Anne McCaffrey

One of the first fantasy loves of mine as a young girl was the Dragonriders of Pern series by Anne McCaffrey.  She wrote the most remarkable and creative stories, not just of dragons (which are probably her best), but of x-men like telepaths, crystal singers, creatures who could weave light, and even a severely disabled girl who chose to become a starship.  Her characters all interesting, and many are strong, forceful women, which was fabulous.  I loved them all - their strength, what they could do, and the worlds they lived in, gobbling most of McCaffrey's books up as if I needed them to survive my young life, dreaming of what else could be.  Her books have been favorites on my shelves for over 20 years.

Just earlier today I randomly recalled a scene from her Dragonrider series, and thought in passing that I should revisit them now as an adult.  Then several hours later in the day I read that she had passed, after living a long, trailblazing, and prolific life.  I am sad such an imaginative mind is gone, but am so grateful that she left us so much!   She fed my young imagination and helped create the person I am today - a bibliophile, a hopeful writer, and most importantly, an unabashed true lover of sci-fi and fantasy.   

Thanks Anne.  Rest in peace.