Some authors have "fans." Considering the nature of the NEBADOR stories, that idea didn't seem right. Also, the author wants interested readers to focus their thoughts, questions, and comments on the stories, not on the author. For these reasons, the author pondered the situation until the Muse whispered the idea of honorary citizenship in Nebador.

This is, of course, one of those subtle kinds of citizenship that does not conflict with political, religious, or any other kind of citizenship or membership.

The following people have read at least one book of the NEBADOR series, and have asked the author to place their names on this list of honorary citizens. This list is for those young people, and a few young-at-heart, who are listening for the Muses, or whatever they choose to call their sources of inspiration. They may be listening in order to write their own stories, or maybe just to better understand the universe.

At this time, messages may be sent to this address, which is changed from time to time to avoid spam.

Karen Buchanan, 15, Quebec
"I won the writing contest so I guess I'm a part of Nebador now and it's a part of me. Mon prochain conte, je le voudrais écrire en français."

Artemis Girl, 15, Ontario
"I don't pretend I'm Artemis herself, because shes a Goddess and I'm just a girl, sort of her apprentice. The deep woods are my home away from home, have 3 treehouses, just finishing the last one. I'm getting good with a bow but my first kill is still ahead. My boyfriend is trying to keep up, but not too hard. He really helps with the treehouses. The blogs are great and my parents are getting ready for the same stuff. Its cool how the books are all about growing up but not teachery like some stupid school book. I'd jump on the Manessa Kwi if I could, but I know I can't so I'll be an honorary citizen right now."

Clarissa, 11, Alabama
"Ive been reading since I was 6 and this is the best. Its me. I just got book3. PLEEES make me a citzen. Im reading all the web pages. I promis to read them all. I want the NOTES for my birthday-the real books. pleees tell me more."

Jenny Quinlan, Ireland

Sally, UK

Shanna, USA
"I think it's important for every adult out there to realize there's still a kid version of yourself trapped somewhere inside beneath the layers of stress and responsibility and priorities. Perhaps the fact I never attempted to push away that part of myself explains why I get along better with kids than most adults my own age, and why I can be so moved by such a story as Nebador presents. Today's youth are our future and I'd love to see them being exposed to positive lessons like Ilika demonstrates rather than wasting their time on dribble like Twilight or reality television. Consider me a citizen!"

Pamela, 12, Wales
"I would like to be a Nebador citizen please. Nothing even school has made me see the pieces of my life fit together like these books and my dreams are starting to come clear. I'm 11 almost 12 and live with lots of sheep around so I like Buna but I don't think she will get on. But I'm different then her too and I would get onto the ship."

Pixi, 9
"Pixi is 9 and goes to the website everyday. Pixi is a CITIZEN now right? Pixi loves the books. Pixi loves Boro. Hes like my big stuffed bear."

Tom, Patti, Belinda, and Joshua, 2 adults, 14, 11
"We're a homeschooling family. Since the state is always trying to get us for our 'crime' (we really relate to Ilika about that), we won't put up a picture. We're very religious, but not in the ways of Bible thumpers. We believe God gave us brains to look deeply into our very beautiful universe. These books are following our values well, and the kids love learning from them, so you can think of us as Citizens, as long as it doesn't conflict with God's Kingdom."

William, 17
"Everyone would laugh if they knew I still read young adults stuff but I'm learning more from these books then school. Please hurry with book 3. I'm a fan or whatever."

Felix, 13, Colorado
"Its not my real name but Im totally into Cats. It started when my idiot little brother pushed me off the garage roof and for a second i thought I was going to die but i landed on my feet and didn't get hurt. Now cats own my soul...mostly big Cats. And i think Rini is the best, so i'm a citizen okay?"

Lisa, USA
"I'm a teacher so I must be very careful, and cannot share my picture or real name. I work with at-risk young adults, and have long been impressed by programs like Outward Bound and NOLS that challenge young people to take responsibility for themselves in environments that give them immediate feedback (which usually means wilderness). These books have that theme strongly, and I will be recommending them to some of my students, and to concerned adults. Please consider me a supporter."

Yukika, 18, Japan
"This is a very beautiful story from which I am learning very much. It will be very nice to able to ask question from the author. I much like Mati for her courage even although she had nothing but pain before. Please make me a citizen."

Terri, 12, Nevada
"This feels really real and you don't make promises you can't keep. I hate myspace and things like that cause they promise lots of friends and it doesn't happen unless you'r pretty or funny. I'm serious and I want to know all about things. I love science and math. No one likes people like that. I'm not a vamp-lover and not going to be one. I've read 1 and 2. Please put me in the citizens. I like Tera because we have almost the same name and there are donkeys near my house."

Tabitha, 11, The Woods
"Tabitha isn't my real name, but thats ok right? I use it alot. And thats a pic of Wednesday Adams that I LOVE. Shes my hero. I live by woods and i love to hang out there which freaks out my mom. Shes always trying to make me into a little lady but instead i'm like Wednesday. I TOTALY understand Sata trying to be not afraid of things but I had to do it ALONE. When I was 8 I started playing on the edge of the woods and by 10 i was all over the place. I would SO want to be on Ilika's crew! I'm getting the deep notes and i want to be a citizen. Tnx."

Sean, 13, Quebec
"Hi. They say I'm gifted but I hate school. It's cool to read about kids getting out and learning by being in the world. Most stories, you can tell if they are nice and safe and parents watching over them (boring) or if theyre totally fiction. Nebador crosses the line and I love it! Count me a fan, or a citizen."

Running Cat, 14, Idaho
"I'm a girl with spots, just like my favorite animal (guess!) I've always loved running in the woods so I got this nickname and it's ok with me. i go alone because no one can keep up with me. And I take a book because I can't run all day. It is so great to find a story that pulls you along to be stronger and smarter. I want to join and I'm warning you, I'll have questions. Can't wait for Book 3!"

Gina, 16, British Columbia
"Just read book 2, hardback but it was worth it. I see where this is going and its the same place i'm going so count me in!! i don't know if i want to put up a pic. Gota go read book 1 again. thanks."

Hannah, 14, Washington
"Even my dog loves these books!"

Abby, 18, Washington
"All things that happen to us, good or bad, happen for a reason. Whether it unfolds for the benefit of you or another, be sure that every heartache and joy will work out. This truth appears time after time in this series."

Deborah, Washington & Canada
"Nebador exists! Inasmuch as our personal reality is distilled from the real or imagined events of our lives, there is much to be learned from the adventures of Ilika and his crew."

Cecelia, Washington
"Honorary Nebador Citizens Cecelia Harper and her daughter, Catherine, are two of Jonathan Colby's first book critiquers. In addition to reading (and loving) the manuscripts, Cecelia is a Christian, a mother, a dancer, an actress, and a spunky coworker. At the law office in Portland, Oregon where she works, Cecelia is the "Plant Mom" of the Plant Recovery Room and Hospice. Cecelia and Catherine met Mr. Colby through an ad in the Oregon Mensa's monthly newsletter, and they eagerly anticipate the publication and World Wide Love and Acceptance of his books."

Catherine, 12, Washington

Book One:
The Test
Spring 2010