Dear Michelle,

I hope this message finds you well. I have been thinking to write to you for a long time; now travelling through the lands and watersheds of the First Nations territories in the Pacific Northwest, the time feels ripe to do so.

I studied mathematics at Lady Margaret Hall, followed by a DPhil which developed mathematical ideas for ecology and biodiversity restoration. Presently undertaking postdoctoral research, I am working with First Nations scholars, artists, anthropologists, among others, to rework mathematics and draw it into closer dialogue with the mysteries, patterns, and unfathomable richness of the living world. I love writing, and am now beginning to write a book; although it'll have substantial intellectual content, I intend to write it as a lucid and compelling story.

As it happens, my favourite childhood book was Wolf Brother, and – believe it or not – the Chronicles of Ancient Darkness series has continued to inform this unfolding journey. Over the past few years, I have found myself returning to the stories and characters you so beautifully wove into those books, which feel unexpectedly and strikingly relevant to the research I find myself doing now. In particular, some of the experiences and encounters I'm having in the Pacific Northwest (with wizened cedar trees and shapeshifting ravens, to name a few) are strangely resonant with various descriptions you gave of Torak's sense of the world and communications with other beings.

I would love to speak with you, if you might have time for a chat. I can't really explain why, but I sense it would be a great privilege discuss with you some of the ideas and narrative threads which have been emerging on my journey, and to learn about some of the experiences which informed your writing. Do let me know if you would be happy to do so.

With gratitude,
Siddharth

P.S. I attach a photograph from the aforementioned travels along the Salish sea, in case that adds tone and colour to this message.

Thanks so much for your beautiful message, Siddharth – and for the gorgeous picture!  It really takes me back to my research trip to the region a few years ago, when I was writing Viper’s Daughter, Skin Taker and Wolf Bane.  Your work with the First Nations of the Pacific Northwest sounds fascinating and wide-ranging, and I can well understand how inspirational it is for your own writing.  I’m not surprised, either, that it has brought back memories of the Wolf Brother stories, because I took much inspiration from the varied beliefs and customs of the First Nations of that region (doubtless you’ve seen the echoes in your re-reading).  As for talking, I’m afraid that won’t be possible, due to my writing commitments and caring duties for my elderly mother (although if you’re ever in the UK, you might want to check my website for any book events which I’m doing).  Thank you again for sharing your experiences – and I want to wish you all possible success both in your work, and your own writing.  With best wishes, Michelle