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Hi Carmine, How are you today? I have been looking on SCBWI's website to find conferences held in Boston this year. I can't seem to find any. They don't seem to mention massachussetts in their site. If you have any good ideas on how to find them, please let me know. thanks, have a great day! Janine
Hi Carmine, How are you today? I have been looking on SCBWI's website to find conferences held in Boston this year. I can't seem to find any. They don't seem to mention massachussetts in their site. If you have any good ideas on how to find them, please let me know. thanks, have a great day! Janine
Hi Carmine, I wanted to let you know that your writers advice is an excellent idea! I've been trying to put my head together, so to speak and putting a word in the center of the page and writing what the word is associated with, is great excercise for the writer and for the writers mind! Thank you for all of the advice on this website, it's always helpful. Have a great day today and tuesday! Janine
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Dear Camie,
You are most welcome for the signed bookmarks, and yes, I personally sign each and every one. It’s my way of doing something special for my young readers. I hope you will enjoy A LETTER TO MRS. ROOSEVELT.
You are curious about my name? Are you ready for an even longer explanation? My parents named me after my father, Carmel Coco. As Carmine Coco, my teachers often called me “Miss Hot Chocolate.” For a short time in high school a cousin shortened my name to “Cam.” After marriage I became Carmine Coco De Young. I kept the Coco name because we are a family of storytellers, and that is where my writing began. However, once published, I didn’t want my full name to cover the entire jacket of the book so I shortened it to C. Coco De Young. I'm also often addressed as "My Love" by Mr. De Young, "Mom" by our children, "Mrs. D." by their friends, and was dubbed by my dear hobo friends as "Connecticut Tootsie." Just remember what Shakespeare wrote..."What's in a name? That which we call a rose By any other name would smell as sweet."
Congratulations, Camie! You are the first to ask about the length of my name and nicknames. Have a great summer and happy reading.
Smilin’ at you (real big) from my writing desk,
C. Coco De Young
dear c. coco deyoung, thank u for the bookmarks u sent to my class. do u sign them all or is it a stamp? i will get your book to read while im on vacation. has anyone ever told u that u have a very long name? how did u get that name? do you have a nickname? bye.
camie
REPLY
Dear Janine,
Sorry to have missed you in the writing class, and many thanks for understanding. The contest was great fun and quite the learning experience as a speaker, storyteller, and writer.
Now the good news; though I will not be teaching a writing class in Ridgefield over the summer, I will escape to the Adirondacks to teach Writing for Children at the Pyramid Life Center in Paradox, NY from July 20 to 25. This is the 2008 Women’s Writing Retreat, and quite a place to be for female writers of all levels and genres. The retreat link is in the sidebar to the right of this message. I hope you will consider this unique and inspiring venture. Please feel free to contact me with any questions, or perhaps we can meet to chat about your writing prior to your move. If not, be certain to connect with SCBWI (Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators) in the Boston area as they are a great group. Again, a link to the national SCBWI site is to the right. Good luck. As a former resident of the Boston area, I can assure you that you will love Boston.
Smilin' at you from my laptop,
Carmine
C. Coco De Young
Hello Carmine! I'd love to meet you! I was signed up for the writing class you were teaching in ridgefield, ct but it got canceled because of a contest you were in. I am curious whether you have writing classes in other places during the summer? In september, I will be relocating to Boston, so I will miss the next class you teach in ridgefield. I'd love to write a childrens book based on a past very traumatic experience with some of my imagination involved of course! Well, I hope to meet you in the future, you inspire me in many ways! Janine
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Thank you, Ray...I wish the De Young gang shared your opinion of my fine sense of humor. The names you mentioned are familiar, but I’ve lived away from Johnstown for 34 years. However, I certainly appreciate their good thoughts about my book as well as your daughter's. As for her opinion of your book...smart girl...especially because she'll be borrowing the car keys in the not too distant future! Good luck with your Christmas story.
Smilin' at you from my writing desk,
Carmine
C. Coco De Young
Okay, I found it...I miss good old paper and pencil and the Tribune-Democrat!
Hello Carmine, I wrote you a beautifully crafted note but somehow in this cyber world, I tend to lose things forever. I wrote about your silly sense of humor...which reminds me of me. I spoke of families such as (names removed for privacy)...family borrowed my 'Letter' book and just fell in love with it. The matriarch worked at Mercy Hospital. I also stated that I cannot wait until your 'Show Me the Way' book is published and how reliving the Stations through writing must be challenging. I know because I'm writing a nativity story from a different angle instead of the outdated linear approach...tough stuff. Thank you for writing back. Your note has kept a smile on my face. Also, my 12 year old daughter told me to say that she loved your book...but mine is her favorite! Peace, Ray Bennese
Hello Carmine, I have fallen for your sense of humor. You remind me of, well, an older me. I spend an enormous amount of time researching an era as you have so masterfully accomplished in 'The Letter'. It is amazing how focused I get spinning off in multiple directions grasping onto yet another fascinating slice of history. Many writers have difficulty finding ideas but they slide from from olive enriched head. I'd love to make my work as a writer.... (names removed for privacy)...Thanks kid. P.S. I can't wait for 'Show Me the Way' to be published. That can be a tough subject. I'm working on 'The Christmas Church' which retells an overly told nativity story from a completely different angle. Peace, Ray Bennese
REPLY
Come sta, Raimondo? Grazie…your kind words are deeply appreciated and an inspiration to carry on during a very busy time. Congratulations on the success of your book. I will surely attain a copy and look forward to reading it. As a fellow writer of historical fiction you well know that while researching one element of the past(a), another surfaces and nearly gnocch(is) us over with an idea for the next book. In fact, research often leads us on adventures that others can-noli imagine. Okay, okay…I’ll go back to my chicken feathers. But I did get to meet an astronaut! Please extend my regards to your father.
Ciao!
Carmine
C. Coco De Young
Dear Amico, Many pots of spaghetti ago, you spoke at West End Catholic School in Johnstown. My father, Louis Bennese was the principal. He introduced me to 'A Letter to Mrs. Roosevelt'. I was back home recently and reread your book. What a magnificent work of art! It in an honor to have a copy. I had a historical fiction children's book published last year. 'Till the Train Runs Out of Track' brings to me the same emotional connection as your book. Your book has inspired a wonderful book idea in me. I will use your format as an educational tool...grazie. Peace & Arrivederci, Ray Bennese
REPLY
Hello, my friend, and thank you for checking in. Did you see the photos of me with the chicken feathers? I've been quite busy and “that’s no yolk!” Speaking engagements and visiting schools to meet with my young readers has me in a bit of a tailspin. However, I like to spread my wings to new adventures, and each event does just that. I hope all is well with you, too, Leiny. The summer vacation is almost here, so please think safety first THEN have fun. You’ve mentioned that you like to read. Take time to visit your local library and peck away at the shelves of good reading that await you there. As always, it’s a pleasure to hear from you, Leiny. Take good care of yourself.
I’m smilin’ (and chirpin’) at you from my writing desk,
C. Coco De Young
hey mrs. young its leiny what going on hows everything.
REPLY
Hello, AmyLouise. Thank you for visiting my website. I hope this note brings you a bit of sunshine all the way from Pennsylvania. I'm here visiting with "Charlie."
Smilin' at you from my laptop,
C. Coco De Young
hello im amylouise
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Hello again, Cousin Marissa. The bookmarks are on the way with extras for your teacher and librarian. They will arrive at your home along with a letter to you and your classmates. Enjoy!
A smile and hugs coming your way from my laptop,
Cousin Carmine
C. Coco De Young
Dear Cousin Carmine, Thanks for your reply. There are 27 students in my 2nd grade class. Thank you so much! I know they will really enjoy the bookmarks. When is your next book coming out? Hope to read it soon. Love, Cousin Marissa
REPLY
My dearest Cousin Marissa,
Thank you for visiting me here! I often think of the wonderful time we had dancing between the raindrops at Idewild Park last summer. Perhaps we will see each other again at the family reunion. It makes me smile to know that you are now old enough to enjoy reading A Letter to Mrs. Roosevelt. Send me an email with the number of students in your class and I will send you signed bookmarks. I’m also sending you a bucket of smooches; one for you, my aunties and uncle, and each of my cousins in Virginia.
I’m smilin’ at you from my writing desk,
Cousin Carmine
C. Coco De Young
Hi, This is your cousin Marissa from Virginia. I loved your book!! I'm in 2nd grade now and did a report on Eleanor Roosevelt and showed my class your book. They thought it was so cool that I know an author and you are my cousin. Hope you can come to Virginia sometime soon! Love, Marissa
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Dear Mrs. Bennett and Third Grade Students,
Hello to you one and all! Goodness, but I have enjoyed reading through your many messages. Thank you for your kind words and good thoughts. It makes me happy, very happy, to know that you enjoyed reading my book. Your requests for a visit are most inviting. Spring is a busy time of the year for me as I continue with speaking engagements, my writing, and teaching a local writing class. HOWEVER, Mrs. B. is a special person to me, as are each of you. I promise to try very hard to stop in on my next trip to Johnstown. Until then take good care of each other, keep courage tucked in your pockets, and remember to share a few good belly laughs every day.
I'm smilin’ at you from my writing desk,
C. Coco De Young
Dear mrs.De Young my name is Laura and I love to blab like blah! blah! blah! So...I will blab to you! I love your book! You should make a sequel to A letter to Mrs. Rosevelt! Speaking of books I don't like sweet potato bye! From Laura!
Hi my name is Tessa. I love one of your books. It is called A Letter to Mrs. Roosevelt. You are sooooooooooooo cool! I hope to meet you someday.
Hi I love your book . My name is savannah. It is great. I would love it if you came to Westmont Elementray I am a big fan of you. I think it so cool that your sister works here at my school. Rember to come visit soon! love savannah
Hi my name is kayla. I love your book you're awesome. I would love if you came and visited WESTMONT HILLTOP ELEMENTARY SCHOOL. I know your sister Mrs. Skelly. I used to go to her. I have to go. Rememer to visit before next year which will be 2009. I will be in fourth grade.
Dear Mrs. Deyoung I LOVED your book.It is a really neat book.I would love to meet you. Sincerly, Meredith T.
Hello,I love your book that you wrote.Can you come visit us?Since our teacher read us the book it is my favorite book!I think everyone loves the book , it is a great book once you read the whole book you love it.By: Jocelyn
Hi we just finished reading a nice chapter book that you wrote.We liked it alot. We hope you come visit our school some day.I really like the chapter book.You really do make good book.We really hope you come to our school.Bye By Alexandra
Dear C. Coco De Young, I loved the story A Letter To Mrs.Rosevelt. My favorite part of it was when Charlie went missing. When I grow-up I'd like to be a book writer just like you. You do a great job with the stories that you write. I think you are an amazing writer. Me and my classmates are so surpised at how many copies A Letter To Mrs.Rosevelt has sold. From, Hannah in Mrs.Bennett's third grade class
WOW you have a big website! I wish I were you.I wonder if you could come to Westmont Hilltop Elementary school from,dodge
Hi I'm Rebecca. I love your book. how are you. I hope you're good.I felt scrared when the gypsies were chasing Margo and she thought the gypsies caught her. I hope you come visit us at Wesmont Hilltop Elementry School. love Becca
I hope you can come to my school so we could meet you. Gabriella
I like the book.I like when everybody thinks Charlie is missing.It is my favorite book. Each chapter gets better. from Brionna
I love A Letter To Mrs Roosevelt. It is very funny. from Cameron
I love A Letter To Mrs Roosevelt. It is very funny. from Cameron
I love A Letter to Mrs.Roosevelt!my name is mathilda.Can you come to my third grade class in westmont! your freind, mathilda
Hi my name is Alayna I love your book so much come to Westmont some day . Love, Alayna
Hey!It's your friend Byron. I love your book. The book is the best ever.I wish you could come to Westmont.I would like to meet you someday but for now bye. Your freind Byron.
Hi I am levi I love your book .It is so cool.I like the parts of the hobos.
Dear,Mrs.Deyoung If you have the time could you make another book?Also could you come to Westmount Elementary at room 35? From:Tommy
HI MY NAME IS ANNA M. I LOOOOVE YOUR BOOK. I LIKE THE CHAPTERS 18, 19, 20, AND ALL OF THEM. I ALSO KNOW MRS.SKELLY.
Hi I'm Michael. I really liked your book.My favorite part of your book was when charlie went missing. From, Michael
Hi, I'm Jack. I really love your book . I'm in Mrs.Bennett's class. Can you come and vist us? Love, Jack
Hi i relly like your story. it is cool We really want you to come to westmont hilltop we all are happy. we hope you come to our school. the chapter i like is "Surprise" thats my favorite. we just finished the book. we all clapped when mrs.bennett finished the book. your friend, destiny
We're back! Once again my third graders LOVED your book, A Letter to Mrs. Roosevelt. This year they stood and cheered when I read the First Lady's letter to Margo. They also cheered after the final word of the book. You would think that by now I wouldn't cry as I'm reading. Each time it gets better for me. Thank you again for a wonderful piece of literature. We hope you can visit us before the end of the year. Take care! Jana Bennett Westmont Elementary School, Third Grade
REPLY:
Hello again, Leiny. It is good to hear from you, and I hope your school year has been a good one. All is well here in Connecticut. It is especially nice to hear the birds chirping, tree frogs croaking, and smell the freshness of Spring. Since last you wrote Mr. De Young and I adopted a dog from the local shelter. Her name is Gabby and soon I’ll post a photo of her. She is good company and sits at my feet while I write. Take good care of yourself, Leiny, and remember to always think safety first then have fun.
Always a big smile for you,
C. Coco De Young
Hey Mrs. Young havent heared from you in a long time. Its Leiny how are you.
Good-day Mrs. C. Coco De Young! Thank you again for the bookmarkers. Marisa Joy was ecstatic when I arrived home with them (she could not come along with me, because she was very ill with a fever and strep throat). We both can not wait for your next book!! Marisa Joy squealed when she read about your daughter and her travels, for this is Marisa's dream to see the world and the different cultures. Thanks for being such a great encouragement to Marisa Joy, this shows her that if you work hard and believe you can achieve. Sincerely and God Bless all of you, Juscinda & Marisa Joy
REPLY:
Dear Juscinda and Marisa Joy,
Good morning to you, too! You are not alone in wishing that A Letter to Mrs. Roosevelt was still in hardcover. I get requests all the time. However, that is the decision of the publishing house. Matthew Archambault illustrated Margo just as I pictured her in my mind. That amazes me since I’ve never met the illustrator. It also made for a beautiful jacket for the hardcover. I will return to Johnstown in mid-April, at which time Charlie and I will gladly sign the paperbacks. I will also leave the signed bookmarks at the Yankee Shoe Repair this Saturday. What a wonderful idea to go on a field trip in Johnstown. Remember, where St. Anthony’s School now stands was once the site of Margo’s home.
Marisa is a beautiful name, and yes, my daughter always has to correct the spelling of her name. You may find it interesting to know that Marisa now plays my dad’s bassoon. Dad, whose real name is Carmel Coco (“Charlie” in the book), played the bassoon with the Johnstown Symphony Orchestra for 61 years before passing his bassoon on to his granddaughter. She also plays the clarinet, and took lessons on the didgeridoo while studying in Australia. She leaves soon for India. I can’t wait to see what instrument she brings home this time. Marisa practices and plays them all quite well. I believe that everybody has talent, be it an instrument, singing, writing, sports, or just finding a way to make others smile. You’ve both made me smile. Thank you and farewell for now. The characters in my next book are calling to me...it’s time to get to work!
Smilin’ at you from my writing desk,
C. Coco De Young
Dear Ms. D. C. Coco De Young, Good-morning! Thank you so very much for your tremendous kindness. I was so disappointed to hear that your book is no longer available in hard cover. So, I got on Barnes and Noble and found the 6 copies I was praying for the only problem is that I will not receive them for 7-10 days. I did ask Barnes and Noble about overnight express and they told me they could and would only do 5 day delivery, so the books would never be here by the weekend. Marisa Joy was so upset and disappointed, because she really wanted to have you and "Charlie" sign them. Marisa Joy is very excited and can not wait to receive the bookmarkers to give to her classmates, she will need 28 total. I will be at church (Oakland United Methodist on Bedford Street) on Saturday for a Women's Communion Breakfast and could pick them up afterward (around noon) if that is okay.? Also, once I receive the books and if you come back to town to visit again would it be okay for them to be dropped off and signed by you and "Charlie" at that point? Marisa Joy also wanted me to tell you that she was extremely overjoyed to see that your daughter (we believe it was your daughter) is named Marisa and is spelled the same way. Marisa gets so upset because everyone seems to think her name is spelled incorrectly and that it needs to have two s'. Marisa and I are planning a field trip this summer through downtown Johnstown, she wants to see if we can find some of the streets, bridges etc. that you talk about in the book and if we are able to walk from were that old homestead had been to the store. I hope I don't get us lost. ICKES! It will be a great exprience for both her and I. I hope you have a fantastic weekend visit with your family and thanks again for your wonderful kindness and generosity. It is very much appreciated and loved. May God bless you and your family. Sincerely, Juscinda & Marisa Matlin
REPLY:
Hello, Mrs. Matlin and Marisa Joy. Thank you for your kind words and good thoughts. I have fond memories of visiting Forest Hills Elementary School. It is good to know that mother and daughter are sharing together time to read A Letter to Mrs. Roosevelt. That is very special. Unfortunately, my book is no longer available in hardcover, unless you can find a clean, unsigned copy on one of the web sites. However, if you wish, I will be in Johnstown this weekend to visit "Charlie." Both he and I will sign any copies you leave at the Yankee Shoe Repair. I will also leave enough signed bookmarks for Marisa Joy's (a beautiful name) class; just let "Charlie" know how many you need. Again, thank you for visiting my web site.
Smilin' at you from my writing desk,
C. Coco De Young
Good-day, Ms. C. Coco De Young! My daughter, Marisa Joy Matlin is 8 1/2 years old and in the 3rd grade at Forest Hills Elementary. We just started reading your book A letter to Mrs. Roosevelt together last evening and are completely in love with it. Can this book be purchased in hard back? We really would love at least 6 copies in hard back three for us and 3 for gifts. Thank you for the wonderful book! God Bless Mrs. Matlin
REPLY:
Dear Gabi Gordon…what a great name! Thank you for your kind words, and I’m thrilled to know that you love A Letter to Mrs. Roosevelt. It has just been published in the Korean language, and I hope the young readers across seas will also enjoy my book.
You asked what inspired me to write this book. Both Mother and Dad were wonderful storytellers. They often shared their stories of growing up during the Great Depression. At the age of 90, Dad (Charlie in the book) still comes up with new stories. I learned real life history by listening to my parents. When I became a teacher, my students related better and remembered more easily the lessons learned in Social Studies because I taught in the same manner…storytelling. When I decided to write this book, it was important to me that the readers enjoy, understand, and remember how people survived during that difficult time in history. Storytelling, by word of mouth or on the written page, helps because a person may not remember all the details, but will recall those moments that touched the heart.
Gabi, ask your family to tell you their stories. This great country is made up of millions of family stories…and like the ingredients in a Mulligan stew…each one adds flavor to the understanding of our American history.
You also want to know something about me? There is a wealth of information on this website, however, there is one thing only Mr. De Young and my children know…I get a little teary-eyed each and every time I sing or hear our National Anthem. It’s all about the courage it took to build our country. I think of my grandparents. Yes, upon their arrival to the Unites States they cried as their ship sailed past the Statue of Liberty. They’d left their homes in Italy, but oh how they loved this country. I think of the millions of other family stories like mine and like yours in that stew pot. I think of the men and women proudly serving our country. The list goes on. Well now, all of cyberspace just learned that I’m a mush at heart! Perhaps that’s okay.
Take good care of your family history, Gabi. And remember; always keep courage tucked in your pocket.
I’m smilin’ at you from my writing desk,
C. Coco De Young
I love a letter to Mrs. Roosevelt. I think you should write some more books or a sequel to a letter to Mrs. Roosevelt. What inspired you to become an author ? Please email me back! Gabi Gordon . p.s. tell me about you. Gabigordon@mac.com
REPLY:
Dear Abigail,
Your mother is absolutely correct! The historical facts in historical fiction cannot be changed, nor can the names of historical people such as Eleanor Roosevelt. However, the fictional characters, those I imagined and built into my story, must have a name and traits different from people I know. Otherwise, I could be in big trouble if someone thinks I’m writing about him or her, especially if it’s a character nobody likes! Though everybody seems to like Mr. Frappa, he is a complete figment of my imagination. I name my characters with great care. They are like children to me. How did Mr. Frappa get his name? My sister, Risa, and I were in a coffee shop trying to think of a name that sounded Italian. I was sipping my favorite cold coffee drink, a Mocha FRAPPAcino…voila! Your grandpa must be real special, cool and sweet. Good luck on your book report, and many thanks for your kind words. You can also see the board book I wrote at this website. Yes, I am currently finishing another novel and researching the third.
Smilin' at you from my writing desk,
C. Coco De Young
Dear C. Coco DeYoung, My name is Abigail and I live in North Dakota. I have been reading your book for a book report and I really like it. My mom said that when an author writes historical fiction that the historical parts have to be true but the author changes the names of the characters. Why do you have to do that? Did you do that in "A Letter to Mrs. Roosevelt"? How did you get Mr. Frappa's name? I like him because he is like my grandpa. My grandpa is always teaching us stuff about when he was a little boy. I hope you write back soon. My book report is due next week and I would like to read your answer to the class. Thanks for writing such a good book. Did you write any others? I hope you keep writing. Thank you! Abigail
REPLY:
Dear Nanci
Congratulations and salutations to you, too! Thank you for your kind words and good thoughts. Our years in Johnstown have certainly overlapped, and I still visit once a month. Charles Dickens once wrote, “There is a wisdom of the head, and a wisdom of the heart.” Both of your professions – present and yet to come – remind me of these words. I wish you the very best. As a cancer survivor I have utmost respect for the nursing profession. As a writer, the support of Library Technicians is invaluable as I research my next book. Thank you for visiting my website. The best of luck to you…and if you haven’t already done so, perhaps one day you’ll publish some of your writing.
Smilin' at you from my writing desk,
C. Coco De Young
I picked up your book at a library sale, because Mrs. Roosevelt is also one of my heroines. Then I opened the book and saw JOHNSTOWN. That is where I grew up 1948 until I left in 1969. We lived in Dale Borough. My parents ended up living on Maple Ave. much later on. I became a nurse at Conemaugh Valley Memorial Hospital. And I also love to write and to read. I have been a nurse for almost 40 years and I am taking a class to certify as a Library Tech when I retire in 2010. I did read your book straight through. I loved it, every bit of it. Congratulations!! Wishing you the best. A fellow Johnstown alumni--Nanci L. Warner
REPLY:
Congratulations, Noah! I have visited readers in schools all across the United States and have never been asked this question. Good for you. I have often thought of building a character that does play an instrument, but only if it is important to my story or helps to move my story forward in some way. As for me, I play in a bell choir and can also play the spoons quite well.
Happy tooting,
C. Coco De Young
Dear C. Coco De Young, I am in the sixth grade band at school. I play the trumpet. Will your characters ever play an instrument? Do you play any instrument? Noah
REPLY:
Dear Friend, I once taught Third Grade, and must tell you that I have many fond memories. I hope your book club enjoyed A Letter to Mrs. Roosevelt. I'll look forward to hearing from you.
Smilin' at you from my laptop,
C. Coco De Young
Dear Mrs. De Young, A group of my 3rd grade friends decided to do a book club and we chose A Letter to Mrs. Roosevelt. I read the book and loved it. We meet tonight to discuss it and will update you.
REPLY:
Dear Friend,
Thank you for reminding us all. Yes, always believe because miracles can and do happen.
Sending you a smile of gratitude,
C. Coco De Young
For all the kids writing to Carmine miracles happen once in a while when you bealive.
REPLY:
Dear Friends,
My childhood was quite the happy one! Back then my imagination and keen sense of wonder kept me quite busy. It caused me to wander about, always exploring and making up stories about where I’d been and what I’d done. I especially liked following my big brother everywhere; often playing in the woods, swinging from hanging vines and catching salamanders under rocks in the creek. I also spent a great deal of time on my pink and white Schwinn bike. One day, while on the way home from the store on my bike, I noticed an injured chipmunk. I emptied the brown paper grocery bag holding two cans of tomatoes into the basket on my bike, then used bits of candy to urge the chipmunk into the bag. Once home, I set the bag on the kitchen counter then ran out to collect the cans from my bike basket. Can you guess what happened? Yes, indeed. You can well imagine my mother’s shriek when she opened the bag to get the cans of tomatoes! I HIGHLY recommend that you NEVER attempt to catch an injured chipmunk, or scare your mother with a surprise bag. But, then there was another time when I kept a toad in a bird cage…and the time I got on an elevator without my mother and got lost in a department store. A sense of wonder has always caused me to wander about. Now, it leads me to new stories; and my wild imagination helps me to write them. I do hope this helps you. If you need or want more information, please ask specific questions. I'll be happy to try again.
Smilin at you from my laptop,
C. Coco De Young
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Dear Alina,
I have included a bit more information above, in the reply addressed to friends. I do hope this helps you. Thank you for visiting with me through cyberspace.
Sending you a smile all the way from Connecticut,
C. Coco De Young
Hi Mrs. Young My name is Alina and can you please tell me more adout your early life cause i cant find anything on that. Thank You.
REPLY:
Dear Anonymous,
Wow! I'm so happy you enjoyed my website. Please see the note above, written to friends who have asked a question similar to yours.
Sending you a great big cyberspace smile,
C. Coco De Young
Hi Mrs.Young i think your website is awesome but I have not found certain information I need for my book report. P:S I need information about your early life as a child
REPLY:
Dear Annette,
Thank you for your thank you! It is always a pleasure to connect with my readers...of any age. May you and Alanis also be blessed with many joyful moments of "together time."
Ciao,
C. Coco De Young
Dear Ms. DeYoung: Thank you so very much for answering my daughter Alanis's note. She was thrilled to pieces and plans on putting the communication between you two into her Book Report. Once again thanks for your note to my daughter and by the way, "I too loved your book". God Bless you and your remarkable 89 year old Dad. Que Dios te Bendigan. Ciao Annette Cornier-Lopez
REPLY:
Dear Alanis,
Thank you for sharing your good thoughts about A letter to Mrs. Roosevelt. You and your mother might find it interesting to know that I am writing this note from Johnstown, PA, which was the setting for the book. Guess who is sitting right next to me? Nope! Try again. It’s “Charlie!” If you read the Author’s Note in the back of the book, you probably know that my father, Carmel, played the role of Charlie in the book. Believe it or not, Dad will be 89 years old on February 10th. He enjoyed reading the note you left on my website. We both wish you luck with your book report and a reply from someone famous. Remember to do what all fine writers must do – edit your work, rewrite, and rewrite again until you’ve done the best job possible. Dad wants you to know that for many years he kept the registered letter receipt which Mrs. Roosevelt’s secretary initialed. However, it was lost in the Johnstown Flood of 1977. Take good care of yourself and your mother, and remember to share a few good belly laughs every day.
Smilin' at you from my writing desk,
C. Coco De Young
Dear Miss DeYoung: My name is Alanis Lynne Lopez and am in the 5th grade.I had to read your book for a book report. I really loved your book and I even let my mother read it. We both enjoyed it. I was so sad to read about the Depresin and what it did to all the American people. I am glad you did not lose your house. Do you still have the letter Mrs. Roosevelt wrote? Maybe I too can wirte to someone famous and when I get a reply I will let you know right away. Thanks for writing such a great book. I really loved it. I will let you know what mark I recieve for my Book Report on a Letter to Mrs. Roosevelt.
REPLY:
Dear Sher,
Thank you for your kind words. It was an honor to be keynote speaker at the forum. What a truly wonderful event and opportunity for the young women in attendance. Blessings to all, including yourself, who also gave of their time and shared their many talents. What a great day! I have never been to Grantville. However, it was a pleasure to chat with you, and one day we will figure out where we've met.
Thank you for your kind message.
Carmine
Hi Carmine, It was great to meet you at the Clara Barton Forum in Johnstown on Thursday. You were dynamic and sincere in your message to the women at the Forum--a classy role model for all of us. I had an epiphany about where we may have met before: could it have been at a PennWriters Conference in Grantville, PA circa 2002? Looking forward to hearing from you. My best to your mother. Write on, Sher Pensiero-The Write Solution
REPLY
Hello, Abigail. Yes, the Yankee Shoe Repair is still in business today. There are so many wonderful places to visit in Johnstown. You can view some of them if you click on the Johnstown Heritage Association and Johnstown Today to the right of this message board. If you stop in the Yankee, ask for Mr. Coco. He'll be happy to sign your book. Happy trails, Abigail.
I'm smilin' at you from my writing desk.
C. Coco De Young
HI, I'm Abigail. I loved your book a Letter to Mrs. Roosevelt. We are going to PA this summer and I want to go to Johnstown. Is the shoestore still there? We are friends of the Hobos. Mama Jo has been to our house several times. We also met Fran the minstrel this year.
