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First Name (only please):	Nuria
Age	13
location	Mississauga, Ontario, CANADA
Comments and/or questions:	Whoo-hoo! LOOOVVEDDD IITT! :3 It was... I dunno. Words can't describe it. Esme for the WIN! Hehe. Uhm.... my only question is... What happens next? :) Possible sequel? :o -Thanks, Nuria! Having people like yourself write in to my websites to tell me they've enjoyed my stuff puts a HUGE grin on my face -- much appreciated! :DD Um, sorry, though(!) but no, I have no plans for a Black Tat sequel. For some reasons why (and some thoughts on what happens next!) check the Black Tat Q&A page, here: www.theblacktattoo.com/qanda.html As you'll see if you read the 'afterwards' bit(!) part of the reason I ended the book the way I did is that I wanted to give readers the chance to imagine the characters' future for themselves. I love books that leave space for the reader that way: hope Black Tat does the same for you. If not... well, I hope you'll check out my other books! ;D Thanks again and best wishes to you, Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Thursday, November 12th 2009 - 02:08:50 AM

First Name (only please):	Louisa
Age	13
location	Merseburg (Germany)
Comments and/or questions:	I LOOOOOOOOOVE YOUR BOOK SAM ! It's awesome !! The Chinj was so cute >.< :) My favourite character was Jack I think he's a super friend :D -Aw, thank you, Louisa! Have you seen my genius mate Elaine's HAND-KNITTED Chinj?? Take a look at the Black Tat Reader Art page, here: www.theblacktattoo.com/readerart.html ...and scroll down a bit. The stitched pink chin-dribbles are a particular highlight. ;D Thanks again for your lovely message. Best wishes from here in London, Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Tuesday, November 10th 2009 - 08:55:53 PM

First Name (only please):	Russ
Age	14 soon 15
location	home
Comments and/or questions:	Just finished reading your book and decided to become a writer just like you and make a a book similar to The Black Tattoo. -Wow. Thank you, Russ. I hope your decision works out for you. I wish you happiness in whatever you do. Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Sunday, November 8th 2009 - 08:59:44 PM

First Name (only please):	Justin
Age	13
location	Texas
Comments and/or questions:	I think your book is awesome! Since Halloween has passed, I was in the mood for something dark, and when I saw this book in the school library I had to get it! I'm about 1/3 done with it, and I'm probably going to finish another third before I fall sleep tonight. I like books with complex plots. It would be awesome if you write a sequel! p.s. I am working on my own book. I don't want to be a professional author when I grow up, but I would like to publish a few books. -Thanks, Justin! I have no plans for a Black Tat sequel right now, I'm afraid. For some reasons why, check here: www.theblacktattoo.com/qanda.html#sequel and here: www.theblacktattoo.com/qanda.html#afterwards But I'm very happy you're enjoying the book, and I'm so glad you wrote in to tell me so! :D I wish you the very best of luck with your writing. Cheers from London, Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Friday, November 6th 2009 - 10:58:21 PM

First Name (only please):	Savanna
Age	16
location	Oregon, USA
Comments and/or questions:	I must say, when I picked this book up, I was hungry for a good story. School's a couple of months in, so I went to the library to see if there were any appealing stories in the fiction section. The last couple of books I had picked up and devoured didn't quite satisfy me, and no one had any recommendations for me. It was almost time to go back to class, and I still hadn't found one that caught my interest. But in the very last look I gave the shelf, my eyes caught on a thick white spine with eloquent black lettering that said: "The Black Tattoo." I am so happy I saw that! Once my eyes were on the pages and my mind was far away in the world you created, I couldn't put it down. Less than four days later, it is finally finished, and let me tell you, what a ride that was! I enjoyed every bit of it! This is definitely a story I will remember and recommend to everyone and, hopefully, purchase for myself so I can read it whenever I desire. I am currently taking a class called Broadcasting and Digital Media. It's a class where, basically, we just have fun and make movies for a grade. It also got me thinking that I probably want to pursue a career in that category. I'd just like to say that if I ever get very far down that path, there are two stories I would take and make a full length movie for: one that I read online by an unpublished author, and "The Black Tattoo." So, in the future, on the very slight chance that that is what I do with my life, you just might here from me again. The other career that I would like to pursue is writing. If you couldn't tell, I really enjoy it ;). You have definitely inspired me, and I find your Q & A section helpful. I would like to publish my own fiction book some day... ... But, for now, I think I should wrap this up. (Geeze, it's a little long for a guestbook entry. I just had a lot to say) Here is one of my favorite quotes, that totally applies to your story: "You know you've read a good book when you get to the end and feel like you've lost a best friend." -Hi Savanna, Thank you so much for your wonderful message. I am thrilled and honoured and delighted that Black Tat affected you this way, but I especially appreciate you taking the time to write and tell me so. I wish you the very best of luck in whatever career you choose to pursue (and if you do get the chance to make Black Tat into a movie, that would be AWESOME). But in the mean time, feel free to drop me a line here (or at my other online places -- homepage w/links below) whenever you like. And if you're after some book recommendations, do have a rummage on my LibraryThing profile! ;) Thanks again for your lovely message. It's very much appreciated. All best wishes to you from here in London, Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Friday, November 6th 2009 - 04:53:45 AM

First Name (only please):	mariana
Age	12
location	my computer
Comments and/or questions:	Hey Sam it's me again well I just wanted to asked how did you publish your books. I am in the middle of writing two books and I was wondering if you could help me in publishing them. Please write back P.s if you want to read them well I'm not done yet but still. -Hi Mariana, There's no easy answer, I'm afraid. To get published (by a big publisher who will put your book in shops) you have to work for it. Write your stories. Send them out to publishers (they all have websites, or you can find their details in places like The Writers and Artists Yearbook). If your stories get turned down (I had 134 letters saying 'no' before I got the first one saying 'yes') then don't lose heart, but keep writing, keep working at getting better at writing, and one day... it can happen to you. I can't help you with getting published, Mariana, not directly. And I can't read your stories for you: to be honest, I've got my hands full writing my own. But if you ever need /general/ advice about writing (ie not about the story you're working on, but about, say, technique, or how to keep going) then drop me a line here whenever you like, and I'll try to answer you. I wish you the very best of luck, Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Thursday, November 5th 2009 - 11:33:30 PM

First Name (only please):	Tessa
Age	16
location	AZ
Comments and/or questions:	The Black tattoo is wicked awesome !! I'm still reading it, but it is totally awesome so far. I found it at a thrift shop and Oh my goth I am so glad i did . =) -Thanks, Tessa! HEE HEE HEE! um, sorry to cackle so loudly(!) but the idea that my books are lurking in charity shops all over the world, waiting to leap out and surprise people, makes me very happy! I know some authors are funny about readers getting their stuff secondhand: not me. First up, I buy loads of books that way myself as it's a great way to try out new writers -- and second, and most important, I'm just deeply thrilled that my stuff is out there, being read and enjoyed. Thanks so much for writing to tell me so. Best wishes from here in London, Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Wednesday, November 4th 2009 - 01:40:58 AM

First Name (only please):	mariana
Age	12
location	my computer
Comments and/or questions:	Hi Sam I was just wondering Is [CENSORED! SPOILERS!]-? Oh, also I'm not really done with the book but I absolutely love it. I love the concept of people(or kids) going to hell. Oh before I forget seriously what did Godfrey(Or God) do to Jack in Hell? And the Chinj is 100% cute! Well please answer my Question ...s. Bye -Hi Mariana! Thanks for getting in touch. I'm so sorry to have to mangle your post like that, but your first question is one of the big plot points in the book. The answer's not a secret exactly - in fact you've pretty much worked it out, I think! - but it would be a shame if someone who's not as far along with reading the book as you now happened to see what you wrote and it interfered with their enjoyment of the story. Hope you understand! As to Godfrey's "improvements" to Jack, here's a link to where I've written my take on that... www.theblacktattoo.com/qanda.html#improvements ...As with your first question, you may not want to use that link and read the answer until you've got to the end of the story! But I hope that's helpful. ;) I really appreciate your kind words, Marianna. Enjoy the rest of the book! :D All best wishes, Sam wwww.samenthoven.com
DATE	Monday, November 2nd 2009 - 11:23:38 PM

First Name (only please):	Hope
Age	13
location	scotland
Comments and/or questions:	i loved it, i didnt think i would like it when my dad got me it but i started to read it and adored it but i started laughing, i have 3 rabbits a brown one called charlie a blonde one called jack and a tea coloured one called esme! i really loved the books and really hope you can do more like it, from earlier comments i saw what u mean some books do get ruined but other ones. but well done i loved the book and im getting my dad to read it after hes finished the last book i gave him (we read a lot of the same books) lol got to go reading the lake house -Thank you, Hope! I'm so happy you enjoyed my book. And I hope your dad likes it, too! That's absolutely awesome about your rabbits. Hee hee hee HEE! :D Thanks again and best wishes to you, Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Monday, November 2nd 2009 - 08:48:54 PM

First Name (only please):	nathan
Age	12
location	sinton texas
Comments and/or questions:	this is awesome it would be better if we made a movie about it u know it would awesome and where did ur idea for it all come from? -Hi Nathan! Thanks for the kind words, they're much appreciated. :D Like I said to Ethan below, I write books, that's what I do and what I love (for some reasons why, follow the link I gave him) But I'm thrilled and delighted than you both think Black Tat would work in more visual types of storytelling, because making my books as visual as possible is something I work very hard on. I love stories where you can picture what's going on in your imagination as you're reading. If you and Ethan are imagining how Black Tat would look, that means it's working - and that makes me very happy! As to where the ideas came from, I've written quite a bit about that over at the Black Tat Q&A page, particularly here: www.theblacktattoo.com/qanda.html#inspired Thanks again, Nathan, and very best wishes to you from here in London, Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Friday, October 23rd 2009 - 02:32:57 AM

First Name (only please):	Ethan
Age	10
location	Georgia
Comments and/or questions:	why dont u make a game of this? ITs AWSOME. -Thanks, Ethan! I write books: that's what I do. For some reasons why, check this link: www.timdefenderoftheearth.com/whatido.html ...But if someone was to have a proper go at making a game of Black Tat, that would be terrific! I was approached by one games company about it. Nothing's come of that so far, but tentacles crossed. :D Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Sunday, October 18th 2009 - 10:06:49 PM

First Name (only please):	Jada! (Jaduhh!)
Age	11
location	Georgia! (Gawja! lol!)
Comments and/or questions:	I have gotten halfway through && i LOVE this book! it is all the other great books plus more!! :) You ROCK!! :D -Thanks, Jada! I'm very happy you're enjoying Black Tat so far -- hope you feel the same about the rest of it! ;D Best wishes from London - sorry: LANd'n ;p Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Friday, October 16th 2009 - 12:43:27 AM

First Name (only please):	D-Bo
Age	25
location	Cartersville, GA, USA
Comments and/or questions:	I've actually had this book for almost a full year and haven't even cracked it open yet. Finally deciding to read it I am shocked that I waited so long to start, and disappointed that I'm finally done with the book. I feel bad for Jack, also. Such a typical existence in the book. I had high hopes for him. God had [EDITED FOR SPOILERS!!!] ..."improvements". What those were, I never learned. True, I wouldn't have enjoyed the book as much if he wasn't so normal and the end wouldn't have worked, but, still I wonder. Nonetheless, great book. -Hello D-Bo, thanks so much for your message. Sorry to mangle it as I have! But some readers who check this page might not have got as far as the particular bit you mentioned. ;) For whatever it's worth, I've put my take on the "improvements" thing up on the Black Tat Q&A page, here: www.theblacktattoo.com/qanda.html#improvements Hope that helps. I'm delighted that you enjoyed Black Tat. Thank you, again, for writing to tell me so: your encouragement is very much appreciated. Best wishes to you from here in London, Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Monday, October 5th 2009 - 04:50:29 AM

First Name (only please):	Sarah
Age	12 (13 this sunday!!)
location	r.i
Comments and/or questions:	i havent read this book yet, but its on my READ list because my best friends name is Jack Farrell, and i think hes a demon hunter now.... p.s. i am NOT LYING his name is actually Jack Farrell!!!! -Hi Sarah! Excellent. Hee hee hee! Hope you - and he! - like the book. :D All best, Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Thursday, October 1st 2009 - 11:21:37 PM

First Name (only please):	Sandi
Age	41
location	Galesburg, IL
Comments and/or questions:	Hi Sam. I checked out this audiobook from my local library, as I don't have time to sit back with a good book - between work and kids there's just not a lot of time, so I get my literature via audiobook. Yours is an amazing story. Through the reading of the audiobook, I felt like I was actually in the story. You wrote an amazing book and I do look forward to listening to more from you. -Thank you, Sandi! John Lee did a terrific job on the reading, didn't he? I'm very glad you enjoyed it, and I really appreciate you writing to tell me so. There's an audio version of my second book, TIM, DEFENDER OF THE EARTH, available to download from Audible. I've only heard a sample, but if you'd like to find out more, do head over to the Tim Editions Details page and scroll down a bit. Here's the link: www.timdefenderoftheearth.com/editions.html Hope that's helpful! Thanks again for the kind words. Best wishes to you from here in London, Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Wednesday, September 30th 2009 - 06:47:58 AM

First Name (only please):	Sammie
Age	13
location	San Angelo, TX
Comments and/or questions:	Hello Sam, Did I already sign the guest book? I cant remember .__.; Hah, anyways, I love the Black Tattoo! WOOP! Its PIMP XD ---- Q: What was your childhood like? [Where were you born? Im asking for a project Im doing about an author; that being..YOU!!] ---- I NEED to know before 9-30-09! Please and thank you :D ~Sammie -Hi Sammie! I think you just added me on Facebook? I left a message on your wall. :D You can find all sorts of bits and pieces for your project on my websites. I left you a link to the Black Tat Q&A page, but you can find everything else through my homepage, www.samenthoven.com Best of luck with it! Sam PS: I was born in London. :D
DATE	Sunday, September 27th 2009 - 01:02:30 AM

First Name (only please):	Sammie
Age	13
location	San Angelo, TX
Comments and/or questions:	Hello~ Im reading the Black Tattoo, its flipping awesome! You have to be one of my favorite authors! So, I desided to do a project about you :D Woop, mind if I ask some questions? Haha, thanks ^_^;
DATE	Sunday, September 27th 2009 - 12:47:24 AM

First Name (only please):	Cesar
Age	22
location	Sarasota, Florida, USA
Comments and/or questions:	awesome book!!! -Thanks, Cesar! Glad you liked it!
DATE	Saturday, September 26th 2009 - 02:49:35 AM

First Name (only please):	Madeleine
Age	9 soon 10!
location	OUTTA MONGOLIA (Basicly idk)
Comments and/or questions:	Hello Sam Thanks for the visit at The Harwich School.It was totally awesome. Ive got ur signiture!Yay me! Well i have a couple of questions. Hi how are you? Did you really live on noodles?If so thats insain. Lol I cant wait to get Black Tattoo in a couple of weeks! Ok back to the questions. Do you like waffles? Cause I do. If you dont, UR GONNA DIE! Waffles are the best :) What are you eating? Im having pizza and smiley faces! :) Cuz its friday hee hee ha ha.Lol -Hi Madeleine! I'm well, thank you! I'm a bit knackered after the last couple of days, but the talks at Harwich were a lot of fun, so I'm very happy. :D Yep, I lived on noodles. The trick is to put other things in with them - particularly veg, because vegetables are cheap and they keep you alive. ;) I'm not a mad-keen waffle eater, but before you kill me(!) I've certainly got nothing against them, and I've been known to eat one once in a while. As to what I'm eating next, it's going to be Chinese takeaway with my mates Barney and Simon - since you asked! I'm glad you liked the talk - thanks for writing to tell me so! All best wishes to you, Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Friday, September 25th 2009 - 05:34:14 PM

First Name (only please):	Jenji~!
Age	14
location	In the 8th Dimension of Saltine Crackers
Comments and/or questions:	Well, I have to say this is one of the best books I've ever read. When I first found it, on a library shelf, what compelled me to pick it up actually, was that it was a rather old copy, hardcover, missing the book jacket, spine slightly bent, but it just looked so damn cool that way. I most certainly am glad I picked it up. The plot was intriguing and gripping! I loved it! Signed, Jenji~! (Cause I don't want stalkers knowing my first name.) -Hi, Jenji. Your message makes me very happy! :D The idea that my books are lurking in libraries and bookshops all over the world, waiting to surprise people, is one of the very, very best things about being a published author. That, and having people write in to tell me they've enjoyed 'em! Thank you. You've put a big grin on my face. Very best wishes to you from here in London, Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Wednesday, September 23rd 2009 - 04:18:13 AM

First Name (only please):	Amanda
Age	12
Comments and/or questions:	I loved this book! I'm usually not into this genre, but I decided to read it for a school project and I really enjoyed it. Will there be a sequel? -Hi Amanda! Thank you! I'm so happy you liked it! To answer your question - and I hope this doesn't come as a disappointment to you - No, I have no plans for a sequel. For some reasons why, check the Black Tat Q&A page here: www.theblacktattoo.com/qanda.html ...However, I do plan to write lots more books! For the very latest on what I'm up to, keep an eye on my homepage, url below. Thanks again for your message. All best wishes to you, Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Sunday, September 20th 2009 - 10:04:11 PM

First Name (only please):	Becca
Age	13
location	isle of wight
Comments and/or questions:	hiiiiii again I signed the other book and just like I said in the last book guestbook I will say that this rocked and I think that I might just write a book myself called 'Twisted Fairytales' cause I have always liked parodies (cue applause for other inspiration also known as mock the week) and you have just started me off :D so thanks and if it gets published i'll put you will be in my dedications page X3 lols and bye ;3 -Hi again, Becca! I've just replied to your kind message on the Tim Guestbook. I love twisted fairytales, so I wish you the very best of luck with your writing - and I look forward to that dedication! :D Sam
DATE	Friday, September 18th 2009 - 05:41:36 PM

First Name (only please):	Kira
Age	14
Comments and/or questions:	I'm truly impressed. I can NEVER FREAKING FINISH A BOOK. But I adored this. Loved it. I'm gonna read it over and over and over. I actually got in trouble for reading it in class. -Awesome. Thank you, Kira! And, um, sorry about the reading in class thing. ;p Best wishes, Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Saturday, September 12th 2009 - 02:48:02 AM

First Name (only please):	Nathaniel
Age	19
location	Maine
Comments and/or questions:	Great book! The philosophy behind god is almost believable! -Thanks, Nathaniel! I wanted a system that was as believable as the rest, but they've all got a two thousand year head start, minimum. ;p Best wishes to you from London, Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Wednesday, September 9th 2009 - 04:20:49 PM

First Name (only please):	jennifer
Age	28
location	wales
Comments and/or questions:	hi sam i've had this book sitting on the book case for about 3 months and i'm only now getting round to reading it. i loved the cover when i bought it but didn't realise it was a teenagers book, i had a bit of a surprise when started to read it but haven't been able to put it down. it's great and i think 10 year old niece will enjoy it too. thank you for a fantastic read. and i will be looking out for your other books from now on. jen. -Hello, Jen! Thank you for your message and your kind words. I'm thrilled you enjoyed Black Tat but I really appreciate you taking the time to write and tell me so (and I hope your niece enjoys it, too!) For the latest on my books and what I'm up to, keep an eye on my homepage: www.samenthoven.com Thanks again and very best wishes to you, Sam
DATE	Sunday, September 6th 2009 - 12:36:16 AM

First Name (only please):	shannon
Age	13
location	north east england
Comments and/or questions:	hi hi, i was re reading your book again and i signed this ages ago but i was looking at your pics and was wondering how i could get you to my school St Thomas More high school. i know that nothing like that has happened in my school before and i think someone like you would be the best to have as a first =D -Hi Shannon, Thank you! I'd be delighted to visit your school. But, like a vampire, I can only go where I'm invited! :D Ask your English teacher or your librarian to click on the Events Enquiries link on my homepage, www.samenthoven.com That will take them to my page on the website ContactAnAuthor, where they'll find the information they'll need. I very much hope we can sort out a visit! All best wishes, Sam
DATE	Saturday, September 5th 2009 - 06:02:18 PM

First Name (only please):	saviour again
Age	13
location	all over tehe (from scotland)
Comments and/or questions:	hey i looked up ur new book it looks really good, i told my mum and dad i want more of your books for my birthday but thats not til december lol. i was reading other comments left on this about writing a second black tattoo and i think that you could screw it up. im going to get my friends to read the black tattoo. but i really think someone like you could make the black tattoo into another book, doing somthing like the scourge wasnt fully put away or esme forgets her powers. lol now im just prattling on and on but im kinda bored in a plane teehe but im not heading anwhere else im heading back to where i live in england for school on thursday. are you going to any schools in the noth east of england it would be so cool if you came to mine, =D --Hi again, Saviour! Your feelings about a Black Tat sequel sound the same as mine. Sure, it would be possible to come up with another story for Esme, Jack, Charlie and the Scourge. But that's not what I want to do: I've got all these other books I want to write! Besides, I tend to find most sequels to be a bit disappointing (btw: I'm not talking about things that were always planned as a series - that's quite different). Some sequels are so bad they even make you doubt your enjoyment of the original. I hate that. I think there are enough crummy sequels and remakes in the world already, so for now my 'sinister masterplan' (such as it is) is standalone stories all the way. :D Thanks and best wishes, Sam PS: I'm always up for school visits! As I mentioned to Shannon in the Guestbook entry above, you can ask your teachers/librarians to click the events link on my homepage: www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Saturday, September 5th 2009 - 05:05:33 PM

First Name (only please):	Saviour
Age	13
location	all over (from scotland)
Comments and/or questions:	hey sam, i took this book with me going on travels with my parents, i read it kinda slow from so much going on around me but i adored it, i read it going to africa, alaska, germany, hawaii and florida. it was so much fun and i read your book i don't know how many times in the planes and everything. please write another book sort of like it but not fully, i'm gonna get the Tim book when we get back to scotland. there was a girl in florida on the beach reading your book i think her name was savannah she loved it too. i better go my dad wants his laptop back. loved the book keep writing plz. =D Saviour --Thank you so much, Saviour. Your message has made me very happy! :D The next book, CRAWLERS, is on its way - due out early next year - and I'm just getting started on the one after that. So I'm definitely still writing! But I really, really appreciate your encouragement. Thanks again, and very best wishes to you, Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Thursday, September 3rd 2009 - 01:49:03 PM

First Name (only please):	Iain
Age	16
location	Johannesburg South Africa
Comments and/or questions:	Damn Sam!!:) Really FANTASTIC book! It defiantly reads like an epic fantasy novel but has the horror edge added which,of course, is awesam. I also found God�s character and the concept of hell in general a very controversial addition to the book�and I LOVE controversial writing (if it is done well) so well done! The pace and action of the book was levelled by the wit, humour and well developed characters and this kept me on the edge of my seat and I literally couldn�t put it down! I have three main questions for you. Firstly, and I know you�ve been asked before, is there a chance Black Tattoo will become a film?! In my opinion it would make an amazing one! Maybe even an animation�? Secondly: With the quotes in-between the three segments of the book, did you just choose quotes that you liked that had some resonance with the book or was there a specific selection process? And lastly: what was your inspiration while writing the book? Where there any specific books, movies, art works, songs etc. that helped? I also just wanted to say that the old phrase: success is 99% perseverance and 1% talent doesn�t apply to you. To write a book THAT good, it must have been 100% for both. You�ve got the talent so please, please carry on using it!! P.S. (reader art on its way soon�.hopefully�.) :) --Hi Iain, Thanks so much for your message, and your kind words! I'm particularly glad about what you said re HORROR. My new book is a horror story - I hope you'll like it! :D To answer your questions: 1. Black Tat as a film? Well, there's always a chance. But by mentioning Hell and Godfrey, I think you already know one of the reasons why it might not happen - at least not as a big budget live action Hollywood blockbuster! :D Animation might be a different story: I love animation, so that would be wonderful. But tbh, I don't mind. The book is the thing. 2. Quotes.No, no special process (and my other books don't currently contain quotes). But the three in Black Tat just appealed to me and seemed to fit. ;) 3. Black Tat, and my books since, are a big, boiling stew of things I love: from books, films, comics, games, anime, whatever. Like the quotes, there's no specific process - just the constant obsession with and ongoing search for whatever gives me that tingle at the back of my neck. HEE HEE HEE! Do please send Reader Art, that'd be brilliant! But it's already /totally/ brilliant that you've written me your wonderful and kind message. Thanks for your encouragement, Iain, I will do my best to live up to it. Best wishes to you in Johannesburg from here in London, Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Tuesday, August 18th 2009 - 02:40:28 AM

First Name (only please):	Vannesa
Age	13
location	Manchester
Comments and/or questions:	Wow! I have to say when I saw this book it looked really eye-catching so i took it home from the library for a reading challenge on how fast I could read it and I read it in 1 hour 58 minutes it was that good, I have to ask do you have any tips for writing a book as im having a bit of trouble with mine. --Hi Vanessa, Thank you! Yes, Black Tat's cover does tend to pop out at you, doesn't it? ;) I'm glad you liked it! My websites and blog have all sorts of writing tips if you don't mind rummaging a bit. Try the Black Tat Q&A page: www.theblacktattoo.com/qanda.html Thanks again and best wishes to you, Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Monday, August 17th 2009 - 07:50:21 PM

First Name (only please):	donny
Age	12
location	belfast,nortern ireland
Comments and/or questions:	i rented this book from the library and finished it in 2 days. its in competition with the inheritance series by christopher paolini and the maximum ride series by james patterson. i think this is an amazing book and i look forward to reading your other books!!! thanks donny --Thank /you/, Donny. That's some stellar company you've put me in with there! I don't see writing as a competition with other authors - more like a concerted effort to put more awesome stories out into the world. But I will do my best to make sure all my books live up to your expectations. Thanks and best wishes to you, Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Saturday, August 15th 2009 - 12:14:49 PM

First Name (only please):	Tanece
Age	14
location	Michigan
Comments and/or questions:	Hey Sam, let me just start about by saying wow. The Black Tattoo was an awesome book, and I couldn't put it down. There were twists and turns and I loved it! It was like watching a movie right before my very eyes. Might I also add that when I first picked the book up I was like...interesting. Then when I read those first couple of pages I was like...I must have this book! Thus that lead me into this journey through hell and back. Can't wait for more from you! You rock! --Hi Tanece! Thank you so much for your kind words. I especially appreciate what you said about reading Black Tat being like watching a movie. I love stories in which you can picture what's going on in your mind's eye: making my books as visual as possible is something I work hard on, so what you've said makes me very happy! :D Thanks again, and best wishes from here in London, Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Saturday, August 15th 2009 - 08:42:57 AM

First Name (only please):	Jaceline
Age	16
location	Ohio (:
Comments and/or questions:	This book was amazing! I honestly read it 5 times so far and I started it again last night. I flat out love it. It's smart, funny, and entertaining. My dream is to one day WATCH the story unfold. So Sam, would you consider making The Black Tattoo into a movie? --Hi Jaceline! And thank you so much for your kind words. Wow, I'm delighted you're enjoying Black Tat so much! Thank you! To answer your question: Sure. I'd be thrilled if Black Tat was made into a film (as long as it was a /good/ film!) But I write books: that's what I do, what I love - so whether a movie happens or not isn't really up to me. For a little more of my thoughts about Black Tat and movies, go here: www.theblacktattoo.com/qanda.html#movie Meanwhile, my second book - TIM, DEFENDER OF THE EARTH - has been optioned by Universal! The studio are deciding whether to make a movie of that right now. So you never know. Tentacles crossed! ;p Thanks again, Jaceline, and best wishes to you from here in London, Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Saturday, August 8th 2009 - 07:55:08 PM

First Name (only please):	Gwenne
Age	35
location	Upstate NY, USA
Comments and/or questions:	Had a good read. Cheers to you for a good tale and good writing. Look forward to more from you. Don't kid yourself--not just for teens. :) --Thank you, Gwenne. I'm thrilled and honoured and delighted when people enjoy my stories, no matter what age they happen to be! ;) Thanks for your encouragement. Best wishes, Sam
DATE	Sunday, August 2nd 2009 - 02:54:05 AM

First Name (only please):	Linda
Age	17
location	England
Comments and/or questions:	Hey Sam. First off I want to say, WHAT AN AWESOME BOOK! I really do love the whole concept of hell that you have, and the book made me think about religion and question it more. AND I'm in the process of passing my book round to my friends and they love it so far. I've got a question though, I think in your author's notes you wrote that you 'borrowed' ideas from certain films or were inspired by them I just wanted to know what films are you talking about? Oh and are you planning on writing another book? --Hi Linda, Thanks for your kind words about Black Tat, they're very much appreciated. Re the note about films, you mean the bit at the end of Black Tat's acknowledgements, about what music I was listening to? ['...the soundtracks to some of my favourite films, you've read the book, you can probably guess which ones I mean']-? While writing Black Tat I kept my spirits up - and got myself into the right mood(!) - with a lot of big, dramatic orchestral music by composers like Danny Elfman, Don Davis, Marco Beltrami amd (particularly!) John Williams. Stick those names into Google or Wikipedia [or LastFM if you want to listen] and I bet you'll figure out which films I was talking about! :D As to other books... DEFINITELY! You can find out all about my second (published) book here: www.timdefenderoftheearth.com ...And my third is well on the way, Keep an eye on my homepage: www.samenthoven.com Thanks again for what you said about Black Tat. I'm delighted you enjoyed it, but it's very kind of you to write and tell me so. Best wishes to you, Sam
DATE	Saturday, August 1st 2009 - 01:42:12 AM

First Name (only please):	diana
Age	15
location	australia
Comments and/or questions:	OMG this book is awsum i just finished reading it and it is awsum sam should tottalyy keeepppp writing rock on sam!!! xx --Thanks, Diana: I really appreciate your encouragement and kind words. Will do my best! :D Cheers from London, Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Wednesday, July 29th 2009 - 09:23:12 AM

First Name (only please):	Angela
Age	39
location	Dallas, TX - USA
Comments and/or questions:	This book is not just for kids! I just listened to in on audio and the narrator, John Lee, did a fantastic job. I would love to see your characters created on the big screen. --Thanks, Angela, I'm very happy you enjoyed it! And wasn't Mr Lee's Chinj voice brilliant? Hee hee hee! Best wishes from London, Sam
DATE	Tuesday, July 28th 2009 - 09:38:14 PM

First Name (only please):	Ali
Age	17
location	Illinois
Comments and/or questions:	Hey Mr. Enthoven, I just wanted to tell you what an amazing writer you are! I loved the plot! How did you come up with the idea for The Black Tattoo? You're a genius! The minute I finished the book I sat down and started to draw the cover...It's been about a year now and I have yet to finish it. I'll send it to you when it's completed though...How's that? I feel like an idiot writing such a long post...Is there any chance of the book becoming a movie? Or of you writing a sequel? Please? puppy dog eyes If you need help coming up with a plot then I'll gladly help you out!! Sincerely, Ali --Hi Ali! Thanks so much for your post. I'm delighted and thrilled that you enjoyed Black Tat, but I especially appreciate your taking the time to write and tell me so. For the answers to your questions about films and sequels and where the idea to Black Tat came from, check here: www.theblacktattoo.com/qanda.html I don't mean to be rude by answering with a link: it's more that if I didn't, my reply would end up about five times longer than your message! ;D As to your drawing, there's an email address on the Reader Art page: www.theblacktattoo.com/readerart.html Do PLEASE send your drawing when it's finished, then I can put it up on the page for the world to see! Thanks again for your kind words. All best wishes to you from here in London, Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Thursday, July 23rd 2009 - 07:21:43 AM

First Name (only please):	Tim
Age	19
location	Michigan
Comments and/or questions:	The black tat is one of my favorite books. like other people I would also like to see it on screen. My question is have you ever thought about turning it into an Anime movie? I'm a big fan of Anime and when i first read your book it sounded like it would be cool as an Anime. --Hi Tim - thank you for the kind words! Sure, I'd be delighted if Black Tat was made into an anime - I love anime! Also, given how spectacularly expensive it would be to film Black Tat with live action (hee hee hee!) I think that animation would be a much more feasible way to put the book up on screen. But the thing is, I'm not an animator. I don't make (or write for) films: I write books. Books -- particularly the way that, unlike more visual types of storytelling, everyone who reads them gets an imaginative picture of the action that's /unique and personal to them/ -- are what I love. So if someone decides they're interested in filming one of my stories, that's great. But I won't lose sleep over it: I'm busy writing more books. :D Thanks and best wishes, Sam
DATE	Thursday, July 16th 2009 - 06:27:10 AM

First Name (only please):	richard
Age	17
location	michigan
Comments and/or questions:	hey thanks for the encouragement and id had that idea but did not know if was a good idea to do so without your permission but i think i might try my hand at a follow up -Hi Richard, You're welcome, mate: go for it! :D Um, this is probably obvious but just in case it isn't: if you want to make money out of Black Tat's characters and backstory, then we need to have a different sort of discussion - one involving contracts and agents etc. But if you want to pursue this to practice your writing powers, to see what happens, or (most important) for your own fun and satisfaction, then go with my blessing. Keep me posted about how you get on. If it turns out well (and you're happy to do so of course) we could maybe post your work somewhere on the website, for others to enjoy? But see how you go. All best wishes to you, Sam
DATE	Monday, July 13th 2009 - 04:48:38 PM

First Name (only please):	Anna
Age	14
location	Deutschland
Comments and/or questions:	SOOOOOOOOOOOO cool i love this book i think jack is the best he is so cool i hope it give a second book, the page is cool but i loos some pictures from the real character ♥♥♥♥ good job ,guys --Thanks, Anna! I'm very happy you enjoyed it! :D Best wishes, Sam PS: My second book, TIM, DEFENDER OF THE EARTH is going to be translated into German soon. To find out more, check the TIM website: www.timdefenderoftheearth.com
DATE	Sunday, July 12th 2009 - 04:29:55 PM

First Name (only please):	Jaden
Age	13
location	Canada/Alberta
Comments and/or questions:	will you let someone make a movie of the black tat? -Hi again Jaden, The short answer is, Sure! If someone thinks they can do a good job of it, and we can make a deal, I'd be delighted. But it wouldn't be easy to film! ;) A fuller answer to your question is here: www.theblacktattoo.com/qanda.html#movie Best wishes, Sam
DATE	Friday, July 10th 2009 - 07:37:48 PM

First Name (only please):	Jaden
Age	13
location	Canada/Alberta
Comments and/or questions:	will you make a second black tat book? -Hi Jaden, Thanks for getting in touch. Here's a link to the answer to your question: www.theblacktattoo.com/qanda.html#sequel All best from London, Sam
DATE	Thursday, July 9th 2009 - 08:34:43 PM

First Name (only please):	Johanna aka Esme
Age	15
location	A place most come to know as earth
Comments and/or questions:	I just want to praise you on your magnificent work on the Black Tattoo. I also had a few questions. I realize this may be personal, but do you feel the same way about religion as your shape shifting demon? Over the past years I've been struggling to find the words to fit how I feel about the matter but your creature seemed to find them for me. I was also wondering if you believe in any paranormal occurrences. I'm a huge science whiz and used to think that everything had an explanation, however recently I've been well let's just say expecting some bad situations and my warnings haven't let me down yet. I know the realm of the Black Tattoo is a bit... out of this world, but perhaps small things out of the ordinary can happen, couldn't they? I just wanted to thank you again for such a great book and to tell you that my nickname to all of my friends is Esme. It originally started from the Twilight series, which are good but a little too light for me. The caring mother figure of the book, I didn't deem so fitting. Now my name is more appropriate thanks to your character. Reading the Black Tattoo was fascinating as she...I...we were in the story. She seems to be the only real reflection of me I have been able to find. It has helped me in that knowing perhaps I maybe different, but writers seem to write from experience or at least write of the purest forms of a character, if you know what I'm getting at. Perhaps I do have a bigger place to fill in just like your character Esme. I hope that at some point I will be able to talk to you. Thanks and I wish you all the best. Regards, Esme ---Hi Esme, I am thrilled and honoured that my book provoked such an intense response from you. So... you know what? I'm not going to risk messing that up with any kind of pat answer from me to your question about what I believe in or don't. Sorry if that sounds rude. It's really not intended to be. On the contrary: I'm thinking of interviews and whatnot I've read in the past about the creators of my favourite things. There's nothing worse than saying to yourself 'What?? /That's/ what (s)he really thinks??' and it spoiling how you felt. So I'm going to let the book (and maybe some stuff on the Q&A page?) do the talking, and just shut up now. ;) I will say again, though: I'm absolutely delighted and proud and honoured that my book has had this effect on you. And I'm very grateful that you've got in touch to tell me so. Thanks and all best wishes to you, Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Tuesday, July 7th 2009 - 03:23:02 AM

First Name (only please):	Victoria
Age	13
location	Orillia ON
Comments and/or questions:	hey sam The Black Tattoo is such a great book my Fave characters are Jack and Esme becuz Jack is risking his life for Charlie and Esme is helping except when she is being controlled by the Scourge --Fantastic! Thank you, Victoria! I'm so glad you liked it! All best, Sam :D
DATE	Monday, July 6th 2009 - 08:25:24 PM

First Name (only please):	max
Age	13
Comments and/or questions:	i find the book is very good, because I read this book onto my bad and it was very ehhm... sry I`m german and i cant speak very good english i will find out something more interesting things about sam enthoven how old are you??? because i will tell anyone to read this book ^^ sry --Hello Max, Thank you for the kind words: your making the effort to say them to me in my language is ESPECIALLY AWESOME - much appreciated! To answer your question, next month I'm going to be 35. Thanks again and best wishes to you, Sam
DATE	Saturday, July 4th 2009 - 09:56:33 AM

First Name (only please):	Nina
Age	26
location	Germany
Comments and/or questions:	Hi and greetings from Germany! I just read "The black tattoo", and no, I'm not too old for that. :p I found it incredibly funny, and there are a lot of weird "special effects" when you read it in hospital with all kinds of medication in your system. ;) Nevertheless I'm sure that the novel will be even better in english than in german, because translation always has its costs. So I will import the novel and read it again... Have a great weekend! Nina --Thank you, Nina! I'm so glad you enjoyed Black Tat, but it's particularly good of you to get in touch to tell me so. Thank you. Hope the English version makes as much of an impression on you without, erm, pharmaceutical enhancement! ;p Thanks again and best wishes from London, Sam
DATE	Friday, July 3rd 2009 - 11:39:25 AM

First Name (only please):	Todd
Age	18
location	Concord, California
Comments and/or questions:	Something i've been wondering about, what did Godfrey "God" really do to Jack? I kept trying to figure out if her gave him a power or something. --Hi Todd! A few people have asked about that, so I've put a reply on the Black Tat Q&A page, here: www.theblacktattoo.com/qanda.html#improvements Hope that helps! ;) Sam PS: Here's an exclusive for you. The book of mine I refer to in that answer wasn't TIM, DEFENDER OF THE EARTH, and it's not the one I'm worked on now (title to be announced soon!) It's the /next/ book, for which I'm hoping to start a new draft over the summer. I'm very excited! :D
DATE	Friday, July 3rd 2009 - 03:46:57 AM

First Name (only please):	Denver
Age	12
location	PhilCampbell Alabama,USA
Comments and/or questions:	Sam this is the best book i've ever read Harry Potter doesn't even compare to this i agree with,Mark,if all books were this good, I bet more kids would be reading. this was an awesome book --Wow (blushes): thank you, Denver! Your kind words and encouragement are very much appreciated. If you'd like to keep an eye on what I'm up to with my stories, check my homepage: www.samenthoven.com Mean time, thanks again! Best wishes from here in London, Sam
DATE	Thursday, July 2nd 2009 - 11:55:29 PM

First Name (only please):	richard
Age	17
Comments and/or questions:	you should write a follow up to the black tat maybe along the lines of A new ruler has taken over hell and has made a pact with the dragon to release the scourge --Hi Richard! I've got no plans to write a follow-up to Black Tat - I'm having too much fun working on new stories! But if you want to write one, go for it. Let me know how you get on. Best wishes to you, Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Monday, June 29th 2009 - 08:40:43 PM

First Name (only please):	lisa
Age	15
location	Durban
Comments and/or questions:	YAY! i know i said i was going to wait till exams were over, but the other day while i was having a study break, i couldn't help myself... i had gone on my computer and FINISHED MY BOOK!!!!!! it took a few hours to get it finished (that was my longest study break ever!) and I'm going to do that thing about waiting a month and then check my book again- so next month 19 July i ganna read my book again! -but i was wondering... if i reread my book but then change something, do i have to wait another month before i try to publish my book? other than me finishing my book (woohoo!) i was wondering how your latest book is going, and how YOU are doing. OK, bye bye, better get to bed, wanna be up extra early tomorrow morning- its fathers day AND my ma's b-day!!! best wishes, lisa. ---Hi Lisa, That's great you've finished your book's first draft, good for you! To answer your question about waiting a month, I suggested that because, to be blunt, nobody's book ever comes out completely perfect first time. When you reread it there will be things that you'll see that will need changing, tweaking, polishing. It's a lot easier to spot those things (and make the right decisions to fix them) if you've given yourself a little distance from the book first. As I say, leave it for a month. Then take a look at it and see what you find. But mean time, finishing a first draft is always cause for big celebration, so again, CONGRATULATIONS! :D Sam
DATE	Saturday, June 20th 2009 - 09:50:56 PM

First Name (only please):	lisa
Age	15
location	Durban
Comments and/or questions:	thanks for the advice, but although my book's almost finished I've decided to put it on hold: I've got exams from tomorrow until next week Friday, so I've got my head stuck in my books- and not the ones i LIKE reading ;) but as soon as exams are over I'm going to dive into my book again!!! even now it feels like my mind is bursting with ideas but my ma said i not allowed to concentrate on nothing but my studies :( so that means no internet for nearly two weeks 8( ill let you know how i did... wish me luck. BYE... for now! bwha ha ha ha ha.. sowi :D! -Best of luck to you, Lisa! :D Sam
DATE	Tuesday, June 16th 2009 - 06:45:46 PM

First Name (only please):	lisa
Age	15
location	Durban
Comments and/or questions:	wow, i got news... like five minutes after my last entry i had a MEGA breakthrough with my book and now I'm almost almost finished!!! :D I'm soooo happy i feel like I'm ganna dance! my ma said she'll get it published for me..... but you know, i kind of feel sad, coz i worked really hard on my book and now its almost done, i mean I'm really happy, but I'm also really sad, and i was wondering if you ever feel this way when you finish a book, and since this is my first big book I'm really confused.. BLAH, look how i jabber on, you must think I'm talking sillyness! okay, hay do you know any good places where i might be able to get my book published? i promise to let you know the moment my books finished... OOOHHH i got to go now, just got another brainwave.. bye! ;p --Hi Lisa, CONGRATULATIONS! Good for you! Digging yourself out of difficulties - and /finishing things/ - are big parts of being a writer. So, power to your elbow! Re publication, though, I would wait a while. Once you've finished the book, set it aside for at least a month. Take a break or start work on the next one, it's up to you. But don't touch this book, because you're going to need some space away from it. Once the month is up (and not before!) read the book again. /Then/ decide if it's ready to show to publishers. Let me know how you get on. Congratulations again, and very best wishes to you, Sam
DATE	Monday, June 15th 2009 - 11:45:55 PM

First Name (only please):	Tim
Age	12
location	Tweed
Comments and/or questions:	I love to read, like i love to read so much that i am the nerd at school lately i have been in a reading depression, no good books lately, that was before i started reading Black tattoo, the feel of a book is a lot like a manga, almost like bleach, but with more demons and a lot deeper characters, the amount of action you are able to put into one book without dragging it is amazing, easily one of the best, if not THE best book i have ever read! -Wow, thank you, Tim! Your kind words have put an enormous smile on my face. :D If you like giant monsters(?!) you might get a kick out of my second published book, TIM, DEFENDER OF THE EARTH. The website's here: www.timdefenderoftheearth.com But if you're up for other reading recommendations you might want to take a look at my LibraryThing profile, here: www.librarything.com/profile/othersam I've listed a whole bunch of books there that I think are amazing. Judging from what you've said above, I'd say CHRIS WOODING's books would be particularly worth a wallop, if you don't know his stuff already-? Action-packed, enormously imaginative, big manga influence - I think he's terrific! Thanks again for your message, Tim. I'm delighted you enjoyed Black Tat, but I really appreciate you writing to tell me so. All best wishes, Sam
DATE	Thursday, June 11th 2009 - 12:46:32 PM

First Name (only please):	Deanna (again lol)
Age	15
location	hassenbrook skl
Comments and/or questions:	i shall do! first i hav to find someone to paint them for me or a place to get stencils made >< but when i do there will be pics everywhere of them :D lolz :) hows the new book goin? --Good thanks, Deanna! Got another big deadline approaching fast, so I've got to keep my nose to the grindstone! :D Sam
DATE	Wednesday, June 10th 2009 - 03:24:35 PM

First Name (only please):	lisa
Age	15
location	Durban
Comments and/or questions:	hay sam. i see wat you mean, even with my book, i've only let my sister read wat i've writen... and thats coz she's my sis. i dont think i would let a fellow writer read my work until its copyrighted... coz i wouldnt want it copied by someone else- not that i'm saying that you would! i just need to be safe... so just the general advice would be awesome. hope you new book goes good... woops, i'm taking broken english now! from lisa :) --Hi again, Lisa! OK, cool. Keeping it general then, what do you want to ask me? Sam
DATE	Tuesday, June 9th 2009 - 04:06:52 PM

First Name (only please):	lisa
Age	15
location	Durban
Comments and/or questions:	hi sam, sowi to bug you again.. but do you gt mxit? i mean it cheeper and EASIER to ask you stuf dat way!?!?!?!?! LoL. WOOPS, i was wonderin', who your fav writer? lisa ---Hi Lisa! Thanks for getting in touch. :D No: right now I don't do any instant messaging. But if this Guestbook thing isn't quite working out for you, you'll find a bunch of other social network type places where you can contact me at my homepage: www.samenthoven.com My favourite writer? That's a tough one. It changes all the time! For a selection of my very favourite books check my LibraryThing profile, here: www.librarything.com/profile/othersam I'll answer your other question below. ;)
DATE	Tuesday, June 9th 2009 - 10:33:52 AM

First Name (only please):	lisa
Age	15
location	Durban
Comments and/or questions:	hi Sam, i have to admit that i haven't yet read your book, but what I've learned about the book has mad my mind spin and I'm so looking forward to reading it. i like thrillers and fantasies (even thou most of my friends think I'm weird coz of it) and at the mo I'm actually writing a book!!! and - bummer - I'm Stuck! im at a critical part of my book and i dont knw wat to do, can you giv me some advice- you knw, one writer to another? i would realy apriciat it. best wishes: lisa --...Hi again, Lisa! :D Hmm, tricky one. The problem with what you're asking is that I'm hard at work on my own stories. It's possible I may be able to advise you, but only in a very general way. That means I can't get into the nuts and bolts of your book: if, for example, you want to tell me the whole thing and ask 'What shall I write next?' then I'm sorry, I can't help you. But if you want general pointers or suggestions about writing technique, that I can do - maybe. Whether you decide you still want my help or not, I wish you the very best of luck with your writing. Sam
DATE	Tuesday, June 9th 2009 - 10:24:49 AM

First Name (only please):	Deanna :)
Age	15
location	Hassenbrook skl :)
Comments and/or questions:	u didnt reply to my last one D: im heart broken haha :) i am lykin it so far :) im not to far in still cos im reading two books at once as a challenge set by myself lol breaking dawn which i started readin a whiled bk for the millionth time nd then black tattoo as the other also the butterflies painted by esme gave me an idea to do bats in my room - hand painted :) i just hav to find some one to do it haha :) hope your good nd all :) D x ---Hi again Deanna! I thought I /did/ reply!!! But there again I'm kind of absent-minded, thinking of monsters all the time(!) so if one message did go unanswered then I didn't mean anything by it! ;D If you do paint those bats on your wall, then be sure to send a pic to the Black Tat Reader Art page! www.theblacktattoo.com/readerart.html All best wishes to you, Sam
DATE	Saturday, June 6th 2009 - 09:25:36 PM

First Name (only please):	Malik
Age	12
location	The Sunny Paradise known as Hawaii
Comments and/or questions:	Great book! I really loved it! I am down on my knees (Although i guess you cant see it) PLEASE MAKE ANOTHER BOOK!!!! I loved this book so much that I, no the WORLD begs you to write another! Or at least one like it!!!!!!!! Signed your #1 Hawaii fan, Malik --Aw (blushes, shuffles) no, please, Malik, get up - no need to beg! :D As you may have seen on the Black Tat Q&A page... www.theblacktattoo.com/qanda.html ...the books I write next won't be /just/ like Black Tat. But they'll all be for young people. They'll all be fast and (I hope) thrilling. And, heh, they'll probably all have monsters in 'em, of one kind or another! ;) My second published book, TIM, DEFENDER OF THE EARTH, is out already. Find out more at the special TIM website, here: www.timdefenderoftheearth.com My third, a horror story, is well on the way, due out next year (watch the TIM news page for details) And there are plenty more where those came from - hee hee hee! :D Malik, I'm delighted you enjoyed Black Tat, and it's very kind of you to take the time to write and tell me so. Thanks and best wishes to you, Sam
DATE	Friday, June 5th 2009 - 01:10:45 AM

First Name (only please):	Jennifer
Age	22
location	NH, USA
Comments and/or questions:	Hello to Sam and everyone else! I am avid reader of young adult fiction, seems I can't or wont grow up. I loved this book it was the right amount of action, adventure and whit. I read the book in about two hours and ruined a piece of toast because I was so caught up in the story! I would highly recommend it. I am going into teaching K-8 and I know that my students would LOVE it! Thank you Sam for your stupendous book, your hard work and your dedication to literacy. --You're very welcome, Jennifer! Thank you for your kind and inspiring words: your encouragement is very much appreciated. Sorry about the toast, though! :D Best wishes from here in London, Sam
DATE	Thursday, June 4th 2009 - 03:38:26 AM

First Name (only please):	Adrienne
Age	16
location	New jersey, USA
Comments and/or questions:	I juuust finished reading the book. It's definitely one of my favorites. Your first chapter hooked me in instantly, along with my friends. Esme is like my favorite character. She reminds me of myself and could relate to her. This would look good as a movie. If it's already out, I'll go search for a copy. Haha it was one intense book. :) --Thanks, Adrienne, I'm so glad you liked it! Have you checked out my second book? Go here to take a look: www.timdefenderoftheearth.com Hope you like GIANT MONSTERS! All best from here in London, Sam
DATE	Wednesday, June 3rd 2009 - 05:25:11 AM

First Name (only please):	Kat
Age	23 and a 1/2
location	my couch in my apartment in Winnipeg
Comments and/or questions:	I just picked up the Black Tattoo, and read about a chapter or so. I can say from what I read, that this book is excellent and well written. Ever since I was younger (about the age of 15) I loved teen horror and fantasy books. It's amazing how a person/s can make a world and its characters so realistic and personal. I truly love it. I wish I could write anything but poetry, if I could it would be very much like the Black Tattoo. Thanks, and keep writing :) --Thank /you/, Kat. Hope you enjoy the rest of the book! Best wishes, Sam
DATE	Wednesday, June 3rd 2009 - 02:40:12 AM

First Name (only please):	Chris
Age	16
location	UK
Comments and/or questions:	And (Sir) Ian Mackellen as Godfrey! Chris
DATE	Tuesday, June 2nd 2009 - 04:40:56 PM

First Name (only please):	Chris (again)
Age	16 (still)
location	England
Comments and/or questions:	Thank you for replying! Made my day reading that =] I've just one of the bits in the locked section...very good :D its a shame that you never made it into three books, although I think I can understand why you didn't. The idea occurred to me today of a Black Tat film, and I was trying to think of different actors to play the leads. So far, I think I'd cast Wesley Snipes as The Scourge, and I was toying with the idea of Robert Coltrane as Raymond :P Thanks again for replying so fast! Chris --You're very welcome, Chris. :D I've no idea whether a Black Tat film could ever actually happen: I did talk to a producer about it once(!) but she said that the story would be hugely expensive to film! Still, it's definitely fun thinking of casting. I've got to say, I reckon Robbie Coltrane would make Raymond seem a bit too much like Hagrid from Harry Potter. /Ray Winstone/, however...! And as for Wesley Snipes as the Scourge - AWESOME idea! Hee hee hee! All best wishes, Sam
DATE	Monday, June 1st 2009 - 07:40:46 PM

First Name (only please):	Chris
Age	16
location	Behind you...
Comments and/or questions:	Hiya Have just started re-reading the black tat and cannot put it down! I love the way it presents a possible alternate belief system, and one that, although I do not believe is real, could be believed and/or justified. I also love how it lets you use your imagination on how the different demons look. That said I'm still trying to work out what God did to Jack, I often re-read that page just to try and work out what they changed! --Hi Chris! What a lovely message. Thanks so much, I really appreciate it! :D If you haven't seen it, I have written a little something about Godfrey's 'improvements' to Jack on the Black Tat Q&A page, here: www.theblacktattoo.com/qanda.html#improvements ...Or, as you say, you can leave it to your own imagination! ;) Thanks again for your kind words, they've made my morning. All best wishes to you, Sam
DATE	Sunday, May 31st 2009 - 02:43:36 PM

First Name (only please):	Ash (btw)
Age	17
location	still in my hideout >.> <.<
Comments and/or questions:	just wanted to say i LOVE the chinj! they are so cute! i want one of my own XD -Have you seen the Black Tat Reader Art page, Ash? If you go here: www.theblacktattoo.com/readerart.html ...and scroll down a bit, you'll see a KNITTED Chinj, made by my friend Elaine! :D
DATE	Wednesday, May 27th 2009 - 04:35:08 PM

First Name (only please):	Ash
Age	17
location	some secret place u must not know >.>
Comments and/or questions:	Captivating book! I just finished reading it, the whole idea was very original, kept me riveted for days! THANKS!! -You're very welcome, Ash! Thanks for the kind words. All best, Sam
DATE	Wednesday, May 27th 2009 - 04:28:19 PM

First Name (only please):	Hollie
Age	11
location	Chingford
Comments and/or questions:	I loved your books <3 I was one of those kids from Heathcote the 3rd group actually :) Thanks for taking the time and coming to see us, it was great fun :) Thankyou x -Glad you enjoyed it, Hollie: thank /you/ for writing to tell me so! :D
DATE	Saturday, May 23rd 2009 - 08:09:36 AM

First Name (only please):	Lauren
Age	14
location	At my computer
Comments and/or questions:	Wow. It's been about a year since I read The Black Tat and I just picked it up again and remembered how absolutely wonderful. I was telling my friends about how brilliant it was (that is before the slapped my to quiet me) and how it was totally original (even though there's only like seven-or seventeen-plot lines in existence) in the way that the main character was just a regular kid. I really did enjoy it. Thank you loads for writing this extremely enjoyable book. :3 --Thank /you/, Lauren! BTW: I never believe that stuff about 'only x number of plotlines'. It's like saying there's only x number of types of person. Sure, there are similarities if you're only talking about the obvious stuff. But each one is different if you're looking properly! ;) Thanks again for your kind words. I'm especially happy with what you said about 'regular kid'. Making my characters feel real is something I have to work very hard at! All best wishes to you, Sam
DATE	Sunday, May 17th 2009 - 09:08:47 PM

First Name (only please):	josie
Age	12
location	horncastle
Comments and/or questions:	hi! Ever since I was 9 years old, I've been writing very short(I mean 1 or 2 page)stories for little kids on my computer. I was wondering if you have any advice or ideas because I'm stumped. P.S. I love 'The Black Tattoo'!! It was a thriller read and I think you're an amazing writer. --Thanks, Josie! The best advice I can give you, I think, is: Write what you love. Ideas can come by themselves, but it's best not to waste time waiting around: make the ideas come to you by asking yourself questions. So: You read a lot - right? Well, what do you most love to read? What sort of story would grab you from the first line and make you not want to stop until you finished it? What would the elements of that story be? How could you put them together and make them work? I don't want you to tell me your answers: you're going to have to work them out for yourself. But I hope the above helps get you started. Meanwhile, were you at QEGS yesterday? There's a pic from one of my talks up on the TIM blog, here: www.timdefenderoftheearth.com/news/ Thanks again for the kind words, and the very best of luck with your writing! Sam
DATE	Thursday, May 14th 2009 - 07:35:36 PM

First Name (only please):	A. Jackson
location	Oregon
Comments and/or questions:	I'm listening to the black tattoo right now and it's really good!!! I stay up so late at night listening to it!!! I can't wait to read your new book!!! Keep on writing!!!! --A. Jackson ;P ----Thank you! I'll do my best! :D
DATE	Wednesday, May 13th 2009 - 07:03:39 AM

First Name (only please):	charlee
Age	12
location	hassenbrok
Comments and/or questions:	heya sam its charlee again from hassenbrook, i have nearly finished the black tattoo and its GREAT, i like chapter THE GATHERING, loads of people have posted loads of emails from hassenbrook. i want to see if i can get tim defender of the earth because that sounds lke a good book! i hope you write back and thank you again for coming to school. how far have you got on your new book?? from charlee!!! -Hi Charlee! I'm so glad you liked The Gathering! That was actually one of the toughest bits of the book to write. Getting Jack out of his cell (and away to the next bit!) took me several tries, one of which involved a tremendously complicated sixty-page-long(!!!) scene with /grappling hooks/ (don't ask!) The final version you've just read only came together at a very late stage of the editing of the book, after a lot of work. So I'm very happy you enjoyed it! :D I'm just getting into the third draft of the new book now, thank you for asking. Again, a lot of work to do, but I'm very excited about it! Keep watching my sites for more news. Thanks and best wishes to you, Sam
DATE	Tuesday, May 12th 2009 - 05:48:18 PM

First Name (only please):	Alyssa
Age	16
location	school, at the moment
Comments and/or questions:	I was wondering...where is the locked section? o_O I can't find it anywhere. -Hi, Alyssa. You'll find the LOCKED link in the 'What is The Black Tattoo?' section of the site. Or, heh, paste this into your browser: www.theblacktattoo.com/locked/deletedintro.html All best ;) Sam
DATE	Tuesday, May 12th 2009 - 05:02:52 PM

First Name (only please):	Caroline
Age	13
location	Conroe, Texas
Comments and/or questions:	Great book -Thanks, Caroline! I'm getting lots of lovely messages from Texas lately! :D Sam
DATE	Monday, May 11th 2009 - 07:27:24 PM

First Name (only please):	abbie
Age	12
location	lincolnshire
Comments and/or questions:	i come on this website for homework to do research and the book seems ok -Hi, Abbie! I'm in Lincoln this Thurs (14th) as part of the book festival, doing my stuff at Queen Elizabeth's Grammar School. See you there? All best, Sam
DATE	Monday, May 11th 2009 - 04:43:40 PM

First Name (only please):	Deanna
Age	15
location	hassenbrook
Comments and/or questions:	yeaaa i just saw it as i came on here when i see ellis hell be like o yea im on his website lol speaking of which i seem to hav misplaced the book ill hav to go find it and so far i am likin it i think my sister wants to get a copy of it hope ur cool d x
DATE	Monday, May 11th 2009 - 11:49:39 AM

First Name (only please):	chase
Age	12
location	gonewannaland
Comments and/or questions:	this book rocks and i just finished jk its too good to finish -Thanks, Chase! :) Sam
DATE	Saturday, May 9th 2009 - 03:50:39 AM

First Name (only please):	chase
Age	12
location	california
Comments and/or questions:	this book is freaking awsome. I am slw on the internet when does book 2 come out -My second book is out already! Check www.timdefenderoftheearth.com for all the details! :D
DATE	Saturday, May 9th 2009 - 03:31:41 AM

First Name (only please):	sandra(again)
Age	14
location	texas
Comments and/or questions:	well thank you sam!you are so awseome(buena onda)thats spanish. -anyways alot of people have started reading your book, and we all think ur book is awesome.=) --Thanks, Sandra! :D All best, Sam
DATE	Thursday, May 7th 2009 - 10:43:07 PM

First Name (only please):	Deanna
Age	15
location	UK essex hassenbrook school
Comments and/or questions:	heyy sam since u visited our skl i been reading black tattoo its become almost a need to read it on the train to skl every morning lol but the other kid ellis he reads it with me on the train journey back =] im loving it im not too far in cos of coursework but im slowly gettin there x -Thanks, Deanna! Hope you enjoy the rest of it! :D BTW: Ms Brockwell just sent me an article about the visit that appeared in the Essex Enquirer. If you haven't seen it, I've just put it up on the TIM blog: www.timdefenderoftheearth.com/news/ Very excited! :D All best, Sam
DATE	Thursday, May 7th 2009 - 02:10:59 PM

First Name (only please):	sandra
Age	14
location	texas
Comments and/or questions:	WEll i didnt exacly said i wasnt goin to read anymore, actually i think your book has inspired me to read more. I actually love to read now...thanks...in a cool kind of way. can i ask you a question? if yes ok, if not its to late now!hehehehehehe!well why did you wrote three books in one? -Hi again Sandra! Aha! For my answer about the three books in one thing, check here: www.theblacktattoo.com/qanda.html#splitbooks I love books and reading (as, heh, you probably figured out by now! ;p) But it was the books I read when I was around your age that first got me into it. The idea that one of my stories might have done the same for you now makes me very happy! :D Thanks and best wishes, Sam
DATE	Wednesday, May 6th 2009 - 10:36:18 PM

First Name (only please):	Alex
Age	15
location	Texas
Comments and/or questions:	I just finished reading it right now and WOW it was great. Your book has bin one of the few books that really got my attention thnx. O and what would you say was the the theme and moral of your book? --Thank you, Alex! I'm very happy you enjoyed it. :D As to moral and theme, while I do my best to answer any question people ask me, that, I'm afraid, is one I'm not going to touch with a barge pole! Partly it's because I think any story that's got a moral or theme as it's driving force... tends not to be a very good story. People have to work out their own beliefs about the world and how it works, and you expect those to come out - especially if you write, or read, books. But as to what the theme and moral of Black Tat might be, if any, then the only answer that (it seems to me) could ever make any sense is: Whatever you, personally, got out of it. Thanks for the kind words. Very best wishes to you from here in London, Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Wednesday, May 6th 2009 - 01:35:34 AM

First Name (only please):	sandra
Age	14
location	Texas
Comments and/or questions:	WoW! you are so awesome not a lot of famous persons reply! im so glad you did! and thanks for ur recomendentions. ur are a really impresive person! Well i can see why you cant come over to my school,you live in london! thats awesome, i sometimes wish i could live there. it must be amazing. I also have a big Dream to become a writer, but since i dont really usually read then i think thats not posible! So when i grow up i want to be a CSI you know what that is right. Since i might not be able to write a lot of action then i might as well live the action right! I really like talking to you! I really thank you for this book u wrote its amazing such as you as the writer! Well i hope one of these days I get to see you! never forget that there are a lot of fans that really hope to see you so think about one day dropping by. with lots of love sandra. P.S write back if you can i really hope you do. --You're very welcome, Sandra! :D One thing I noticed in this and your previous message, if I may offer some advice: don't be too quick to dismiss reading or to define yourself by saying you don't read. I love all kinds of storytelling: films, games, comics, you name it. But I believe that books and reading are the secret key to the universe. I wish you the very best of luck in whatever you do. Sam
DATE	Tuesday, May 5th 2009 - 11:05:38 PM

First Name (only please):	sandra
Age	14
location	texas Bondy intermediate.pasadena
Comments and/or questions:	I am really hoping u come and visit on my location and here are the reasons why u should come visit. First i want to get to know u. I am a big fan now. Sam,this book is so much better than Twilight! im serious. I dont read, so all my friends are like wow ur reading!?. hehe. so im like yeah! and they are like is that book good! im like its awesome! its actually better than Twilight! and they are like no way! so they started reading it right and they are like, Woah! The beginning its not boring! sam you wouldnt believe me that im such a girlygirl, that all my friends are actually amazed about all that reading situation. im not saying that Twilight is not good cause it is, but in my opinion i think urs has more action and every time it gets more and even more intense. I hope ur book gets into the big screen (Movie Theater). Sam i really enjoy your book! im not done with it yet, i am goin to finish it. ---Wow! Thank you, Sandra! :D I love Texas, and it'd be brilliant to come and do my stuff at schools there one day. You're a long way from where I live, so it'd be very expensive for your school to fly me over, but you never know! ;) Meanwhile if you or your mates are interested in pointers to other books you might like, I've listed a whole bunch of things I think are awesome on my LibraryThing profile, here: www.librarything.com/profile/othersam Take a look. If you like Twilight and Black Tat (blushes, thank you! ;p) I reckon you would love the Jim Butcher/ Harry Dresden books, f'rinstance. The world is full of great stuff to read: help yourself! :D Thanks so much for your kind words. Very best wishes to you from here in London, Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Tuesday, May 5th 2009 - 01:54:45 AM

First Name (only please):	stacey
Age	14
location	uk (:
Comments and/or questions:	omg omg omg omg omg omg omg omg omg ue came 2 mii skool friday XD it was funni as hell ! bought one of ur books on the first chapter slow reader everybody was talkin bout ue at our skool ue rock ! ! ! ue signed my book wo0p ! BYEEEE --Hee hee hee! Thanks, Stacey! :D Sam
DATE	Saturday, May 2nd 2009 - 01:30:38 PM

First Name (only please):	katie b
Age	13
location	canvey cornelius vermuyden
Comments and/or questions:	hello i am katie b in 8c1 in cornelius vermuyden and i would like to say thank you for coming to my school we all loved your books i am waiting for a book i asked for which is coming soon the black tattoo which sounds great. and i can not wait to read it also we are very grateful that you came to our school and also not getting water down you (hehe) one very big thank you and good luck for the future books you write which i might buy after a tasted of what you write i can not wait and i think so does my class mates one big thank you again for coming into our school and for reading us your very good books i am sure you will get your dream soon (i mean the writing not the rock star hehe) thank you again and i will tell you what i think about you wonderful book thank you and good bye -You're very welcome, Katie! I thoroughly enjoyed visiting Cornelius Vermuyden - and I'm hoping to come back one day, perhaps even next year! If you or your mates are interested I've put a pic and a short post about the visit up on my TIM blog, here: www.timdefenderoftheearth.com/news Thanks again for your lovely message. I'm glad you enjoyed the talk, but it's very kind of you to take the time to write and tell me so - much appreciated. Hope you like Black Tat - I look forward to hearing what you think! All best wishes to you, Sam
DATE	Friday, May 1st 2009 - 04:55:59 PM

First Name (only please):	Tradd
Age	14
location	Charleston, SC
Comments and/or questions:	Just finised The Black Tattoo...LOVED IT! I was pondering around my schools library and wandered over to the new fiction section just to see this wonderfully evil(maybe? -mom thinks so XP- ) book staring right at me! I grabbed (albeit a bit harsh on it but i REALLY wanted it!) it and got to the check-out line as fast as i could. Two-and-a-half days later...SHLUP! That was the sound of The Black Tattoo sliding back into the return box. I looked at my librarian and told her that the book i just turned in (destroyed my sleep cycle) and was amazing! She said "really?" i shook my head ferverishly in response. She asked the other librarian if i could write a review. I stared for a second wondering what she meant- just to find that they wanted me to write a review for The Black Tattoo online for other students to see how others responded to reading it, can't wait to see what they say! I (along with some other people who read this book) am also a black (haha-pun) sheep at my school since i too am called a emo-kid or goth-kid (sometimes gets annoying =/). Me and my friends (who have read it) OBSESSED over the book until our AD(H-hehe, thanks to the book =P)D minds moved onto other topics over vampires and demons (gotta love 'em!). I have to say that i am sorry that this "comment" is so long though, i just really liked The Black Tattoo! I hope that Tim (i'm starting -hopefully- tommorrow) is just as sleep-depriving as The Black Tattoo! Thanks for the great reads! -also, i can copy and paste what i wrote here for you if you want to know the paragraph-or-so long review i made for your book =DDD -Hi Tradd. No worries at all about your comment being long -- as long as you're saying delightfully kind and wonderful things like this then you can write as much as you like! :D Seriously: your comment has put a big smile on my face. Thank you very much. As to the review, if you want to post it here, sure. Copy/paste or a link? Up to you. :D Thanks again for your kind words and encouragement, and very best wishes to you, Sam
DATE	Friday, May 1st 2009 - 12:16:49 AM

First Name (only please):	morgan
Age	14
location	TEXAS!!!!!
Comments and/or questions:	OMG dude no one at my school really likes to read so right now they think im crazy because i wont stop talking about the black tattoo!!!!!! which is AWESOME im in love with it though im not done with it just yet ... idk what happens at the end but i cant wait to find out. WOOOOOOOHOOOOOO Im like the emo/goth kid in my school so people are like, "wow its the goth kid reading a goth book !!!! hahaha" they are so stupid !!!! my life is pretty much HELL so this book relates to me hehehehehe maybe will there be another black tattoo?!?! ... IDK still what happen at the end well because when i start reading people think they need to talk to me so i never get a lot done !!!!! THIS BOOK IS THE BEST BOOK EVER!!!! im very excited that i found this book!!! PEACE -Thank you, Morgan! I'm so glad you're enjoying Black Tat, but it's especially great that you've taken the time to write and tell me so, I really appreciate it. The fact that books have such a power to give a person a break away from their surroundings (especially school!) is one of the most amazing things about them. I'm hugely honoured and delighted that one of my books has done that for you. Thanks again, and very best wishes to you from here in London, Sam
DATE	Wednesday, April 29th 2009 - 10:24:12 PM

First Name (only please):	Victoria
Age	13
location	Lakeland, FL
Comments and/or questions:	Thanks so much for the reference! Ill be sure to check it out. It was nice talking to you. Thanks again, Victoria -And you, Victoria! All best, Sam
DATE	Tuesday, April 28th 2009 - 12:39:02 PM

First Name (only please):	Victoria
Age	13
location	Lakeland, Fl
Comments and/or questions:	thanks so much for writing back i really didnt think that you would.its so kool that you did lol i feel like im talking to a famous person. to answer your question i guess i like giant monsters.not in a guyish way tho.i love to read any type of sci-fi or fiction books. they really catch my attention. -No worries, Victoria, you're very welcome! :D That link I posted after your previous comment will take you to the special website for my second (published!) book, TIM, DEFENDER OF THE EARTH. Do take a look if you haven't seen it. And if you're up for suggestions about other(!) awesome books, check my LibraryThing page, here: www.librarything.com/profile/othersam Happy reading! All best wishes, Sam
DATE	Monday, April 27th 2009 - 11:06:20 PM

First Name (only please):	Victoria
Age	13
location	Florida
Comments and/or questions:	I just finished reading the book today! i couldnt put it down the whole entire time i was reading it. i begged my teacher to let me bring it home. it was such a great book! i was just wondering if there is another book to it like a sequel? thanks so much for writing it. -Hi, Victoria - and thank you for the kind words! I'm so glad you enjoyed the book! :D There's no sequel: for some of my thinking behind that, check the Black Tat Q&A page... www.theblacktattoo.com/qanda.html BUT... do you like giant monsters, by any chance??? www.timdefenderoftheearth.com Thanks again for your lovely message. Best wishes from here in London! Sam
DATE	Monday, April 27th 2009 - 01:42:25 AM

First Name (only please):	charlee
Age	12
location	uk
Comments and/or questions:	hi sam its charlee again, thank you for writing back to me, i didnt know you would write back that fast, thank you. -You're very welcome. ;)
DATE	Saturday, April 25th 2009 - 07:51:50 PM

First Name (only please):	charlee
Age	12
location	uk
Comments and/or questions:	hey sam, i bought your book from hassenbrook and ive started to read it, its great, thank you for signing it and giving me your card. i like writing stories in my pad because you can write down whatever your imagination has got. thank you for coming to my school. from charlee! -My pleasure, Charlee! Visiting Hassenbrook was great! In case you haven't seen, I've written about it and posted a couple of pics on my TIM blog, here: www.timdefenderoftheearth.com/news/ You're dead right about the pad thing, I carry a notebook with me always. :D Thanks again and very best wishes to you, Sam
DATE	Saturday, April 25th 2009 - 03:04:52 PM

First Name (only please):	Arra
Age	13
location	fauldhouse
Comments and/or questions:	sorry i couldnt get on the internet in a while. i dont mind you putting the question on the blog. and i'll keep a look out for more books writen by you -Thanks, Arra! Also, PHEW! I put your question up on the TIM blog just yesterday. It's here if you want to check it: www.timdefenderoftheearth.com/news/ Bit cheeky of me not to wait, I know. Hope that's ok! ;) Thanks again for getting in touch, and for your kind words. They're much appreciated. All best wishes to you, Sam
DATE	Thursday, April 23rd 2009 - 06:43:11 PM

First Name (only please):	Lily
Age	14
location	Elizabeth, Pennsylvania
Comments and/or questions:	Hey I have a question for you, Sam. What inspired your view of Hell? It's so vivid and crazy, I love it!! Oh, and The Emperor's name (Ebisu Eller-Kong whatsitnot andsoforth...) That's genius!! I hope you don't mind if I switched it around a little and am using it for a personal story (Don't worry, it's never gonna get published ;D) -Hi, Lily. Thanks for your lovely message! It arrived just as I was putting a post together about Black Tat questions on my TIM blog. Check here for your answer...! www.timdefenderoftheearth.com/news/ Thanks and very best wishes to you, Sam
DATE	Wednesday, April 22nd 2009 - 02:39:23 PM

First Name (only please):	Evelin
Age	12
location	Estonia
Comments and/or questions:	Really good book!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I was surprised when Charlie was really trying to kill Esme... Go on with your books,they�re gonna be great!!!(at least i think) -Wow, thank you, Evelin. Yours is the first Guestbook entry from Estonia! Thank you for the kind words and encouragement, you've made me very happy!:D Sam
DATE	Tuesday, April 21st 2009 - 05:28:50 PM

First Name (only please):	Jesse
Age	15
location	Atascadero, California, USA
Comments and/or questions:	On the U.S. version what is the symbol on the cover, not the Jacket, or did you or Razorbill just make it up? -Hi, Jesse! You mean that sign embossed in gold on the US hardcover? The one that's also at the top of the chapters? The Razorbill design team came up with that one. It's got no specific meaning: it's supposed to suggest the tattoo of course, but I think the way it echoes the international sign for hazardous waste is kind of cool, too. ;) Best wishes, Sam
DATE	Tuesday, April 21st 2009 - 02:11:44 AM

First Name (only please):	Tim
Age	10
location	australia
Comments and/or questions:	Hi Sam, were can i buy The Black Tattoo? -Hi Tim! Go to the Black Tat Editions Details page, here: www.theblacktattoo.com/editions.html Then click on Buy/Library Search. If you're in Aus, I think the current local edition will be the UK paperback. But if you hit the link that'll bring up a big list of places. Or ask your local bookshop! ;) Thanks and best wishes, Sam
DATE	Thursday, April 16th 2009 - 12:33:19 AM

First Name (only please):	Jessi
Age	30
location	Williston, Florida U.S.
Comments and/or questions:	I just finished The Black Tattoo, and I LOVED it! My mom bought it for me for Christmas, and it was all great from the amazing story line to the unbelievable cover art. Hope to see more books from this author! -Thanks, Jessi! I really appreciate your encouragement. More books are on the way. Meanwhile, um, do you like giant monsters by any chance?? :D www.timdefenderoftheearth.com Best wishes from here in London, Sam
DATE	Tuesday, April 14th 2009 - 03:08:16 PM

First Name (only please):	Dan
Age	28
location	Surrey, UK
Comments and/or questions:	I was looking for a good book with a theme & storyline which would interest me, but most 'grown up' books are boring and lack a certain imaginative quality, but then I happened to come across the black tat (although marketed as a kids book) was extremely enjoyable and well written. I can see why you imagined it as a trilogy, and think it would make a very good 2 part movie, the cliffhanger being spoilers where they realise charlie is the scourge and rush to stop him opening the fracture, then ending in raymond's death, charlie going through with jack leaping after him.....i can see it in my head! hehe Very well done, i hope to enjoy more of your books in the future! -Thank you, Dan! Glad you liked it! All best wishes, Sam
DATE	Monday, April 13th 2009 - 10:48:37 PM

First Name (only please):	Casey
Age	16
location	Ohio, United States
Comments and/or questions:	Hello Sam Enthoven :) While wondering in my local bookstore, I came across your book and was drawn to it. I must say, now that I have finished the entire thing, I'm glad I picked it up. It was absolutely incredible! I couldn't stop reading, and as actually eager to turn the page. That's a huge accomplishment as an author, and I think you should be very proud of all your effort you put into your work. For one, your writing style was fantastic. Very descriptive and vivid, especially the way you described Hell and the gladiator pits. All your characters are creative too. I personally like Shargle and Lord Slint. You can expect some fanart from me of these characters :) And oh, how can I forget about Jagmat? He's pretty cool too, and has a myspace? Le gasp! I must tell you that I am an inspiring author myself (as much as a 16 year old can get, I suppose) and I have been working on my own story for about a year and a half now, but I've been idling around and haven't found any reason to finish it. So, the Black Tattoo has really inspired me to write my own stuff again. Anywho, congrats on a job well done. The book was great. I'm making room for it on my shelf of favorites. -Thanks so much for your kind words, Casey. I'm thrilled you enjoyed Black Tat, but it's especially good of you to take the time to write and tell me so - much appreciated. :D Best wishes from here in London (or what's left of it after TIM!) -Sam
DATE	Sunday, April 12th 2009 - 01:54:36 AM

First Name (only please):	eleanor
Age	12
location	amesham school
Comments and/or questions:	iv buy the black tattoo yesterday i can't stop reading it it is great i am so looking forward to reading tim good luck with your new book :) -Thanks, Eleanor! Sam
DATE	Tuesday, April 7th 2009 - 01:39:58 PM

First Name (only please):	Jared
Age	16
location	NJ, USA
Comments and/or questions:	Ok so I read The Black Tattoo, a little while ago, while vacationing in Vermont, and it has become my favorite book. I can't stress enough that I didn't put it down, because if I did, it would kill me to have to wait to know what happened next. The characters, settings, and just over all imagery was spectacular. I would love if you wrote more books like this, I know writing a book isn't easy, but I have read The Black Tattoo, twice, and I very well may read it again. You dove into a world of Hell, and heaven perception I could have never imagined. AMAZING job. Please, write more. like this. -Jared --I'm so glad you enjoyed it, Jared! Sam
DATE	Monday, April 6th 2009 - 10:58:48 PM

First Name (only please):	Kit
Age	15
Comments and/or questions:	Hi! I've always wanted to be an egyptologist and I swear somewhere along the lines ive come across the name Khentimentu somewhere! does the scourge have roots in Egyptian Pharonic mythology?? please reply! it's KILLING me! :S --Hi, Kit! Put your mind at ease: you're absolutely spot on. The Scourge's name is indeed (almost) the same as that of KHENTIMENTIU, "the Egyptian god who rules the destiny of the dead" [source: 'A Comprehensive Dictionary of Gods by Anne S. Baumgartner, University Books, 1984] Respect to your Egyptology skills! :D Best wishes, Sam
DATE	Monday, April 6th 2009 - 04:28:25 PM

First Name (only please):	Arra
Age	13
location	fauldhouse scotland
Comments and/or questions:	i was really bored in hospital. i was in for a brain scan when a quad hit my head and it was apparently really bad then my friend bought me this book and i couldnt put it down it saved me. the nurses even said i was a different kid with the book. i adored it so cool i mean really. totally you need to write more books like this! i tried reading the other books but couldnt get into them the same so i think you should write another like the black tattoo it was so awesome. have to go see ya -Arra, this is one of the most wonderful things that anyone has said to me about my stories so far. I am touched and honoured that Black Tat has affected you this strongly. I aim to put my whole heart into all my books. I think that's the only way to write something truly exciting. But it means (and I'm sorry if this is disappointing to you) that I won't repeat myself by writing something too like what's gone before - whether for money, or even because people ask me to. Each book I write is its own beast: each one will affect each reader differently. That's my plan; that's the only way I want to do this. And I hope you'll understand why. Say I wrote a sequel to Black Tat: it wouldn't have my heart in it, so the chances are it wouldn't be as good. You would be disappointed. You might even start to doubt whether the original was really as good as you thought it was (crummy sequels can do that). And then your feelings towards the book, the ones you've got right now, would be ruined. I think that would be a shame. The power that a particular book at a particular time can have over a person is one of the most amazing and brilliant things that books can do. I'm thrilled and delighted that Black Tat has touched you that way. But I know from my own reading experience that those kinds of feelings are too important to trifle with - particularly by trying to recreate them artificially. I hope you'll keep an eye on what I write in the future - even if it's not exactly like Black Tat! But in the mean time, if you'd like some suggestions for other books I think are awesome, check my LibraryThing profile (there's a link on the Fun Stuff page). Thank you for your wonderful message. Very best wishes to you, Sam PS: Would it be ok if I put your message and my answer up on my blog, please?
DATE	Thursday, April 2nd 2009 - 07:23:13 PM

First Name (only please):	Katie
Age	15
location	Bristow, Va
Comments and/or questions:	Loved the book, i could just picture what hell looked like!! i hope that there is another book, but if not hopefully u will write more novels!!! -Thanks, Katie! :) And, yep! I aim to keep doing this as long as I can: until I'm very old, and very peculiar. So, just the "old" bit to work towards now, eh? ;p Thanks again and very best wishes to you, Sam
DATE	Wednesday, April 1st 2009 - 03:09:55 PM

First Name (only please):	TONY
Age	13
location	ELSA, TX 78543
Comments and/or questions:	I WAZ WONDERIN IF YOU COULD VISIT OUR SCHOOL AT CARLOS F. TRUAN JR. HIGH -Tony, one day I would LOVE to visit schools in the US. But I live in the UK, so until a publisher or school is up for flying me over there, that particular dream is going to have to wait. Tentacles crossed! ;) Best wishes from London, Sam
DATE	Tuesday, March 31st 2009 - 11:38:16 PM

First Name (only please):	Emily
Age	12
location	Minneapolis
Comments and/or questions:	I just recently read book1, book2,and book3 and I thought they were AMAZING! A few of my friends have read them and going to recommend it to anyone who wants a book! -Aw, that's brilliant! Thanks, Emily! :D
DATE	Sunday, March 22nd 2009 - 02:41:14 PM

First Name (only please):	Taylor
Age	15
location	Oshkosh Wisconsin
Comments and/or questions:	Awesome Book Make A Sequal -Glad you liked it, Taylor! But, sequel? Nah. ;) www.theblacktattoo.com/qanda.html#sequel Here's what I did instead: www.timdefenderoftheearth.com Hee hee hee! Sam
DATE	Friday, March 20th 2009 - 08:50:27 PM

First Name (only please):	Dylan Hickman
Age	17
location	Arkansas USA
Comments and/or questions:	This book was awesome lol -Thanks, Dylan! :D
DATE	Friday, March 20th 2009 - 08:26:41 PM

First Name (only please):	Lee
Age	17
location	The middle of no wear, Kentucky
Comments and/or questions:	I was wondering when do you think you will have the text book come out? P.S. I loved the first book. I read it 10 time in a month and I am ready for the second one -Thanks, Lee: I'm so glad you liked it! :D I'm near the end of the second draft of a brand new book right now. Mean time, have you checked out TIM, DEFENDER OF THE EARTH? www.timdefenderoftheearth.com Best wishes from London, Sam
DATE	Thursday, March 12th 2009 - 09:12:58 PM

First Name (only please):	MALINDA
Age	26
location	CHATTANOOGA, TN
Comments and/or questions:	I JUST BOUGHT THE BOOK THURSDAY (3/5/09). I LOVE WHAT I HAVE READ SO FAR, I CANT WAIT TO FINISH IT. KEEP THE BOOKS COMING. -Thanks, Malinda! Will do my best. ;) Sam
DATE	Saturday, March 7th 2009 - 06:27:22 PM

First Name (only please):	Patte
Age	13
location	Texas, USA
Comments and/or questions:	Me again! I was wondering what happened to Esme, Jack, and Charlie after all this. I mean the ending of this book has left me thinking. -Hi, Patte! Thanks for the kind words about Black Tat - much appreciated! :D As to the ending, leaving you thinking was exactly my intention [well, maybe not you /personally/, but you know what I mean! ;)] For some of my thoughts, check the Black Tat Q&A page, here: www.theblacktattoo.com/qanda.html Thanks and best wishes, Sam www.samenthoven.com
DATE	Wednesday, March 4th 2009 - 07:52:32 PM

First Name (only please):	Patte
Age	13
location	Texas, USA
Comments and/or questions:	The Black Tattoo is an awesome book! Obviously I really enjoyed it cause it only took me 3 hours to read!
DATE	Wednesday, March 4th 2009 - 07:47:05 PM

First Name (only please):	Alexis
Age	13
location	Folsom, Louisiana
Comments and/or questions:	Hey, Its me again. I understand your point very creative! I finally got my boyfriend, Drew, to read it....He LOVED it. I'm sorry but the only point I didn't get about the answer to my question is: Will you be writing another book to The Black Tattoo? Like a Sequel? Because personally, that would be AMAZING. -Hi again, Alexis! I'm glad you understand about Black Tat's ending, and it's great that Drew enjoyed the book, too! :D I hope this isn't too much of a disappointment to you, but no, I have no plans to write a sequel to Black Tat. You can read a bit about why, here: www.theblacktattoo.com/qanda.html#sequel ...But I've got a stack of other stories in the pipeline. ;) To find out more, keep an eye on my homepage, here: www.samenthoven.com All best wishes to you from here in London, Sam
DATE	Tuesday, March 3rd 2009 - 12:28:59 AM

First Name (only please):	Alexis
Age	13
location	Folsom, Louisiana
Comments and/or questions:	I have to say I was very impressed with the book. I saw it at the store and liked the cover. I bought it and read it. But I have one question (well 3 acctually): Does Jack love Esme? Does Esme love Jack? Will they end up together? -Thanks for the kind words, Alexis! :) But, at the risk of being mean(!!) I'm afraid I'm not going to answer those questions. I've written a little bit about why, here: www.theblacktattoo.com/qanda.html#afterwards Hope that's not /too/ frustrating for you! Thanks again, and best wishes, Sam
DATE	Sunday, March 1st 2009 - 03:45:46 AM

First Name (only please):	Taylor
Age	17
location	Venice, Italy
Comments and/or questions:	I am vacationing in Italy for a while and have brought The Black Tattoo as my traveling companion. I have to say, this book is amazing! -Thanks, Taylor! :D
DATE	Saturday, February 28th 2009 - 06:48:20 PM

First Name (only please):	TC (yes, that IS my real name)
Age	31
location	USA
Comments and/or questions:	I believe that this was one of the most fun books I will ever read. My girls liked it as well. Keep writing! Can't wait for another adventure. -Thanks, TC, your encouragement is very much appreciated. Best wishes, Sam
DATE	Monday, February 23rd 2009 - 02:58:52 AM

First Name (only please):	Derrick
Age	16
location	America
Comments and/or questions:	This is derrick again. I am back with new ideas and upcoming events. If it is O.K. with you, I was thinking about designing my first video game based on the book 'The Black Tattoo'. Also, with the video clips, I am still looking for the right characters to play the part as Charlie. Who knows, I might even get to be the Scourge! Heh. Anyways, that's what I have been up to. Thanks, Derrick -Hi Derrick! These plans sound amazing, best of luck with 'em! The way it works with my permission for you using things from Black Tat is very straightforward: if you want to make money out of them, then we have to do this on a business footing. But if you want to make clips or design a game as a showcase for your skills, so people can see (for free) what you can do, then go for your life. Drop me a line at the address on the Reader Art page whenever you like. Can't wait to see what you come up with! Best wishes, Sam
DATE	Sunday, February 22nd 2009 - 06:12:54 AM

First Name (only please):	George
Age	12
location	My Computer
Comments and/or questions:	Hi Is there going to be a sequel? and if there is is it going to be as good? I think `The Black Tattoo' is really good and would like to ask, what alterations did God make to Jack? and why does Jack only get to be heroic at the end? OK, all done now Bye P.S Sorry about the spelling mistakes I cant spell for my life PP.SI Reall love `The Black Tattoo' because its generally great. -Thanks, George! Re the sequel thing, you've hit it on the head with 'is it going to be as good?' The fact that most sequels tend to be a bit rubbish is a big reason not to write one! ;) But for more thoughts on that, and my answer re Jack's alterations, check the Black Tat Q&A page, here: www.theblacktattoo.com/qanda.html Thanks again, and very best wishes to you! Sam
DATE	Thursday, February 19th 2009 - 10:03:49 PM

First Name (only please):	Harry P.
Age	12
location	my computer O__o ( and england)
Comments and/or questions:	ooh me pick me! what happened to all the old entries? Did jagmat steal them? :p I read the black tattoo, what, a month ago now (cant seem to find it in my school library, must buy it soon...) And i still think about it. a lot. Me and my friend liked the demons and made up some of our own. so What gave you the inspiration for all the cool demon names, or did they just flow out of your head? -Hi Harry! Nah, Jagmat hasn't eaten the other entries(!) If you click on 'More Entries' above, they're still there. ;) As to demon names, I've written something about where those came from here: www.timdefenderoftheearth.com/news/?p=157 Updating the Q&A pages is something on my to-do list, soon as I come out from under my current monster deadline for the new book! Meantime, click 'Q&A' on the TIM blog for the most recent ones. And if you want to send your demons to the Black Tat Reader Art page to show the world, that would be AWESOME! Thanks for the kind words about Black Tat, Harry, much appreciated! Best wishes to you, Sam
DATE	Wednesday, February 18th 2009 - 11:21:15 AM

First Name (only please):	Sam
Age	34
location	his writing desk
Comments and/or questions:	Who's going to be first in the latest Black Tat Guestbook? Er, apart from, heh, me! ;)
DATE	Thursday, February 12th 2009 - 12:53:51 PM

...earlier guestbook entries
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