Liam Garnaut

Dear Elizabeth Hayden,

I now live in the United States of America. We moved all the way from Australia because of my dad's work at Alcoa. I have made many friends in the year I've been here and yet I would prefer to go back to Australia. Other people who read your story, The Floating Island, might not have been moved the way I was.

I'm interested to know why you wrote this book and if it has affected you while writing it. Does it have anything to do with your life, your family's life, or someone close to you?

I really feel Ven and some of the other characters have inspired me tremendously. We share the same determination of getting back home. I know we would both do anything to reach our destination. Char has also changed the way I think about the world. He had helped Ven get through his tiring journey without any orders from his captain. My friend Cameron is doing the same for me in a similar way by interacting with me over the computer on a daily basis. He helps me feel connected with my old friends and activities. His letters make me feel more at home.

There are some strengths and flaws common in both Ven and I. I know that to us, it feels like we don't fit in because we are not like everyone else. Sometimes we speak and do things differently and we feel like we don't belong where we are. Occasionally, it can be frustrating when people don't know what it is like to leave your home and friends. Your book has shown me that everyone and every place is different and we should be accepting and tolerant towards each other. I know that if you want to go back home someday, you have to be patient and stay focused on your goal. Eventually everyone can get where they want to be.

When I read your book, it felt like I was in Ven's shoes. So often he has to stay focused on his goal if he wants to go home to Vaarn. This is exactly what I have to do if I want to go home someday, I have to stay focused, be patient, and keep my eye on the ball.

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to be inspired by your novel. I hope I can read another one of your stories soon.

Liam Garnaut