Page 1 of More Than Pen Pals

prologue

January 27, 1973

Dear Ashley,

Hi, I’m Leslie. I’ve never had a pen pal before. Have you? I think it’s neat you live near Chicago (my dad told me Evanston is north of Chicago). I love big cities. I live outside a small town in Arkansas, but I guess you know that, because you have my address. My dad works in Little Rock, but that’s not a very big city.

I’ll be ten on Valentine’s Day. I don’t like having a birthday on a holiday. Everyone forgets about me. Plus, I’m a twin, so I have to share my birthday anyway. I know you’re also in fourth grade, but are you nine or ten?

What do you like to do for fun? I enjoy sleepovers with my friends, playing tennis, and watching baseball with my dad. My favorite team is the Cardinals. Since you live in Chicago, do you cheer for the Cubs or the White Sox?

I’m sending you a picture of my family. That’s my parents, me, my twin Shannon, and my little sister Cynthia. How many people are in your family?

Please write back soon.

Sincerely,

Leslie Beckett

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February 10, 1973

Dear Leslie,

I've never had a pen pal. My teacher made us do it this year.

Chicago is fine. My dad’s office is in the city. He’s a lawyer. I go to work with him sometimes when I’m not in school.

Have you ever been to Chicago? I've never been to Arkansas.

I play tennis, too.

The Cubs are my favorite team.

I’m ten. My birthday is on Halloween, so I know what you mean about people forgetting you on your birthday.

What’s your favorite subject in school? Mine is history.

Sorry I don’t have a picture to send. I’ll ask my mom if she can get me one.

I have two baby sisters and one brother who’s a year older than me. His name is Randall.

I hope you have a good birthday.

Sincerely,

Ash Hamilton

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February 16, 1973

Dear Ash,

Ash is a funny nickname. Does everyone call you that? Some people call me Les, but Les isn’t a real word. Ash is.

My birthday was fun. I had some friends over. We played Boggle and Uno and Twister and we listened to music. I like the Osmonds and Stevie Wonder. What music do you like?

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