and still a beloved classic?
Katherine: I ask myself that question. I really do, because I wasn’ t even sure it’ d be published. It was such a personal story. The fact that it is understood and loved by people all around the world who don’ t speak my language, who do not live in my country, who do not have the same religion I have, and no obvious connection with me, is astounding. I think it’ s a matter of readers bringing their own grief to the book. It still sells more than all of my other books put together.
Megan: Two of your books have been made into feature films, including Bridge to Terabithia. Your son, David,
was a co-screenwriter for that one. Did that make you feel more comfortable knowing he was involved?
Katherine: Oh boy, yes. He told me that he stood in front of a table full of executives and said,“ See these last 28 pages? This is why the book is loved around the world. You can’ t change the last 28 pages of this book!” They didn’ t think they were going to make any money, but it was a big moneymaker. The weekend after the movie came out, they began calling for the sequel.
Megan: The holidays are fast approaching. What are some of your holiday traditions with the family?
Katherine: Years ago, before we moved to Vermont, my husband said that nobody wants to hear a sermon on Christmas Eve. He asked,“ Would you go to the library and find me a Christmas story to read?” I went to the library, and every story I looked at turned my stomach. I can write better than that. Had I written fiction up to that point? No. So, I wrote a story, and it got to be a terrible tradition. I had to write one every year.( She laughs.) I don’ t do it now, because fortunately, I don’ t have to!
Since I was married to a minister, I had to stay home for Christmas. We had our own traditions. When my children grew up and had families, I thought
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Water Mist, the author’ s second novel, is engaging and historically accurate while delivering actions with authentic emotion. It sheds light on events and people in Rutland County, Vermont, heretofore unknown, and does so with candor and courage.
“ Water Mist, the second book by author Mona Barton Benson is a must read! The author completely pulls you in touching your heart from the beginning to the end. The story line takes you from love and loss to embarking on a journey that at times will shake you to your core. The perseverance of the main character shines through in the places he travels to, the folks he meets along the way and the life long relationships he builds. The story comes full circle bringing him home once again to fulfill his destiny. You won’ t be disappointed!” via Amazon
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