After all these months, a new post! I’ve discovered blogging is a skill not yet developed by this writer. But it seems only fitting to report the recognition Gia-fu’s biography has received. In addition to many kind, thoughtful letters, phone calls, and emails from readers, Still Point of the Turning World: The Life of Gia-fu Feng was winner of a gold medal and a finalist for two other awards.

• ForeWord Reviews’ Book of the Year Award Gold Medal in Biography (click on Biography on this page: http://www.bookoftheyearawards.com/);
• 2010 Indie New Generation Awards, Finalist in General Nonfiction;
• Colorado Authors’ League Top Hand Award, Finalist in General Nonfiction.

What a delight and surprise to watch the book take on a life of its own. But then, perhaps it’s not so surprising given its subject. Thanks to all who have been so responsive and encouraging on this unanticipated leg of the journey. xie xie

One of the most helpful comments I heard during my interviews with Gia-fu’s family, friends, colleagues, and acquaintances, came from C.H., Gia-fu’s next youngest brother. When I asked C.H. about a circumstance revealing what seemed a contradiction between Gia-fu’s words and actions, he said this. “Ah, Carol. People are multi-faceted. And Gia-fu, even more so.”

I’ve come to appreciate C.H.’s wisdom again and again as I hear from people who knew Gia-fu. Some knew him well, others slightly, still others knew him only for a short time, perhaps a few months and in a particular environment. Many understood the complex being they encountered. Others focused primarily on one or two facets, not seeing the complexity beyond. But all hold this in common: whether one, two, or many, all found Gia-fu’s facets memorable.