Jeff, just want to thank you for your dedication to sharing this story and doing so in such a beautiful way. I've had the most emotional response to this book, greater than anything I've ever read. In the time that has passed since the book was published, how have your feelings about Rob's life, tragic events death, and still unsolved murder evolved? Is there anything you would change about how you told his story?

Jeff Hobbs Hello and thank you so much for reading and responding to Rob's story, and then reaching out with such kind and meaningful words. It means a lot, for real. So sorry for the years-long delay in responding. I really don't spend time on social websites but am trying to be better about that, as my next book called Show Them You're Good comes out in August, about young men in different neighborhoods finishing high school and aspiring for college. As to your question, it's a little complicated, and yet not. I guess I always went about this work under with the understanding that I would learn things I didn't know about Rob, things that would make me sad and guilty for not being a better friend or making a better effort. A lot of people in his orbit shared that feeling. And yet we all knew he was fundamentally a good person whose life was far more meaningful than just his death. That never really changed. But I guess in the years since, having been touched by so many people--mostly young people, high schools students, teachers, etc--I've felt even more mournful thinking about what a great teacher he would have been, what a great father, had a few moments unfolded differently. Yesterday was his birthday; he would have turned forty. It's a particularly sad time. Thanks again and wishing you all the best, sincerely, Jeff

flag