“In spite of howling rain, Joan drew about 800 guests to the lecture. Her reading left everyone rather silent, stunned, introspective, and needing to tell people they love, simply, that they love them. I thought it was awesome. She is a gem.” - Willamette University
“I just wanted to say that Joan's appearance was not only inspiring for all those who met her--especially the students, for whom the Montgomery fellowships were created--but everyone else who asked her questions about her wonderful essays and novels.” - Dartmouth College
