The Month of Thanks – October 7

Continuing on in my Month of Thanks, here is my letter for October 7th.

To Mur Lafferty,

I don’t usually enjoy being lectured, but when the lecture is riddled with gin-fueled jokes, I can make an exception.

Especially when the advice being given is from someone who’s been there, who’s chronicled their setbacks and their successes for others to see.

You have been a fixture in podcasting for a long time, so when you agreed to voice a part for The Dreamer’s Thread, I was over the moon. Playing for Keeps was the first podiobook I ever listened to, and it still remains my favorite to this day. It was the single nail in the coffin that sealed my fate as a podcaster. To have someone as knowledgable and talented as that as part of my cast remains a point of pride to me to this day.

What I was not prepared for was to also be gaining a steadfast voice of confidence in my work and someone to push me along in my endeavors. On more than one occasion, you have given your time and advice unselfishly. Even though five other people are hovering nearby, waiting for their chance to talk to you, you have given me your undivided attention, answering any question I have, and making sure to push me into action.

When I express amazement that you’re concerned about my success: “Don’t be ridiculous. You’re awesome.”

When I hem and haw over whether or not an email is worth sending: “Don’t you dare not send that email! You do that immediately!”

When I thank you for letting me bug you about stuff: “Stop being silly. I have plenty of time for you.”

Many of us stand in awe of our favorite authors, putting them up on some pedestal and making them the standards by which we judge our own work and our own successes. I am fortunate in that those I hold in such high regard are also my friends, and are wonderful, giving people on top of being so talented. I am elated that several of them are finally seeing the success and recognition they deserve. Though you’ve released several other books, The Shambling Guide to New York City is garnering rave reviews and praise, to which I couldn’t be happier for you. You are an immensely talented storyteller. That you are a kind, giving person makes your triumph even more satisfying.

So, Mur, for all the lectures and bits of advice, I thank you and wish you a million more books, each selling more than the last. You deserve each bit of praise and each sale and then some.

With Hope and Gratitude,

Starla Huchton