Scanning through the FB stuff the other day and noticed that Terry Brooks has an anniversary re-release coming. It’s the 35th  anniversary of The Sword of Shannara’s first appearance. It’s an annotated volume, and I couldn’t help thinking it’s a gotta-have for Terry’s fans. The thing is, it’s plenty more than that. It’s affirmation of a grand career. The commercial aspect of that career sort of goes without saying; trainloads of books are involved. What many people don’t know, however, is how Terry’s used his success to mentor others. He’s worked at more writers conferences than I can count. He doesn’t go there to push the product. He goes there because he wants to help aspiring writers reach their goals. Because he constantly pushes himself to improve, he’s a taskmaster. Everyone who’s watched him work has learned to anticipate the Terrybomb. When things don’t go right, he’ll let you know. Clearly. To all of you who read his work, never forget he’s a fine teacher, a man who reaches out to others. When you know that, as I do, it adds a warmth to his writing that makes it so much the better.

Check out the anniversary issue. Add it to your collection. I will.

Incidentally – that FB posting I mentioned? It was put up by Shawn Speakman, a fine writer in his own right. If you like Terry’s work, you might want to check out The Dark Thorn. First rate.