13 Comments
User's avatar
Brandy Chandler's avatar

Hunter, this was such a lovely essay! I’ve listened to you and Annie from the beginning and have often wished that I was real life bookish friends with both of you! (I’m not a creeper, promise!) I really enjoyed getting to know the origin story of one of my favorite duos. Annie’s book is fabulous, and you should write one too!

Expand full comment
Alex's avatar

I started listening to From the Front Porch probably in 2021 or 2022 and have loved the parasocial relationship I've formed with the two of y'all. I promise I mean that in only in a noncreepy sense! Y'all's conversations about books are my absolute favorite, and I loved learning more about the backstory to you and Annie's friendship. Bookish friends are the best ones.

Expand full comment
Alice's avatar

Maybe because I have a solid visual of both of you, but probably because of your brilliant writing, I am totally envisioning a film or series of Annie & Hunter (or Hunter & Annie). You both have such strong and engaging personalities - I can see why you are drawn to each other. Obviously loved this. Cannot wait to read Annie B Jones' book!

Expand full comment
Ilene's avatar

What a beautiful tribute! I am counting on her coming to Philly to promote Ordinary Time (at some point down the line) because it will be an excuse to visit you here. Selfishly I could meet you both!

Expand full comment
Sara Hildreth's avatar

It's so fun to learn more about the history of your friendship with Annie! Thanks for sharing!

Expand full comment
Lauren OBrien's avatar

What a beautiful story. 💙💙

Expand full comment
Annette's avatar

Reading this brought tears to my eyes, in the very best of ways. I feel like there is nothing quite as wonderful as the gift of true friendships. Thank you for sharing this celebration of your friendship with Annie, with us.

Expand full comment
Michelle Wilson's avatar

Hunter, how very lovely. Your essays have a way of pulling me in and keeping me there to read every word that you have written. When I think about your writing, it makes me think of kindness and grace.

Expand full comment
Christine Heimburg's avatar

This was just the most wonderful read! I love the way you talk about yours and Annie's friendship as well as the place The Bookshelf has had in your life. It's just as great to hear about your reading life and events from your life that have brought you to where you are now. Your narratives have a such a way of pulling a reader in and entertaining while also warming the heart. Can't wait to read a book by you someday.

Expand full comment
Mary Rogovin's avatar

Oh Hunter, I did enjoy this - very much! thank you for sharing this story! The point you made about reading being solitary, but connecting with readers being an important part is true for me, too. Readers make the best friends, and connecting with readers about a book is one of my very favorite things to do!

Expand full comment
Ashley Ferrell's avatar

Oh I also have to know what you thought of Perfect Days?!?

Expand full comment
Ashley Ferrell's avatar

Hunter reading this was just like balm to my soul! Meeting you and Annie and fellow readers just make the world a better place!

Ashley Ferrell @brakesforbookstores on IG! You need to write a book as well!

Expand full comment
Joan Woodbury's avatar

You are the Call to her Gus! Or was it the other way around?

Expand full comment