Thursday, March 10, 2005

Andre Norton Nears End

This will be a great loss indeed. She will be greatly missed as one of the greats of the genre. I'm glad to hear, though, that her name will live on through an award.

Andre Norton Nears End

"Andre Norton, who had been hospitalized with flu and pneumonia prior to her 93rd birthday on February 17, unfortunately is not expected to survive and according to her wishes has returned home under 'hospice care.'

"'She is losing the battle with her illness and is tired of fighting,' wrote Sue Stewart on a Norton message board. 'I made the decision late yesterday evening to bring her back home to be with us, her cat and her books when she departs... You're more than welcome to send your cards and flowers here. I want you all to know that she's aware that you care and she appreciates it.' The address published on the SFWA News site is: Andre Norton c/o Sue Stewart, 1007 Herron Street, Murfreesboro, TN 37130.

"In the meantime, the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America (SFWA) announced on February 20 that it has created the Andre Norton Award, a new literary award to recognize outstanding science fiction and fantasy novels that are written for the young adult market."