July ASK TERRY Posted

Anonymous writes: Is it possible that there’s another faction of humans with more diverse races such as Asian or a larger population of Africans since the books seem heavy in white society?

Terry Brooks replies: It might be worth pointing out that frequently in the Shannara books characters are defined in multi-racial terms, so you don’t have just caucasian characters. My personal world view is that we are becoming increasingly multi-ethnic and multi-racial and this is our future in the larger world. Also, you will find different types of species in Antrax and a few of the other books, as well. So I haven’t focused on trying to cover all the bases when defining characters. It seems counter-productive to me to do so. That said, you might find in future books peoples come from different societies and countries than the Four Lands. Just a heads up.

Corey writes: How will The Darkling Child tie in with The High Druid’s Blade, because you said they were loosely tied together? And will it be like how the Dark Legacy tied in with The High Druid’s Blade?

Terry Brooks replies: The Darkling Child will feature Paxon and Arcannen once more, although there are additional new principle characters, as well. Including the title character. Also, thematically, Darkling Child will continue with Arcannen’s efforts to destroy or subvert the Druid Order as well as to establish his personal power base throughout the Four Lands. And, as in each of these three books, there is a love story.

Kevin Bell writes: I haven’t watched MTV since I was 17 years old. I’m 44 now and have been reading your books over 25 years. I’ve read them all. I have to assume that most of your long time fans are probably a lot like me and have not watched MTV in years. How were they selected to turn your masterpiece into a TV series?

Terry Brooks replies: First, I haven’t watched TV period for years. I just watch series on streaming and DVD. This is because my life is consumed by writing. But read my recent blog about why I chose to go with MTV if you want an in-depth explanation. Mostly, it has to do with how they responded to our pitch for the series. They provided a very strong, positive response. They convinced us that they would do their level best to honor the books and the fans. Everything that has happened since has reinforced their promise to make the series a success.

TC Dale writes: What is the hidden meaning to your new picture with the mask on your newest book released in July?

Terry Brooks replies: Oh, I just liked it. Writers peek out at you from behind their masks. Our writing is a mask. I wanted something different from the average author photo. I like the implication of the author hiding behind a mask, as well. It jus struck me as sort of cool. You tell me if you think so!

Matt Wood: In every Shannara book that I can remember, the King of the Silver River plays some role in helping the hero or heroine. Why did he not play a role in The High Druid’s Blade?

Terry Brooks replies: Time for a break from the K to SR. He will not be in any of the books of the trilogy unless I change my mind. He will return in the next set of books, but I think he is on vacation in this one. Glad you’ve enjoyed his appearances.