Baez sang, “Here I sit, hand on the telephone.”
That is my case, exactly—Ruth is in surgery. Last year I published Members of the Cast. This year I am sitting in our son’s library, phone close. I looked up a moment ago and saw my book and set it out for this picture.
Even as I wait, I think of all the readers who bought the book and those who reviewed it. In the book, I thank the wonderful people who helped critique the book, and I think fondly of each. As I reflect on self-publishing, I realize that perhaps it isn’t the book but the readers who matter most.
There are many questions for writers on Twitter, one being: “What is the most important thing you have learned about writing?” Often, my answer was “show, don’t tell,” and “less is more.” But where would any piece of writing be without readers? Unread, a book that languishes, is only paper, ink, and words. Words have no meaning until they are heard or read, and in that moment, characters come to life.
Members of the Cast is set in 1959, and Maggie would be 79 now. Readers have asked if there will be a sequel, and I have said no because Maggie is OK. And the readers who have already bought the book this month will lift Maggie from her slumber, and she will walk and talk. Funny Sharon will delight Maggie and the readers once again.
There are turning points in life, and for Maggie, it was her junior year. She arrived in California alone and scared. Because Maggie makes a movie in the book, some readers thought “members of the cast” referred to the actors. Maggie is transformed by people: teachers, T. Charles, and her friends. Virginia, who had passed away before Maggie arrived, has a profound effect on her. Even the bully, Bonnie, gives an opportunity for growth. The people in the book are members of her cast.
So, as you go through your days, think about the members of your cast, the ones who formed you into the person you are. And, perhaps, get in touch with old friends and tell them how much they mean to you. I am 75, and the ranks of my cast are closing. But I am not being maudlin, and my cast knows.
Members of the Cast is dedicated to Ruth, the star of my cast. In the 57 years we have known each other, we helped each other grow up. Ruth’s prognosis is excellent, and my main goal is to take her home today. There we will continue to be “Members of the Cast.”
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