 10, 2002

Can't wait to get ahold of the new revised Dino Trekking! mine is pretty dog-eared and bristling with post-its.
Adrienne
NATIVE AMERICAN FOSSIL LEGENDS

* * * * *

June 12, 2002

I just wanted to say, GREAT! [regarding a revised Dino-Trekking]. I bought your book several years ago, and have recommended it to many... even in the past year or so.  At that time, someone found me thru the dinosaur list archives, where they saw me comment on your book, and wanted to know the publisher, author, etc to find a copy.  I told them it was somewhat dated, but still valuable, and sent them the info.  Now, it'll be new again....

My son, who is the reason I'm on the list, was the reason we bought your book; he was a child with a passion for dinosaurs.  This year, he is spending two weeks in the midwest on a trek that will take him to several famous sites and active digs (where he'll learn what real work is like!), while earning him high school credits.  Thanks for your contribution to dinosaur enthusiasts; your work makes it possible to actually touch something that is for most, only available in concept, and not tangible.
Good luck, and best wishes.
Wayne B. 

* * * * * 

August 11, 2002

I'm SO glad you were able to make it to the conference after all.  You made it a worthwhile trip for me.  Gotta tell you:  My hubby read your book I Bought a Baby Chicken--he read it under protest because he's not into picture books.  Hmph!  Anyway, he keeps going back to it for another giggle, and says it's marvelous!!  But I knew that anyway, that's why I bought it!
Cheers!
~~Diane

 

About my school visits

February 8, 2005

Kelly worked with 419 children at McDonald. She was was with each group for 45 minutes with and extra 15 minutes if she needed it.  During that time she talked about how she got into writing.  She talked a lot about how a question or an idea is the start of a book.  She spent most of her time on the books Dinosaur Mummies and Albino animals.  She gave children the information on how she became a writer of non-fiction books.  This seems to be quite different from what I have heard authors of fiction describe.  It was very interesting.  She stressed how an elementary teacher had told her that she could be an author.  The kids and teachers loved that. I thought Kelly did a wonderful job.  She was very prepared and handled the children’s questions easily.  You could tell that she really loves her job and enjoys children as she was constantly talking to them even when the sessions were over. The comments that I have received from teachers have been positive.  The children were fascinated with how she got her dinosaur fossils and artifacts.  They loved touching her artifacts and were especially excited about the dinosaur poop.  I have had several parents mention the dinosaur poop to me the day after their children had a chance to hear Kelly.  Kelly is not someone who only does her session and then wants her quiet space.  She is always open to talking to any and everyone about her books.  She really loves what she is doing.  It shows!
 
Stephanie Johnson, Media Specialist
Moscow, Idaho
 
* * * * *
 
February 8, 2005
 
Kelly,

I just wanted to thank you for visiting us at Summit Valley School.  We do not have many visitors at here and  the students found you and your profession to be very  interesting.  Your book "Dinosaur Mummies" has been viewed  by many students over the past few days.  

Thank you again for everything!

Bill Glidewell
Addy, WA
 
* * *

January 27, 2005

Kelly,
We are still jazzed about your visit on Tuesday!  The students and staff were inspired and in awe of your knowledge and skills.  We hope to do this every year and maybe we can have you visit again!  We're looking forward to your new books, especially Wild Dogs.  Thanks so much for the craft book on using foam trays.  We are also going to order the stick book!  I am attaching the picture of you, Claire, and the interview girls, Taryn and Glenna.  They both have permission for you to use the photo if you like.  All the best to you in your adventures and thanks again for sharing your inspiring writing.

Katy

P.S.  I loved the black bracelet!!

RESPONSE:

Katy, I had a GREAT time with your Hoffstetter Hawks, and I love the picture. Thanks.  I'm glad I didn't offend your with my "I Didn't Vote 4 Bush" bracelet. I'm still laughing over that one, and I've got one here on my desk just for you!

Kelly

* * * * *

January 12, 2005

Kelly,
Everyone was talking about your presentation in the lunch room today. They loved it.  One parent told me the first thing her daughter said when she walked through the door was, "I touched dinosaur poop today".  And the fact that you e-mailed a student was awesome.  Thanks so much!!

Claudia Sobczuk
Deer Park Elementary
Washington

* * * * *

January 11, 2005

You did a good  job today. I think your books are neat. I like dinosar mummies. Pink is my 2nd favorite color. Green is my 1st favorite color. The fossils are cool. Where did you get all of those feathers. Good Luck!

Katheryn V., 2nd Grade
Deer Park Elementary
Washington

RESPONSE

Hi Kathryn,
     Wow!  Thank you so much for telling me I did a good job today at your school. Pink is my 2nd favorite color too, and red is my first. So if we put your favorite together with my favorite, we look like Christmas. <smile> 
     Where did I get all those feathers?  I got them at the craft store. I'm glad you liked taking one home with you. That makes me smile.
     Thanks again for writing to say nice things about my visit to your school.  You made my day. 
 
Best wishes,
Kelly

* * * * *

February 9, 2004

Kelly,  You recently visited my 2nd grade son's class in Newport WA.  He has done nothing but talk about the raptor claw he says he can purchase for $7-10.  Please send us the information on how to get one. He has already saved up enough allowance to purchase it.  Thanks for sparking his interest.  Bobbie B.

Hi Bobbie,

Yes, you can get a replica of a raptor claw fossil for a reasonable price.  If you'll go to this URL: http://www.paleoclones.com/dinosaurs/clawsandteeth.htm#105
 
You'll see the Utahraptor replica I use in my presentations.  It's $8.00 now -- has gone up a dollar since I last checked. But it's a really good copy of the real thing and relatively sturdy. I'm delighted to think your son had fun at the presentation, and thrilled if I helped spark his fire for learning. That's why I do what I do.  So thanks for saying so.  Let me know what he thinks of his claw, will you?
 
Kelly
 

About Bookstore Events

February 20, 2004

Ms. Milner Halls,

Thank you for taking time to participate in such an informative presentation with Mr. Trueman tonight at Auntie\'s.  I enjoyed it and learned some new things and had other things reiterated.  Your wide background of experience was obvious based on your responses to the various questions.  I found the evening to be very motivational, and it reaffirmed that I am on the right track with my writing.

Thank you, too, for allowing me to record the evening.  I will listen to the tape when I need a boost.

Jan St. George

February 20, 2004

Dear Kelly,

You were terrific tonight.  It was so good to see you and you had such a good turn out. You are always such an encouragement to me. I'm glad that you will be teaching the class at the Falls.  You always tell it like it is and that is so helpful and refreshing.
Thanks again, my dear,

Margy

February 22, 2004

Dear Kelly,
 
It was a pleasure to meet you at Auntie's last Friday evening.  Thank you for the great presentation.  It gave me a lot to think about.  I appreciate you taking the time to help others get started in getting published.  You have given me inspiration to keep working on putting together some non-fiction books for the beginning reader.
 
Thanks,
 
Clark Ness

* * * * *

December 14, 2003

Hi Kelly,
 
It was wonderful to meet you yesterday at the Children's Corner Bookshop.  You really made Lucas's day!  He is still talking about you, your book, and your terrific exhibits.  He is indeed still talking about the raptor claw, so if you would be so kind as to let me know where we might find one, we would be much obliged. 
 
Your book is great.  We have been enjoying it continually since we left the shop.  It's very well designed; we love the main story line, the sidebars, photos and illustrations.  The information in the back is so helpful -- and so thorough!  We'll refer to this book for many years to come, I'm sure.  What a thoughtful, beautifully organized book!
 
Thank you very much for indulging Lucas for so long yesterday with all of his questions.  I am sure you know as a mother that it is experiences such as the one he had with you yesterday are part of what can cement a lifelong love for learning.  Lucas thinks it's pretty cool that he got to "meet the author."
 
It was a pleasure to meet you.
 
Kelly M.
 
RESPONSE
 
Please tell Lucas the pleasure was all mine. Part of the reason I write for kids is the remarkable enthusiasm they have for learning and imagination, if we as adults give them half a chance to express those things.  You are obviously a WISE mother who values her young man's potential. How do I know that?  Lucas  isn't afraid to ask questions or to wonder aloud. It's terrific to see that. So thank YOU for bringing him and for buying the book. I'm so pleased you both enjoyed it. That's exactly why I do what I do. 
 
As promised, I tracked down a reasonably priced raptor claw you can get via PaleoClones. You can find more expensive casts at Skullduggery and other retail outlets, and maybe when Lucas is a little older, you'll make that investment. But I'd recommend this $8.00 version for the next few years. It's the version I bring to schools and bookstores so I can let them touch and explore without hesitation. And it's authentic enough not to misdirect.
 
This link will bring you right to the Utahraptor claw. But you'll see there are LOTS of other options to consider.
 
 
Again, thanks SO much for stopping by the Children's Corner on a snowy day -- and for buying the book. Don't hesitate to write again if there are any questions I can answer for your or Lucas. You three also made MY day. : ) 
 
Best wishes,
 
Kelly


 

 

About Conferences

October 25, 2005

Hi Kelly.

Boy, what a fine writer you are! I've been reading snippets from the Children's Writers Market book I won at the MI SCBWI Conference as I try to re-acclimate after being at the conference and in NY.

I wanted to thank you for all you presented of yourself at the Conference. Seeing that mother with tears in her eyes after you talked about your personal experiences with your husband and your daughter cutting herself made me realize again how important it is to share such things. Sometimes its the only way a person who feels lost and depressed finds a way to deal with his/her problems. I know [some people] shared so much about [their] bouts with depression. I write to share what I've learned about dealing with a lifetime of anxiety. Only as an adult did I find measures that have transformed my life (and brought me to writing for kids).

Lastly--I'm going to see Crutcher at the MLA Conference in Grand Rapids, MI on Thursday. I got myself in just to hear him speak. Have friends in Kalamazoo who discovered he had been in their city for a week after they returned from vacation.

Oh not quite lastly. I've got a pretty good photo from the conference with you & all the other presenters that I'll send to you hopefully by this weekend. That conference WAS fun, wasn't it? Can't wait to investigate creative nonfiction. Sounds like something I might like.

I'm so glad you got to connect with Ruth. You two seemed like the Bobsey Twins and there was good energy going. I met a former Chicago Ballet ballerina there, so we had lots to share too.

Take care and thanks for all you do for all of us,
Melanie Stinson
http://aplaceforus--thesite.com


* * * * *

October 24, 2005
 
Dear Kelly,
 
At the SCBWI Coeur d' Alene Conference I learned your role in jump-starting WashPan. Thank you.
 
I enjoyed every minute of your presentation, and left re-charged for my own non-fiction work. And your informative website is a great new resource for me.
 
Thank you for so generously sharing your expertise and inspiration, Kelly.
 
I certainly enjoyed meeting you,
Roz Duthie

* * * * *

September 29, 2005

Kelly,

I'm finally getting caught up and can take a look at the evaluations. Both of your workshops were frequently mentioned as the best of the day (and there's one that just has the mysterious notation "Harris" so I guess that goes in your column too--I didn't think "Halls" was that odd a surname, somehow).  One added, "Enjoyed Kelly Halls session
alot. She's humorous and real" ("real" is underlined).  Another said that the best part of the day was "personal crit by KMHalls--she's good!"

Thanks for everything and I look forward to seeing you again.

Tracy

Tracy Barrett, Regional Advisor
Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators, Midsouth
This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it
http://tracybarrett.com
http://scbwi-midsouth.com

* * * * *

February 5, 2005

Hi, Kelly. 

I'd thought for years about making myself a website, but it was your
wonderful enthusiasm at your breakout session that got me going.
Lucyfrank.com is now up, designed by me with the help of Site Spinner (a
very good, easily-learned program I got for, I think, $39.95? online.) It's
without its links yet, and I've got things to fix and add, but the site is
there for the world to see, and included on the jacket of LUCKY STARS,
coming out this summer.  And I just printed out your excellent Expose
Yourself article. So thanks again!

All the best,
Lucy 

* * * * *

August 12, 2004
HI there-- I saw your article in CWIM-- very impressive!  I also liked the Wild Dog book cover.  My third grade boys will love it.....

I enjoyed meeting you in LA.  Wow, what an action packed weekend- I am still recovering!  Thanks again for the great workshop you did with Esther-- I am going to share my notes with my critique group next week.

Laura Crawford

* * * * *

August 10, 2004 (an excerpt)
I've just returned from the National SCBWI conference and wanted to let everyone know that it was a wonderful and inspirational experience.  I won't go into details yet, because I have a LOT of sleep to catch up on after catching a red-eye home last night, but I did want to say that the people that I met from the CW list were among some of the friendliest and most welcoming folks around.  Roxyanne Young  took it upon herself right away to introduce me to the brilliant, famous authors that I didn't have the nerve to approach myself.  Kelly Milner Halls stayed up well into the double-digit hours to allow a large group of writers, including myself, to read our work aloud at an open mic session.  She listened carefully to each and every story and gave us insightful comments that promoted group discussion, and valuable feedback. 

Best,
Alina Klein

* * * * *

April 4, 2004
Hi Kelly,

I was fortunate to hear you speak at the reading conference at Gonzaga a few Saturdays ago. You were the highlight of the day!  I enjoyed listening to your entertaining stories--your enthusiasm for writing and reading was contagious.

My job share partner and I are VERY interested in the possibility of you visiting with our K-5 students next school year.  We teach at Broadway Elementary in the C.V. School District.  There are 12 other library/media teachers in the district.  At our next meeting (April 28th) we'd like to share info. about you with our fellow teachers, who are also considering authors for school visits.  If possible, could you please send an info. sheet with your picture on it and a copy of one of your books for us to look over?

Broadway Elementary Library
11016 E. Broadway Ave.
Spokane, WA  99206

Thanks,
Kathy Kalich

* * * * *

August 9, 2002
A quick note to thank you for your great workshop on Writing for Magazines
at SCBWI in Los Angeles. Despite your one hour of sleep you gave us an
amazing amount of useful information.
Best regards,
Marlou R. 

August 6, 2002
Dear Kelly,
I was at two of your SCBWI sessions and can't tell you how much I got out of them.  (Well I could, but you probably have a life and would prefer not to read a 10 page email.)  This is the first conference I've attended when publicity and marketing were issues for me.  I was completely ignorant going in, and now I have some sense of the basics and can at least identify the areas about which I know somewhat more than nothing but need to learn more.  You, Roxyanne, and Tracy Van Staaten (sp?) have demystified an area I found quite intimidating, and I am most grateful.
Sincerely,
Ann S.

August 6, 2002
I attended Kelly Milner Halls' workshop on book reviews. I had not read my email in days, so I didn't know at that time that Kelly had gone through hell to get there. Thank you, Kelly. I learned so very much from that workshop....Kelly is a font of information
Karen L.

August 4, 2002
I attended your lecture on writing for magazines at the SCBWI Conference yesterday, and I loved it. I found it extremely helpful and funny!
Louise K. 


         
* * *

May 20, 2002
Dear Ms. Halls,
Thank you for taking the time to share your knowledge with aspiring writers at the May 18 SCBWI-Oregon Conference.  I found your class especially helpful because I'm 13 and always need advice from more experienced authors.Thank you again for your time, and I look forward to keeping in touch.
Sincerely,
Nora C.
(Portland SCBWI, 5/18/02)

May 22, 2002
Dear Kelly:
Thank you so much for your wonderful sessions at the Oregon SCBWI
Conference last Saturday.  You helped with practical information and
encouragement.  I'm sure all of us novice writers left the conference with
a twinge of envy at how successfully you have managed your career, and the
hope that we can do it to.  With hard work, of course!
Martha S.

May 22, 2002
Hi Kelly:
I really enjoyed your presentation at the SCBWI of Oregon's Annual Spring Conference.  I agreed with many of the things you said about writing articles for various magazines and getting your books published. 
Barry K.

* * *

January 3, 2001
On behalf of Writer's Digest Books and all of F&W Publications, we owuld like to extend our warmest offering of appreciation and gratitude for your contribution to The World's Largest Writing Workshop.
Sincerely,
Mary Poggione, National Accounts Manager and
Casey Ebert, National Accounts Assistant
F&W Publications

* * *

August 17, 2000
Dear Kelly,
Thank you for your words of encouragement, as well as the "speaking from experience" voice. Voices like that are lanterns on the writer's path. I look forward to talking to you online.
Meg O.
(Davis, CA SCBWI, 08/17/00)

 

About Critiques

April 13, 2002
Dear Kelly:
I REALLY WANT to THANK YOU for all your time and effort in reading over my children's story and giving me such great feedback. I can see why you are such a popular speaker and desired critiquer.  Your expertise is evident and all the wise advice you gave to me is greatly appreciated!! I shall be re-working my story AND re-working my story until one day I hope it is exceptional and then I can say to all, "Well, Kelly helped me!!! It's good because of her. I am truly grateful for your suggestions. You haven't heard the last of me. Have a lovely Memorial Day!!
Sincerely,
Nancy Jenkins


* * *

August 19, 2000
Ms. Halls,
Thank you for critiqueing my manuscript "From Nectar to Honey," at the Northern Ohioo SCBWI conference on August 18. If you are free, I would like to talk with you further.
Thank you again,
Tracy Becker

* * *

August 18, 2000
Kelly,
Just wanted to say thanks again for the time you took at the SCBWI conference to critique my poems and read "Daredevil Dan." Also, I hope you have enjoyed reading my poems.
Sincerely,
Charley Hoce
(Cleveland SCBWI)

 

About My Articles

November 6, 2005

Dear Kelly--

Thank you so much for your review of STRONG AT THE HEART in the Denver Post!  It is wonderful when a reviewer really understands what you are doing with a book.  You really made my day (and several more) and you may have made a big difference for some kids in the Denver area. 

I'm beginning to hear back from readers.  It is a stunning experience to learn that STRONG AT THE HEART allowed a teen to confide in her parents about ongoing abuse or a therapist to create an opening for a child to tell her story.  It's been quite a ride.

Thanks for making the world a little bit safer and this author a very happy woman.

warm regards,

Carolyn
<<>>
Carolyn Lehman
STRONG AT THE HEART
strongattheheart.com


* * *

February 10, 2005

Hi, Kelly,

Just read your article about Jon on smartwriters.com and wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed it.  My favorite lines were:

    "Is it sexist, this GUYS WRITE FOR GUYS READ?  Maybe.  But get over it.  Because when did the celebration of one sex become the diminishment of the other?"

Sue
formerly of Washington, now in Kansas ;-)

* * *

February 3, 2005

Hey Kelly!

Thanks so much for the beautiful article in CHILDREN\'S WRITER AND ILLUSTRATOR MARKET BOOK.  The compilation of your interviews for the novels in verse was so well done.  Thanks for including me!  What a relief my answers weren\'t so far from everyone else. :~)

My next novel in verse launches April 1, HOLD ME TIGHT. 

Thanks again and congrats on your writing successes! 

Best, Lorie Ann

* * *

 

January 18, 2005

Hi Kelly,
 
Thank you for you attractive ALA awards page on Smartwriters! I am a children's librarian and I came in this morning to assemble a display of the award-winning books that were announced yesterday.  Your site was a great time saver.  I copied the list on my color printer and included it on a big sign above the books.  I don't own a copy of the Newbery winner, but I don't imagine I am alone there. We were closed yesterday, but apparently someone at your place was working!
 
Many thanks.
 
Suzanne Hall
Children's Librarian
Putnam County Public Library
Greencastle, IN 
 

* * *

October 9, 2004
Kelly,
 
Thank you for sending your link to your Denver Post interview with Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson. I just finished the book on CD this morning, and what a wonderful story. I loved the ending, as all of the loose ends and explains so much. Your interview added a lot to the story for me, particularly the part about Molly and the "tough" girls in both of their lives.
 
As always, I enjoyed your work.
 
Lynn Evarts
Sauk Prairie High School
 
* * *

April 16, 2001
Dear Kelly,
I wanted to tell you that I'm really enjoying the articles you're writing for the Sunday Denver Post book section. This last one on Chris Crutcher was brilliant. I'm still cheering the exposure YA books are getting because of you. I've now decided there are only two good things about the Post/News merger: You and Dave Barry. I hope your column is a regular feature. Who's the book editor there? I'd like to write him to request they keep you forever and expand your space.
Cheers,
Julie Peters

* * *

August 5, 2002
Thank you so much for the wonderful article on Patrick Levis. He is one of my favorite actors, yet no other magazine has interviewed him. Itıs great to see that celebrities with good morals and Christian views can get noticed, too. Thank you.
Stepheny, OH

* * *

August 8, 2002
Thank you so much for the article on Patrick Levis! Itıs good to know that there really are great Christian role models on TV. Thanks again!
Maddie 

* * *

December 10, 2002
Thank you so much for "How to Survive Your Parentsı Divorce" (Guidepost for Teens, Dec/Jan). My parents separated about seven years ago and then got divorced a couple years after that. I never knew how much it really hurt me until this last summer. God has faithfully been helping me to deal with the pain. It helped me so much to know that other teens are having a hard time with it, too. And to all of you from the same situation, hang in there and trust God to heal the pain. Every time youıre feeling discouraged or mad, pray. It helps. Talk to your parents, too. Itıs hard, but it really helps to know exactly what happened and why it didnıt work. Thanks again!
Lins, CA

* * *

February 10, 2003
Thank you for "How to Survive Your Parentsı Divorce." Itıs helped me a lot. I was only a baby when my parents divorced, and I donıt remember the fighting. But my dad brags about the way he hurt my mom. So Iıve learned to stand up, but first listen to his opinion, then tell him the downs of what he says. It helps, and we can talk more positively about how his life used to be with my mom.
Rebecca, GA

* * *

October 9, 2003
Oh my gosh, I must be dreaming! I got the latest issue of GP4T (after some harmless verbal abuse from my parents) and I couldnıt believe who was on the cover‹Apolo Anton Ohno! Everyone who knows me well knows Iım obsessed, including my parents and my brotherıs girlfriend. Of all the magazines I subscribe to, youıve been the first since the 2002 Olympics to have him on the cover, and included the best article and the most pics! Thank you so much! Of course, Apolo doesnıt come before God in my life. Because Christianity influences many of my decisions, I knew that being a fan of Apolo would not deteriorate my moral values because of the person he is. Your article proves that heıs a great person and athlete, and I thank you so much! Keep up the good work on the magazine. Iıve been reading either Guideposts or GP4T ever since my grandfather passed away (he sent for a gift subscription before he passed away a few years ago) and I havenıt seen a bad issue of either publication yet!
Marybeth

* * * * *

November 10, 2003

I wanted to say that I thought the article you did on Apolo Ohno was great. I saw him win the gold at the Olympics and I thought he was stuck-up, but your article shed some light on his personality. He seems really sweet and he is such a babe! Thank you again.

Kodi, CA

* * * * *

November 11, 2003

Dear Kelly,
  Since I own and love your new Dinosaur Mummies book, I was thrilled with your article in the November, 2003 edition of Book Links (a yearly gift from my daughter the teacher) - I have a reading club for ages 9 to 12 and this is just the type of material needed to help
them find GOOD nonfiction books to read.   For our December meeting I am planning to use your book along with the "Dinosaurs of Waterhouse Hawkins" - which I also love - it lets the reader know people did make mistakes about dinosaurs, whereas your book
has the true facts and evidence about actual digs for dinosaurs. This is the part I think the kids will really enjoy. Thanks again for all the wonderful information.

Kathi Kelley : )
Burlington County Library
Burlington, NJ
Youth Services

* * * * *


 

About Reviews

December 1, 2000
Dear Kelly,
I was on a book tour when my husband called and read your generous review of Alice's Tulips. Of course, I'm glad you liked it. But I'm especally pleased you reviewed it in the spirit in which it was written. In the past, my characters met challenges because they had constant inner strength. Alice is the only who who's grown so much, and I didn't like her at first either. Thanks for such a thoughtful review.
Sincerely,
Sandra Dallas, Author

* * *

May 14, 2001
Hey Kelly,
Congratulations on the Washington Post reviews -- almost a full page; very impresive. Hope this is the first of many, many more for you.
Hugaroonies,
Donna Duggan

 

From Authors & EditorsFebruary 3, 2005

Hey Kelly!

Thanks so much for the beautiful article in CHILDREN\'S WRITER AND ILLUSTRATOR MARKET BOOK.  The compilation of your interviews for the novels in verse was so well done.  Thanks for including me!  What a relief my answers weren\'t so far from everyone else. :~)

My next novel in verse launches April 1, HOLD ME TIGHT. 

Thanks again and congrats on your writing successes! 

Best, Lorie Ann

* * *

May 17, 2001
Amazon.com ranking for BREATHING UNDERWATER has "mysteriously" jumped 600,000 places, from 700,000 to 94,000. It's been climbing g-r-a-d-u-a-l-l-y for the past few months, but no big jumps. I can only assume this has something to do with a certain YA roundup in the Washington Post.
See how influential you are?!
Alex Flinn
http://www.alexflinn.com

* * *

May 10, 2002
You do such a nice job with your articles, and actually get quotes right! 
Lurlene McDaniel
http://www.eclectics.com/lurlenemcdaniel

 
*  *  *

November 29, 2000
Kelly,
If you really want to see with your own eyes how much good you can do, go out to the Amazon ELECTRIC GOD page, where you will note that the book is #1 in Colorado.
Thanks,
Catherine Ryan Hyde
http://www.cryanhyde.com/
(After I reviewed the book in the Denver Post)

* * *

August 3, 2000
Hi Kelly,
Here is a copy of STOP PRETENDING and some info I thought might be of interest. Thank you so much for passing your copy on to Chris Crutcher and for offering so kindly to help me spread the word.
Love,
Sonya (Sones)

 

About Websites

June 30, 2002
I just went to my site and I LOVE it, Kelly! It looks great. I also just typed in Elisa Carbone's name (she and I emailed a few days ago about what you were doing for me) and she said she might plunge into doing her site with you this weekend - and there it was - in full glory. It looks fabulous!!!  Great job, Kel! You're very creative and make an author look really *cool*. Way to go!
Kimberley Griffiths Little
www.kimberleygriffithslittle.com

* * *

June 30, 2002
Back to see what Kelly has done on my website!  Boy, is she a find!  Thanks
for sharing her with us!
Elisa Carbone to Alex Flinn.
www.elisacarbone.com

* * *

March 2002
Check out Chris Crutcher's www.aboutcrutcher.com, the BEST young adult writer's page on the Web! Sometimes as a writer, it's difficult to know how to use the Web to your best advantage, and for children's authors, it's even a more difficult call. At www.aboutcrutcher.com,YA author extraordinaire, Chris Crutcher and his web designer, freelance writer and children's author, Kelly Milner Halls have figured out a way to blend sales and purpose, heart and information, into a cohesive, direct and enjoyable site that's as much fun as forum. And come to think of it...that pretty much describes the author as well as the site, and if that isn't the mission of any good website, I don't know what is. Way to go, CC & KMH!
New England SCBWI

 

About Book Donations
(Posted ONLY because all these great people -- and people like them -- need MORE books...so share a few TODAY!)

June 18, 2002
Today, the books arrived, and I can't tell you how appreciative we are!  I will share them with different grade levels-especially new teachers.  So many of the books lend themselves to help our 4th and 5th graders with their writing-filled with figurative language and dialogue!  Many examples were displayed for use of words other than "said". I especially enjoyed the poetry books and multicultural books.  Our principal said we will reimburse you for the postage, so expect a check from me soon.  Again, thank you so much.  Our lower Alabama rural school needs books, and these will be put to good use.  You are so generous. I'm always looking for ways to get literature into the hands of the students, and you have been a lifesaver.  Thank you so much!
Nancy W. Bleich
103 St. Clair Place
Dothan, AL 3630r

* * *

July 3, 2002
We received the books yesterday and you should of seen the look on Mercedes face. She was so pleased. She already started reading one of the books and she nearly finished with it. She said thank you very much for the yo - yo. Her sister Marisol likes her books too. I will keep you informed on how Mercedes is doing. Again thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
Mercedes, Belinda & Marisol

July 5, 2002
Hello. We just wanted you to know that Mercedes has already finished two books. She is so excited. I just want to thank you once again from the bottom of our hearts.  
Belinda, Marisol and Mercedes
 

 
 

 

 
Comments? Email me: KellyMilnerH@aol.com

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