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Name: Patricia Geraci
Location: Longboat Key, Florida
Groupname: Longboat Key Library Book Club
Date: Friday, September 02, 2005

[Requested a chat with the author.  Link here to make your chat request.]

Several years ago, after I had read "Pope Joan" for a book club near Rochester, NY, my summer residence, I had the pleasure of meeting the author at a library in the area. I was so excited about the book and the author that I have been recommending it to friends ever since. Now that I am the leader of a book club for our library in Longboat Key, Florida (my winter residence), I have suggested that "Pope Joan" be on our winter book discussion list and think it would be great to have a phone chat with Ms.Cross. I am also very anxious to hear more about the upcoming movie.

Name: Shannon
Location: Royal Oak, MI
Date: Friday, September 02, 2005
Time: 07:07 PM

Absolutely loved the book and would love to know when you plan on writing another book as well as find out more about the Pope Joan movie.

Name: jevans
Location: San Cristobal de las Casas, Mexico
Date: Tuesday, August 30, 2005
Time: 07:15 PM

I learned of Pope Joan from a friend who owned a Nuremburg Chronicle that was not defaced. Saw your book and leaped on it. Well written. Do you have a bibliography available. I'm working on a novel in the 15th century and info in English seems very sparse. Thanks!

Name: Carolee Bertisch
Location: Ponte Vedra Beach, FL
Groupname: The Pageturners
Date: Friday, August 26, 2005

[Requested a chat with the author.  Link here to make your chat request.]

One of our members loved the book, said it had all the elements of history and love that we enjoy, and recommended it to us. We would love to talk to you about POPE JOAN.

Name: Joyce Fischer
Location: Lafayette, Colorado
Date: Wednesday, August 24, 2005
Time: 11:26 PM

Amazing book. I could not put it down. Our book club has chosen to read it as our next selection. It was a unanimous decision and I will have the pleasure of leading the group discussion. We are a group of women in Zonta International. Our goal - to promote the status of women worldwide. Anxiously waiting for more information on the movie.

Name: Janie Pansini
Location: Tiburon, CA 94920
Date: Monday, August 22, 2005
Time: 10:38 PM

We are using this novel for our book club. Tiburon is a beautiful port town that with the expansion of tourists has not lost its small town charm. We have a lovely library that regularly has guest authors come to speak. I know we could get a good crowd to come hear Donna speak. Will she come??

Name: Teresa
Location: Buffalo, NY
Date: Sunday, August 21, 2005
Time: 04:20 PM

My Book Group had a chat with Ms. Cross yesterday, and I just wanted to leave a note to say thank you for the interesting discussion. It was a pleasure to discuss this wonderful book, and gain new insights. We're looking forward to your next book. Best wishes!

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Name: Barbara Bergin
Location: Milford, MI
Date: Saturday, August 20, 2005
Time: 03:37 PM

I represent the Michigan Association of Healthcare Advocates, an organization of hospital and healthcare volunteers throughout the state of Michigan. I am interested in communicating with Ms. Cross about the possibility of having her speak at one of our conferences. I had the pleasure of hearing Ms. Cross at the Livonia Town Hall series (Livonia, MI) in March of this year. Please advise the best method of contacting Ms. Cross regarding this matter.

Name: Jo
Location: Oklahoma City, OK
Date: Saturday, August 20, 2005
Time: 12:43 PM

I love this book! Possibly the best I've ever read!

Name: Colleen McCollough
Location: Rochester, NY
Date: Thursday, August 18, 2005
Time: 03:55 PM

I just finished reading your book and am incredibly moved by it. The past few days I have been thinking about ways in which to look at history differently in order to prove her existence! I am also very happy to see that it will be made into a film. No matter what, I will watch it...and Gerard Butler does sound perfect for the role of Gerold!

Name: Sean Field
Location: Burlington, VT
Groupname: my history 195 class, "urban legends of the Middle Ages"
Date: Sunday, August 14, 2005

[Requested a chat with the author.  Link here to make your chat request.]

Is Ms. Cross willing to speak with an academic class of 40 university students? We're reading her book (I've assigned it before) and would love to chat with her. thanks.

Name: Stephanie
Location: Philadelphia, PA
Date: Saturday, August 06, 2005
Time: 05:46 AM

When I picked up "Pope Joan", it was at my university library and didn't have a dust cover on it, so I while I'd heard about the legend, I didn't know exactly at which point in history Ms. Cross had set it. Imagine my surprise when, after a summer of slaving away over a catalogue of Carolingian authors for my Religious Studies professor, to find old friends like Hrabanus Maurus, Gottschalk, and even Paschasius Radbertus showing up in fiction! I had a lot of fun reading the novel, and enjoyed the story very much. Thank you for indulging a crazy Carolingian-obsessed undergrad!

Name: Shannon Barnhill
Location: Bountiful, Utah
Date: Monday, August 01, 2005

[Requested a chat with the author.  Link here to make your chat request.]

My mom had this opportunity with her book group and said how wonderful it was. We were hoping we would be able to have the same opportunity.

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Name: Sarah Bhutta
Location: West Windsor, NJ
Groupname: West Windsor
Date: Monday, July 18, 2005

I have really enjoyed reading this book. Its subject and the intensity of hatred stemming from the different religious believes of the characters seems to be reflected in our current world. Centuries have passed but human nature has not changed all that much.

Name: Robin Bassion
Location: Warrington, PA
Date: Monday, July 18, 2005
Time: 04:53 PM

Am glad you are seeing such success in Europe. I am still sharing the title with friends and hope the movie is a credit this wonderful novel.

Name: Jeannine Goggin
Location: Neenah W
Groupname: St. Margaret Mary's Spirited Book Club
Date: Tuesday, July 12, 2005

I read Pope Joan in hardcover when it first came out and loved it; compelling, informative, creative, challenging! Since women's issues are such a huge issue in today's Catholic Church, we decided it was an appropriate time to read Pope Joan now. We would be delighted to share the chat room experience with Donna: lots of great women in our cooperative yet feisty group - we're middle aged and beyond! Looking forward to hearing from you. Jeannine Goggin

Name: Susan Warren
Location: Southport, North Carolina
Date: Wednesday, July 06, 2005
Time: 03:50 PM

Dear Donna, Just wanted to let you know how much we all enjoyed the conference call for our book group at Marilyn's. I've told several people and all were impressed that you would do this for book groups. Since I sell books, I of course told them I could order your book and they could go to your web site to arrange a speakerphone chat like Marilyn did. Thanks again, it was a fun evening! Susan Books 'n Stuff Southport, NC

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Name: Marilyn Ain
Location: Oak Island, North Carolina
Date: Wednesday, July 06, 2005
Time: 03:32 PM

Donna, thanks so much for the delightful speakerphone chat last night! We had the phone on a wooden chair (which did have a medieval look to it) and so you were actually part of the Motley Crew circle. You are to be commended for your own marketing strategies, particularly the conference calls. Here's to your enthusiasm and innovation! Our reading group had a blast last night and lots of laughs. What a fun meeting.... Thanks! Marilyn

Name: David Lefaivre
Location: Hohenfels, Germany
Date: Tuesday, July 05, 2005
Time: 02:06 AM

Pope Joan was given to me for my 60th birthday by a wonderful German friend. I enjoyed reading the book very much. My wife and I enjoy walking in the German countryside. Each day I tell her about the new happening in Joan’s life. I am very fortunate to live in Germany. To be able to see the castles and cathedrals of the time frame makes the book seems to come alive. We must remember that prisoners today live far better than any Bishop or King lived in the dark ages. It is easy to understand how Pope Joan is in the top 10 books throughout Germany.

Name: Dave Harrington
Location: Hickory, NC
Date: Thursday, June 30, 2005
Time: 11:30 PM

Loved the book... waiting for more books (are you writing more?) and the movie

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Name: Teresa Glanowski
Location: Buffalo, NY
Date: Wednesday, June 29, 2005

I first "discovered" Pope Joan the week I was graduating from college, and have since read it several times. It is one of my favorites. I am so delighted to finally be sharing this book with my friends (after recommending it to people for years). It would be a great treat to have Ms. Cross join us. Also, any chance of getting Gerard Butler (The Phantom of the Opera) to play Gerrold in the movie?

Name: J Dempster
Location: Plano
Date: Thursday, June 23, 2005
Time: 08:49 AM

Thank you for your time and insight during our bookclub yest evening. A question that came up after we disconnected was our curiosity as to why you gave Joan no maternal instincts whatsoever. Interesting that you have a daughter. Huge conflict in the book between uterus v brain. Do you think she really so easily chose knowledge with out the unselfish "stirrings" of motherhood and love? As an attorney with children I feel that this is a real issue that still exists in todays world and this made the book hit home to me.

Name: Marquita sheble
Location: Chicago, Il
Groupname: Chicago Libre Ladies
Date: Monday, June 20, 2005

[Requested a chat with the author.  Link here to make your chat request.]

The story is fascinating and I couldn't put it down. My book club is excited to read it-it was chosen unanimously. It is exciting to have the chance to discuss it with the author.

Name: H.R. Hudson
Location: Newark, NJ USA
Date: Thursday, June 16, 2005
Time: 04:05 PM

For the lead role of Pope Joan, a couple of suggestions: Demi Moore & Sinead O'Connor!

Name: mary benedict
Location: bethel, ct. usa
Date: Thursday, June 16, 2005
Time: 01:41 PM

Wonderful book. I'm looking forward to the movie but hope it won't suffer the fate of Marion Meade's Stealing Heaven.

Name: Janet
Location: Jordan
Date: Friday, June 10, 2005
Time: 05:01 AM

What can I say, breathtaking… The best work I ever read.. If she ever existed, thank you for saving Joan from obliteration, and if she never lived, thank you for giving her life… it meant so much to me reading about her… thank you.

Name: Carina Sanders
Location: Tempe, Arizona
Date: Friday, June 10, 2005
Time: 12:48 AM

I actually read this book in German and it is great! I kept on thinking, this can't be real, but I know it was based on a very true situation. Just curious to find out if Arnalda, mentioned towards the end again, did actually exist as well.

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Name: Brendan McEntee
Location: Walligford, Pennsylvania
Date: Tuesday, June 07, 2005
Time: 07:00 PM

Dear Miss Cross, Hello! My name is Brendan and I am a twelve years old. I read your book and it has become my new favorite book! Your writing is absolutely brilliant in every aspect! I loved this book! I was wondering about the movie? Is this going to be one of those movies that use see a commercial for every time you turn on the tube or is it going to be a small film?? I would love to be in it! That would be a dream come true. You are my favorite author and I am probably your biggest fan!

Name: Clair
Location: coquitlam ,bc,canada
Date: Wednesday, June 01, 2005
Time: 07:53 PM

Dear Donna, Pope Joan is my favorite book to date. I would like to read more about Teresinha Gomez, but have been unable to find anything on the internet other than the references made on your website. Can you tell me where I might find some more info. Thank you Clair

Name: Emily Waugh
Location: Oklahoma City, OK
Date: Tuesday, May 31, 2005
Time: 07:51 PM

I attended a lecture by Ms. Cross at St. Luke's United Methodist Church a few years ago in Oklahoma City, after reading Pope Joan (one of my all-time favorite books and characters). I am interested in receiving news of Ms. Cross's activity, any new books or projects she is working on. I am pleased to discover that a movie is being made! If only there were a part for me (ha, ha!)--I feel I was born to play Pope Joan! At any rate, I am thrilled that this book is getting such recognition. I look forward to more news.

Name: Ellen and Bruce Simoneau
Location: Wayland, MA 01778
Date: Monday, May 30, 2005
Time: 08:07 AM

We are looking forward to reading this outstanding book after reading the very enthusiastic comments.

Name: Peggy Companion
Location: Canada
Date: Sunday, May 29, 2005
Time: 07:28 AM

Hi Donna, It was so great to have you join our book discussion by speakerphone. It was a added value to a most wonderful book. We all enjoyed the book so much. We have sent your book information to Oprah to request she added to her book club suggestions. Anyone that is looking for a great book to read this is it. Beaver Bank Girls

Name: Nicole Magistro
Location: Edwards, Colorado
Groupname: The Bookworm of Edwards, Independent Bookseller
Date: Friday, May 27, 2005

I am the owner of The Bookworm of Edwards, an independent bookseller located 10 minutes from Vail, Colorado. We recently launched a Meet the Author Bookclub Series.  Pope Joan has been one of our favorite hand-sells for years, and in fact it is the 9th bestselling title of all time for our store - that's more than Harry Potter, Tuesdays with Morrie and many other bestsellers. We hoped you might be interested in appearing for our Meet the Author Bookclub Series in late 2005 or any time in 2006.

Name: Janet C. Gallagher
Location: Sister Bay, WI, USA
Date: Sunday, May 22, 2005
Time: 03:00 PM

I have had the privilege and pleasure of hearing Donna W. Cross speak in Green Bay, WI in May. She is not only a skilled writer, as we all know, but a skilled speaker, who intrigued the over 300 in attendance with her articulate delivery, her energetic personality, her great sense of humor and her message of empowerment of women through education. The attentive audience could have listened twice as long!

Name: Nancy Abernathy
Date: Friday, May 20, 2005
Time: 07:53 PM

Donna, Thank you so much for taking the time to talk with us on Monday night. We are all looking forward to seeing how the movie turns out and looking forward to your next book.....We had dinner and a great discussion after you left us and went home feeling invigorated!  Thanks again, Nancy Abernethy

Name: Jane Rosenfeld
Location: Cincinnati, Ohio
Date: Friday, May 13, 2005
Time: 06:24 AM

Just want to thank you for another great visit via speakerphone. Everyone enjoyed the event. When I first suggested Pope Joan as a choice for our book club, the response was mediocre until after they read the book. One of the members even said she doesn't particularly read historical fiction, but just loved Pope Joan. After our chat with you, they felt you should be on Oprah! As you can see, you gained a few more followers who will spread the word about Pope Joan. The book club is anxious for your new book. For me personally, this is the fourth time I have experienced a chat with you, three of which were done at the libraries where I have worked. The most recent chat was experienced at home with our neighborhood book club. Each chat was unique and so enjoyable because the group could tailor the contents with their questions, plus learn interesting viewpoints and facts from you. Thanks for taking your time to chat with us. To say it was great is an understatement!

Name: midge ebben
Location: DePere, Wisconsin 54115
Date: Tuesday, May 10, 2005
Time: 08:11 PM

I was in the audience on May 4, 2005 in Green Bay Wisconsin when Donna Cross discussed her book POPE JOAN. Not only was she a wonderful story teller, but she is also a female dynamo as a speaker. There was not a whisper for the entire time she spoke,  fascinating the audience tales of intrigue, and moments of surprise.   She spoke to the big question WHY would any female risk so much by attempting this kind of disguise?  The question was appropriately answered and everyone in the audience was spellbound.   We all want her to come back!.......Midge Ebben

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Name: Vujica Ognjenovic
Location: serbia and montenegro
Date: Tuesday, May 10, 2005
Time: 02:13 AM

Dear Donna Woolfolk Cross, My name is Vujica Ognjenovic, I am journalist from Montenegro. I want to make interview with You. Yours novel POPE JOAN translated on serbian and it 's bestseller here. If You agree, answer me, then I'll send You questions. Thank You, Best wishes, Vujica Ognjenovic

Name: Carol Tess
Location: De Pere, WI
Date: Monday, May 09, 2005
Time: 06:13 PM

Thank you for agreeing to speak to the Woman of Vision in Green Bay, WI. It is a week later and EVERYWHERE I go some one stops to tell me how much they enjoyed your speech. Not only are you a great author but also a wonderful speaker....come visit us again....we love you

Name: martin weber
Location: meersburg - germany
Date: Wednesday, May 04, 2005
Time: 11:23 AM

I guess it is your challenge to make the urgency of Joans development believable in the movie version. Maybe it would be better to make it small, rather than a 25 Mio EURO extravaganza, which leaves you cold in the end? You`ve written a great book and the movie should be a surprise. The love story is great, and the characters are great - the director has to feel what the readers feel to make this a success! Keep me informed, if the movie project goes ahead! Yours Martin

Name: Viktoria Martin
Location: Sweden,Stockholm
Date: Sunday, May 01, 2005
Time: 02:35 PM

Hello everybody! I'm still reading the book Pope Joan and I can't stop! It's so exciting that I can't put it down. I have read 250 pages in one week which is a record for me!!! It's very excitinga and trueley the best book I've ever read! Hugs from Viktoria from Sweden!!! (but still I am pissed off because of the Vikings!)

Name: Susie Fogle
Date: Saturday, April 30, 2005
Time: 02:08 PM

I am a member of The Rockin' Book Club and the one who suggested your fabulous book, Pope Joan. I spend the Winter in Florida so I was not present when they spoke with you. Drats! It was the ONE discussion I didn't want to miss. They all loved being able to chat with you--what a gracious author. I wanted to let you know that I have recommended it to others, outside of my bookclub, and EVERYONE loves it--no one wants to put it down and that's the way I felt also. From the first page I knew I was in for a treat! I thought you might be interested to know I learned about it from a young Israeli girl who was visiting us--I, like most Americans, had never heard about it. I continue to spread the word and I will be first in line to see the movie!   Sincerely, Susie Fogle 

Name: Joyce
Location: Ann Arbor, MI
Date: Friday, April 29, 2005
Time: 07:01 PM

Donna, Thank you so much for calling our Meadowinds Book Club by speakerphone last night. I just knew you were going to be a dynamic person and a real personality! You did not let me down. We all truely enjoyed listening to you and asking you questions. Good luck with your new project and the movie. I only wish more authors were as open and accesible to their readers as you. Thanks again, Meadowinds book Club

Name: s john
Location: appleton, wi usa
Date: Thursday, April 28, 2005
Time: 02:09 PM

What is Donna's appearance schedule? I was disappointed to learn that her Green Bay, WI appearance is sold out...where else might I go to see, hear and visit with her?

Name: Lauren
Location: Canada
Date: Thursday, April 28, 2005
Time: 08:37 AM

First off, I want to say thank you to Donna Woolfork Cross! Your book was utterly amazing. I couldn't put it down, it was a complete page turner! I had never heard of Pope Joan, but after reading your book I fully believe her story to be true. This may be a biased opinion as I truly wish her to have been real, but your book was very enlightening to that time period and how women were treated. Great job! I can't wait for your next book!

Name: Laura
Location: Richmond, VA
Date: Wednesday, April 27, 2005
Time: 02:50 PM

I loved the book! I thought Joan was fascinating and very brave! Through reading your story I felt like I was really there! I was a theatre major in college, so when I read I always become one of the characters - so thank you for making Joan so exciting and so full of life! Laura

Name: Carolyn Hession
Location: Morristown, NJ
Date: Tuesday, April 26, 2005
Time: 07:20 AM

Donna-It was such a pleasant experience speaking with you. You added a whole new dimension to our discussion. I only wish my 14 year old daughter could have joined us. She loved the book and could not stop talking about it. It was interesting to learn that your own daughter was her age when you began the book.  The book was written so well the pages seemed to fly and suddenly it was finished. I wish all books were as pleasurable to read. We are looking forward to your next historical novel. Carolyn Hession Member, Rockin’ Book Club Morristown, NJ Book Club Call 4/12/05

Name: Judy Ebrahim
Location: Morristown, NJ
Date: Sunday, April 24, 2005
Time: 06:35 AM

Donna- This is the second time I have had a chance to be a part of a book group speakerphone chat with you - last time was  in Omaha, NE. It was such fun for me to get an "update" on the movie saga of POPE JOAN and can't wait until it becomes a reality. It was a terrific experience for our group to be able to discuss the book with you and gave us a deeper appreciation of what a writer faces on many levels. Keep it up! You are inspiring book groups - a mainstay in the life of so many women!

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Name: Carolee Jones
Location: Eagan, Minnesota, USA
Date: Friday, April 22, 2005
Time: 11:10 AM

Last night's chat with you was great fun. We all continued until 11:30 and can hardly wait for the movie! Can my friends and relatives in New Zealand get your book or should I take it to them?

Name: Tracy Meyer
Location: Eagan, MN
Date: Friday, April 22, 2005
Time: 10:19 AM

Where to begin? Donna, my bookclub's chat with you last night by speakerphone was such a wonderful experience! We hung on every word. Our time with you was certainly educational and intellectually stimulating, but it was also entertaining. We learned much and laughed often...what a wonderful way to spend the evening. After our conversation with you, we resumed our discussion of Pope Joan with new insight. How wonderful to get the author's inner thoughts on the topic from the "horse's mouth" as you say. We were simply thrilled to spend the time with you. We greatly appreciate your presence and time. I'm certain we will be among the first to see the movie and to read your next book. And as far as we're concerned, we will do all we can to spread the word about Pope Joan. Trust me; it will catch on here! Thanks again for the laughter and a most memorable evening. Keep writing....we'll keep reading! Tracy Meyer

Name: Helen Abramson
Location: Holton, KS USA
Date: Thursday, April 21, 2005
Time: 06:39 PM

Hi Donna. I first read your book a year ago and immediately requested that our book club select it for reading in the coming year. I reread "Pope Joan" just before our meeting and found it equally as interesting the second time around. All the members of our book club had great things to say about your appearnce via speaker phone at our meeting, and it certainly was a feather in my cap for arranging the interview and discussion with you. Our group continued with a lively discussion of the book and I heard many remarks about your sincere, gracious, humorous, and informative participation. We all look forward to the movie and to your next book.

Name: jack cohen
Location: canada
Date: Thursday, April 21, 2005
Time: 04:10 PM

what an interesting story about the female POPE...does not surprise me WHATSOEVER.

Name: Amelia Fischer
Location: Palmdale
Date: Thursday, April 21, 2005
Time: 01:04 PM

Ordered the book today and would love to have updates on the proposed movie.

Name: JOAN Carolyn Jeffris
Location: Greensboro, NC
Date: Wednesday, April 20, 2005
Time: 11:53 AM

You can see by my first name why I am interested in this displaced history. I really believe that we have quite a number of women who have contributed to History. But men would rather turn our history into a fable, myth, and act like it never happened. I commend you for publishing this book, and I can't wait for the movie. Let's open their eyes to the truth.  Joan in NC

Name: Bob Carnahan
Location: Bingen, WA
Date: Friday, April 15, 2005
Time: 07:41 PM

A dear friend of mine who was educated by the priesthood, wrote and published a book titled "A history of religion, Facts lost Amongst us" about 6 years ago.  He traced religion from more than a thousand years BC and covered in passing the legend of Pope Joan. Imagine his surprise when I called him and told him about the Book. I couldn't put it aside until I read it cover to cover. I eagerly look forward to the movie. NPR just this AM summarized the scandalous history of Popes, dual and triple, over the ages . Its difficult to see how one's confidence can be anchored in a history that is as checkered as any political history in the ages.

Name: Sandy C.
Location: Morristown, NJ
Date: Tuesday, April 12, 2005
Time: 09:51 PM

Hi Donna - I was the verbose inquisitive one on the call tonite. Thanks so much for your participation. Having you join us by speakerphone really added an extra dimension to our discussion. After our call ended, we wondered how/why the Europeans are more familiar than Americans with the story of Pope Joan. Are they taught it in schools or religious lessons? Is it a popular fable? Is it generally accepted fact in this day? Thanks again!

Name: Karen Rivero
Location: Acton, MA
Groupname: Kelly Corner Book Club
Date: Monday, April 11, 2005

The discussion quickly turned from discussing the characters to the status of women today compared to medieval times, both secular and Church venues with the Catholic Church views then and now, as well as contrasting the mythology around Pope Joan and the Da Vinci Code, in particular Mary Magdalene. We needed days, not hours, to cover all that!!

Name: Kat Dudley
Location: St. Pete., FL
Date: Friday, April 08, 2005
Time: 10:23 AM

I'm an *old* Catholic, born and raised in the Church. Through my 12 years of Catholic school, I resented that the fine nuns - who gave much and got little (even respect) from the male clergy seemed to make themselves fade away when a priest entered the classroom. I hated it then (back in the '40's and I hate it now). These "men of God" were accorded more of "the world" in their lives, and more "freedom" to "serve their flock" while the nuns were virtual prisoners (couldn't go anywhere alone, couldn't own cars
- as the non-ordered priests did), etc. Women, not men, are the staple of the Church - THEY go to Church more, THEY raise the children in the Faith, they endure childbirth, childrearing, many times abusive husbands with whom
- according to Holy MOTHER Church - they are bound to stay no matter what.
*IF* there was a Pope Joan, I'd say that she was both brave and doomed in Medieval times especially. When I learned that I wasn't "good" enough, but the hell=raising in class boys WERE good enough to be alter boys - I pretty much "dropped out" at age ten. I hope there WAS a Pope Joan!

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Name: lauren Whittle
Location: Hong Kong
Date: Friday, April 08, 2005
Time: 01:01 AM

Donna Many many thanks. What a hit! Our group (3 Americans, 1 Canadian, 1 Australian, and 1 Brit!) thoroughly enjoyed talking with you, Donna, and looks forward to both the movie, and your next novel on France. Really informative evening, and simply great fun to have the opportunity to converse with you! Warm regards from Hong Kong, Lauren Whittle

Name: Cheryl funderburg
Location: Muskegon MI
Date: Wednesday, April 06, 2005
Time: 05:59 PM

I loved the book. I can't wait for the movie.

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Name: Dagoberto G. Flores-Lozano
Location: Aguascalientes, AGS., MEXICO
Date: Tuesday, April 05, 2005
Time: 10:12 PM

I have read only the excerpts and are eager to get the book in Spanish, it is wonderful the way that Cross captures the ambient on the Middle Ages, and the feelings of people that lived in non-lighted nights. Wonderful. ----Altough I appreciate the problems of a Female Pope. (specially the strength of character needed to take such trascendent decisions that shape the History of Humankind & The World), and the need of priests to devote 100% to religion, skipping the traits that women have to devote devotion to other beings and things, I also think some women must have the ability and fortitude to become priests, with even a dedication than men.--- I have thaught at a several Universities, and my best and devoted students were women.

Name: Karen
Location: Cornwall, New York
Date: Monday, April 04, 2005
Time: 08:07 PM

It's really amazing how books seem to find YOU! I'm in the first few pages, and I'm simply loving every moment of it!

Name: Elizabeth U.
Location: Ithaca NY, USA
Date: Monday, April 04, 2005
Time: 12:39 AM

Hello all! I am currently in 10th Grade, and earlier this year I was introduced to Pope Joan by my history teacher when we read the prologue to the book in my medieval history class as a description of peasant life in the middle ages. I was completely drawn in by the selection we read and checked the book out of the library (I think it was that same day.) After reading the rest of the book, my fascination with Joan's story was such that I chose her as the topic for my Combined English/Global History class research paper, to the delight of my history teacher. Currently, it is 1:34 A.M. on the 4th of April and I am writing my paper, due in approximately 9 hours. Late nights aside, I thank you, Ms Cross, for your wonderful novel! There are some books that, when you finish reading them, you are incapable of simply putting them down and moving on; you have to sit and think for a while and really let your mind settle. For me, that is the sign of a really good book. This was one of them.

Name: Oscar
Location: san bernardino, CA
Date: Friday, April 01, 2005
Time: 04:57 PM

This is a great book. I was absolutely astonished at the detail.  I can't wait for the movie.  This is the only book that I will ever read aloud to share with my friends.

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Name: Alyssa S,
Location: Sherman Oaks, CA
Date: Thursday, March 31, 2005
Time: 05:22 PM

My parents recommended this book to me after they both read it. The idea of a women rising to such power appealed to me. I am on bed rest for a high risk pregnancy and I read this book in 5 days. Not only did it help to pass the time but I enjoyed learning about a part of history that I was previously unfamiliar with. Some mornings I couldn't wait to get up to see what would happen next. The author's note at the end was much appreciated. While reading I often looked things up on the internet to get more information about parts of the story that intrigued me.

Name: Brittany
Location: Henderson, NY
Date: Saturday, March 26, 2005
Time: 08:17 PM

Loved the book!!! and I can't wait for the movie

Name: Andrea Tripodi
Location: Doylestown, Pa
Groupname: State Street Players Book Group
Date: Monday, March 21, 2005

Our book club has been in existence for 5 years. During this time, we have read a wide variety of novels. I can honestly state that POPE JOAN is perhaps one of three others that I have found to be the most interesting, well developed, and extensively researched books we have read. A novel I could not wait to return to.

Name: Bridget Simpkiss
Location: Springfield, VA
Date: Friday, March 18, 2005
Time: 08:09 PM

Loved the book when I read it first in Alabama as part of a book club for the Redstone Arsenal Officers' Wives Club. Have been looking for it to read again because it has stuck with me through the years and I want to revisit the book with new eyes. Very unusual, and that is a compliment!

Name: Dinny Trabert
Location: Salt Lake City, Utah
Date: Tuesday, March 15, 2005

I have thoroughly enjoyed readying Pope Joan and look forward to a speakerphone conversation with Donna to find out about her research and interest in this fascinating topic.

Name: Artie Zaller
Location: Troy, Michigan USA
Date: Sunday, March 13, 2005
Time: 11:10 AM

Donna, What a delightful experience! Thank you so much for being so
generous with your time and discussing Pope Joan with our group (Artie's)
on Thursday, March 10th. You were so forthright with us and we so enjoyed
your candor, information and humor! We continued our discussion of Pope
Joan long after we concluded our phone chat. It was one of our best
meetings ever! We are most certainly recommending Pope Joan to
others! Once again, thank you for time last Thursday. We will be looking
forward to Pope Joan's movie debut!!

Name: Michelle Tate
Location: Holliston, Massachusetts
Date: Friday, March 11, 2005
Time: 12:55 PM

Pope Joan is a book that stimulated much conversation and many questions in our bookclub - and we got our questions answered! How thrilling to speak with you, Donna. You entertainingly explained some of the "mysteries" of the book and also enlightened us about your opinions regarding women, education and the church. Speaking to you after enjoying Pope Joan was the icing on the heavenly host. Hurry and finish your next book, please!

Name: Mary Beth Numbers
Location: Holliston, MA 01746
Date: Friday, March 11, 2005
Time: 10:15 AM

Wonderful experience to be able to speak with the author and have our real and personal questions answered about her research and viewpoint as an author!

Name: Adele Smith and the entire Alusa Lakes Book Circle 1 membership
Date: Wednesday, March 09, 2005
Time: 8:33 AM

Calusa Lakes Book Circle 1 thoroughly enjoyed chatting with you by speakerphone last night.  Thank you for answering our questions.  We appreciate the time you gave us.  We loved your book and are looking forward to reading the one you are currently working on.  Thank you again for a memorable evening.

Name: Kathy Flynn
Location: Holliston, MA
Date: Tuesday, March 08, 2005
Time: 00:24 AM

Hi, Donna!  We loved having you "in the room" with us on Friday for our book club meeting.  What a treat it was to bounce our thoughts off the author herself and receive detailed explanations in real time!  We loved having you there and found your manner to be warm and friendly.  What a great thing you are doing offering your time to groups such as ours!

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Name: Diana Antonucci
Location: Dearborn Heights, MI USA
Date: Wednesday, March 09, 2005
Time: 11:40 AM

Our book club had the pleasure of meeting Donna via the speaker phone at our meeting last night. She was funny, charming, and we all enjoyed speaking with her. We were so thrilled to find out that she would be at a book signing next week in our area. I am planning on taking the day off to meet her. I would recommend "Pope Joan" to any book club. The subject matter made it possible for some lively discussions. I throughly enjoyed the book and am looking foward to the movie ! Diana Antonucci

Name: Sue Koester
Location: Milford, Michigan
Date: Wednesday, March 09, 2005
Time: 09:55 AM

Donna, thank you so much for conferencing with our bookclub. We so enjoyed your humor and insight into your novel. Some of us are hoping to see you in Livonia March 16th. Looking forward to the next book.

Name: Christian Ascherl
Location: Döbersing, Germany
Date: Friday, March 04, 2005
Time: 06:25 AM

Hello, I´m reading the book and I have to say that I like it very much. I got the book from a friend in German but I´d like to buy the Spanish version. Is there a Spanish version? So far I haven´t found anything. I would be glad if someone could help me. Thanks

Name: Veronika Schuchter
Location: Austria
Date: Thursday, March 03, 2005
Time: 09:27 AM

I read the book last summer and it's one of my favourite books now, I'm doing a referat in German in the hope that more people will read it. I'm reading it now in English and it's even better! Thanks for such and interesting and facinating book!

Name: Mary Santi
Location: Wautoma, WI
Date: Monday, February 28, 2005
Time: 04:35 PM

Please update me on any news about the movie! I want to know what is happening. Thank you!

Name: Matt Lombardi
Location: Chicago, IL
Date: Monday, February 28, 2005
Time: 09:58 AM

What a wonderful story. Through your extensive research and exquistite details, I felt like I was living in the 9th century. Though others may deny her existance, you have proven to me that Joan was indeed "real".  I look forward to your next book and Pope Joan the movie.

Name: Coletta Eichenberger
Location: Boonville, MO
Groupname: Boonville Book Club
Date: Saturday, February 26, 2005

Pope Joan was the first book I'd read in quite a while that I just couldn't put down. Your vivid descriptions of characters, relationships and the events that shaped Joan's life, and her commitment to having her full life were excellent. An absolute page turner. Thanks for crafting such an engaging work.

Name: Josie Moen
Location: St. Cloud, MN
Date: Friday, February 25, 2005
Time: 03:52 PM

I just finished reading Pope Joan. I could hardly put it down to go to work and stayed up too late at night reading also. I am a Catholic who thinks women should be allowed to be priests if they hear the calling. I lost a little respect for the current pope when he said that women can't be priests was an infallible truth. The real truth is that a woman, such as Pope Joan although her life is historically fictionalized in the book, is every bit as qualified to be pope as a man. In the earlier times of the Catholic church, some of the popes were hardly holy men. Go Joan!!!

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Name: Laura Bukalski
Location: Richmond, Virginia
Groupname: Ellen's Book Club
Date: Thursday, February 24, 2005

We think this is so cool that you would offer to chat with us!!!! Wonderful, fascinating book!

Name: Gayle Bloom
Location: Ft. Wayne Indiana
Date: Wednesday, February 23, 2005
Time: 09:47 AM

Thank you so much for speaking to our book club last evening by speakerphone. Everyone enjoyed your comments and your responses to our questions. We had a spirited discussion. Everyone enjoyed your novel. Best wishes with your next novel. We will look forward to reading it. I told my AP English class this morning all about our discussion. They want to read it.

Name: Cathy Dee
Location: Ft. Wayne, IN
Date: Wednesday, February 23, 2005
Time: 08:10 AM

THANK YOU for so graciously gracing our book club meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 22. It added so much to our discussion of Pope Joan.

Name: marie powell
Location: greenbank ontario canada
Date: Saturday, February 19, 2005
Time: 09:49 AM

I enjoyed this book to such a degree I will probably read it again in the future. Loved the historical aspect of it, what a novel idea the next pope could be a woman.

Name: Bernice Strang
Location: Tabusintac, New Brunswick, Canada
Date: Friday, February 18, 2005
Time: 07:40 AM

Last night our book club was fortunate enough to have Donna call us and share with our group her wonderful conversation and enthusiasm. We were so excited when the phone rang and we knew it was her. She certainly kept the conversation exciting, we loved the book and had a great discussion on it. I now know how my children feel when they have an author, of their favorite books, come in to their class and read to them. Donna answered all of our questions and shared with us the news of the upcoming movie. We are eagerly awaiting her next novel with great anticipation.

Name: Susan Campbell
Location: Tabusintac, New Brunswick Ca
Date: Thursday, February 17, 2005
Time: 09:23 PM

Hi Donna Just a note to let you know how much we all enjoyed our talk with you tonight. It was a real privilege to think that you would take time out of your busy schedule to chat. Your enthusiasm for Pope Joan and its history is contagious. We are all anxiously awaiting your next novel and the movie. Please look up Tabusintac on the internet....to see where women, words and wisdom come together!!! We would love to meet you and the invitation for "free" lodging and relaxation still stands. DON'T FORGET DOROTHY. Thanks again, Susan, Betty, Mona, Bernice, Leona, June, Gail, Betty and Darlene

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Name: Cliff Brautigan
Location: avon by the Sea, NJ
Date: Tuesday, February 15, 2005
Time: 12:18 AM

Interested in updated information about the movie, and if the the musical will be playing at any location on the North East coast (New York to Wash. DC) Thanks- Cliff

Dear Author Of Pope Joan (Ms. Donna Cross),
 
I am one of the many 9th grade students from Belleville Henderson Central School. I would like to thank you for our class the privlage of having a [telephone] conversation with you ( a once in a life time experience) about the book last week. I really enjoyed the book and also the fact that after if we had any questions that the teacher couldn't answer we were able to ask you. Thank you again for taking the time out of your schedule in order to talk to us.
 
One-Hundred Times Greatful
 Sincerely,
Brittany Grimshaw

P.S.I honestly did love the book and could barely put it down.

Name: Mary Ann Cannone
Location: Rockville Centre, N>Y>
Date: Saturday, February 12, 2005
Time: 01:49 PM

Donna called our book club on 2/2/05. The group was thrilled to talk to her. It was an interesting and immensely enjoyable hour and a half. She is witty and fun and answered all our questions. We all liked the book a great deal and talking to the author has made it our all time favorite at this point... only to be topped perhaps by her next novel which we are eagerly awaiting.

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Name: Donaa Ravn
Location: Watertown, MA
Date: Wednesday, February 02, 2005
Time: 07:31 PM

Our bookgroup had a lively discussion about Pope Joan tthis evening. We found out about your offer to chat too late to arrange it, but we did wonder if you had seen the paly 'Pope Joan' produced at Chicago's Baliwick Repertory in 1995? Also, do you plan to advise on the production of the movie? Thanks for your response, The WAtertown Free Public Library

Name: Levi Chambers
Location: Arizona
Date: Tuesday, February 01, 2005
Time: 11:40 AM

Hi! My name is Levi Chambers. Roxanne Daily informed me of your plans for Poap Joan. Are you planning to have an open casting for the film? Thanks. Levi

Name: Johanna Havermans
Location: Zeeland -Holland
Date: Monday, January 31, 2005
Time: 01:47 PM

Dear Donna and other fans, I'm from Holland and in the Dutch translation Pope Joan is called Johanna'. Just like me! maybe that's one of the reasons that I love this book so much..I've read it like 100 times!! and I just read on this site that you're making a movie of Pope Joan!! I can't wait to see it! I was wondering if the movie also will be released in Holland? I'm using Pope Joan in my classes (I'm a history teacher) and I'm teaching my students about this powerfull women. If my English was any better I could write and talk for hours and hours about Pope Joan, it's historical such a great book..I like the way you discribe the war between the Church and the Kings in these Dark Ages. So, thank you so much for writing this book! Johanna

Name: Dianna Johnston
Location: Baxter Springs, KS
Date: Friday, January 28, 2005
Time: 10:07 AM

Hi Donna~I've left several comments for you on your guestbook in the past, but I haven't heard anything from you in awhile (new book/PJ movie), so thought I'd come by and see what's new. I'm happy to see that the movie is finally getting started after so long! I read your book back in 1999 and after 300 or so books later, Pope Joan is still the one I say when asked about my favorite. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE it!!

Name: Lori Derman
Location: Princeton Jct, NJ
Groupname: just 7 woman
Date: Wednesday, January 26, 2005

We all loved the book and can't wait to discuss it. Thanks for such a great novel! I loved the details of Joan's daily life and especially her story. I have suggested this book to many others.

Name: ben clark
Location: Steamboat Springs, CO
Groupname: World History & Literature--grade 11
Date: Wednesday, January 26, 2005

My students are currently reading Pope Joan as an assigned novel as we study the middle ages. They thoroughly enjoy the novel and would appreciate an opportunity to discuss it with the author.

Name: Rainer Wekwerth
Location: Stuttgart-Germany
Date: Monday, January 24, 2005
Time: 09:01 AM

Dear Donna I am an author too and I have 12 books in big houses out on the german book-market, but I want to tell you, what a big pleasure it is for me to read your novel. You are a shining example for the way I want to go with my work. No more words, only : "Keep on writing!" Best regards

Name: Suzanne B. NicoloThanks
Location: Naples,ME
Date: Saturday, January 22, 2005
Time: 05:34 PM

Thanks so much for talking to the Naples Library Book Group. I so enjoyed reading Pope Joan. If I were still teaching English, I would certainly recommend it to my students. I do recommend it to my friends and former colleagues. Everyone who gets back to me on the book loves it. It was so interesting to hear your input; you seemed like a member of our group. I hope it continues to sell and to inspire young women everywhere. I'll be looking forward to the Prime Time interview and to your next book.

Name: Normajean Barry
Location: Nepean, Ontario, Canada
Date: Saturday, January 22, 2005
Time: 09:29 AM

I bought this book a year ago, and it sat on my shelf until a few days ago. I have completely devoured it and it will take pride of place on my bookshelf forever. I was so moved by the story of this woman and the lengths she had to go to, to achieve her goals. May she always be an inspiration to all women. I came immediately to my computer to read all I could about this astounding author. Thank you Donna for bringing her to us. I look forward to your next book with great anticipation!. It definitely will not sit around for a year, for sure. Normajean Barry

Name: Deb Dean
Location: Naples, Maine
Date: Wednesday, January 19, 2005
Time: 06:09 PM

Donna...It was a thrill to participate in the Naples Library Book Group author chat with you today. You answered our question thoroughly and with humor. Thank you for writing Pope Joan. This is a book that I will read again. Good Luck with the movie and with your current project.

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Name: Daphne Meyer
Location: Naples, ME
Date: Wednesday, January 19, 2005
Time: 03:36 PM

This book has proven to be a double source of enjoyment and education for me and for the members of the Naples Public Library book discussion group. First, we got to read and discuss a well-written and fascinating book, then we got another hour of talk with the author - "from the horse's mouth" as she put it. How much more can one get from a good read? Thank you, Donna, for sharing your time and insights with us. We're looking forward to your next book. Please let us know when the Diane Sawyer interview will be on and keep us up-to-date on the Pope Joan movie.

Name: joan tassone
Location: sinking spring, pa
Date: Wednesday, January 19, 2005
Time: 12:56 PM

It was a wonderful opportunity for me and the women in our book group to actually talk to the author and ask her questions. Donna was very open. She seems to be a very high energy, positive lady and a delight to listen to. We are looking forward to hearing that the book is made into a movie and also to her next book. I would like more information about her appearance in De Pere Wisconsin. Thanks for the opportunity. I have certainly spread the word about Pope Joan and the Chat. Joan Tassone, Sinking Spring, Pa.

Name: jodi kennedy
Location: san diego, california
Groupname: club rachel
Date: Monday, January 17, 2005

I lead a dozen book groups every month, so I am in constant search of books that can meet the high standards of my almost two hundred readers. "Pope Joan" satsifies all my requirements of a book that is well-written, educational , entertaining, and a truly great read. It appeals to my many types of readers and I am so thrilled to have stumbled upon it. It will definitely be at the top of my list of recommended reading for the this year and many years to come! Thank you for working so hard to bring this story to life!

Name: Loretta Vaara
Location: Holland, MI
Date: Saturday, January 15, 2005
Time: 06:42 PM

Donna, Thank you so much for all your hard work on Pope Joan. I really enjoyed the book. I loved learning all the history of the time and the Joan/Gerold story line kept things interesting. However, I enjoyed our speakerphone conversation with you even more! It was so great to have all our questions answered as you said "from the horses mouth." You're a very entertaining and charismatic woman.

Name: Leslie A. Dean
Location: Irvine, CA
Date: Saturday, January 15, 2005
Time: 12:17 PM

I read the book several years ago, but my book Club, The Shady Ladies, just read it. We had our meeting this past week and Donna joined the conversation by speakerphone. It was incredible and very enlightening. I highly recommend it to any book club. I thought the book was wonderful. My favorite books to read are historical fiction and this one is one of the best. Thank you Donna for joining our discussion you added a lot of insight. For you information I so enjoyed listening to you and since my other passion is words in general, I'm an avid crossword puzzler, I ordered your other books. I'm looking forward to reading them too!!

Name: Robin Elliott
Location: Irvine, CA
Date: Saturday, January 15, 2005
Time: 01:07 AM

Donna spoke with our book club recently. Not only were our questions answered, but we thoroughly enjoyed her conversation abuot other things as well. What a storyteller -- in person & as a novelist! Thanks Donna, I'm looking forward to your next book & the MOVIE!!

Name: Robin Bassion
Location: Doylestown, PA
Date: Thursday, January 13, 2005
Time: 04:48 PM

Donna, I wanted to let you know that after our Book Club's conversation with you, I have recommended the book to many friends and gave it as a Christmas gift to several people. It is a shame that you didn't get more publicity. I hope your movie will help. My daughter, who is in 7th grade, also read the book and gave it to her Language Arts/Reading teacher for the holidays! Thank you again for such a wonderful read...

Name: Elizabeth Monnette
Location: Livonia, Michigan
Date: Wednesday, January 12, 2005

We are a relatively new book club, made up of 13 friends who share a love of reading. Your book has been recommended by quite a few people so we are excited to read it and share our thoughts with each other. We would be thrilled to experience a live chat with Donna!

Name: Mylissa L. Stutesman
Location: Cameron, Mo. USA
Date: Tuesday, January 11, 2005
Time: 04:53 PM

I am currently a writer for a newspaper and former co-editor and publisher of an environmental magazine. I loved the book, it drew me into a inescapable web. When it came to predicting the ending -- I was only half correct.

Name: Simon B
Location: NSW, Australia
Date: Tuesday, January 11, 2005
Time: 06:28 AM

Hello all! First I would like to tell everyone that Pope Joan is one of the best books I have ever read. I could not put itdown once I've started. My mum just returned the book to me after having read it. She read it in a few days too. To everyone that are intrested in historical novels I would really recommend the triogoly about the knight templar by Jan Guillou. The books are called: The Road To Jerusalem, The Knight Templar and The Nation at the end of the road (I don't remember the exact title of the last book). Anyway, I really recommend it for anyone that liked Pope Joan even though nothing can beat it :). Regards, Simon

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