Pope Joan Guestbook Archives

Pope Joan Guestbook Entries: 2003

Name: Corisa Ford
Location: Exton, PA, USA
Date: Wednesday, December 24, 2003
Time: 12:51 AM

A dear friend of mine recommended the book as her new found favorite--Upon reading it I soon put it on my top 10 list as well. I've since passed it on to many friends and all have loved it! It is a fascinating read--that explored women in a way that I had not yet experienced. It was my first read on medieval times and I have taken to learning more about the period, its women and religion. Thanks for writing such a wonderful book! It has truely opened my mind to explore a new realm of literature (for me).

Name: Christina
Location: Uxbridge, Ontario, Canada
Date: Thursday, December 18, 2003
Time: 03:25 PM

I just wanted to touch base and pass along a thank-you to Donna from our bookclub. Last Thursday, she joined in our discussion. She was fun, engaging and informative. The group enjoyed her participation enormously. Donna might be interested in knowing that we continued to discuss Pope Joan until around midnight when we finally broke for coffee and dessert! Donna has an open invitation to visit any time her travels bring her to the Toronto area. Thanks again, Christina

Name: Ana D-son
Location: New York, NYC
Date: Thursday, December 11, 2003
Time: 12:10 PM

Hello, I was wondering when and where the movie is comming out? Who is making it? There was a movie made in 1972, are you ,making a new one? is it a big production or small? WHEN do you think it may be ready? I have read the book three times and I love it! It raises a lot of question about religion and especially catholicism, but it does so in a good way. It discusses ... there is a dialogue going on between the main character (Joan) her inner self, the people who question her and the reader. I find this very interesting. But as I said I would love to know if there is a movie in production because I want to work on that project. Have a nice day/ Ana D

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Name: Tuesdays with Robin
Location: Brookfield, WI
Date: Wednesday, December 03, 2003
Time: 04:25 PM

Although suffering from a cold and a miscommunicated phone number, Ms. Cross got through to our book club and delighted us with her insight into the book and the life of Pope Joan. Our thanks to Ms. Cross for a memorable book discussion.

Name: Marcia Sumerix
Location: Bay City, MI
Date: 12/02/2003

Pope Joan was a real eye opener. Women have been fighting against the odds for centuries. It is good to see someone like Joan actually made it to the top of her world.

Name: Lynn Tokarz
Location: Alexandria, Virginia
Date: 11/30/2003

I know I am making a request at the last minute but I just logged onto your website and read about the possibility of talking to Ms. Cross. Our book club has been in existence for 18 years! Way before Oprah introduced the idea. I know 16 avid female readers who would love to hear Ms Cross speak. I look forward to hearing from you. Lynn Tokarz

Name: Jack Burke
Location: Salisbury, NC
Date: Wednesday, November 26, 2003
Time: 09:03 AM

I enjoyed reading Pope Joan, although I treated it as fiction. When I read the Author's Note I was intrigued to learn that there may well have been a Pope Joan, covered up by the Vatican hierarchy. I've also read "Women Sailors and Sailor's Women", which mentions several of the women who successfully posed as men over the centuries. I'm recommending the book to a couple of priests I know, just to see what they think. Jack Burke

Name: Liz Zatopek
Location: Arlington, TX
Date: Sunday, November 23, 2003
Time: 04:11 PM

The November meeting of the First Editions included a speakerphone chat with Donna Woolfolk Cross about her novel Pope Joan. The book was a unanimous thumbs up and we all loved the wit and humor of the author. Thank you very much for sharing your book with the world and your time with the First Editions.

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Name: Maria Minichiello
Location: Blauvelt, New York, 10913
Date: Thursday, November 20, 2003
Time: 11:13 PM

Nov.20th.2003 Dear Donna, I just wanted to let you know how happy I was that you took the time and energy to grace our book club! What a wonderful, open and spirited woman you are! It is so terrific to run this discussion group and have something as exciting as the Author pay us a visit, even on speaker phone! I want to thank you from all of us at the Blauvelt Book Discussion, we are grateful for your enthusiasm and are waiting with bated breath for your next novel...17th century France huh? haha...Your editor will be happy to know you kept your promise and zipped your lip!!!! Thank you again and Happy Holidays! Sincerely, Maria Minichiello

Name: Annie Bonneau
Location: Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Date: Sunday, November 16, 2003
Time: 10:59 AM

Hey Donna! Not sure if you remember me. I was the community leader (CL-abonneau) on a book board at ivillage.com where you used to hang out. I read your book back then and FELT in love with it. I still remember the emotions I had when reading it. Anyway, just wanted to let you know that your book is so good, that when I finally started cataloguing my 700+ books and came across yours, I relived the excitement I had when I read Pope Joan. It is STILL in my TOP TEN BEST BOOK EVER READ. Your book has a special place in my bookshelves! ;-) Take care and again thank you for a marvellous book. Annie ;-)

Name: Margy Berson Ciambra
Location: North Bergen, N.J.
Date: Thursday, November 13, 2003
Time: 07:35 PM

All of us at the No. Bergen Library - loved the chat. Thank you..looking forward to the next book. You are a joy. Sincerely, Margy Ciambra

Name: Elizabeth L. Holland
Location: Naples, Florida
Date: 11/13/2003

I loved the book. I think any woman who reads it can learn so much from the strength exhibited by Joan. I just learned of the fact that Ms. Cross will talk to our book club and know that I am late in my request but wanted to make the request in the event Ms. Cross is available on 11/17/03 at 7:30 pm. Thank you. Liz Holland

Name: Kathleen Habel
Location: Fredericksburg, VA
Date: 11/13/2003

As a dean at Germanna Community College, I would like to inquire about Ms. Cross's availabilty for a presentation at Germanna Community College in Fredericksburg, VA. Thank you.

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Name: Maria Minichiello
Location: Blauvelt, New York, 10913
Date: 11/11/2003

I found out about Pope Joan through Reading Group Choices, for 2002. It would be wonderful if Ms.Cross would consent to a live hook-up discussion via telephone. I enjoyed her novel thoroughly, thank you for considering our request. sincerely, Maria

Name: Gail Phillips
Location: Huntsville, Texas
Date: 11/11/2003

Donna, what a wonderful opportunity you are offering to book clubs! A chance to chat with the author! Wow! I chose Pope Joan as the book I wanted to review for the Faculty Women's Book Club because I am fascinated by the role of women in the dark and middle ages, and I found your book fascinating. We plan our presentations by the year, and maybe it is to early to ask about your availability, but we would so love to chat with you on April 19, a Monday evening, at about 7:30 p.m. Is this a possibility? If it is too early to request this date, when would be the best time? I am eagerly awaiting your response. Thank you.

Name: Kathy Barone
Location: Malverne, NY
Date: Saturday, November 08, 2003
Time: 09:22 AM

This novel blew me away. I have passed it along to everyone I know. Any update on making it a movie?? Please let me know.

Name: Barbara Walters
Location: Libertyville, IL
Date: 11/07/2003

Dear Donna, I just finished reading Pope Joan for our November book group meeting. Normally I wouldn't start my preparation for the discussion until closer to the meeting date (Nov.20), but I was so fascinated by your book that I immediately went online to find out more about you and the book. A search took me to your website, and I was amazed to read about your offer to discuss Pope Joan with book groups. If that can be worked out, we'd be honored to talk with you. If our dates don't work, could we submit a few questions to you via e-mail and get a response back in time for the meeting? It wouldn't be the same as having an interactive chat, but it would still be exciting to get your insights. Thank you for your time. Barbara Walters

Name: Bobbie Wilson
Location: Orinda, California
Date: 11/06/2003

I heard about your offer to chat by speakersphone from my sister's book group in St. Louis. They all agreed that besides the fun of hearing the author talking about her book it was very insightful, and made the book more real.

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Name: Carol Tess
Location: De Pere, WI 54115
Date: 11/01/2003

I don't know if you will remember me, but you did a phone chat for my first book club on Septl0,2001. Then a couple of months later you did another phone chat with my second book club. can you believe that I am now asking you to do it again for my THIRD book club?? I really do have a life-but most of it is centered around books. Pope Joan is still my favorite. CAROL TESS

Name: Suzie Jackson
Location: Cincinnati, Ohio USA
Date: Saturday, November 01, 2003
Time: 10:44 AM

Our monthly ladies' book club met at Gledhill's home Oct. 15 after reading "Pope Joan". All ten of us enjoyed the telephone round table dicussion & asking questions of Donna. What a super idea to connect the readers with the auther. I have suggested the book to many of my book reading friends. We look forward to seeing the movie.

Name: Imogene Shaver
Location: Charlotte, NC
Date: Tuesday, October 28, 2003
Time: 03:27 PM

The Out of the Water Book Club members were thrilled to have a speakerphone chat with Donna Cross. She was so gracious to talk with us and answer our questions. We loved POPE JOAN, and it meant so much to us to discuss it with its author. Thank you, Donna Cross. We can't wait for the movie and your next book.

Name: Alfredo Mescallado, Jr.
Location: New York City
Date: Monday, October 27, 2003
Time: 11:11 PM

A good way to make money is to invent an idea that ignorant people will believed and be curious. Pope Joan is definitely a hoax started by "anti-Catholic" Please note: This information will not appear online immediately. We review "CENSORE" all submissions and add them to our Guestbook several times each week. OFF COURSE you can censor messages that are up front and honest since it's not monetary beneficial to your Book of Hoax

Name: Tim Sedgwick
Location: England, UK
Date: Sunday, October 26, 2003
Time: 05:33 AM

Since the election of Pope Joan, the Vatican conducted a ceremony to verify the sex of the elected Pope. The new Pope would be carried on his throne over the heads of the Cardinals, who would look upwards (remember, in early days nobody wore undergarments) and on seeing the male genitals, would declare in Latin, "he has testicles and they hang well". Whether this practice stil continues, I don't know, but as everyone wears undergarments, how do the Cardinals verify the sex nowadays ?

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Name: L Ebert
Location:
Date: 10/25/2003

Our book club would be thrilled to have Donna Woolfolk Cross be a part of our discussion of Pope Joan via a speaker phone. This is such a unique and wonderful opportunity to have a truly memorable book discussion.

Name: Nelson Library Bookgroup
Location: Nelson, NH
Date: Saturday, October 25, 2003
Time: 08:39 AM

Thankyou for enlightening our book conversation. It was a great way to get book group members excited about the book, Pope Joan, and about book group in general. Our book group enjoys books about women that overcome the obstacles in their way and suceed, Pope Joan is such a book. Donna your answers to our questions gave us a real in depth view of the book. Thankyou, Kris Finnegan

Name: Diane Stringer
Location: Danvers, MA
Date: 10/22/2003

Hello, We're hoping that Donna can speak to our group on 11/18 -- we've assigned the book and will be discussing it that evening. We look forward to a lively and stimulating meeting, highlighted by the opportunity to speak to the author!!

Name: Silvia Salles
Location: Brazil
Date: Tuesday, October 21, 2003
Time: 04:03 PM

Dear Donna, I have just finished reading your book and I had to come to the internet to find some way to let you know how much I loved it. Pope Joan is a book that can't be found here in Brazil. I am lucky enough to have family in Belgium, so I asked my cousin to bring me the book. I spoken so much about it to my friends that they all keep asking me to let them read the book. There is so much to learn from the story you told. I feel extremely grateful to you for your decision of writing this lovely story. I am also glad to know that there's a Pope Joan movie under production. I would have loved to write the screenplay myself. I want to become a writer and your book was the first one that actually got me imagining how the movie could be like.

Name: Heather Burtch
Location: Canonsburg, PA
Date: Monday, October 20, 2003
Time: 08:43 AM

Hi Donna - Pope Joan remains one of our book group's favorite books and our memory of our great conversation with you is very fresh even though it was probably 1 1/2 years ago! So we are dying for more information about the movie and your new book. I looked at the website but didn't get many details. Any idea when your book will be published? Where are they in production of the movie? Have you continued to be able to be involved at all? I hope to hear from you. Peace, Heather Burtch

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Name: Ralph Witczak
Location: Milwaukee, Wi., USA
Date: Saturday, October 18, 2003
Time: 04:21 PM

My friend states their was indeed a female pope. The Jesuit theologians tried to cover this up. What historical sources can I study to affirm or refute this claim of a real female pope?

Name: Kamille Lowry
Location: California
Date: Friday, October 17, 2003
Time: 01:50 AM

Dear Ms. Cross, I routinely check the guestbook signings on your site, and the happy book club members often mention how excited they are about the upcoming Pope Joan movie. I'm wondering, if you can discuss the production details over the phone, can you please, please release a few details on this website?! For those of us, such as myself, who are not members of book clubs, it is painful being forced to remain in the dark. Enlighten us! Thank you! :) ~Kamille

Name: Diane Hobler
Location: Germany
Date: 10/17/2003

Hi Donna & Friends! Our bookclub chatted with Donna last year, then met her when she came to Germany with her husband. Could you please send me a mailing address for her - we'd like to send her a card and a picture from when she was here with us in Germany. Thank you!! Diane

Name: Candice Michalik
Location: Lynchburg, VA
Date: Thursday, October 16, 2003
Time: 06:45 PM

Thank you, Donna, for the delightful phone chat you had with our group yesterday. We have enjoyed talking about books among ourselves, but there's nothing like talking about a book with its author! We learned so much from your book, not only about Joan, but about the time in which she lived. We wish you success with the Pope Joan movie, and with your next book.

Name: Colleen Mallgren/ HSI Book Club
Location: Greenwood Village, CO
Date: Tuesday, October 14, 2003
Time: 03:09 PM

Dearest Donna, Just have to let you know how you touched all of us with your spirit, knowledge and willingness to share, in your interview. We could have speculated the answers to questions, but it was so insightful to know the truth. It sure would be nice if you were setting a trend for authors to do book group interviews. We wish you future success and look forward to any of your upcoming works.

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Name: Suzanne Wagner
Location: Fairfield, CT
Date: Friday, October 10, 2003
Time: 01:09 PM

Dear Donna, Our Women's book discussion group is reading your book now. We will discuss it on October 17, 2003. I hope it is not too late to request a telephone (speakerphone) interview with you. We would love to hear from you. So far all of the women I've spoken with have loved the book. Thanks for your consideration. Reverend Suzanne Wagner

Name: Rose Marie J. Bailer
Location: Skaneateles, Onondaga, NY
Date: Thursday, October 09, 2003
Time: 02:30 PM

Donna, I thoroughly enjoyed your program yesterday when you spoke to our DAR Roundtable. I have started reading the book and have been hardpressed to put it down, when I have to get other things done as go to work. It has been very interesting so far. Thanks again, for a great program. Rose Marie J. Bailer

Name: Marie Ellsworth, Director
Location: Lake George NY
Date: Tuesday, October 07, 2003
Time: 06:00 PM

Dear Donna, We would like to thank you for the wonderful speakerphone interview last night. All of the discussion group members had enjoyed the book and were thrilled with the interview. They all commented on how warm and "human" you sound through a speakerphone, which is not always an easy media, and were fascinatied by your experiences in working on the book and the movie. We are all going to the movie together when it comes out! Best wishes and thank you again, Marie Ellsworth, Director Caldwell-Lake George Library

Name: John Bransford
Location: Novato, Ca.
Date: Friday, October 03, 2003
Time: 10:28 PM

Dear Donna, My wife and her book group have chosen " Pope Joan" as their next book (at my insistence). I assured the group of what a fine read they were in for. They vacillated until I suggested a speakerphone dialogue with you was indeed possible. Now the group is very excited to not only read the book, but to have the opportunity to speak in person with the author. Please let me know if you would be available to discuss " Pope Joan " on the evening of Thursday, December 4, 2003 around 7:30 P.M. PST. I'm anxious to get your response, as my tail is on the line for the recommendation. This is a fun group of women and they are looking forward to the book and discussion of same with you. With the utmost respect, John Bransford

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Name: Judy Gelman
Location: Needham, MA
Date: Friday, October 03, 2003
Time: 07:55 AM

Book Club meeting evening of Thursday, November 6. Thank you!

Name: Elaine Rubin
Location: Ft Worth, Texas
Date: Thursday, October 02, 2003
Time: 08:37 PM

Donna, I wanted to thank you for giving our Book Club such a special treat. This Club has been meeting for 12 years and a visit with the Author is a First! We are looking forward to the movie POPE JOAN and also your new nove. Thanks again, elaine

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Name: Carol I Erickson
Location: Detroit Lakes, Minn. 56501
Date: Tuesday, September 30, 2003
Time: 01:31 PM

Thank you so much Donna, for your generous time spent with our book club on Sept. 18th. There were 19 women present and they all enjoyed your comments. I am so happy that I scheduled this chat and I owe so much to you. Keep writing and we will keep reading!!!!! Sincerely Carol and the Lakes Book Club.

Name: Deborah White
Location: Westford, Massachusetts
Date: Monday, September 29, 2003
Time: 04:31 PM

Our book group is planning to discuss your book on Monday, January 26, 2004.Our meetings begin at 8:00 PM EST I have been named discussion leader and think it would be terriffic to have the group be able to speak to you as we discuss your book. I hope we'll be able to work this out so that it is possible.

Name: Sue Mariani
Location: North Kingstown, RI
Date: Monday, September 29, 2003
Time: 03:28 PM

Just writing to say that my book club just had our chat with Donna on "Pope Joan" last week and it was wonderful. We have a small group of eight women in RI and no only did we love the book, we loved chatting with Donna. She is so engaging! It was a great experience and we encourage anyone who is thinking of doing this for your book club to give it a try. I guarantee you won't regret it. My only advise is to have some questions ready in advance so you have any idea where you want your conversation with Donna to go. Can't wait for Donna's next book and also the movie version of "Pope Joan".

Name: Kim
Location: Dallas
Date: Monday, September 29, 2003
Time: 12:36 PM

We truely enjoyed the opportunity to chat with Donna last week when she joined our group in Dallas by phone. We found Donna's insights wonderful and her dedication inspiring. I certainly have enjoyed reading PopeJoan- twice now, and look forward to the movie and Donna's forthcoming second novel. Best, Kim

Name: Sandra Spencer
Location: Denton, TX
Date: Monday, September 29, 2003
Time: 10:51 AM

Our phone chat with Donna was absolutely astounding! This was our first bookclub meeting, and the members were enthusiastic and excited after Donna's call. Let us know when the next book is out -- we will definitely want to put it on the list. The new book and the upcoming Pope Joan movie will be anticipated by at least 25 women in Denton, Texas. Thank you, Donna, for sharing your story with us!!! Now my problem is what we do with the second book because nothing can top this!! -- Best of Luck, Sandra Spencer, Director of Women's Studies, University of North Texas

Name: Robert Peirano
Location: North Bergen, New Jersey
Date: Friday, September 26, 2003
Time: 10:09 AM

Our book club will be discussing your book at our November 12, 2003 meeting. It would be wonderful if you could share the discussion with us.

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Name: Deb Messling
Location: Phillipsburg, NJ
Date: Thursday, September 25, 2003
Time: 06:01 PM

Thank you for an enjoyable and insightful telephone chat. Our library book group doesn't always agree about the books we've chosen, but we all agreed that Pope Joan was one of the best. We can't wait to read your next book!

Name: Patti Vondrak
Location: Tower Lakes, IL
Date: Thursday, September 25, 2003
Time: 03:25 PM

Our book club is planning ahead and would love for the author to phone in and discuss Pope Joan with us. Our meeting is Tuesday, February 17, 2003. Thank you very much.

Name: Susan Biskner
Location: Palatine, Illinois
Date: Wednesday, September 24, 2003
Time: 08:39 PM

Our book club is reading Pope Joan for our October 14 meeting. I am the discussion leader and would love to have a chat with Donna Cross. Thank you Susan Biskner

Name: M Johnson
Location: Canada
Date: Tuesday, September 23, 2003
Time: 12:24 PM

Our Bookclub meeting is tomorrow evening and we have a few questions. How did you decide to write about Pope Joan and where did you first hear of the story? You spent 7 years doing research on the topic, what if any purpose did you wish to fulfill and do you think you succeeded? There is a great deal of history in your novel. We wanted to follow up on a couple of events to see if they were factual or fictional. Will there be a bibliography included in any of the future printings? Where did you begin your research on such an old topic? How did you decide which information to trust and which to discard? We love reading historical fiction and look forward to your comments.

Name: Lisa Baumhakl
Location: Germany
Date: Tuesday, September 23, 2003
Time: 07:34 AM

Help!!!!!!! I have to write a talk about 'Pope Joan'. but my teacher also wants some informations aubout the author and I'm not able to find any! could anybody help me? Lisa

Name: Lynn Hill
Location: White Plains, NY
Date: Tuesday, September 23, 2003
Time: 06:49 AM

This is last minute but we meet 9/24 at 8:00PM I would need to get working if its at all feesible.I'd Love to do a speakerphone Chat. I graduated from OCC in Dental Hygiene in 1975. I loved your book and recommended it to my group. I'm presenting Wednesday many of the members are staunch Catholics and I'm so anxious to hear they're comments. The Web Site has been very helpful. If its at all possible please let me know Thanks Lynn Hill

Name: Amy
Location: Ottawa, Canada
Date: Monday, September 22, 2003
Time: 06:20 PM

I'm only fifteen and usually i'm not a big reader but my teacher lent me her copy and i love it, i can't put it down, i always want to read just one more chapter and end up reading 4 or 5 of them. It's awesome!!!

Name: Sandra Conway
Location: Charlotte, NC
Date: Sunday, September 21, 2003
Time: 09:47 PM

I read your book last summer and loved it! My book club is going to read it this year and I hope you can join us. We meet once a month usually on Tuesday's from 7 to 8:30. January or February is best for me but we will work around your schedule. Thanks for considering this request. Sandra Conway

Name: Judy Onton
Location: San Jose, Ca
Date: Sunday, September 21, 2003
Time: 04:19 PM

Donna: Thank you so much for chatting with our bookclub on Sept. 5. Our bookclub has been meeting for more than 10 years and this is the first time we have had the honor of talking with an author! We were so impressed with the amount of research you did for the novel, especially your efforts to learn to read Latin. That is quite impressive! We loved the book and we loved talking with you about it. Thank you for doing this for us and coping so graciously with the 3 hour time difference! All the best, Judy from Saratoga, California

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Name: mary lawrence
Location: edina mn
Date: Sunday, September 21, 2003
Time: 12:15 PM

i am sure this is way to late however i just found this website. I have a book club meeting monday sept 22 beginning at 7:30 cst is there any chance you could join us for while?

Name: Barbara Millet
Location: Honeoye Falls, NY 14472
Date: Saturday, September 20, 2003
Time: 12:38 PM

I know this is a long shot, but I thought it wouldn't hurt to ask if Ms.Woolfolk Cross would be interested in doing a book signing at my bookstore, The Write Book and Gift Shop. I'm an independent bookseller just outside Rochester, NY. I've only been open for 9 months, but the word is spreading about my very unique store. Please visit my web site a take a virtual tour of our little shop. www.writebookandgifts.com. Please feel free to contact me at anytime. Thank you for your time, Barbara Millet Owner of: The Write Book and Gift Shop

Name: Sharon Gage
Location: Warren, PA
Date: Thursday, September 18, 2003
Time: 01:01 PM

Our book discussion group had a chat with Donna in August and it was wonderful. I am on the planning committee for an all-day event entitled "Women Are Wonderful" that is designed for women only and offers participants a wide variety of workshops to attend. This workshop is planned for Saturday, February 7, 2004 from 10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. The committee was very interested in offering a speaker phone chat with Donna for this event (or a live presentation would be even more wonderful). If Donna's new book will be out soon we would publicize well in advance that people should purchase the book and have a chat with the author at the workshop. If her new book is not out we would like to schedule a speakerphone chat (or a live one!!) dealing with "Pope Joan." If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to email me or call.

Name: Julie Peters
Location: Netherlands
Date: Wednesday, September 17, 2003
Time: 04:23 AM

Thank you so much for phoning our book club meeting last night. What fun it was to hear about your research. You also gave us great ideas for upcoming book choices. We all enjoyed hearing from you and look forward to your next book and movie. Best wishes from Amsterdam!

Name: Kris Finnegan
Location: Nelson, NH
Date: Tuesday, September 16, 2003
Time: 09:11 AM

Our book group will be meeting on October 21 at 10:30 am, at the library. Will you be able to join us on the speaker phone? The group is small, 4-8 people. Thankyou

Name: Kathryn Hargrove
Location: Dallas, Texas
Date: Monday, September 15, 2003
Time: 05:27 PM

Our book club is reading Pope Joan and will be meeting at my office (which has a speaker phone) on September 30 at 7pm. Could you join us, say about 7:30 CST? We would love to visit with you. Thanks very much. Kathy

Name: Jane Becken
Location: Mahtomedi, MN USA
Date: Monday, September 15, 2003
Time: 10:57 AM

Our bookclub meets every first Thursday of the month. POPE JOAN has been selected for November, 2003 and I will be the facilitator. What a treat it would be to discuss this rich and extraordinary book with its author by speakerphone. (We have always dreamed of doing this.) As of now, we are scheduled for Thursday evening, November 6, 2003 at 7:30pm CST. Look forward to your response. Jane Becken

Name: Julie Peters
Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Date: Sunday, September 14, 2003
Time: 09:27 AM

I am an American, living in Amsterdam. The bookclub I belong to has read your book this summer and we are meeting Tuesday evening to discuss. Twelve women from six different countries eagerly await hearing from you!

Name: Robert Peirano
Location: North Bergen, New Jersey
Date: Friday, September 12, 2003
Time: 10:36 AM

I conduct a book discussion group once a month at the North Bergen Free Public Library. We would like to discuss your book, Pope Joan, at our November meeting. The date would be November 12, 2003 at 2:00 pm. I am the Coordinator for Community Library Programs at the library.

Name: WENDY
Location: OMAHA, NE
Date: Thursday, September 11, 2003
Time: 06:08 PM

OUR BOOK GROUP OS MEETING TONIGHT AND I JUST SIGNED ON TO YOUR WEBSITE FOR THE FIRST TIME. I WISH I HAD DONE SO EARLIER BECAUSE OUR GROUP WOULD HAVE LOVED TO HAVE A CHAT WITH YOU. OUR LOSS.

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Name: Hilda Slivka
Location: Avon, Connecticut
Date: Thursday, September 11, 2003
Time: 06:03 AM

Our appreciation to Ms. Cross for her deligthful and enlightening discussion by speakerphone with our book group on September 8. As a group of women, we feel there is a link to Pope Joan, this courageous woman who helped form the chain that unites women's accomplishments. We were all so thrilled to hear Ms. Cross' views. We are looking forward to her next book. Thank you

Name: BONNIE PAUL
Location: PITTSBURGH, PA
Date: Monday, September 08, 2003
Time: 12:34 PM

I would like to thank Donna for chatting by speakerphone with our book club on Friday night. She was wonderful as was the book. And yes Pope Joan did exist!

Name: Sue Mariani
Location: North Kingstown, RI
Date: Thursday, September 04, 2003
Time: 10:19 AM

Our book club is now reading "Pope Joan" for our discussion meeting on September 23rd. We are a book club of eight women and would love the chance to chat by speakerphone with you about your wonderful book. Please contact me regarding your availability to be involved in our discussion meeting. Thanks.

Name: Helen Cozad
Location: Crafton, PA
Date: Wednesday, September 03, 2003
Time: 04:22 PM

I just look at this site. This is very late requesting a speakerphone chat with our book club. We are meeting Friday evening Sept. 5. at 8:00 p.m. I understand if you will not be avaible. Loved the book

Name: Cali Tamarkin
Location: Rockville, Maryland
Date: Wednesday, September 03, 2003
Time: 10:26 AM

Our book club is made up of multiage teachers and we enjoy a great discussion. We have read your book over the summer and our meeting is on Wed Sept 24th at 7:30. Would you be able to join us?!

Name: Sara MacLean
Location: Northboro, MA
Date: Wednesday, September 03, 2003
Time: 08:32 AM

I've only just learned about the possibility of a personal chat, so this is very late notice, but I figured it's worth a shot! I read, and loved your book last year. I recommended it to our book club and we're reading for our meeting September 12th. Even a short conversation with Donna would be fabulous!

Name: Lina Cloutier Palmacci
Location: Medford, MA.........USA
Date: Friday, August 29, 2003
Time: 01:26 PM

Glad you are spreading the truth..about this....POPE JOAN fact....There is so much that is hidden and lied about to keep women oppressed worldwide. Keep up your good work...L

Name: ANN BIFFEN
Location: delaware water gap, pa
Date: Friday, August 29, 2003
Time: 09:18 AM

Our book club is currently reading Pope Joan and would like to schedule a speaker phone meeting with Donna Woolfolk Cross. Please advise us of your availablility in the month of October. THanks, ANN BIFFEN

Name: Colleen Mallgren
Location: Greenwood Village, CO
Date: Tuesday, August 26, 2003
Time: 06:05 PM

Our meeting to discuss POPE JOAN wiil be on Thurs Oct. 9TH, we would be ready at 9:30am MST. Thank you.

Name: Rae Wodarcyk
Location: Canton, MI
Date: Saturday, August 23, 2003
Time: 11:24 AM

Ms. Cross spoke with our book club this past week and we were so pleased! She is obviously very passionate about this novel and very dedicated to Joan. Thank you for your time, Donna and thanks to your assistant for arranging all of the details. It was a pleasure speaking with you!!

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Name: Becky
Location: Canton, MI
Date: Friday, August 22, 2003
Time: 06:09 PM

I just wanted to say Thank You for chatting by speakerphone with our book club on Wed, August 20. It was such a treat for us, and we all throughly enjoyed the book! Like I said, I think all our members have already recommended the book to at least two people. Thank you so much for taking time with us!

Name: Colleen Prezlock
Location: Bedford, PA
Date: Thursday, August 21, 2003
Time: 09:38 PM

Our book group is reading Pope Joan this month and would be interested in chatting with you at our next meeting. It is scheduled for Sunday, September 14 at 7pm. Would you be available to join us via speaker-phone then? If not,please let us know alternate dates and we will try to reschedule. Thanks very much.

Name: David McNally
Location: Minnesota
Date: Thursday, August 21, 2003
Time: 07:07 AM

To what address can I write a personal note? I absolutely loved your book and am buying copies for my four daughters.

Name: Sandra Spencer
Location: Denton, TX
Date: Wednesday, August 20, 2003
Time: 01:27 PM

Our Women's Studies Program at the University of North Texas is beginning a bookclub. We've chosen Pope Joan as our first selection and would very much like to schedule a speakerphone chat with Ms. Cross.

Name: Nancy
Location: Coal Valley, IL
Date: Wednesday, August 20, 2003
Time: 11:53 AM

Pope Joan was recommended to me by a bookstore employee. It's the best book I've ever read! How could you get totally absorbed in read a book with this sentence: "Wintarmanoth brought an iron frost that gripped the land like an oppressive fist." What a great book!

Name: Gail Phillips
Location: Huntsville, TX
Date: Wednesday, August 20, 2003
Time: 06:14 AM

I am a lover of historical fiction, and I have chosen Pope Joan as the book for my book club's discussion on April 19, 2004. It would be such a treat to have a group speakerphone chat with you around 8p.m. that evening. Please advise as to whether or not this is a possibility. Thank you.

Name: Sharon Gage
Location: Warren, PA
Date: Tuesday, August 19, 2003
Time: 07:27 AM

Our book discussion group had the pleasure of a speakerphone chat with Donna on August 12th. She answered all our questions and impressed us with her knowledge, insightfulness, and wit. Not only did we talk about the book itself, but we also discussed the writing and publishing process as well. We cannot thank her enough for the pleasure of her company and we eagerly await the movie and her next book.

Name: E J Amason
Location: Kerrville, Texas
Date: Monday, August 18, 2003
Time: 04:51 PM

Today is August 18, and the Third Monday Book Club in Kerrville, Texas, has just concluded a marvelous chat via speaker phone with Donna Cross. This is to say "thank you, Donna", for a lively, interesting conversation. Our group stayed on another 45 minutes after your call to continue our thoughts and comments about you and your marvelous novel. Words cannot express how much we appreciated your taking time to talk with us. All good wishes to you, personally, and we are anxously awaiting the Pope Joan movie and the next novel. The Third Monday Book Club, Kerrville, Texas - by E. J. Amason

Name: Elaine Rubin
Location: Ft Worth, Tx 76109
Date: Sunday, August 17, 2003
Time: 10:13 PM

The theme for our Book Club this year is "Life ChangingExperience". We have chosen POPE JOAN as our book for October 1. We meet at noon for lunch and our discussion begins at 1pm. I would love if you were available for a speakerphone chat. I know the 12 of us would love to visit with you. thank you, elaine rubin

Name: Jean Brainard
Location: Mulhall, OK.
Date: Sunday, August 17, 2003
Time: 05:09 PM

Donna Woolfolk Cross, POPE JOAN This book was wonderful! To read this book on my European vacation was such a blessing. Thank You so much for all the time and work you put into it. Would you please contact me with estimated time that I will have to wait to read your next novel? Again Thank You, Jean Brainard

Name: Hilda Slivka
Location: Avon, Connecticut
Date: Friday, August 15, 2003
Time: 04:18 PM

Our book club will be meeting Monday, September 8,2003 at 7:30 p.m. to discuss your marvelous book. I, as well as so many others, was hoping you may be able to speak to our group by speakerphone. We are a group of about 15 women who can only meet in the evening due to job obligations during the day. I noticed the other book clubs have a name for their group. We don't have one. I hope that doesn't affect our chance to hear from you! Gratias tibi ago

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Name: Naomi Wells Marcia Brekke
Location: Eagan, MN
Date: Friday, August 15, 2003
Time: 03:58 PM

our bookclub of 7 years is meeting on August 28th at 7:00 PM - would you be able to join us at 7:30 by speakerphone?

Name: Deb Messling
Location: Phillipsburg, New Jersey
Date: Friday, August 15, 2003
Time: 09:57 AM

Our library book group will discuss Pope Joan at 7 PM E.S.T. on Wednesday, September 24. Can you join us? Thank you for offering such an exciting opportunity!

Name: Mary Arana
Location: Encinitas California
Date: Thursday, August 14, 2003
Time: 10:42 AM

We are meeting from 4:30-5:30 PST on Monday afternoon, Sept 15, and would love for you to join us by speakerphone!

Name: Heidi Schultz
Location: Sioux Falls, SD USA
Date: Monday, August 11, 2003
Time: 06:19 PM

You were kind enough to visit with our book group about two years ago. At that time you were working on the screenplay for Pope Joan. We often bring this up for discussion to see if anyone has heard any news of the progress. Is it still in the works? What is the status? Anxiously awaiting your next novel in South Dakota!

Name: Geri Rodin
Location: Scottsdale AZ
Date: Sunday, August 10, 2003
Time: 07:15 PM

Donna Cross "joined" our book club disucssion group on August 6th via speaker phone and made, for me the best discussion that I have ever attended. We discussed Pope Joan, women, men, Latin, structure of writing, how words can be used to transport the reader through time. We all felt a personal friendship with Donna. Not only a great writer, but a wonderful speaker as well. Bravo Donna! Geri Rodin

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Name: Beverly Sims
Location: Scottsdale.Az.85262
Date: Saturday, August 09, 2003
Time: 11:03 AM

I was fortunate to be with the Terravita Book Club on August 6th when you generously gave us your insightful remarks combined with your wit. (In the picture Geri Rodin sent I'm the lady in red!!)We found the book amazing and your gift of "transporting" us into this era a unique advantage.Thank you for the total experience.....book and chat.

Name: Evelyn Cashman
Location: Scottsdale Arizona
Date: Friday, August 08, 2003
Time: 01:03 PM

The Terravita Book Group had a phone conference with Donna for their meeting on August 6 at 1:00pm. It was a wonderful experience. She is such a warm, intelligent, humorous and forthcoming person. It was especially satisfying to have all of our questions answered so generously. I'm looking forward to the movie and Donna's next book.

Name: Sandra Spencer
Location: Denton, Texas
Date: Wednesday, August 06, 2003
Time: 02:05 PM

I am the Director of the Women's Studies program at The University of North Texas. We are beginning a new bookclub in September and have chosen _Pope Joan_ as our opener. Would you be available to talk with the group on Thursday evening, September 18, between 7 and 9 pm? I look forward to hearing from you.

Name: Jeanette Raptis
Location: Cincinnati, Ohio
Date: Tuesday, August 05, 2003
Time: 08:25 PM

I am hosting a book club meeting to discuss your book on August 24, 2003 at 3:30. One of our group just alerted me to this website and the possibility of having you join us by speaker phone. I see that you have many requests, and I can understand why, because this is such a great idea and I have never heard of anyone doing this before. If there is any chance that your schedule would permit, I would very much appreciate it.. thanks!

Name: Dianne Hoff
Location: Littleton CO
Date: Thursday, July 31, 2003
Time: 12:52 PM

Hi, I was wondering how the movie version is coming along? Are you working on another novel? I loved this book so much, and have given to evrybody I know to read. Everybody has the same reaction. THe best book thy have ever read. I hope you are writing another!

Name: Margaret Hopkins
Location: Glen Rock, NJ
Date: Wednesday, July 30, 2003
Time: 09:58 PM

The Glen Rock Newcomers and Neighbors is planning to discuss your book on either September 10th or October 8th 2003 at 8:30 pm. We would be delighted to have you join us by speakerphone.

Name: Geri Rodin
Location: Scottsdale AZ
Date: Tuesday, July 29, 2003
Time: 11:34 PM

I have requested a phone/chat for August 6th, and would like to say that while reading this book, our group has become so interested we have been "digging" into more research and I just came across this, and wondered if it was possibly a basis for the character Abbot Raban.."Let women not despair": Rabanus Maurus on women as prophets. 06-01-1997; Theological Studies; Mayeski, Marie Anne Rabanus Maurus (ca. 776-856) was one of the very few theologians during the early Middle Ages who gave exegetical attention to the Book of Judges.(1) Abbot of Fulda and then Archbishop of Mainz, he was shaped by his pastoral responsibilties; the goal of his exegetical work was to make available to monks, bishops, and influential laity all that was both solid and necessary for an understanding of the text of the Bible. To this end he garnered what was helpful from the sources available to him, mining assiduously the Latin texts of the earlier tradition . RABANUS MAURUS MAGNENTIUS 01-01-2002; The Columbia Encyclopedia, Seventh Edition RABANUS MAURUS MAGNENTIUS Rabanus Maurus Magnentius, c.780-856, German scholar and theologian. His name appears also as Hrabanus and Rhabanus. A student under Alcuin, he was later abbot of Fulda (822-42); his zeal for learning and his excellent administration made the school and library at Fulda an outstanding source of intellectual light. He retired from Fulda but in 847 was made bishop of Mainz. We are not a large group, but would really appreciate the phone/chat, and are very aware of Donna's father's passing and extend our symphony.

Name: Amy Lutzke
Location: Fort Atkinson, WI
Date: Tuesday, July 29, 2003
Time: 04:06 PM

Greetings: We are putting together our library book discussion group for the Sept. 2003 through May 2004 season. I had wanted to include your book in the schedule this year and then found out about the possibility of having you join our discussion by speakerphone. We meet the second Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. central time and the second Thursday of each month at 1 p.m. central time. Would you be available one of these times during the months listed to talk with us about your book? Our schedule is completely flexible as to the month at this point. Thank you very much for this opportunity.

Name: Amitai Keren
Location: Holon, Israel
Date: Tuesday, July 29, 2003
Time: 11:52 AM

I just finish reading your interesting book,Pope Johan.As an irreligious jewish I am not familiar to the christian organization that Johana clime to the top. An onganization chart, in the beginning or in the end of the book would halp me a lot.I believ that this is not only my problem.

Name: Joy Fisher Evans
Location: Fort Morgan, Colorado USA
Date: Tuesday, July 22, 2003
Time: 08:05 PM

We are meeting to discuss Pope Joan for our monthly discussion at the Ft. Morgan County Library on August 5,2003 at 2 PM MDT. We have a speaker phone available and would be thrilled if you could join us for our discussion. We are a small group from 6 to 10 members. I lead the discussion of your book in another group in AZ three years ago and have persuaded this group to read it this summer. It would be great to discuss it with you. Please let me know if this is possible. Thank you, Joy F. Evans.

Name: Julia McCormick
Location: Helsinki, Finland
Date: Tuesday, July 22, 2003
Time: 02:03 PM

Dearest Donna, Thank you so very much for writing this amazing novel, I must admit I am dissappointed that I wasn't able to make it into a film first, I first read it about 3 years ago, and was immediately inspired to make a great picture out of it, I had hoped I might have been the only one and eventually would be able to make it with your permission of course, I am though, looking forward to the one being made. (Or has it been made already? This is the first time I thought of looking for your web-site.)The legend of Joan is truly an inspiration to me, again, thank you. Best regards, Julia McCormick

Name: E J Amason
Location: Kerrville, Texas
Date: Monday, July 21, 2003
Time: 04:28 PM

We are a group of 15 ladies who form the Third Monday Book Group. Would you be able to speak with us at our meeting on August 18, 2003 via speakerphone? The time would be 2:45 pm at the home of Lorraine Brynildson. My name is E J Amason and I am leading the discussion that day of Pope Joan. Thank you.

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Name: Geri Rodin
Location: Scottsdale AZ USA
Date: Saturday, July 19, 2003
Time: 07:12 PM

Several months ago we decided to read your "Pope Joan" for our month of August (6th..Wed.) 1PM book club discussion. I have emails all members of our group and we would ALL love to have a chat with you on that date. I realize it is up to you to set date and time, and can only hope that it would fit your schedule. We will be meeting at our club and they do have a conference phone available for us. Please let me know if you could possible make August 6th 1PM Pacific Daylight time. It would be 4PM in New York. Thanks for any consideration. Geri Rodin

Name: Kim McMath
Location: Dallas, Texas
Date: Wednesday, July 16, 2003
Time: 05:19 PM

Our book club (10-12 women) will meet on Tuesday, August 26th beginning at 7:30 p.m. CST to discuss PopeJoan. We would love to have the author join in a speakerphone chat to discuss the book. I was in a book club in Houston 4 years ago that Donna was able to attend, but I missed the meeting, so I am hoping that this date will work for Donna's attendance and comments. Thank you for your consideration. Best, Kim

Name: Connie Golden
Location: Boston, MA
Date: Wednesday, July 16, 2003
Time: 08:48 AM

Dear Ms. Woolfolk Cross: On behalf of Prentice Hall Publishers, I am requesting permission to reprint an article of yours in a forthcoming textbook entitled Building Strategies for Critical Reading, by Jane McGrath. I would like to provide you with more information so that you can consider this request, but am reluctant to do so in this public forum. I apologize for contacting you here, but could find no other direct route. Thank you for your time.

Name: Donna Hausmann
Location: Greeley, CO
Date: Tuesday, July 15, 2003
Time: 05:16 PM

Our book group has selected "Pope Joan" to discuss for our September meeting which will meet Sept. 16, 2003 at 1:30pm in the meeting room of the Farr Branch Library in Greeley, CO. We would love to request a chat with you anytime between 2:00 and 3:00pm that afternoon. Please let me know if this would be possible for our group would be thrilled to talk with you. Thank you so much, Donna Hausmann (group moderator)

Name: Sharon Gage
Location: Warren, PA
Date: Thursday, July 10, 2003
Time: 12:06 PM

Our discussion group will be discussing Pope Joan at out August 12th meeting. The group meets at 7:00 p.m. at the library so any time between 7:15 and 8:30 would be a great time for a speakerphone conversation. Thank you for considering our group.

Name: Linda Leech
Location: Lynchburg, VA , USA
Date: Thursday, July 10, 2003
Time: 12:02 PM

We are going to review your book on July 24 at around 11:30 EDT. This is the second time I have read the book, and am really enjoying it again. We are a group of men and women that enjoy reading and reviewing a variety of books. We would love to have your input by speakerphone at our July meeting.

Name: Debbie Hoffman
Location: Gurnee, Illinois
Date: Thursday, July 10, 2003
Time: 11:57 AM

Dear Donna, I am writing to invite you to visit our library. I had heard that you do author visits from time to time. We are located between Chicago, Illinois and MIlwaukee, Wisconsin, and have hosted many author visits (ELizabeth Berg, Lawrence Block....) Please let me know if you will be touring in our area this year. Thank you for you consideration.

Name: Melissa Dalburg
Location: Atlanta, GA
Date: Wednesday, July 09, 2003
Time: 03:53 PM

My office book club had a chat with you in May and I enjoyed it very much. I LOVED the book and really enjoyed our chat with you. As a result, I've recommended "Pope Joan" to my sorority alumnae group book club. We meet the 3rd Thursday of the month at 7PM. They've asked me to host in October which would be 10/16. Please advise if this will suit your schedule for a speakerphone chat.

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Name: Fran
Location: Ingolstadt/Germany
Date: Sunday, July 06, 2003
Time: 07:46 AM

A friend of mine read your book and likes it very much. The last week we were in Rome and realized that all women were treated derogatory, the catholic church only "belongs to mens" and now we want to show the whole world, that the church isn't so erectly like everyone is thinking about and my friend said, that you wrote in your book you have some facts, that there was a female pope and the church lied! Now we want to ask you about this facts because it's humiliate for a woman in Rome!Please help us! xxx Fran S.

Name: Judy Onton
Location: Saratoga, CA
Date: Friday, July 04, 2003
Time: 07:00 PM

Dear Ms. Cross: Our bookclub, located in the San Francisco Bay Area will be discussing your book on July 18 in the evening. We meet for dinner at 7:00 and then discuss the book. We would be honored if you would talk to us by speakerphone. Judy Onton

Name: Rae Wodarcyk
Location: Canton, MI
Date: Thursday, July 03, 2003
Time: 03:08 PM

Loved your book!! I was so fascinated by the topic-your research and storytelling amounted to one of my favorite books of all times! Would you be able to chat by speakerphone with our book club on August 20, 2003 at around 7:30 pm?? The meeting starts at 7:00, so I think 7:30 is enough time for everyone to get settled in. Thank you!

Name: SARA BRANDON
Location: Winona MN
Date: Thursday, July 03, 2003
Time: 01:09 PM

Our group will be meeting Wednesday July 9,2003 @ 5:15 pm

Name: Alison Sandberg
Location: Leesburg, Virginia
Date: Tuesday, July 01, 2003
Time: 10:34 AM

Our group of 10-15 avid readers would love the opportunity to read your book and chat by speakerphone with you. Specifically, we have the date of 9/26/03 est in mind at 8pm, but can be flexible. Please let me know if you can work with us!

Name: hommy johnson asaba
Location: DESTIN FLORIDA UNITED STATES
Date: Tuesday, July 01, 2003
Time: 07:38 AM

I REALLY LOVE YOUR WEB SITE. KEEP IT UP.

Name: Emily Swinton
Location: Hull, UK
Date: Saturday, June 28, 2003
Time: 09:37 AM

Dear Ms Woolfolk Cross, I am currently studying Theology at the University of Hull (UK) and am about to start my dissertation. Having decided to write about Pope Joan, I thought reading your novel would be a good place to start my research. I found it completely enthralling and a great help in allowing me to understand the complex politics etc of the day. I would be very interested and grateful to know your views, (especially as you were compelled by the legend to write your novel) on the popularity of the legend of Pope Joan, and why you think it has endured. Thanking you in advance Emily Swinton

Name: Liz Merchant
Location: Surprise, AZ
Date: Friday, June 27, 2003
Time: 11:47 AM

I keep checking site for update on movie progress. Any news? Liz Merchant

Name: Susan Robbins/West Bend Library
Location: West Bend, WI
Date: Tuesday, June 24, 2003
Time: 04:02 PM

Dear Donna, Our book discussion would like to thank you so much for your talking with them about Pope Joan last Thursday. They came away awed and very excited about the discussion. They are looking very much forward to your next book and the movie too! Thanks so so much again. West Bend Library

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Name: Doylene Wichlenski
Location: Town & Country, MO
Date: Monday, June 23, 2003
Time: 07:33 AM

"Read Between the Wines" Chat with Donna was not only enjoyable but informative. Eleven girls quiet for more than an hour, is quite a feat in our group. Thank yo so much for the delightful/agreeable/pleasing/entertaining/enjoyable envening. What a terrific idea for a book. Sharing a book with dear friends is surely one of life's greatest pleasures. Especially "Pope Joan". We have planned a "Read Between The Wine's" field trip for your movie. (In Los Angeles for the premiere! We will hire a limo.....

Name: Teresa Hall
Location: Westford, MA
Date: Friday, June 20, 2003
Time: 01:48 PM

Donna, Thank you for talking with my bookgroup last night (6/19/03) by speakerphone. It was a very unique experience to talk with the author of a book, especially for a book that I enjoyed so much. You kept us entertained talking about your views on everything from Hollywood to the cause of the Dark Ages to the role of women in the church. Thanks again, it was a very enjoyable experience! Teresa

Name: Kate Hollister
Location: Westford, MA
Date: Friday, June 20, 2003
Time: 12:05 PM

Dear Donna. You spoke with my book club last night, and I want to thank you for the great conversation. I amire your stamina, legwork, and creativity in giving birth to the story. You have succeeded at matching Joan's 'irrationality'. Kudos on developing the concept of the speakerphone book group chat room. Your obvious intellect and speech pattern remind me so much of my godmother, Harriet Schwarzer. She, too, is from Syracuse. Perhaps you are related? (You look a little like her, too). I wish you continuing success with the book, a better initial reception of your next book, and rave reviews for the movie. -Kate

Name: Nan Hahn
Location: Des Moines, Iowa
Date: Friday, June 20, 2003
Time: 11:16 AM

My book club will be meeting on Wednesday, July 23 at 7 PM to discuss your book, Pope Joan. We would love to have the opportunity to talk with you about it!

Name: Sandi Simmons
Location: Fort Pierce, Fl, U.S.A.
Date: Wednesday, June 18, 2003
Time: 02:52 PM

My book discussion group will be discussing Pope Joan on Friday, July 18, 2003, 12:30 p.m. at the Blake Library in Stuart, FL. Are you available for a speakerphone chat then? If not, perhaps we could discuss your book in October or November. Unforgettable book! I look forward to hearing from you.

Name: Susan Gledhill
Location: Cincinnati, Ohio
Date: Wednesday, June 18, 2003
Time: 12:59 PM

Our book club meets monthly. July is my month to lead. I can't wait for all of us to read and discuss Pope Joan! We meet the third Wednesday of each month. Could you join us for a speaker phone chat on Wednesday, July 16, 2003 around 8:00 pm est. We hope this works out. Many thanks

Name: Jennifer Riek
Location: Grand Blanc, MI
Date: Saturday, June 14, 2003
Time: 06:10 PM

Ms. Cross, I just graduated from Michigan State University and during my down time this summer, I read Pope Joan after a friend suggested that I read it. Although I have read many literature classics, I have never been so moved by a book. Joan's story has changed my life. I have grown up in a Roman Catholic family and attended Catholic school for nine years and I had never heard of there possibly being a woman Pope. I truly believe that Pope Joan did exist and the Catholic Church has covered it up for 1200 years. Joan is an inspiration to me and she just proves how strong, intelligent and brave women really are. I was also extremely excited that there is going to be a movie! I cannot wait to see it and read your next novel. I thank you for writing such an amazing literary work and I hope that you continue writing novels that portray incredible examples of women.

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Name: Sharon Haystead-Cecere
Location: Lincoln, NE
Date: Thursday, June 12, 2003
Time: 08:28 PM

My book club would be so excited to have you join us in a chat discussion on your book Pope Joan. Would you be available during the months of Sept., Oct. or Nov. We think it is fabulous that you do book club chats, and would be honored if you would do one with us. sincerely, Sharon Haystead

Name: Dorcas Evans
Location: Denver, CO
Date: Wednesday, June 11, 2003
Time: 03:20 PM

Hi Donna, How far ahead do you book your speakerphone conversations? My book group would like to put your book on our agenda for October or November. We meet on the second Tuesday of each month, so the dates are either October 14 or November 11. We would be thrilled if you could manage either. I tried to arrange a chat for my other book group, but the notice was short and the timing just didn't work out. This group of ladies is really hoping you'll be available for one of those nights. We meet at 7:00 PM MST. Waiting for your reply. Thanks much.

Name: Caldwell-Lake George Library
Location: Lake George, NY
Date: Tuesday, June 10, 2003
Time: 03:40 PM

We would like to arrange a speakerphone chat for October 2003. Our group usually meets the first Monday of the month (October 6, 2003) but we would be happy to pick another day if the 6th is not convenient for you. We meet at 7pm Eastern time. Thank you - the group is very enthusiastic about your book.

Name: Judy Pechacek
Location: MPLS, MN
Date: Tuesday, June 10, 2003
Time: 07:16 AM

Our book group meets monthly, we plan to read/discuss you book in July. Our date is set but could be flexable, not sure of how far out you are scheduling, please give me an idea of you available dates. Thanks so much, I have not been able to put Pope Joan down.....thinking of naming my next baby Joan:) Regards, Judy

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Name: Taunya Fogleman
Location: Sarasota, FL
Date: Monday, June 09, 2003
Time: 04:55 PM

Dear Mrs. Cross, I just found this website. I chose Pope Joan for my book club choice last month. "Book Club" is comprised of seven intelligent women who have been meeting monthly for over 16 years. The love of reading has enabled us to form friendships that will last a lifetime. We meet tomorrow at 10:30AM. I am sure you will laugh upon reading this last minute request. It never hurts to try. Thanks, Taunya

Name: Hannah
Location: USA
Date: Thursday, June 05, 2003
Time: 08:54 PM

Dear Ms. Cross, I am a young teenager who has just finished reading your wonderful novel for the second time. After completing it, I was curious to know what new novel(s) you are working on, so I came to this site. I was ecstatic to discover that a movie about Pope Joan is in production! I was wondering, is there any way that you could e-mail me and tell me where the movie stands in production, who (if anyone) has been cast, and other such details? I'm dying to know!!!! Thank you!

Name: Lynn E. Muccilli
Location: Woodbridge, NJ USA
Date: Friday, May 23, 2003
Time: 10:51 PM

I belong to the Woodbridge Liberary Book Club. We just read Pope Joan, and had a speakerphone conversatuib with you. Couldn't put the book down and and consider it one of the best books I have ever read. Enjoyed the conversation with you, to age myself it was simply marvelous. Can't wait for the next book and the movie on Pope Joan. Please more books with such strong women and history. Thanks Lynn E.

Name: Kristin Doyle
Location: Kirkland, WA
Date: Thursday, May 22, 2003
Time: 04:46 PM

Our book club is meeting to discuss your book on Thursday June 5th at 7:30pm PST. We would love the opportunity to discuss it with you. Please let me know if you are available during this time. Regards, Kristin

Name: ellen
Location: sweden
Date: Thursday, May 22, 2003
Time: 09:28 AM

love your book! my mother recommended it to me, i enjoyded the reading. skulden har återgäldats, thank you

Name: Sarang Bhatt
Location: San Jose, CA, USA
Date: Thursday, May 22, 2003
Time: 01:30 AM

hi donna! i am a high school senior graduating in a few weeks and my last assignment was to do a book buddy project, where a teacher chooses a book and it gets put on a list. Then, the students in my AP English Literature class choose which books interest them the most and I chose yours! Finally a AP level historical fiction novel! Upon reading the novel, i and the teacher have a discussion regarding the novel and many of its critical themes/symbols and interpretations. I would love if you would be able to join us in discussion! There would only be 4 on my end to discuss with you, but I am sure i would be a very unforgettable and rewarding experience! Please consider us! Thank You! PS: the deadline for this discussion was set for June 2nd, but I am sure if you agree, my teacher will be flexible ;)! Please email me back! thanks again-sarang bhatt, mt. pleasant high school, san jose

Name: Jean Retkwa
Location: Woodbridge, NJ
Date: Wednesday, May 21, 2003
Time: 12:43 PM

Thank you, Ms. Cross, for a unique evening! The Book Discussion Group at the Woodbridge Library thoroughly enjoyed hearing from you via speakerphone last night. Your insights were invaluable and your wit was delightful. Eleven members of the group were present last night and ALL of them loved your book... and I can't tell you how seldom that happens with our group! Best of luck with the movie and thanks again.

Name: Linda Hillegass
Location: Lincoln NE
Date: Wednesday, May 21, 2003
Time: 10:50 AM

You recently spoke to our Crazy Ladies group (Lee Booksellers.) I'm writing it up for our newsletter and would like to include your photo in addition to the book cover. Is it possible for you to email me a digital file (jpg) of a picture of yourself? Thanks. The Crazy Ladies loved talking to you.

Name: Linda Russell
Location: Indianapolis, In
Date: Tuesday, May 20, 2003
Time: 08:01 PM

Donna- We wanted to thank you for joining our book club by speakerphone on the 13th. It was great to be able to ask you questions about your research and the movie and your future book. We appreciate the time you took to join us. Thanks so much. Linda Russell

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Name: Deb Gjoraas
Location: Minneapolis, MN
Date: Monday, May 19, 2003
Time: 09:17 PM

Dear Donna, We had a speakerphone chat with you on May 15. Our group was highly entertained, and was very excited in all the information that you shared about your book. You have a wonderful personality over the phone,and are a great inspiration to all women who read your book. We wish you much sucess in you movie, and if you need any "extras" we would be readily available to travel anywhere!!! Congrats to you!!

Name: Deb Gjoraas
Location: Minneapolis, MN
Date: Monday, May 19, 2003
Time: 09:17 PM

Name: Joan Reimann
Location: Singapore, Singapore
Date: Sunday, May 18, 2003
Time: 07:41 AM

Ms. Cross, I was intrigued by the title of your book as my name is Joan and I am a Roman Catholic. While Joan is not exactly a name for the millenium, historically women with this name have been strong, determined and successful in their pursuits. I immediately wanted to read your book. Unfortunately, it will have to wait until after the summer holidays when our book group reconvenes.

Your book has been selected for our September meeting. Our book group consists of 10 ex-patriate American women who currently reside in Singapore. We realize that it is a difficult request to ask that you hold an international phone chat, but we would be forever grateful for the opportunity. We would also be pleased to telephone you at our expense, however, we realize that you would prefer to maintain your privacy by not divulging your phone number. We will meet on Thursday, September 25th. Singapore is 13 hours ahead of Eastern Standard time. If it is 8pm in Singapore, it is 7am on the East Coast. If this will not work for you, perhaps we could move our session to the morning and arrange an evening interview. We can be flexible in terms of time and date.

Many thanks for considering our request.

Kind Regards,

Joan Reimann

Name: BILL JENKINS
Location: St. Simons Island, Georgia
Date: Saturday, May 17, 2003
Time: 07:55 PM

Donna, I Finnished reading 'POPE JOAN' last night. I found it to be an excellant read and have recommended it to book clubs in my area. One has chosen it for their selection in August. please let me hear from you about having a speaker phone conference . Thank you, Bill Looking forwar to your next book; have you a title?

Name: Irene Dale
Location: Needham, MA
Date: Friday, May 16, 2003
Time: 10:16 PM

Our book group would like to chat with Ms. Cross on Tuesday, July 29 at about 8:30 pm EST. Please let me know if this date and time work. Thank you.

Name: Carol I. Erickson
Location: Detroit Lakes, Minnesota
Date: Thursday, May 15, 2003
Time: 05:43 PM

Hi Donna, My book club is reviewing Pope Joan on September 18th 2003, at 2:00PM central time. I would like have your attendance by speaker phone. If this date and time is not good for you, we can adjust. Please let me know what will work for you.I attended Town Hall in Fargo, North Dakota and heard your presentation. Thank you Carol I Erickson

Name: Connie Huhn-Melone
Location: Neshkoro, WI
Date: Thursday, May 15, 2003
Time: 04:33 PM

Donna,

Thanks so much for chatting by speakerphone with our reading group at Bookworms in Wautoma, WI. It was great fun! We've all recommended Pope Joan to so many other women - and men. The feedback I have received has been very positive. You just may have a request for a chat in the Denver,CO area. I'm sure Mary and Nancy at Bookworms have told you that all copies they had in stock are sold. More are ordered! Hooray! It's such a fun book to read and discuss. Now.....we are all waiting for the film. Thanks for a good read, and a strong woman. Connie Huhn-Melone

Name: Cathy Winter
Location: Lebanon, NJ
Date: Wednesday, May 14, 2003
Time: 06:08 PM

Dear Donna,

What a thrill we had this past Monday evening--the Hill View Farms Book Club had our telephone discussion with you about Pope Joan. We left inspired, in awe, challenged and overjoyed at being given the opportunity to talk with you. We are all eager to stay abreast of your progress with the movie. What an exciting opportunity. Our best to you, Donna. Thanks for taking your very valuable time to help explore such a wonderful story.

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Name: Giandomenico Sale
Location: Termoli - Italy
Date: Wednesday, May 14, 2003
Time: 10:40 AM

Cara Donna, scusa se ti scrivo in italiano ma non conosco abbastanza bene l'inglese! Sono un ragazzo di 21 anni ed ho appena finito di leggere il tuo capolavoro Pope Joan, ci sono entrato e mi ha travolto come nessun libro era riuscito prima! Ti faccio i miei più sinceri complimenti. Ora quando guardo una donna provo un senso di ammirazione per quello che siete riuscite a raggiungere così duramente e quasi sempre a bassa voce. Grazie ancora per questo prezioso documento storico che hai regalato all'umanità.

Name: Diana Guilford
Location: Belleville, New York
Date: Tuesday, May 13, 2003
Time: 08:21 AM

Donna, We have a Distance Learning Room in our school where we have the capability to hold videoconferences. Is it possible for you to do a videoconference with our students instead of a teleconference?

Name: Trudy Andrews
Location: Brookfield, Conn
Date: Monday, May 12, 2003
Time: 11:32 AM

Dear Donna What a treat! Everyone in our book group enjoyed our chat with you by speakerphone. Thank you for calling us. It was nice of you to take the time. I know everyone enjoyed your input. There were a lot of smiles on happy faces. This is a mostly working group of women, married for about 30 years, and your enthusiasm was inspiring. We are not always in but everyone was positive about Pope Joan! Good luck with the movie! Trudi

Name: Nancy Boyd
Location: Denver, CO.
Date: Friday, May 09, 2003
Time: 04:35 PM

Hi Donna My book club read Pope Joan and loved it! Everyone agreed we would love to visit with you via speakerphone. Might you be available on June12? We usually meet at 9:30 AM (mountain time), but would be happy to schedule at another time at your convenience. Thanks for a great book!

Name: Kathleen Fish
Location: Memphis TN
Date: Friday, May 09, 2003
Time: 09:11 AM

Our book club is meeting on Thursday June 26 to discuss your book. We meet from 7-9:30 or 10. Are you avaliable by speakerphone at this time? Thanks Kathy Fish

Name: L.Revord
Location: Wilmette, IL
Date: Wednesday, May 07, 2003
Time: 08:46 AM

Our book group is meeting on Thursday, June 5 at 7:30 Central time to discuss your book. Our group usually chats until 10:00 or 10:00. Would you be available for a chat on the speakerphone? Let me know at your convenience. Thank you!

Name: Erin Dale
Location: Salinas, CA U.S.A.
Date: Tuesday, May 06, 2003
Time: 11:06 PM

Hello I am the member of a Fiction book group in Monterey California and heard that you do phone/internet chats with people interested in speaking with you after reading your book. We meet and discuss new books monthly and have just chosen your book (Pope Joan) to be discussed on July 1. We were wondering if it would be possible to either email questions to you for our discussion and/or have a telephone interview with you during our actual book group on July 1. This is a wonderful site you have. I have just begun reading your book and am totally fascinated by it a short way in. We would be honored to hear from you and be able to set something up for our group. I know you must be incredibly busy, so anything you can do would be fantastic. Thank you so much for your time!

Name: Carol Peterson
Location: Melrose, MA
Date: Tuesday, May 06, 2003
Time: 03:55 PM

Dear Donna, My book group is reading your book "Pope Joan" for our next meeting. We would love to have you join us by phone for a discussion if you are available. We will be meeting on June 19, 2003 here in the Boston area (Eastern Daylight Time). Any time between 8:00 and 8:30pm would be great.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Thank you! Carol Peterson

Name: Jackie Fiegen
Location: Sioux Falls, S.D.
Date: Sunday, April 27, 2003
Time: 05:26 PM

Would enjoy a chat by speakerphone on May 1 at 11:00 a.m. if that would work into your schedule that would be great. Thanks

Name: Johnna Yurasek, CDP
Location: Oberursel/Ts., Germany
Date: Sunday, April 27, 2003
Time: 04:39 PM

I just finished your book, DIE PÄPSTIN, in German. It is an excellent and fascinating book. I couldn't put it down. Many times as I was reading, I thought it was reality instead of a novel! Johanna was a wonderfully strong woman, someone we need today in our church.Thanks so much for writing the novel.

Name: Helen Lind
Location: Centennial, Colorado
Date: Friday, April 25, 2003
Time: 12:26 PM

Our neighborhood book club chatted with Donna on 4/10/03. We all loved the book and thoroughly enjoyed chatting with Joan. I've already told 2 other book groups about this opportunity.

Name: Andrew
Location: Kissimmee FL
Date: Thursday, April 24, 2003
Time: 09:40 AM

Sounds Excellent

Name: Carolyn Sund
Location: Wayzata, Minnesota
Date: Wednesday, April 23, 2003
Time: 02:38 PM

We would love to have your speakerphone conversation at our Thursday, May 1st, 2003 bookclub. We meet at 7:30 PM, Central Time. We usually meet until 10:00 PM (after we do all our catch-up and have dessert!)

Name: Trudy E. Andrews
Location: Brookfield, CT. 06804
Date: Wednesday, April 23, 2003
Time: 09:30 AM

Hi, We meet on the 2nd Thurs. at 7:30 and get to our discussion at 8. We would love to have the opportunity to chat with you. Would May 15 be possible and what time would be good for you? If not please give us the date and time that we can could arrange to talk with you. I had to order my copy of your book and just got it yesterday. It was sold out. It is a very popular book at our local Borders. Thanks, Trudy

Name: Christine
Location: Japan
Date: Tuesday, April 22, 2003
Time: 08:14 PM

Just finished your novel... excellent, excellent, excellent!

I couldn't put it down until 3 AM!

Name: Lara Swift
Location: Atlanta, GA
Date: Tuesday, April 22, 2003
Time: 02:53 PM

My bookclub just read Pope Joan and loved it! In fact, I think it is the best book I have read in years. We were hoping to schedule a speakerphone chat with you around noon or 12:30 east coast time the week of May 12-16th. Please advise is this time-frame will work with your schedule. THANK YOU so much!! Lara Swift

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Name: Linda Russell
Location: Indianapolis, In.
Date: Monday, April 21, 2003
Time: 07:54 PM

We will be meeting Tues. May 13th at 7:00. Discussion starts around 8:00pm. Thank you for your consideration.

Name: Doylene Wichlenski
Location: Town & Country, MO
Date: Monday, April 21, 2003
Time: 02:55 PM

Donna, I was involved in a discussion with you on speaker phone with Karen Gadera on Tue. Jan 20, 2003, We pledged to help spread the word about the wonderful book Pope Joan, and another book club I belong to will be reading your successful book in June. We will meet for discussion on Monday June 16, 2003 around 7:00 p.m. Please consider speaking to us. If you can't make that date we will meet again July 14, 2003. We have 12 members and they all purchased the book, I did not pass on any of the neighbors books. ( As you requested). Please let me know if either of these dates will work for you. Doylene Wichlenski

Name: Mary Santi
Location: Wautoma, Wisconsin
Date: Saturday, April 19, 2003
Time: 03:22 PM

Dear Donna, We can't begin to thank you enough for the wonderful hour you spent with our Bookworms! Reading Group and friends. The book was so enjoyable and so inspirational to us all. There was so much information about the unbelievably difficult life Joan led. And you were able to give us alot more in our chat! We enjoyed your enthusiasm and humor. Your wonderful explanations of the difficult days of the Dark Ages further illuminated our understanding of how this whole story came about, especially those descriptions of the personal hygiene of people during that time! Yech! We also found the discussion about the forthcoming movie fascinating. How exciting for you!! It was enlightening to hear about your writing of both the novel and the screenplay. Also the sometimes frustrating world of publishing. We hope that "Pope Joan" goes on to become the U.S. bestseller it deserves to be as it has been in Europe. And we also look forward to reading your next book! Thanks again, Mary Santi & Nancy Hansen Bookworms! Wautoma, Wisconsin

Name: Jean Retkwa
Location: Woodbridge, NJ
Date: Saturday, April 19, 2003
Time: 01:15 PM

The Woodbridge Library's Book Discussion Group has chosen Pope Joan as our May selection. We would be thrilled to hear from the author by speakerphone if she could accommodate us on May 21 sometime between 7:30 and 8:30. (Our meeting runs from 7:30 'til 9pm.) Thank you for your consideration.

Jean Retkwa

Name: Cyndie Wiggins
Location: Lebanon, NJ
Date: Thursday, April 17, 2003
Time: 09:24 AM

I just wanted to take a moment to thank you so much for chatting with my book club by speakerphone last Friday night. We really enjoyed the conversation and insight and look forward to the upcoming movie. I wish you the best of luck and will also be on the lookout for your next book.

Regards, Cyndie

Name: Shannon Barnhill
Location: Bountiful, Utah
Date: Wednesday, April 16, 2003
Time: 01:13 PM

We would like to request a speakerphone chat with Donna on Thursday, April 24, 2003 for our book group. We have just finished reading Pope Joan and would love to have a conversation "from the horses mouth". The time would be 7:45 pm MST. Looking forward to hearing from you.

Name: Carrie Sutherland
Location: Superior, WI
Date: Wednesday, April 16, 2003
Time: 11:35 AM

Hello, I am from J.W. Beecroft Books & Coffee, a lovely bookstore and cafe located in Wisconsin. One of our store book groups will be discussing Pope Joan on Thursday, May 1st at 6:00 p.m. CST and I was wondering if you might be able to join them for a speakerphone chat. I appreciate your consideration and wish you continued success with Pope Joan. Thank you, Carrie Sutherland J.W. Beecroft Books & Coffee

Name: Ann Salvatore
Location: Bayport NY
Date: Monday, April 14, 2003
Time: 08:32 PM

Hello I submitted a request for a book club chat for the end of June. I just found out I can be flexible with the date if necessary. Please let me know if June 27,2003 is OK if not I can change it. Thank you and looking forward to hearing from you soon. Ann

Name: Anne Shearier
Location: Aurora, Colorado
Date: Monday, April 14, 2003
Time: 12:15 PM

We have a book group that would love to chat by speakerphone with you about your book. To discuss your book we will meet June 4th at 5:45 and would like to talk to you at 6:15. We meet at a church and could arrange for a speaker phone to be in the room. Please let me know if this would work for you. Thank you. Anne

Name: Andrew
Location: United States
Date: Sunday, April 13, 2003
Time: 08:46 PM

Sounds like a fascinating book!

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Name: Trudy Andrews
Location: Brookfield, Conn.
Date: Sunday, April 13, 2003
Time: 11:19 AM

I suggested your book and it was chosen for our May 8 meeting which will be at my house. We meet at 7:30 and socialize until everyone arrives. We could schedule a time after 7:30 p.m. that would be convenient for you. There are 8 of us in our bookclub and we are all looking forward to reading your book. Only 1 member had heard of your book and read it before I came across it as a suggestion for bookclubs. Looking forward to hearing from you. I will have to buy a speaker phone and test it if you are available. Thanks, Trudy

Name: Dorcas Evans
Location: Denver, CO 80237
Date: Thursday, April 10, 2003
Time: 11:21 AM

Hi Donna, Is it possible that May 7 or June 4 (both are Wednesdays) would work for you for a telephone chat with our book club? We would be so pleased if you could discuss the book with our book club and are anxiously awaiting your response. Thanks so much. Dorcas Evans

Name: Darien Smith
Location: Concord, MA
Date: Wednesday, April 09, 2003
Time: 11:58 PM

Many thanks for our discussion with you the evening of March 25! Everyone enjoyed it so much and we have all been telling friends about it. It was wonderful to have so many questions answered and to hear about your research and upcoming projects. We look forward to the movie and are already talking about going as a group to see it. All the best for your future projects! Darien Smith The Women's AM/PM Book Group, First Parish in Concord

Name: jodi bounds
Location: cincinnati, ohio
Date: Tuesday, April 08, 2003
Time: 04:54 PM

We are reading POPE JOAN this month as our book club selection. We will be meeting a my house for our discussion (there are five women in the group). Is it possible for you to call my home on May 5 between 6:00 and 7:00 p.m.

Thanks, Jodi Bounds

Name: Angela Woodard
Location:
Date: Monday, April 07, 2003
Time: 06:31 PM

Hello. M name is angela and i am currently a french student at Baylor School (my teacher is Ginnie Harris) and i have just finished Pope Joan. I think it is a wonderful book!I was wondering what exactly inspired you to write such a novel. I rarely read books for school and find them pleasureable to read, but i truly enjoyed this book.

Name: Marjorie Heywood
Location: Richmond, VA
Date: Sunday, April 06, 2003
Time: 08:55 AM

Our House Church group has been meeting for 7 years. We are not actually a book club but a support group and over the years we have tackled a multitude of topics. Pope Joan was the first novel we have read as a group and would love to talk to you more about this book. Thank you.

Name: Joanne Frolich
Location: Lexington,MA
Date: Saturday, April 05, 2003
Time: 01:09 PM

Please excuse the delay in sending you a heartfilled thank you for the wonderful book chat conversation you graciously gave our book group by speakerphone on March 3rd. (in the interim, a grandchild entered the world) We loved your casual, informative approach and all the behind the scenes information. The group said it was the best meeting we have ever had. As you can expect, your chat was the topic of conversation at work the next day. Yes, it is a great way to promote a great book. Best of luck with your next undertaking. I hope it doesn't take eleven years to complete. Thanks again. Joanne Frolich Lexington, MA

Name: Cathy Winter
Location: Lebanon, New Jersey
Date: Thursday, April 03, 2003
Time: 02:28 PM

The Hill View Farms Book Club has been going for about 18 months now and we have a GREAT time. We just finished your book and then learned of the opportunity to discuss with you. We are excited. We are open as to our discussion time (we will schedule a separate time). We'd prefer to do it in May sometime and in the evening as several members work during the day. We look forward to hearing from you.

Name: Ruth Swenson
Location: Park Rapids, MN 56470
Date: Thursday, April 03, 2003
Time: 12:52 PM

Blue Stocking Society requests chat @ 2:00PM CDT-Weds. April 9,2003

Name: Ann Salvatore
Location: Bayport, NY
Date: Wednesday, April 02, 2003
Time: 06:21 PM

Hello, I am hosting our next book club. I selected your book for June, We would be thrilled if you could chat with us June 26, 2003 at 8:30PM. Thank you and I look forward to hearing from you. Ann

Name: becki goslow
Location: Corvallis, Oregon
Date: Tuesday, April 01, 2003
Time: 10:14 PM

My book club meeting is April 2. Normally, we have a short social time from 7:00 P.M. to 7:30 P.M. Could we discuss your fabulous book?

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Name: Kristy Hunter
Location: Provo, Utah
Date: Monday, March 31, 2003
Time: 05:37 PM

My book group and I are very interested in chatting with you about your amazing book Pope Joan. The week of April 28-May 2,2003 is when our book group is scheduled. Please let me know if you would be able to join our group for a fascinating discussion.

Name: Marsha Harris
Location: Denver, CO
Date: Sunday, March 30, 2003
Time: 10:45 PM

Our bookclub meets on the 4th Friday of every month, at 7:00 pm. The meeting we will be discussing "Pope Joan" will be on July 25th at my home. I have a speaker phone. We average 7-10 women per meeting and would appreciate it if you would participate in our group discussion. Marsha Harris

Name: Joni Williamson
Location: Lincoln, NE USA
Date: Saturday, March 29, 2003
Time: 07:24 PM

Our book discussion group is reading Pope Joan for our May 19 meeting. Would you be available for a speaker phone discussion? We meet at 7:30 central time. I am looking forward to your response. Thank you, Joni Williamson

Name: Lisa Friedrichs
Location: Fairfield, Connecticut
Date: Saturday, March 29, 2003
Time: 01:49 PM

Hi Donna, I am so thrilled to know you will set up a speakerphone chat with my book club. We have been meeting now for three years and especially like historical fiction with strong women characters. I will be hosting the book club on Wednesday, May 14th and we meet at 7:30 pm. I'm thinking we will want to discuss the book a bit before we talk with you so perhaps a 9:00 call would be appropriate. What is your experience with timing and how long do you usually chat? I truly look forward to this. I hope we can arrange it. Sincerely, Lisa Friedrichs

Name: Liz Merchant
Location: Surprise, AZ
Date: Thursday, March 27, 2003
Time: 09:58 PM

Our book discussion participants are still mile-high after our speakerphone chat this morning. What a privilege to hear your responses to our inquiries, the reasons for some of the plot/character choices you made, etc. We can't WAIT for the movie, and we promise to spread the word (NOT the book) all over about this wonderful work of yours.

Name: Barbara Wolfe
Location: Harvey , Illinois
Date: Thursday, March 27, 2003
Time: 03:35 PM

I would like to use your "Pope Joan" for our Harvey Public Library Book Discussion group. It would be wonderful for our group to be able to chat by speakerphone with an author. Since I am sure you are swamped with requests would it be possible to set up an evening appointment with you for our group? How far in advance would this be? I am looking forward to reading your book--I have heard great things about it. Thank you for your time and consideration. Barbara Wolfe (Reference Librarian)

Name: Priscilla Alberg
Location: Surprise AZ USA
Date: Thursday, March 27, 2003
Time: 12:59 PM

I, along with our Discussion Group from Church, so enjoyed the "chat" we had with you this morning. Your book was awesome and enlightening. I am looking forward to the movie now that I know you wrote the film script for it. Thanks for sharing your time with us.

Name: Amber Milland
Location: Hellerup, Denmark
Date: Thursday, March 27, 2003
Time: 07:02 AM

Dear Donna, The other day I loaned Pope Joan (Pave Johanne in Danisk) from the library for the fourth time, so today I decided to buy my own copy. I have never read so much in so short a time, thank you for such an enchanting book.

Name: Susan Jerger
Location: Greenwood, IN
Date: Wednesday, March 26, 2003
Time: 04:45 PM

Hello, Our book group plans to read Pope Joan for our June meeting and would really love to hear from the author. Our scheduled date and time are Wed, June 18th at 10am [central time]. Thank you, Susan

Name: Cyndie Wiggins
Location: Lebanon, New Jersey
Date: Wednesday, March 26, 2003
Time: 10:46 AM

Donna, Our book club has been reading your book and would love to have a speakerphone conversation with you. We plan on discussing your book at our next meeting, April 11, and are hoping that you might be available around 9pm via speakerphone. Please let me know if you are possibly available at that time. Thanks and looking forward to hearing from you - Cyndie

Name: Elle Becker
Location: Greenwood Village,Colorado
Date: Wednesday, March 26, 2003
Time: 09:36 AM

Our group read and discussed the book last month and are hoping that Arpril 10 at 8:00 or 8:30 you might be free to discuss it's process and other questions by speakerphone.

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Name: Dayna Dunbar
Location: Playa del Rey, CA
Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2003
Time: 09:25 PM

I just received Pope Joan from Maureen O'Neal, editor at Ballantine, when I went to meet her in New York to discuss the novel they just bought from me. I have been enthralled since the first page. The level of scholarship and authenticity is incredible. I love the story, the pace, the writing, and all that I am learning. I am considering writing a novel set in thirteenth century France, but I am intimidated by the amount of research. Any tips that might help me in that area? Thanks so much and congratulations. I'm thrilled I get to see the movie as well. I can't get enough of Pope Joan. Dayna Dunbar

Name: Barbara Ramsey
Location: Santa Rosa, California
Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2003
Time: 07:34 PM

This is such short notice that I am hesitant to even make such a request. My book group is discussing POPE JOAN tomorrow night, Wednesday, March 26th. We will be meeting at 7:00 pm. I would love to be surprised that this was at all possible. Thank You. Barbara Ramsey

Name: Jennifer Bradley
Location: Troy, MI
Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2003
Time: 03:34 PM

Dear Donna, I would like to tell my book group about your offer to do chats via speaker phone. could you please tell me about how long the chats are and the format so I could give them all the information. I loved your book and hope to hear from you soon. thank you very much. sincerely, jennifer bradley

Name: Dorcas Evans
Location: Denver, CO
Date: Monday, March 24, 2003
Time: 03:41 PM

Dear Ms. Cross, Both of my book clubs are reading your book. The Presybyterian Church of the Covenant Women's Book Club will be meeting on Wed., April 2 to discuss Pope Joan. We would be thrilled if you were available to discuss it with us! We meet at 7:00 PM MST. Is there any chance that you might join us over the phone? Hopefully, Dorcas Evans

Name: Kathy Banwart
Location: Dayton, OH
Date: Sunday, March 23, 2003
Time: 09:42 AM

Thank you, Donna, for a delightful, interesting book group discussion! It was so interesting to have your comments and insights not only on the book but the process of researching, writing and publishing and now we get to look forward to the movie!!! We have been helping sell the book, through gift-giving and suggesting it to fellow readers because it s such a good read! I d have written a quick thank you sooner but that night, after everyone stayed another hour and a half to further discuss our conversation with Donna, I had to finish packing so we could be up at 3:30 to make our 6 a.m. flight. Thank you, thank you, for giving this long-time book group a new experience! Kathy Banwart

Name: Roberta Chase
Location: Englewood, CO
Date: Sunday, March 23, 2003
Time: 08:21 AM

Dear Donna: On behalf of my whole book club I would like to thank you for your call last night about your book. What a treat to hear from "the horse's mouth", and to have our questions about your book answered in such an unhurried manner. We wish you continued success in your future writing endeavors. Sincerely, Roberta Chase

Name: Barbara Raff
Location: Long Grove, Illinois (suburb of Chicago)
Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2003
Time: 09:48 PM

Our bookclub is meeting this Thursday, March 20, to discuss your wonderful book. Just came across your website with request for live speakerphone chat. Is there any possibility of arranging live chat on such short notice? We meet at 8 pm Central time.

Name: Dorcas Evans
Location: Denver,CO
Date: Monday, March 17, 2003
Time: 06:14 PM

Both of the book clubs to which I belong are reading this wonderful book. The first group meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 7:00 PM, MST. Would you be available on April 2, 2003 for a speakerphone chat? We would be thrilled! Thank you so much.

Name: Christine Hödl
Location: Germany
Date: Monday, March 17, 2003
Time: 07:40 AM

Dear Mrs. Cross, Your book "The Pope" is really fantastic and I would like to do a talk in my class about you, your books(especially "The pope") so I would ask you for some information about your life, your books, your thoughts about your work,... Perhaps that will be possible.(it`s really difficult to find some information about you and your books). Thank you. Christine

Name: Katie
Location: Proud citizen of the USA!!!:)
Date: Friday, March 14, 2003
Time: 02:57 PM

I am only 11 but I must say that I enjoyed this book with all my heart. My teacher reccomened it to me a week ago and I was hooked on it:) My sister is now starting it and fro what she tells me she loves it. Donna- If you have any other work please tell me about it and I will look into it:) well goodbye

Name: Lois Goodman
Location: Austin, TX
Date: Thursday, March 13, 2003
Time: 09:15 PM

Donna, Thank you so much for speaking by phone with our book club. Your insight, enthusiasm, humor and intelligence is (to use the kids term) awesome. We appreciated your taking the time to speak to us. Looking forward to seeing the movie and reading the next novel. Lois Goodman

Name: Candice Michalik
Location: Lynchburg, Virginia
Date: Thursday, March 13, 2003
Time: 09:32 AM

Will you be doing phone chats in the second half of 2003? My group has all its books chosen for the first half of the year, but if a chat could be arranged in any month from July through December, that would be wonderful! We meet the third Wednesday of the month at 1:00 PM. If those hours are not convenient, we would be able to make a change. There are usually between 10 and 20 of us. We have access to a speakerphone. If you need more information, please let me know. Thank you.

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Name: Jeanne Schellin
Location: Arlington Heights, IL
Date: Wednesday, March 12, 2003
Time: 09:53 PM

I'm writing to follow up on a chat request for early April. Would April 2, 8, or 9 at 8:00pm (CST) fit into Donna's schedule? My other book club enjoyed our conversation immensely, and I look forward to my other friends sharing in this unique opportunity. Thanks, Jeanne Schellin

Name: Y vonne VAVROVA
Location: Bratislava,Slovakia,Europe
Date: Wednesday, March 12, 2003
Time: 02:43 PM

Comments

Half year ago, I received from Mrs.Cross letter concerning author right for shooting her wonderfull book.I am film director, and I would like to know wheather it could be possible for Mrs.Cross to sell the right for theatrical releas in Europe. I know that film rights are already sold and the film is in preparation. I would like to write after her novel playwright for theatrical audience. Would be Mrs. Cross so kind and write me her opinion. In the case of her positive answer certainly I will send her my mail all information, materials and brochures about the theatre. I do hope to receive good answer. Sincerely MgArt. Yvonne Vavrova, film director, Bratislva, Slovakia, Europe

Name: Christine Sauer
Location: Quantico, Virginia
Date: Wednesday, March 12, 2003
Time: 09:43 AM

Our book group would be delighted if you would be able to join our conversation about Pope Joan on either March 25 or April 2 at 8:00 p.m by speakerphone. Our group consists of 15 women from all over the USA (we are spouses of United States Marines). I just received 10 copies of Pope Joan for our book group, via amazon.com (local libraries didn't have enough)! I just found out about the book chats you do by speaker phone. Do you think you could fit us into your schedule on either one of the dates above? (Apologies for the short notice)... Thank you sooo much!

Name: Nadene Hanson
Location: Venice, Florida
Date: Wednesday, March 12, 2003
Time: 08:30 AM

Chat request - Wed. April 9 - 3 B's Book Club - Books and Bunco Babes - 9 members - 7:30 P.M.

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Name: Sally Wiarda
Location: Wheaton, Il
Date: Tuesday, March 11, 2003
Time: 01:54 PM

Dear Ms. Cross, We would love to schedule a 'chat' by speakerphone with you for our Book Group. What a terrific and generous idea! Please let me know what you can typically accommodate as far as schedule and times available and I can let our group know. Thanks so much! Sally Wiarda

Name: Darien Smith
Location: Concord, MA
Date: Tuesday, March 11, 2003
Time: 01:40 PM

Our book group would love to have you join us by speajerphone when we discuss Pope Joan on Tuesday, March 25, 2003. We are the Women's AM/PM book group at First Parish in Concord (Unitarian Universalist). The AM/PM means that some of us meet in the morning and some in the evening on the same day to discuss the book, so we are really asking you to join two groups - once at 10:00am and once at 8:00pm (EST), if possible. Please let us know if either or both of these times would be possible for you to join us, or if we could make an alternate plan. Thanks, Darien

Name: Jennifer
Location: Columbia, S.C.
Date: Tuesday, March 11, 2003
Time: 01:10 PM

Reading Pope Joan left me knowing how important education is and that with knowledge anything is possible. Thank you for portraying the struggles of women and show how far we have come and how far we have yet to go.

Name: Molly English
Location: Syracuse
Date: Tuesday, March 11, 2003
Time: 12:26 PM

Hi Donna, Now that former editor Tina Schwab has gone part-time, I am the new editor of the New Times. I also am involved in a book club that will be meeting somewhere in DeWitt, NY on Thursday, March 27. Would you kindly consider visiting our group by speakerphone so we can discuss your book? Thank you.

Name: Amy Leavens
Location: Snohomish, WA
Date: Monday, March 03, 2003
Time: 09:47 PM

Hi Donna Cross. I am an acquaintance of Seville, who is in the Seattle Book group that you spoke with a couple of years ago and then had dinner with when you were in town. One of the ladies, Leslie Beeman, is my neighbor and recommended Pope Joan. We are currently reading it for my book club and I would love to have you call us that evening. I know this is short notice, but if it works out, we would be thrilled. We meet on March 27th and to not interfere with our family lives, we typically don't start until 8:30 pm. But, if you are on the east coast, this would obviously be too late for you and we can just start earlier this time. Thank you for your efforts in this and thank you for writing such a wonderful book. Amy Leavens Snohomish, WA

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Name: Lois Goodman
Location: Austin, TX
Date: Monday, March 03, 2003
Time: 06:35 PM

This is so late but I just came across this web site. Our book club meets first Thursday at 10AM. By any unbelievable chance, would you be able to chat with us this Thurs. at 10:30 or 11 AM CST? We are discussing Pope Joan. If not, could you do it any other first Thurday at the same times. Thank you SO MUCH! Lois

Name: Deb Gjoraas
Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota
Date: Monday, March 03, 2003
Time: 02:32 PM

Chat Request. I am anxiously awaiting if you will be able to do a speakerphone conversation with our book club on May 15 at 7:30 p.m.-to whenever CST. This is such a terrific book. Thank you.

Name: Pam Youngs-Maher
Location: Baldwinsville, NY
Date: Sunday, March 02, 2003
Time: 01:05 PM

Hi Donna! Our local bookclub will be meeting on April 2, 7:30 pm at my home to discuss Pope Joan. I was so glad when they selected it [I had given them a choice of this novel or a non-fiction book -- Composing A Life. The vote was rapid and unanimous -- Pope Joan! It will be the 3rd time I've read it, I love it more each time - so much on lifelong learning, the cost of being a female, power and the church - so many issues. Would you be available to visit with us by speakerphone? By the way, I have your autograph in my copy of the book from a Continuing Ed Conference at the Syracuse, NY Sheraton back on 11/6/ 1997. You spoke to our group, and I'd love to hear you again :-) Continued best wishes, and good luck in the making of the movie! Pam Youngs-Maher

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Name: Jeanne Schellin
Location: Arlington Heights, IL
Date: Friday, February 28, 2003
Time: 09:09 PM

Comments

I just wanted to thank Donna for the enlightening comments she offered our book club. What a delicious treat for us to learn first-hand the labor and deliberation that went into penning a deserving tribute to a fascinating figure. Each of us truly relished every moment spent talking with Donna. We look forward to passing along this novel to our students, all of whom are sure to be inspired by Joan's tale. -Jeanne Schellin

Name: Robin Moloney
Location: Dallas, Texas
Date: Friday, February 28, 2003
Time: 03:43 PM

Comments

Dear Donna, Since I last e-mailed you about your book about a year ago, I have joined a book club, and when it was my turn to choose the book, I recommended Pope Joan. We would love to have you join our discussion on Sat. April 5th around 11:00 a.m. central time. Please let me know if this would be possible and thanks so much in advance. Also, would love to know when the movie and the next book are coming out (you had mentioned the last time that your next book might be out by this spring). Thank you! Sincerely, Robin Moloney

Name: gae bachle
Location: tulsa, oklahoma
Date: Friday, February 28, 2003
Time: 02:02 PM

Comments

"Pope Joan" is a part of our reading list for the year 2002/2003. We will meet to discuss the book on April 23 or April 24. A definite date is not yet decided. I thought it might help you to have two dates in mind. There are approximately 20-25 women who participate in the discussion. We would be thrilled to have you join us via speakerphone. Our other selections for this series are: "The Lovely Bones" Alice Sebold "Blonde" Joyce Carol Oats "A Way of Life, Like Any Other" Darcy O'Brien "Bel Canto" Ann Patchett I look forward to hearing from you. Thanks in advance. gae bachle

Name: Pat Olbert
Location: Spring Green, WI 53588
Date: Friday, February 28, 2003
Time: 11:06 AM

Donna, I know I speak for everyone at our book club last night when I say we absolutely loved your book. And having the opportunity to speak with you made it even better. Thank you so much for such an enjoyable evening and a great book. I really want the story to be true. We are all extremely anxious for your next book to be published. Thanks again, Pat Olbert/Forget Me Not Books, LLC

Name: Jody Hoard
Location: Cincinnati, Ohio
Date: Thursday, February 27, 2003
Time: 09:48 AM

Donna- My Book Club was honored to have an hour with you by speakerphone on Feb. 25,2003. Having been in this group for over five years, this was the best and most exciting way to explore this facinating book. The history and geography of this dark ages story is so alive in your book. With three daughters of stong wills and minds,this is the perfect book to pass along to them. I've convinced three other book clubs that your book is a must read. It is so much in demand here in Cincinnati, it must be put on hold to get anywhere in our library system. I guess they need more copies and more people need to buy their own copy. My husband is writing a historical novel and I shared your information on composition, point of view and the skeleton outline you worked with. Your marketing plan in the states will eventually bring the success you deserve. Thanks for making the time for the readers in my group, who loved your story. We are all waiting for the movie. Sincerely, Jody Hoard

Name: Susan Robbins
Location: West Bend, WI
Date: Wednesday, February 26, 2003
Time: 11:55 AM

Donna, I don't know if you would talk to a library twice, but we have a second book club here that is a very fiery group! They will be reading your book for their May 15 discussion...could you possible talk to us again around that date? Thanks so much. Susan

Name: Mary Beth Ribarchek
Location: Milwaukee, WI
Date: Wednesday, February 26, 2003
Time: 09:08 AM

We are a new book club at the Milwaukee Art Museum and are interested in a speakerphone conversation with you. The date we meet next is March 26th from 12noon to 1 p.m. Thank you so much, MBR

Name: Christina Walter
Location: Marburg, Deutschland
Date: Wednesday, February 26, 2003
Time: 08:25 AM

Ich möchte in der Schule einen Buchbericht über Pope Joan halten und bräuchte noch ein paar wichtige Informationen, wie z.B. ihre Biographie. Sie würden mir einen sehr großen Gefallen tun, wenn sie sich bei mir melden würden. Danke, Tina

Name: M.J. Miller
Location: Dayton,OH
Date: Tuesday, February 25, 2003
Time: 08:53 PM

Donna, Thank you so much for talking by speakerphone to our bookclub last night. We talked for another hour and a half after hanging up. I wanted to give you the proper title and author of the book I told you about last night: The Many Lives and Secret Sorrows of Josephine B. by Sandra Gulland. Thanks again for a wonderful evening. I have recommended the book to a writers group that I know. M.J. Miller

Name: Carla Imray
Location: Omaha,Nebraska
Date: Tuesday, February 25, 2003
Time: 04:55 PM

Good morning: I am a member of the University of Nebraska Medical Center Faculty Women's Club book discussion group. Pope Joan is our selection for the month of April. Our meeting date is Wednesday, April 9, 2003. We would very much enjoy a speakerphone chat if you are available that day. An appropriate time would be 2 p.m. that day.(after lunch)(unless you want to travel to Omaha...we are great cooks) We meet monthly and there are usually 15 in attendance. Recent books we have read are, "The Red Tent" and "House of Sand and Fog." Look forward to hearing from you!

Name: liz merchant
Location: surprise az
Date: Tuesday, February 25, 2003
Time: 10:34 AM

Our club is church-related. We are reading your book for March and our discussions will be 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. MST Thursday March 27. We would be pleased to have you join us by speakerphone one time or the other! Your book is great!

Name: Dulcy Varela
Location: Brandon, FL
Date: Monday, February 24, 2003
Time: 10:09 PM

I'd like to thank Donna for taking the time to chat by speakerphone with our book club last Saturday, Feb 22. We enjoyed hearing about the upcoming movie (we can't wait to see it!) and gaining insight from the "horse's mouth" about the process of writing the book and the screenplay. We are all impressed that such a busy woman is so generous with her time! Thank you Donna, for writing such an inspirational book that has touched so many lives.

Name: Deb Gjoraas
Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota
Date: Monday, February 24, 2003
Time: 08:01 AM

Our book club is reading Pope Joan for the month of May. Our group will be meeting on Thursday, May 15th at 7:30 to 11:00p.m. cst We would like to do a speakerphone conversation with you on on this date. The dates and times may be changed, if does not fit with your schedule. Thank you so much for this opportunity. Deb Gjoraas

Name: Jeanne Schellin
Location: Arlington Heights, IL
Date: Sunday, February 23, 2003
Time: 09:07 PM

Our book club is planning to discuss Pope Joan on February 26, and would love to arrange a speakerphone conversation with you. All five of us (English teachers) found your book fascinating. If this request comes too late for that book group, however, I do belong to another one as well. We'll be meeting the first or second Wednesday in April, and those women would be equally thrilled to hear your first-hand accounts. Please let me know if either (or both) of these dates would fit into your schedule. Thank you, Jeanne Schellin

Name: Cindy Rogge
Location: Kansas City, MO
Date: Thursday, February 20, 2003
Time: 11:26 AM

Ms. Cross I just made a request for a chat with you for March 12, 2003 at 8:00 pm cst and I would like to tell you alittle about our book club. We meet on the second Tuesday of every month from 7:30pm to whenever. Our book club has been together for about 6 years and I have been member for 4 years. Pope Joan is my book selection for this month and we would all love to have a speaker phone chat with you. It will be a first for us to get to speak directly with the author about a book. Thank you ahead of time for the opportunity to speak with you about this wonderful historical fiction book.

Name: Michelle
Location: NY
Date: Wednesday, February 19, 2003
Time: 05:25 PM

I just want to say that your book is the best book I've ever read. I'm a freshman in highschool and I found your book suspenseful and interesting. I couldn't put it down. I can't wait for your next book. Thank You

Name: Gabriella Bábel
Location: Zurich, Switzerland
Date: Wednesday, February 19, 2003
Time: 07:24 AM

Dear Ms Cross! We are publishing company of books in Hungary. we would be intersted in publishing your book. We would like to ask you to informs wether the rights for Hungary are still available and if they are , could you send us please both an offer for the rights and an illustrative copy of book. our address: NISI GmbH Imbisbühlsteig 6 CH-8049 Switzerland Best regards, Gabriella Bábel still

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Name: Nancy Stone
Location: Lady Lake, FL
Date: Tuesday, February 18, 2003
Time: 04:36 PM

Dear Donna, Our Book Club would like to thank you for taking the time to chat with us about your book. As we told you, we all LOVED the book and are looking forward to seeing the movie. You were truly a DELIGHT to talk with.

Name: Kate Wehby
Location: Proud US citizin!!!
Date: Tuesday, February 18, 2003
Time: 03:03 PM

Dear Donna, I am only 11 years old but I enjoyed this book very much. I loved that Joan was a woman and still rose high. (thats shows the boys we can be great!) My teacher reccomemded this book to me. This is a very good book and I reccomend it to everyone. Goods Blessings on your Day! -Kate

Name: Lavonne Dennis
Location: Kemp, Texas
Date: Tuesday, February 18, 2003
Time: 01:41 PM

Our little book study club (The ANSA)of seven members has read and discussed POPE JOAN, and we would like for you to join us by speakerphone for further discussion, please. We meet the first Tuesday of each month, so March 4th we'll meet again. Please join us. Thanks. Lavonne Dennis

Name: Helen Sirett
Location: Kingsport
Date: Monday, February 17, 2003
Time: 09:49 PM

I want to extend our thanks and appreciation to Donna for joining our Book Club discussion tonight, February 17th. It was our most memorable book discussion ever. We enjoyed hearing about the research you did for book and your comments about life for women in the dark ages. Speaking with you was such a great addition to our discussion. We all look forward to the movie and your next book!

Name: Anne Shamas
Location: St. Petersburg, FL
Date: Monday, February 17, 2003
Time: 12:11 PM

Dear Donna, Thank you so much for speaking by phone to the Highbrows this morning. Everyone was so excited and could not believe how generous you were with your time. Your answers to our questions provided depth and added to our enjoyment of the book. I think it is the first time we have read a book that was unanimously liked. We all loved it and can not wait for your next one. We were thrilled with your news of the movie's progress. Jodie Foster would have been great, but I personally think that Cate Blanchett will bring more of Joan's sensitivity to the role. We cannot understand why this book has not received the recognition it deserves. We will do our part to spread the word. There are already plans to recommend it to at least three other book groups. Once again, thank you for your time and the wonderful chat. Sincerely, Anne Shamas

Name: Christen Sakales
Location: Tampa, FL
Date: Wednesday, February 12, 2003
Time: 09:57 AM

We have a bookclub with 9 women of varying ages, and would like to request a speakerphone chat with the author for our meeting on either March 4th or 5th, 6pm eastern standard time. Please reply and let us know if either of these dates will work for you. Thank you.

Name: Joanne Frolich
Location: Lexington.MA
Date: Monday, February 10, 2003
Time: 04:14 PM

Our book group will meet on March 3, 2003. I enjoyed your book so much that I chose to review it for our March meeting. It would be very exciting to have you join in a speakerphone "chat" with us. Some of members in this group have been together for 30 years and are well versed in literature. Our group meets at 7:30- 8:00 at a home that has a speaker phone. I look forward to hearing from you. Joanne Frolich

Name: ruth gieswein
Location: houston, tx
Date: Monday, February 10, 2003
Time: 08:29 AM

I am a high school senior that found your book by mistake and read it for my monthly book report. I loved it so much and I learned that I wasn't a strange girl just because I love to learn. I was never accepted by my peers all those years because I was more intelligent. I never fit in until now at my private christian school where I am one of 2 seniors. But still...there were times in junior high and early high school where I was criticised by my english teachers to be unorthodox in my writing according to english rules. Now I am a published poet and I have a plaque from "Who's Who Among High School Students." Joan helped me to see nothing--nothing--was in vain. Ruth

Name: Kerry Baker
Location: Bay City, Michigan
Date: Saturday, February 08, 2003
Time: 11:57 AM

Dear Donna, The Presbyterian Pages Book Club of The First Presbyterian Church in Bay City, Michigan would love for you to "attend" our book review/discussion of Pope Joanby speakerphone. We are meeting on Monday March 10, 2003 at 10am. We look forward to hearing from you soon. Thank you. Kerry Baker

Name: Ida Sandoval
Location: Denver, CO USA
Date: Friday, February 07, 2003
Time: 12:36 PM

Hi Donna, Your book has been highly recommended from a neighboring book club. I am the default leader of a book club that meets bi-monthly and we would LOVE to arrange a speakerphone call with you. Our group is approximately 10 women -and we read everything (classics, ficition,non-fiction, biographies, etc.) I'm looking forward to hearing from you and hope we can arrange a chat the next time our club meets. We've already started reading your book... Sincerely, Ida Sandoval

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Name: Pat Olbert
Location: Spring Green, Wisconsin
Date: Thursday, February 06, 2003
Time: 12:23 PM

Hi Donna, This is to confirm our appointment with you to chat by speakerphone with us regarding "Pope Joan". We are scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 27 @ 7:30p.m. We are in Wisconsin which is Central Standard Time. I am so looking forward to this - I am almost done with the book and it's even better than I anticipated. Thank you so much and look forward to "chatting" with you along with our book club.

Name: Josh Lawrence
Location: Tennessee
Date: Thursday, February 06, 2003
Time: 09:04 AM

What are your thoughts about Joan's punishment at the end of the novel?

Name: Sheryl Baloun
Location: Sioux Falls, S. Dak.
Date: Wednesday, February 05, 2003
Time: 06:32 PM

Donna, Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! for joining our Book Group by speakerphone and discussing your wonderful book, Pope Joan with us. We were so excited to hear the enthusiasm and joy in your voice as you shared stories of your researching for Pope Joan, of the upcoming filming of Pope Joan and of your new novel to come. We all left with a new appreciation of writing, history and filmmaking. Thank you for adding a new dimension to Book Clubs. Sheryl Baloun

Date: Tue, 4 Feb 2003 16:24:28 EST

Dear Donna,

Thank you so much for calling our book group today. Our host, Geri, didn't tell us she had planned this call, so we were almost in shock. It was such an honor to have a chance to speak with you. As you know, we all loved Pope Joan, and have recommended it to many of our friends. Now, not only will we continue to recommend it, but we can talk about our conversation with you and the insights you shared with us about your research and the publishing business. My husband is a writer, so we both share your thoughts about the difficulty of getting published. Joe could paper his office with rejection letters.

I am looking forward to the release of your movie. Everyone in the book group will watch for it. Did you know that Wilmington is the 3rd largest film making area in the US? Many of us joked about being extras in your movie and not even asking to be paid. Joe and I have been extras in about 10 or 12 movies and think it's so much fun to see ourselves on TV or the big screen. At our age it doesn't take much to make us happy.

Good luck with your next book. I hope it will be a huge success and make your current publisher squirm with embarrassment. It will definitely be on our reading list!

With sincere admiration,
Pat Alexander

Name: Gerri Wendt
Location: Leland, North Carolina
Date: Tuesday, February 04, 2003
Time: 05:30 PM

Dear Donna, Thank you so much for joining our book club meeting by speakerphone today. All twelve of us were so excited and enjoyed hearing all your comments, feelings and dreams. Your book was wonderful. Thank you for spending so much time with us. We are all looking forward to your new movie and your next book. Thank you, Gerri Wendt

Name: Damona Sain, North Wales PA Book Group
Location: North Wales, PA
Date: Tuesday, February 04, 2003
Time: 07:53 AM

Donna chatted with our group on 1/31/03. She was WONDERFUL! We had a list of questions, but she seemed to answer some of them without us ever having to ask them. Pope Joan was the first book our group unanimously and positively endorsed. We are certainly looking forward to her next book :))

Name: Claus Seyfried
Location: Stuttgart / Mainz
Date: Sunday, February 02, 2003
Time: 07:12 AM

Hi, the official website of the small city of Ingelheim/Rhein near Mainz/Germany recently added some quotes about Pope Joan, unfortunately in German only: http://www.ingelheim.de ==> click "Museum" ==> click "Päpstin Johanna von Ingelheim" Yours, Claus

Name: Debby Mason
Location: North Wales, PA
Date: Saturday, February 01, 2003
Time: 12:42 PM

Thank you so much for speaking with our book club by speakerphone. Everyone in the group loved the book (which we considered a first!) The conversation with you made it even more enjoyable. We appreciate the time you spent with us. I have already begun to spread the word. Hopefully, my aunt from Clifton Park, NY will be contacting you in the near future. We look forward to the movie release as well as your next book!

Name: Kathryn George
Location: Blount Springs, AL
Date: Friday, January 31, 2003
Time: 11:24 AM

Ms. Cross - I enjoyed reading your novel Pope Joan very much. I think you did an excellent job of portraying the time period and the culture of the region while telling an wonderful story. I'd be interested to know how you went about researching a woman who was almost erased from history, and how you went about filling in the missing information.

Name: Mary Rose Collins
Location: Cincinnati, OH
Date: Wednesday, January 29, 2003
Time: 08:47 PM

Our book club has been meeting for many years. We're reading Pope Joan for Feb. 25th at 8 pm. We would love to have a speakerphone chat with you!

Name: Roberta Chase
Location: Englewood, CO
Date: Monday, January 27, 2003
Time: 05:29 PM

Our book club meets on Wednesday, Feb.5, 2003, and your book is our selection for discussion. What a wonderful treat to receive a speakerphone call from you at that time, 7:30 P.M.,M.S.T. Thank you in advance for your consideration of this request.

Name: Meaghan Panzer
Location: Hanau, Germany
Date: Monday, January 27, 2003
Time: 06:06 AM

Hello! Our book club, Demosophpolychromistic, has read and discussed your wonderful novel. We would like to meet again to discuss it more and to have a phone chat with you. We are an American group, living in Germany, and are on Central European Time (6 hours ahead of the United States' East Coast). We would like to get together on a Friday or Saturday in the next month. This is flexible according to your schedule. Thank you for your time and for your informative novel! Sincerely, Meaghan

Name: Mr. Marco Metz
Location: Germany
Date: Monday, January 27, 2003
Time: 05:29 AM

Dear Donna, I'm a High School teacher for Protestant Religion at an all-girls school. Protestant Religion is a mandatory subject here in Germany. My course asked to talk about "Pope Joan" as our next project which will start in February. Everyone has read it by now and I am looking forward to explore with the girls of my class the different topics you handle in the book. As a teacher, I will concentrate on the role of women in the Middle Ages, in biblical texts and, of course, in our society today. This should be especially important for them. Secondly, I want to focus on what "faith" is, since this seems to be one of the underlying questions of the book. Of course, these are my ideas and I will ask my course if they have other/ additional ideas. NOW my request: Wouldn't it be great for us to get the chance to talk to you in the end and find out about your ideas to some of the open questions we arrived at? It would be possible to talk to you on the phone in English since the students have had 5-6 years of English in school. This way they could ask their questions not only in an artificial classroom atmosphere, but in a real-life-context in a discussion/interview with the author. Possible dates would be Friday, March 7 or 14. My class starts at 07:50am on Fridays which is about midnight or 1 o'clock your time !!!. Do you think you could stay up for us? I am looking forward to hearing from you, yours sincerely, Marco Metz.

Name: Virgie Shirah
Location: Gainesville, FL
Date: Saturday, January 25, 2003
Time: 09:25 AM

Dear Ms. Cross, Our book group is reading "Pope Joan" and wants to have a speakerphone chat on February 21, 2003 at 7:30 PM EST.

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Name: Laurel Hensley
Location: Hixson, TN
Date: Friday, January 24, 2003
Time: 10:20 AM

I read your book for my french class with Mme Harris at the Baylor School. I loved the book! I read all of it in one night. I noticed on your web site that the book will soon become a movie. What actress will be playing the role of Pope Joan?

Name: Carol Nish
Location: Omaha, Nebraska
Date: Thursday, January 23, 2003
Time: 08:43 AM

Dear Donna, I belong to a book group that is currently reading your book, Pope Joan. We would love to talk to you about the book by speakerphone. Our meeting is scheduled for Monday, February 17th. We would like to arrange for phone time at 7:30 p.m. CST. Thanks for making this opportunity available to your readers! Carol

Name: Alberto De Santis
Location: Italy
Date: Wednesday, January 22, 2003
Time: 06:31 AM

Dear Miss Woolfolk Cross, I'm a student of the University of Cagliari (Sardinia) and I'm preparing a dissertation about the Pope Joan's life. It's the final work before my graduation; I found a lot of informations about her, but I still need some pictures to attach on my book. If you can, it would be very kind of you to send them by e-mail. Thank you very much!!!! Alberto.

Name: Karen Gedera
Location: Town and Country, MO
Date: Tuesday, January 21, 2003
Time: 10:14 AM

Thanks, Donna, for joining our Reading Group by speakerphone last evening (January 20, 2003.) Everyone agreed that it was our "best ever" and Pope Joan our favorite book so far. Some of us walk together in the mornings and we were still discussing it throughout our walk. Having you join us, Donna, was so informative - not only about the book and the period of history in which it is set, but also about the process of writing and publishing. I thoroughly enjoyed it and we all pledged after the call to do what we could to help publicize it further.

Name: donna j ohlson
Location: houston, texas
Date: Monday, January 20, 2003
Time: 09:31 AM

Our book group has 25 members and we have read Pope Joan as our January selection. We would love to chat with you by speakerphone at 1:30 PM Central Time on Wednesday, January 22, 2003. Sorry for such short notice but we had to ascertain if the speaker phone worked. We all hope that you will be available. I read this book for my AAUW group last year and we all loved it. thanks, donna j ohlson

Name: anja de vries
Location: Gouda, Holland
Date: Saturday, January 18, 2003
Time: 08:49 AM

Dear Donna, I just finished Pope Joan (in the Dutch translation). I am leading a readingcircle and we will be discussing your book coming Wednesday. I myself am a female vicar and the readingcircle is a 'church' one. I likes your book very much. And I took some information from your website to inform the group more. My question for now is: There is a talk about a film being made.. is that ready yet? Is it allright if I collect questions from the group and ask them you further in this week? We don't need a chat-session: timedifference and our church does not have a computer. I will tell you what my group thinks of your book! I thought it was wonderful! Anja

Name: Geraldine A. Wendt
Location: Leland, North Carolina
Date: Friday, January 17, 2003
Time: 06:17 PM

Dear Ms. Cross, Our book club will be meeting on Tuesday,Feb.4th from 10am to 12noon. We will be discussing "Pope Joan". We would love to have a discussion with you about this very historical and enlightening book. I personally could not put it down for very long. Please consider my request, it would be so exciting to meet you. I am the hostess for the meeting this month. Thank you so much. Gerri Wendt

Name: Maryanne O'Malley
Location: Japan
Date: Friday, January 17, 2003
Time: 05:24 AM

Comments

Donna, I told some of the women in our book club that I had e-mailed you earlier in the week, but that I didn't give you any specifics about our book club date or meeting time, simply because I thought it would be impossible given the time change etc. I'm certain that even if we only had 15min to chat with you, it would be the best "book club experience" ever. Since we will be meeting on Jan. 20th at about 11:00am here in Japan, it would be 9:00pm EST on Sunday evening in the states. I certainly understand if your schedule does not permit. After reading all the comments from those who have "chatted" with you, I am just keeping my fingers crossed. Thanks again

Name: Dee Dee Bowman
Location: Bloomington, Indiana
Date: Tuesday, January 14, 2003
Time: 09:57 AM

Hi, I am in a book club consisting of about seven stay at home moms. We love historical fiction and for next months choice we have chosen Pope Joan. I have only read a few pages so far and I absolutely love it. One of the other members has finished the book and raves about how great it is. We would love to be able to talk with you about this extraordinary book. We are thinking of meeting on February 10, or if the next Monday , Feb. 17 would work out better for you we could also do that. We generally meet from 7pm until about 10:30 Eastern time. Thank you so much and I look forward to hearing back from you.

Name: Maryanne O'Malley
Location: Japan
Date: Tuesday, January 14, 2003
Time: 01:50 AM

Comments

Ms. Cross, My family is currently living overseas in Japan. This year I joined an established book club whose 9 members, are women from various countries and cultures. Coincidently, I will have the privilege of presenting your wonderful novel next Monday when we meet. I actually inherited the presentation from one of last years members who had to reuturn to her home country. I loved Pope Joan and I think we could devote several book clubs to this one book alone, (I guess that is why I am spending some time to try and figure out the best way to present. As I was perusing the internet I found this site. While I'm certain that a speakerphone chat would be rather difficult given the time change, international long-distance charges and also the short notice before our next book club gathering, I did want to e-mail you and tell you how much I admire this effort and your committment to your readers. My brother-in-law, Kevin O'Malley is a children's author/illustrator. Tirelessly, he "pounded the pavement" for 10 years before he got his first break. Like you, he continuously must promote his books and travels across the country doing many school presentations annually. When we lived in Indianapolis, I was his Mid-west Promotions Agent, so I can personally attest to the committment and hard work and dedication. I am certain you juggle a similar schedule. Thanks for such a good read. Do you have a timeline for the upcoming novel? I can't wait! Consequently, I am originally from Up-State New York (Sherrill). I know exactly where your college is located. Best of Luck to you and thanks again.

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Name: Kathy Banwart
Location: Dayton, OH
Date: Monday, January 13, 2003
Time: 07:43 PM

Dear Donna--Please say you can join us the fourth Monday, Feb. 24 as we discuss Pope Joan. We're in our 12th year as a book group and are very excited about this opportunity to discuss a book with the author. As for me,I enjoyed the book immensely and I think I'm a believer!! Will be waiting to hear from you--Kathy Banwart

Name: Laurel Klayman
Location: Annapolis, Maryland
Date: Monday, January 13, 2003
Time: 06:38 PM

I just found this website tonight and our book club meeting is this Wednesday Jan 15th at 7pm Eastern Time. If there is any possible way to arrange a speakerphone chat with Ms.Cross we would love to. Our book club consists of a group of 10 women in our 30's and we've been meeting about 10 times a year for 3 years now. None of us are writers - we're 5 dietitans, 2 engineers, a librarian, a food service manager and an art teacaher. Half of us are also moms. We read mainly fiction - all types. We always have a lively discussion and almost always come up with questions we'd like to ask of the author, so this would be such a treat. It would make it an incredibly memorable book club meeting. I have a speaker phone and have experience using it so that's not a problem. This was such an interesting book and I know it will generate a thought provoking discussion on a number of topics. Thank you for writing this book. Sincerely, Laurel Klayman

Name: Rose Marie Barone
Location: Montreal, Canada
Date: Monday, January 13, 2003
Time: 10:02 AM

After our book club read your great book, two other book clubs I know would like to read your book but unfortunately it is impossible for them to read because there are no copies available to them for purchase at bookstores within the Montreal area. It's a shame that they will not be able to read such a great story because of availability.

Name: Helen Sirett
Location: Kingsport, Tennessee
Date: Sunday, January 12, 2003
Time: 07:01 PM

Our Women's Club is reading "Pope Joan" for our annual book discussion. Our normal meeting date is Monday, February 17th at 7:30 pm EST. We would love to hook you in via speaker phone to our discussion!

Name: elizabeth Dana
Location: Lompoc, CA
Date: Tuesday, January 07, 2003
Time: 02:55 AM

I saw you present at the Xontas in Syracuse 1997 when I won an award. I bought your signed book. It was borrowed permanently off me by an unknown. I went on to obtain my Master's...I always treasured that night and your book was a great memory. May I request a replacement signed edition upon purchase.... Elizabeth "betty" Dana

Name: Liga Eglite
Location: LATVIA
Date: Monday, January 06, 2003
Time: 10:20 AM

Hello, Donna! I accidently found this book in library and I red it! It is very great to speek about such topic and to let all world know what was happening there on earth! Thank you!

Name: Claire Shaw
Location: United Kingdom
Date: Sunday, January 05, 2003
Time: 04:48 PM

Hi I recently purchased a copy of your book "Pope Joan", and wanted to let you know that I have a book entitled "Merekwurdig Historie der Pabstein Johanna" by Fr. Spanheim dated 1737. I wonder whether this might be of interest to you, with regard to your research into Pope Joan. Please let me know if you need further information. As a matter of interest, I live approx. 8 miles from Wimborne in Dorset (said to have family links to Joan??). Best Regards Claire Shaw

Name: Cameron Kamran
Location: washington, DC
Date: Friday, January 03, 2003
Time: 04:36 PM

Dear Ms. Cross, I just wanted to send you a quick note letting you know how much I enjoyed Pope Joan. In addition to the beauty of your writing, Pope Joan was also full of invaluable lessons in craft for a struggling writer such as myself. I am also trying to write a historical novel which is set in medieval Islamic Spain. My book also features a female protagonist struggle for survival and knowledge in a man's world. Your simple yet provocative style in Pope Joan gave me a feel for how a woman's voice can be both powerful and authentic. I wish you much success. I imagine you are extremely busy, but I do have a number of specific questions on how you did the research for your book and how you integrated the detail of a past civilization into your writing. If you do have the time to chat informally over e-mail about your experiences please contact me at the above e-mail. If not, best of luck in all your future endeavors. sincerely, cameron Best, cameron

Name: Klaus
Location: Germany-Bremen
Date: Friday, January 03, 2003
Time: 02:21 PM

Your Book is wunderfull or in German Dies ist eine wundervolle und fesselde Geschichte.

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Name: Sofia Kax
Location: Gävle, Sweden
Date: Thursday, January 02, 2003
Time: 05:13 PM

Hi, my name is Sofia and I´m 15 years old and live in Sweden. Tonight I finshed reading your book and I cant stop thinking of it! It was realy great! I have heard about hear before and I got interested and i wonder if you can recomend any books with facts about this subject.. I would enjoy doing a schoolproject about her! I´ll be happy if you can write to my e-mail. Warm Greetings!

Name: Barbara Forney
Location: Okemos, MI
Date: Thursday, January 02, 2003
Time: 03:46 PM

My 14-year old freshman daughter recently read Pope Joan for her World History class and completed an in-depth report and project on it. Her report and recommendation has prompted me to read it as well and I am thoroughly intrigued by it. It is intelligent reading, thought-provoking and riveting. I have seen mention of a movie - has it been made, is it in progress, or is my information about a movie incorrect? Thanks for a wonderful piece of literature!

Name: Sheila E. Morgan
Location: Flint, MI.
Date: Thursday, January 02, 2003
Time: 01:12 PM

Our book club at the Fenton, MI. library will be discussing Pope Joan on Tuesday morning, Jan.14th. It would be wonderful to be able to ask you some of our questions by speakerphone. There are several of us who have already completed the book and are bursting with curiousity. We are impressed with the broad scope of the novel, its historical accuracy and the incredible love story. Thank you for considering our group -- which includes, by the way, about 20 people.

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Name: Cindy RoggeLocation: Kansas City, MODate: Thursday, February 20, 2003Time: 11:26 AM

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Name: Cindy Rogge
Location: Kansas City, MO
Date: Thursday, February 20, 2003
Time: 11:26 AM