Art Mills, award winner author of The Empty Lot Next Door, is stationed in Kabul, Afghanistan and requesting print books for himself and his fellow troop members. He tells me most of the books are old and worn-out, indicating people read them and hand them to others.
I sent him a box of 12 books and he wrote me:
I placed the books on a book shelf and people rushed right to them. It's nice to know people back home still care after ten years. Thanks!!!!
Yes, we do care! Please donate a copy of your book (or ARC) so Art can put it on their barren shelves. If you send more than one copy it will be donated to another troop through Books for Soldiers.
And, it's okay to enclose a letter of thanks, or if you have a child have her or him draw a picture or write a letter. It is a lonely world in Afghanistan and if we can bring a smile or tear to our soldiers it will be a reminder to them that we do care.
Please send your donation to:
Reader Views
Books for Soldiers
3267 Bee Cave Road, Ste 107-380
Austin, TX 78746
We use candy for packing so if you'd like to donate a bag of candy as well, that would be terrific. The candy should be something that is wrapped individually, e.g. tootsie rolls, mints. (Not chocolate - it melts while sitting on the tarmac.)
Thanks! I know your book will be well received!
Irene
PS - if you have any military/war themed books, either your own or those you have read, please send them as well. Surprisingly those themes are well received.
