#LEngle100’s mission: Keep our eyes and imaginations on the next 100 years
Dear Ones,
A typical 100-year-old birthday party does a lot of looking back on a life well lived — but when we celebrated what would’ve been Madeleine’s 100th year, we wanted to do a lot of looking ahead, too. After all, what’s better than for Madeleine’s words and wisdom to echo throughout others’ lives and work over the next 100 years?
Fans responded, sharing how she influenced their careers, relationships, and curiosity about the universe. We’ve been sharing these anecdotes in social media, and even in the last Madeleine L’Engle newsletter (you’re subscribed, right?!). Today, we just have to keep the party going a little longer:
I have always had a love of fantasy literature, but oddly had not heard of Madeleine L’Engle until I was in college. Her books were crucial to my understanding of my place in a gigantic world full of possibility. She melded the spiritual and the physical in a way that I had never considered making science and faith accessible and very real. I am very grateful to her for creating worlds that help better define the one I am living in. ~ Laura Saloiye, public librarian
They taught me at an early age to look into myself and find my peace. I love passing Madeleine’s inspiring writings onto my fifth grade English Language Arts students especially in light of what they face growing up in today’s world. ~Amy Y Adams, educator
From the first time I picked up one of her books, my universe expanded and my curiosity was piqued. Not only did I get lost in each book, but I also became engrossed in learning as much about the scientific world as I could. Her books were priceless in my world and remain so today. ~Katie Michna, school librarian, educator
A Wrinkle in Time was the first book I ever read that allowed me to be the heroine in a story where the stakes were high and the themes profound. It made me realize I wasn’t alone in my awe of the universe, that somewhere there was a brilliant, published woman who felt the same. It carved out a space for me. It made me realize I could have a career in science if that’s what I wanted. I went on to become a Chief Technology Officer and even had the chance to work alongside Sally Ride. Now, I’m writing children’s books of my own, carving out new spaces for a new generation. ~Nicole Valentine, educator
You’ll find more reflections about Madeleine and her lasting influence on readers and fans by searching #LEngle100 on social media, and on our website. If you’re inspired, post your own reflection — remember to use the hashtag #LEngle100!
Plus, a podcast is in the works! With a special co-hosts and archival audio, we want your voices there, too. Do you have a question you burning to ask? Send a voice memo to social [at] madeleinelengle [dot] com!
Tesser well,
Erin F. Wasinger, for MadeleineLEngle.com.
