I purchased this book not long after the hardcover first edition was published in 1990. I reread it in 1995 and again in 2005. For those who enjoy writing and mailing letters, cards and notes, the book is a confirmation and a delight to read. Those who are reluctant writers may be instructed and inspired as well. Stoddard enjoys and writes about the tools of her letter writing: special fountain pens, elite stationery purchased at special stationery and gift shops. While ambiance may be a legitimate and satisfying part of letter writing, some of us will probably settle for more common tools or supplies. Whatever the tools used, Stoddard much prefers holograph or handwritten letters.
> More than tips on letter writing and supplies; the heart and principal theme of the book is that letter writing (including short notes as well as long letters) is a gift that we give to others; a part of our inner being shared with others. It does not necessarily ask anything in return, for the main pleasure is the giving of the gift.
* The Moonflower Box chimes in: Make your own stationary from recycled paper, dried flowers & herbs from your garden. (SEE: "The Art of Paper Making" on "BOOKSHELF ONE"!) Find things to use in the nearest Art or Hobby shops bargain bin. (or Big annual clearance sale) Have creative fun; selecting the stamps and address labels; use Personalized photo stamps and photo address labels perhaps? (as in photos of your art work, home, travels, creative photography.)
*We enthusiastically encourage, even the Most Doubtful, to take a nice long L@@K at this site: www.Wendy.com/letterwriting!!! > "Art Letters", plus fascinating Historical letters, Fantasy letters, Pen Pals, anonymous letter forwarding Service, quarterly Magazine, participation projects and a whole lot MORE! Genuinely Inspiring!! IF you have a problem finding the Wendy Letters site , you can find a link to it, PLUS other correspondence sites at: www.aletteraweek.com
For Special, really wonderful PENS: we have a link to "Pen World"...in our "Mellow Link Elements" listings, we also recommend,the Vintage style pens of www.pendemonium.com.
Take the request to "Keep In Touch" literally...with a hand crafted, creative effort. It is much MORE caring; and appreciated on more than one level by the recipient.

A BOOKSHELFS' BEST FRIEND: A CUSTOM CARVED MEERSCHAUM FIGURINE!! SEE: OUR MARVELOUS MEERSCHAUM FIGURINE" PAGE !!!

"You can never get a cup of tea large enough, or a book long enough to suit me!!"
Quote from: C.S. Lewis...author of the "Chronicles of Narnia"

*NOW! On to "Tea Time" & "Tea Party Temptations" Pages!!!*