You probably get this kind of proposal often; however, I wish to try. I am writing a book based on the Recluce tales. It is a mix of sci-fi and fantasy. I would like your permission to go ahead with the project. At 72 years old, I would like my dream of publishing come true.

Your question places me in a difficult position. On the one hand, I’m pleased that you think highly enough of the world of Recluce to base a book on it. On the other hand, while I have no problem with people writing what might be called fan fiction for their own enjoyment, I’m opposed to others writing Recluce stories or novels for commercial publication, which strikes me as a form of piracy of a series that I’ve labored on for more than thirty-five years.

I can also tell you that my publisher would most likely be very opposed to any commericial infringement on the world of Recluce, since they’ve supported those novels and stories for more than thirty years.