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Erin Hunter Answers Your Questions Summer 2011 was a session in which Vicky Holmes answered various fans' questions on the Warriors Official Forum on July 27th, 2011.[1]

Information revealed[]

On the characters[]

ThunderClan[]

Question: I've noticed a lot of evil characters aren't actually evil, just misguided. Where do cats like that go after they die?
Answer: VickyHolmes: Hi Ashpool. Hmmm, judging by your name, are you thinking of Ashfur? He's in StarClan. Only the really dark-hearted cats end up in the Dark Forest.


Question: Will Jayfeather ever find out about SkyClan? I mean, he can see cats' thoughts, so he can read Firestar's mind, so I find it a bit strange he doesn't see anything about SkyClan.
Answer: VickyHolmes: I haven't included this in OTS anywhere, but you're right, it does seem likely that at some stage Jay would glimpse those memories and say, Oi! What aren't you telling us?!


Question: Is Hollyleaf going to be a big part of the fifth and sixth books of the fourth series?
Answer: VickyHolmes: Yes, I don't think it's a secret any more that Hollyleaf is going to have a big role to play at the end of OOTS.
Outcome: True.[2]
Question: How many lives does Firestar have left?
Answer: VickyHolmes: At the start of OTS6, he has 2 left.


Question: I don't really get how Jayfeather, Lionblaze, and Dovewing were part of the ancients? Did they like reincarnate like Cinderpelt did? I'm really curious!
Answer: VickyHolmes: I feel a bit nervous about using the term "reincarnation" because it is used in a very specific religious context most of the time. But I do think the spirits of Jay, Lion and Dove were present in ancient cats as well as the cats we see in the modern Clans.

It's worth adding at this point that the beliefs in this series do NOT reflect my own beliefs!


Question: I was wondering, did Cinderpelt ever have feelings for Fireheart/Firestar?
Answer: VickyHolmes: Yes! Cinderpelt was very much in love with Firestar, but she knew nothing could ever happen because (a) she's a medicine cat, so forbidden to have relationship, and (b) Firestar is Sandstorm's mate. Cinderpelt is one of the few medicine cats to play by the rules!


Question: There has been a buzz going around that Hollyleaf is alive... Is this true? And was it her in the tunnel leading Blossomfall and Ivypool out? And who was that other ginger cat in the tunnel, does he have a name? Also have you ever thought about doing a tour around Asia or Europe? Possibly Russia..? Will Thornclaw ever get a mate? And could you read my signature? -Wink- -Wink- It might give you an idea..
Answer: VickyHolmes: All will be revealed about Hollyleaf in The Forgotten Warrior (which means it's fairly obvious, I think, that she is ALIVE!). As you said, there were two cats in the tunnels - you've met the other one before, so you should be able to figure out who it was.

I would LOVE to tour Russia, so if my Russian publishers are reading this, pleeeeeease can I come visit? I'm very cheap to feed!


Question: Dear Erin, will we ever see Thornclaw with a mate?
Answer: VickyHolmes: I think Thornclaw is kind of focused on being a Great Warrior, and doesn't have time for romance!
Outcome: False. Thornclaw becomes mates with Blossomfall.
Question: Will [Cinderheart] ever find out she's really Cinderpelt? I hope so! She's one of my fave characters.

Thanks so much!

Answer: VickyHolmes: The answer to your question is...Yes! And it's VERY exciting when she does.


Question: Why would Cinderheart break up with Lionblaze? She said it wouldn't work out because his destiny doesn't leave room for her, but she doesn't know that! She's being a little bit naive. Also, since you have said that Cinderheart WILL find out about her past as Cinderpelt, will she reconsider and become Lionblaze's mate again?
Answer: VickyHolmes: Cinderheart was overwhelmed when Lionblaze told her about his destiny and his superpower. Suddenly he didn't seem like a regular cat - he's like a hero, singled out by StarClan for Great Things. Cinderheart is so loyal to her Clan that she feels she can't distract Lionblaze from his destiny by something as ordinary as romance. Yes, she's a little naive, but really she's making a sacrifice for the sake of her Clan.

As for what happens when she discovers her own secret, I'm not going to spoil the surprise!

Outcome: True, Cinderheart does find out about her past life.[3]
Question: Who will be ThunderClan's new leader?
Answer: VickyHolmes: You don't really expect me to tell you who ThunderClan's new leader will be, do you?


Question: Who would you personally like to see become leader of ThunderClan?
Answer: VickyHolmes: Is this a cunning ruse to get some information out of me? Because I'm not going to tell you what happens at the end of OOTS6! However, if it was entirely up to me, and I ignored ALL of the stories so far, I think I'd put Cinderheart in charge. I like the idea of a leader who was originally a medicine cat, who would seek any path that didn't involve battle, and who put the welfare of cats above pride. Now watch the forums light up with speculation about Cinderheart becoming Cinderstar!


Question: I was wondering if Hazeltail or Mousewhisker will ever get a mate.
Answer: VickyHolmes: I think there's some romance in store for Hazeltail! Not sure about Mousewhisker, sorry. There's been so much going on in the Clans lately that I keep forgetting to fit in some hearts and flowers for the younger warriors!
Outcome: False for Hazeltail as she dies from greencough and it was never shown that she had a love interest.[4]
Question: What caused Blossomfall to want to train and continue to train in the Dark Forest?
Answer: VickyHolmes: Blossomfall is NOT evil, or disloyal, or remotely hostile toward the Clans. But she feels neglected by her mother Millie, who is so focused on Briarlight and her injuries. Blossomfall just wants someone to notice her, pay her attention, and give her praise for being a good warrior. Sadly, she has found what she needs in the Dark Forest...


Question: IS HOLLYLEAF ALIVE?!
Answer: VickyHolmes: Yes.
Outcome: True, until her death in The Last Hope[2]
Question: I was wondering If Scourge is related to Firestar.
Answer: VickyHolmes: Yes, Firestar is Scourge's half-brother. They have the same father, Jake, who appears briefly in Bluestar's Prophecy.
Outcome: True.[5][6]
Question: Hollyleaf is the Forgotten Warrior right? I know she's coming back, but is she THE Forgotten Warrior? if not, it was/is a cat in ThunderClan right?
Answer: VickyHolmes: Hollyleaf IS the Forgotten Warrior!


Question: I am a proud Millie fan but I want to know why is she getting so mean?
Answer: VickyHolmes: I don't think Millie is mean! I don't know where you've read up to, but if you're referring to her treatment of Blossom and Bumble after Briar's accident, then I think you need to bear in mind that Millie is racked with grief about her daughter's injury, and feels as if Briar needs all her attention just to survive. Millie doesn't love her other children any less, but she can't think of anything except poor, poor Briar.

Please keep being Millie's fan!


Question: Will Millie die? cuz honestly no one likes her... Will Briarlight ever be healed?
Answer: VickyHolmes: Millie is lovely! She's under huge amounts of stress because of Briar's injuries, which is why she acts a little off sometimes. Briarlight's injuries are permanent, sadly.


Question: I was wondering if after Jayfeather goes to StarClan (nooo!!!), will he be with his true love Half Moon again?
Answer: VickyHolmes: Ooh, interesting question. I guess if Jay finds her, and Half Moon is still there, then they might get close. But StarClan is huge, so maybe they wouldn't find each other?


Question: Will Brightheart have kits again? / Hi, I was wondering who might be the next nursing queen. Thanks!
Answer: VickyHolmes: YES, Brightheart will have more kits! / Brightheart is expecting kits in OTS6


Question: If Longtail wasn't blind, would him and Mousefur might have become mates? I've payed attention really well to the context and they went a a few patrols together, and when the fire happened in Rising Storm he was helping her with Willowpelt's kits.
Answer: VickyHolmes: No, Longtail and Mousefur wouldn't have been mates. Mousefur was never interested in having a mate.


Question: When Cinderheart goes to StarClan ( D: ) will she go as Cinderheart or Cinderpelt?
Answer: VickyHolmes: I think she'd go as Cinderheart - but maybe Cinderpelt would be there separately, to represent their two very different lives?
Outcome: Likely as Cinderpelt has reached StarClan.[7]
Question: I was wondering, is Brightheart going to get an apprentice?
Answer: VickyHolmes: I don't think Brightheart will get an apprentice in OTS, because she's just found out she's expecting more kits! Great news for one of the older queens.
Outcome: True.[8]
Question: Will Brambleclaw ever forgive Squirrelflight?
Answer: VickyHolmes: I don't think Brambleclaw can forgive Squirrelflight. Even though she acted with the best intentions, what she did to him was really dreadful. She should have trusted him enough to tell him the truth!
Outcome: False: they make up in The Last Hope.[9]
Question: Erin, I'm kind of wondering why most of the ThunderClan cats /from the first series/ aren't elders yet. They have to be very old by now. And also, would the 4 clans really be destroyed by the DF? I mean it would be a cruel way to end a book with a young adience. But yet again you don't like happy endings /so I've heard.../
Answer: VickyHolmes: Firestar is almost six years old, not that old in regular kittypet terms but close to being "old" for a feral cat. None of the cats are ancient! It would have to be a pretty dreadful battle for all the Clans to be utterly wiped out. That might be an unhappy ending beyond my ability, you'll be pleased to hear!
Outcome: False: Firestar is seven years old. See: Events timeline
Question: How do you feel about Jayfeather having millions and millions of fangirls who would be crazy and foaming from the mouth if they met him?
Answer: VickyHolmes: I am thrilled that Jayfeather is so popular! I can't imagine him being very gracious if he met all his fans, though. He's not a great one for crowds.


Question: Will Lion and Jay forgive Leaf and Squirrel?
Answer: VickyHolmes: Lion and Jay have a lot of ground to cover before they can truly forgive their two mothers. I'm not going to say if all is truly mended!


Question: Will LionXCinder happen? I really want it too
Answer: VickyHolmes: Your wish for LionxCinder may come true...


Question: I have just been wondering if Brambleclaw is truly finished with the Dark Forest, or if his argument with Squirrelflight would be enough to send him back, since there have been rumours that he won't be the next leader of ThunderClan.
Answer: VickyHolmes: Brambleclaw has unfinished business with certain cats in the Dark Forest, but that doesn't mean he'll end up there.
Outcome: True: Brambleclaw doesn't return to the Dark Forest and kills Hawkfrost a second time.[10]
Question: Is Firestar the fourth? o.o
Answer: VickyHolmes: Good guess! I'm not confirming anything!
Outcome: True.
Question: Why did you kill off Rainwhisker? Usualy you have a purpose for killing off a cat, like how you killed Honeyfern so the Clan would have a reason to have deathberries. And Rainwhisker's death was in between Sunset and The Sight, wasn't it? Haven't you said that you love writing death scenes (Or something of that nature). So, did you have a motive for killing Rainwhisker, and in between the books at that?
Answer: VickyHolmes: I know I like to use deaths as turning points in stories, but also sometimes cats just die - from illness or old age or accidents - and if that happens between series, then I don't get the chance to show it. I'm not sure exactly why I chose Rainwhisker to die like this, I think I just wanted to introduce some changes to the cast list and Rainwhisker got unlucky!


Question: Does Icecloud have any feelings for Lionblaze?
Answer: VickyHolmes: I think I'm going to have to disappoint you. There's no romance between Icecloud and Lionblaze, sorry!


ShadowClan[]

Question: So, uh, what were you thinking when you found out you mistakenly turned her into a tom, who had kits with Tawnypelt? (I for one like the male Rowanclaw.)
Answer: VickyHolmes: Clearly I WASN'T thinking about Rowanclaw! Maybe I was thinking about cookies?


Question: When Tigerstar was killed in one blow by scourge, Was that because he was not accepted by StarClan and only had one life?
Answer: VickyHolmes: Scourge may have struck Tigerstar just once, but in fact Tigerstar loses NINE lives, one after the other, in very quick succession. Tigerstar was welcomed by StarClan because he had great leadership qualities, and he made ShadowClan as strong and fearsome as they wanted to be. So he was definitely given all his nine lives.

Look away now if you're squeamish! When Scourge sliced his claws through Tigerstar, he struck 9 major organs, each one enough to kill Tigerstar on its own. So he bled to death from his veins, his lungs were punctured, his heart was ripped open, his liver was damaged, etc. Poor, poor Tigerstar.


WindClan[]

Question: I was wondering about Crowfeather, since he is my favorite. He seems to be loosing his role in the books, and becoming less evident in them. Is there any change we'll see more of him later in the books? I personally love the CrowxLeaf forbidden love. Maybe with your magic wand you can bring them together somehow. I mean, does he even love Nightcloud? Probably not, but he is pretending to, so he seems loyal to his Clan.
Answer: VickyHolmes: I love Crowfeather too, and he will appear in the final books of OOTS. I don't think he does love Nightcloud, I'm afraid. He was forced into taking her as his mate to show his Clanmates that he was loyal to WindClan after he'd run off with Leafpool. It was a marriage of convenience, which makes me feel very sorry for Nightcloud, who truly does love him.


Question: What ever happened to Deadfoot? Oh, and is he Crowfeather's father? That would explain why he wanted to send him on the Journey to find Midnight.
Answer: VickyHolmes: Yes, Deadfoot is Crowfeather's dad (I think).
Outcome: True.[11]

RiverClan[]

Question: Does Rainflower still love Crookedstar? Or since she went to StarClan, refuse to see him?
Answer: VickyHolmes: I hope that Rainflower now realizes what a huge mistake she made with Crookedstar, and is willing to say sorry to him in StarClan.
Outcome: True. She confirms that they made amends in StarClan.[12]
Question: In the Forest of Secrets prologue, it says a single kit was suckling Graypool. Who was that kit?
Answer: VickyHolmes: Oh gosh, I can't think who that was suckling Graypool. I'd have to do a lot of research!


Question: I looked in Bluestar's Prophecy and noticed that it said that Crookedstar's mom was Lilystem, but in Crookedstar's Promise it was Rainflower. I'm a tad bit confused but I was just wondering if you could clarify about that.
Answer: VickyHolmes: I'm so sorry about that. For VERY complicated reasons, we had to change Crookedstar's mother to Rainflower. It was a great nuisance, but it concerned the timelines that had been established in BP and the first series, so there was nothing we could do.


Question: There has been a rumor on here about a girl, with the screen name Mogwai, that had cancer, and has passed away. Many fans have asked you on here to put the warrior name she used, Lilyflower, in one of your books. Did you put the name Lilyflower in Crookedstar's Promise on purpose because of this?
Answer: VickyHolmes: No, Lilyflower was not inspired by a person. I am very, very sorry to hear about Mogwai, though


SkyClan[]

Question: Is there going to be more for the SkyClan special editions. I loved that book so much. Also I was wondering what was your favourite snack food?
Answer: VickyHolmes: Well, we've explored SkyClan in Firestar's Quest and SkyClan's Destiny, and they've got an entire all to themselves, so I'm not sure if we'll visit them again. But who knows what might happen?! My favourite snack food is CHOCOLATE, although right now I'm enjoying a bag of crisps (chips to you).
Outcome: False. Vicky has hinted we will know what happened to Sharpclaw and Cherrytail.[13] and she hinted SkyClan will reappear soon.[14] Vicky has also confirmed that we will see SkyClan in Ravenpaw's Farewell and the Sixth Series.[15] SkyClan later does appear in Hawkwing's Journey.


Question: Are the cats that help Jayfeather find catnip in Long Shadows from SkyClan?
Answer: VickyHolmes: Yes, they are!


Question: I have come across some especially strange ones lightly in the book SkyClan's Destiny I personally have always enjoyed the unique names of the warrior cats but these are a little bit over unique, Have you been running out of names?!
Answer: VickyHolmes: The reason there are some strange names in SkyClan's Destiny is because the cats have tried to combine warrior-style names with their kittypet names, hence "Billystorm" (he's just called Billy by his housefolk) and "Harveymoon" (Harvey at home). Macgyver is a kittypet who didn't want a warrior name, so he kept his original name - and his housefolk are clearly fans of the TV show! So the names are meant to be ridiculous, because they show that SkyClan is finding its way toward being a true warrior Clan, even if it makes a few mistakes along the way.


Cats outside of the Clans[]

Question: in Sign of the Moon, doesn't it say that Rock was the first Stoneteller? Excuse me if I'm wrong, I'll admit I'm not the most straight minded person and this may have gotten mixed up, but didn't Rock tell Jayfeather that he was the first Stoneteller and then Jayfeather ran off to the past to make Half Moon the first Stoneteller?
Answer: VickyHolmes: Oh gosh, I hope Rock didn't say that! Rock pre-dates the Tribe, so he can't have been a Stoneteller. Fingers (and paws) crossed that this isn't another one of my Famous Mistakes...
Outcome: She revealed that Half Moon was the first "official" Stoneteller; Rock came before her, but he wasn't given the title Stoneteller because it didn't exist then.[16]
Question: How did Hollyleaf think that Sol looked like a lion? because I don't see it at all.
Answer: VickyHolmes: Sol looked like a lion because the fur was standing up around his neck, like a sun-shaped mane.


Question: Did Ravenpaw ever get a mate or kits? If so, what are their names?
Answer: VickyHolmes: I'm afraid Ravenpaw never gets a mate or kits - he's perfectly happy with just Barley for company!


Question: Will Midnight be a relevant character again before Omen of the Stars is finished?
Answer: VickyHolmes: Oh there's no way I could end the series without bringing Midnight back! I love her (especially the way she talks like Yoda). Believe it or not, I had an idea to bring her back as Ultimate Baddie, but luckily my lovely editor Erica talked me out of it. Poor Midnight! Of course she's one of the good guys!
Outcome: True, Midnight appears frequently in The Last Hope.[17]
Question: Will the Ancients get their own Super Edition?
Answer: VickyHolmes: Maybe, I do love the Ancients very much and would love to explore more of their stories.


Question: Will Rock get his own Super Edition?
Answer: VickyHolmes: Hmmm, he certainly deserves one, but I quite like how mysterious he is at the moment and that would change if he had a whole Super Edition all to himself.


Question: Will we see the Tribe again, or was that their final story in Sign of the Moon?
Answer: VickyHolmes: I love the Tribe, too. They won't make another appearance in OTS, but I don't think I can leave them behind forever. Keep an eye out, they'll definitely pop up again somewhere!
Outcome: True. The Tribe appears again in Dawn of the Clans, Tawnypelt's Clan, Graystripe's Vow, and Onestar's Confession.
Question: Rock has gotten on my nerves SO many times. He let Fallen Leaves die. He let Flametail die, and kind of seemed to act like Jayfeather's life meant more than Flametail's life. I would have been offended if I were Flametail (Flametail was just kind of out of it ...). Rock also told Jayfeather, who WORSHIPPED Rock, that he didn't have any friends, which made Jayfeather madder than he's ever been (which is saying something, considering that it's Jayfeather). I want to like Rock, but it's hard when he's so mean and heartless. I can like any character that I can empathize with, but I can't empathize with Rock. Can you help me with this, please?

Oh, and one last thing about Rock. He told Jayfeather that he doesn't have the power to change anything. Doesn't he realize that Jayfeather will do ANYTHING that he tells him to and that he DOES have the power, through Jayfeather, to change things? I wish he would realize that. Thank you again for coming today! I have loved EVERYTHING that you have said. I understand if you don't get the chance to answer this (and know that you probably won't. )

Answer: VickyHolmes: Rock isn't heartless, he just knows the limits of his power, and StarClan's. He knows so much that he can no longer afford to feel any emotions. I find him fascinating, and every time he appears it feels as if I learn something more about him.


Question: Who's the ginger cat that Ivypool and Blossomfall met in the tunnels?
Answer: VickyHolmes: You've met the cat in the tunnels several times - that's your only clue!


Question: Will Sol come back to the Clans by the lake?
Answer: VickyHolmes: Yes, Sol will appear again in OTS5.


Question: is the Mitzi in Crookedstar's Promise the same old Mitzi as in that Ravenpaw's Path arc?
Answer: VickyHolmes: Hmmm. I think they are the same characters, but don't quote me! I could be wrong!
Outcome: False, their descriptions do not match.[18][19]


Question: Does Barley's barn end up being overrun by old BloodClan members again? Because in The Heart of a Warrior, Willie says when the clans have gone, he'll be back. So does he stay true to that?
Answer: VickyHolmes: I think Ravenpaw and Barley would DIE before they let other cats take over the barn! Don't worry, their home is safe.


Place of No Stars[]

Question: Who was the first cat to ever enter the Dark Forest?
Answer: VickyHolmes: Ooh, interesting question! And to be perfectly honest, I don't think I know the answer. I think that after the cats had first started believing in StarClan, it would be the first cat who died having led a truly wicked life, so he didn't deserve to go to StarClan.


Question: In The New Prophecy, Tigerstar mentions to Darkstripe he just found out Dark Forest cats could walk in dreams. But in Crookedstar's Promise, it's being done left and right! Is Tigerstar just a slow learner?
Answer: VickyHolmes: Yup, Tigerstar is sooooo slow...


Other information[]

The books[]

Question: I've heard that your 5th series is going WAY back. does that mean LionClan LeopardClan and TigerClan? or the beginnings of the 5 original clans.

I read the beginning of Secrets of the Clans, if the clans started that way, where did the tales of LeopardClan, TigerClan, and LionClan come from? are they just nursery tales?

Answer: VickyHolmes: The fifth series will feature the first cats to settle in the forest and become the Clans as we know them - NOT leopards or lions or tigers! These are just myths and legends, based on a very limited knowledge of big cats elsewhere in the world. Kind of like our stories about dragons and unicorns and fairies.


Question: Do you guy's think you will ever make a story about Onestar just like Bluestar, Crookedstar, Yellowfang and Firestar?
Answer: VickyHolmes: I would love to do a WindClan-based Super Edition, though I think I'd put Tallstar at the centre of the story. We'd see a lot of Onewhisker, though.
Outcome: Tallstar's Revenge and Onestar's Confession
Question: [...] A fifth warrior series that takes place from the dawn of the Clans. Could you tell us any information about them, and if possible, a release date?
Answer: VickyHolmes: I can tell you that the fifth series of Warriors will feature the very first Clans in the forest.
Outcome: Dawn of the Clans
Question: I want to read Firestar's Quest and Bluestar's Prophecy but I don't know when. I'm so afraid of spoilers. I'm almost finished with Dark River right now and I'm lacking Eclipse so should I start reading the super editions then?
Answer: VickyHolmes: You can read the Super Editions any time after you've finished Series one. Which means you can read them RIGHT NOW! Hooray!


Question: I heard that the 5th series is Dawn of the Clans but i also heard that Dawn of the Clans is a super edition and that the 5th series is The Calling. Could you clarify which is which?
Answer: VickyHolmes: Never believe anything you read on the internet - unless you know it definitely comes from me! The fifth series doesn't have a title yet, and Dawn of the Clans is not the name of a Super Edition. BUT the fifth series will be based on the early forest Clans, so I've used "dawn of the Clans" to describe the theme. And maybe it will end up being the title, but we haven't decided yet!
Outcome: Dawn of the Clans
Question: For Night Whispers, you told us Flametail would have a POV. For Sign of the Moon, you told us that it would center around the Tribe. For Crookedstar's Promise, you told us it's about forbidden love and why it was allowed. May we have a head's up like these for The Forgotten Warrior?
Answer: VickyHolmesThe Forgotten Warrior is going to be about how difficult it is to go back to a life you thought you'd left behind. It's also about forgiveness, and acceptance, and coming to terms with guilt.

So you can probably guess who the Forgotten Warrior is!


Question: I'm just wondering if there will be more super editions after Yellowfang's Secret, and what cats they might be about. I'd love one about Blackstar or Deadfoot.
Answer: VickyHolmes: I'd love to do a Super Edition set in WindClan to complete the set, but I'm not sure which cat I'd choose to put at the centre. Maybe Tallstar, as he must have some dark secrets!
Outcome: Tallstar's Revenge and Blackfoot's Reckoning
Question: In Night Whispers, there are a few chapters in the perspective of Flametail. Will any other books, other than Super Editions, have this, where a few chapters in the perspective of a cat from a Clan other than ThunderClan?
Answer: VickyHolmes: We saw RiverClan viewpoints in the first books of The New Prophecy (second series), when there were chapters from Stormfur's and Feathertail's perspective. I really love exploring different viewpoints but I feel that the main series has to stick in ThunderClan's perspective.
Outcome: See A Vision of Shadows and onward.
Question: If you post my question I would be thrilled!!! Many people say they're your #1 fan, but I am!! I think we sometimes misunderstand other Clans (like ShandowClan and WindClan). Would you ever write a series about other Clans? We really only see them from ThunderClan's perspective?
Answer: VickyHolmes: That's why I enjoy writing the Super Editions, and the short stories in the Special Editions, so much, because we get to see events from the perspective of other Clans! I agree, it's too easy to shout "Boo hiss!" every time ShadowClan appears, or dismiss WindClan as feeble cowards. As soon as you see things from their point of view, you know the truth is much more complicated.
Outcome: See A Vision of Shadows and onward.
Question: I LOVE warriors and my favorite cats are Bluestar and Spottedleaf! I was just wondering if you will ever write a Super Edition on RiverClan or Spottedleaf?
Answer: VickyHolmes: Crookedstar's Promise, which is out NOW, is set in RiverClan! As for Spottedleaf, I don't feel that she has a story that we haven't seen in the main series. She does have an important part to play in OTS6, though.
Outcome: See Spottedleaf's Heart
Question: Which Warriors book is your favorite? [Mine is Crookedstar's Promise. ]

What is your favorite scene from all of the books? [Mine is the battle against BloodClan] Finally, are there any parts in the Warriors books that made you cry/almost cry, either when you were writing it or when/if you re-read it after writing? [To me, all of the deaths made me cry, including those of the evil characters like Hawkfrost and Tigerstar.]

Answer: VickyHolmes: My favourite Warriors book of all is Bluestar's Prophecy. I don't think I can do better than that one!

I'm not sure I can pick a favourite scene. I think Feathertail's death is pretty cool, and also the scene in which Firestar gets his nine lives. More recently, I've loved the scenes with Jay's Wing, back among the ancient cats. Oh, and the moment when Cinderheart discovers the truth about her past life (which you haven't seen yet) is rather special... I've never cried while writing any of the books, although I found Cinderpelt's death very sad. Now the only thing that makes me want to cry is when I read the books and spot mistakes!


Clan life[]

Question: I was wondering, can you use the herbs in the books in real life? Can you use some, or none at all ?
Answer: VickyHolmes: We get all our herb information from a book called Culpeper's Herbal which was written by a physician called Nicolas Culpeper in the 1600s. He lived in London and was very interested in herbal remedies, many of which had been used for hundreds of years. He compiled an encyclopedia of all the herbs and plants that were considered to have medical uses. The book is still published BUT the information is 500 years old so it must NOT be considered accurate! Some of his remedies are still used by herbalists, such as comfrey for mending broken bones, but please, please consult a doctor or veterinarian instead of a Warriors book!


Warriors[]

Question: Why do you use some of the same names over and over again for the cats?

example:Whitestorm; White-eye; Whitetail; Whitewing, Ivytail, Ivypool, Cloudstar; Cloudtail, and so on? I'm sure you could around the forums and find names or just take a walk in the park and look at plants, nuts, leaf, etc. here are some if you'd like them: Lemonleaf / Lunalight / Acornfur / Dreamfeather / Fawnflower / Saltfern / Juiceberry / Eagleflight / Saffronstorm / Sugarleaf / Aquabreeze / Vanillacloud / Bamboostem / Pandafur / Pepperstorm / Clovercloud / Duskfire I don't mean to sound rude but it's only an idea, and I know you aren't here for signing siggys but your my favorite author so I'm a HUGE fan of yours and I'd love to have my siggy signed, if it's not possible well I guess I'll understand. Thanks to all the Erin Hunters, "just call me Candy" *gives cookies*

Answer: VickyHolmes: Thanks for the cookies! I'm so sorry that I don't have time to sign signatures. If I did one, I'd have to do EVERYONE, and it could take the rest of my life...

Thanks for the name suggestions. The reason we re-use names is because that's what happens in real life. Lots of Sarahs, lots of Catherines, even lots of Vickys...


Question: Is it just a coincidence that the first leader's of the Clan's had the name of that specific Clan?
Answer: VickyHolmes: Nope, no coincidence at all. The Clans were named after the first leaders, and the leaders took their names from the part of the forest where they lived: Shadow lived in the dark pinewoods, Wind lived on the breezy moor, Sky loved climbing the tallest trees, Thunder lived near the thunderpath, and River lived...er...by the river.
Outcome: Unsure: Thunder[20] is named for the events of his birth, and Clear Sky and Tall Shadow received their names before coming to the forest.[21]
Question: What happened to the elders who stayed behind for the Great Journey?
Answer: VickyHolmes: The elders who stayed behind survived for a while, until they slipped peacefully away from old age.


Question: Hello. I was wondering if you knew what the general age group is for readers of the Warriors series. My father gets rather frustrated on the occasion when he seed me reading them because he thinks they are for "little" kids. I don't even believe that there is such a thing as a book that you are to old to enjoy.(For the record, I'm not very old, hardly even a teenager.)
Answer: VickyHolmes: Please tell your dad that these books are DEFINITELY not for "little kids"! I do have lots of young fans, but I don't water down my ideas or use simple words. You have to be smart to read Warriors! Most of my fans are between 10 and 14, but lots and lots are older teenagers, and even grown-ups. I love the fact that anyone can read the books, and I deal with topics like death and religion which appear in adult books far more often than children's books. So sorry, but your dad is WRONG and you are RIGHT!


Question: Hey Vicky! I'm a huge fan of Warriors, so please answer my question! Apparently there have been a lot of rumors lately concerning a Warriors movie. Can you please confirm if this is true or not? Thanks!
Answer: VickyHolmes: Oh those pesky movie rumours! I'm afraid that right now, there is NO movie news. I promise I'll let you know if this changes! I'm not THAT good at keeping secrets.
Outcome: Warriors movie
Question: I also was curious if there has been any development on the online game? / Do you know when the Warriors Online Game will come out?
Answer: VickyHolmes: The online game is still in development. These things are TRICKY but we have some excellent people working on it. / I'm afraid I don't have a date for the release of the online game. I'll keep you posted!


Question: I have a question about the last book of the first series of Warriors and Skyclan's Destiny. In the last book of the first series, a StarClan cat tells Firestar that there were always five Clans, meaning ThunderClan, RiverClan, WindClan, ShadowClan, and StarClan. In SkyClan's Destiny, Firestar accuses StarClan of lieing to him, by not telling him about SkyClan. But technically, StarClan didn't lie, because they said that there were always five Clans in the forest, but that doesn't mean that there was never a sixth Clan. Maybe I'm wrong, but that is what I think.

You guys are the best authors in the world!!!!

Answer: VickyHolmes: I know it seems as if StarClan was talking about SkyClan when they said "There have always been five Clans in the forest", but actually it means that StarClan have always seen themselves as a forest Clan, moving among their descendants and fighting alongside them. So StarClan is still lying at this point, because if they were telling the truth they would have said, "There are five Clans now but there should be SIX."


Question: If you could choose any character that’s up in StarClan right now and bring them back to the clans, who would it be and why?
Answer: VickyHolmes: You know, I don't think I'd bring back any of the characters that are in StarClan. If I miss writing about them, I just have them pop up in a dream or vision! Cats in Warriors don't really die, they just move somewhere else...


Question: Do you like Cloudtail?
Answer: VickyHolmes: I think Cloudtail is wonderful, he's a lot of fun to write about and I love how he challenges the warrior code without being eviiillll.


Places[]

Question: In the Power of Three series which island do they meet at? and where's the ancient oak and sky oak?
Answer: VickyHolmes: I'm afraid the locations in the later series aren't based on real places, so I can't point to a real island or oak tree and says, That's it! They all come from my imagination.


Question: Is the Warriors series taking place over in Germany?
Answer: VickyHolmes: Actually, three of the Erins (me, Kate and Cherith) come from Europe - specifically England. Only Tui is American! (Hi Tui!) I love the idea that Warriors is set in the dark and spooky forests of Germany, but I'm afraid there is no specific real-world location for the stories. I based the original maps on a place in the south of England called the New Forest (it's actually very old) because that has a mix of moorland, woodland and villages. But if you go to the New Forest you wouldn't find the territories, or Fourtrees, or Sunningrocks. The area provided a template, that's all.


The authors[]

Question: Have you ever read Warriors fanfiction or spoofs? If yes do you have a favorite?
Answer: VickyHolmes: have read some fanfiction, when it's given to me at signings, but on the whole I try not to because I would hate to be accused of stealing ideas, even though it would just be a coincidence if you see what I mean. So, no favorites!


Question: Waffles or pancakes?
Answer: VickyHolmes: Pancakes every time!


Question: If you were to lead a Clan, any of the 5 Clans, which one would you choose?
Answer: VickyHolmes: I'd rather not lead a Clan. Would it be okay if I was RiverClan's medicine cat instead?


Question: Will you ever come to Missouri on a tour?
Answer: VickyHolmes: I came to Missouri in 2008 (that's Kansas City, yes?). I don't know when I'll come back, but I would love to!


Question: I have heard that you happen to dislike happy endings, why is this?
Answer: VickyHolmes: Hmmm, I know I've said that in the past, but it makes me sound very gloomy! I think my point is that life doesn't come neatly packaged in happy endings, so I don't want to force my books into that shape. For example, getting married is always seen as the triumphant end to a relationship, but in fact it's just the beginning of a whole new chapter, and it can be very hard work! I want readers to believe that my characters have lives that carry on beyond the end of the books, so even though we may have reached a point at which one part of their story comes to an end, other things will carry on - and not all of those things will be good or easy.


Question: Hi Vicky, big fan here (like everyone else here today, of course.) I've been reading the books since Rising Storm came out, and I credit my career choice to Warriors, since it was looking up information about the books and finding early Warriors fansites that made me so interested in web design, which is what I am now going to school for. So, it's been eight years since Into the Wild came out. In that time, you've visited other countries, appeared on television, published 49 Warriors/Seekers books which (in Warriors' case) have been translated into about 20 languages, and even discussed a possible movie, even if it didn't quite work out. Throughout all of that, which memories you have as an Erin - working on the books, going on tours, etc - stand out to you the most?
Answer: VickyHolmes: Hi Dawnwing - and hi everyone at Warriors Wish, the BEST fansite on the net!

I'm thrilled to have helped you toward your career, Dawnwing. Best of luck with your studies. Great question. Without doubt, I am the luckiest person in the world to have been a part of this. My stand-out memories are meeting the fans, hearing them shriek with excitement when I let slip bits of information, and feeling completely overwhelmed that it's MY stories which have inspired such zeal. Every time I am humbled, and every time I have to pinch myself to check I'm not dreaming! If it all came to an end tomorrow, that would be okay, because I've had the time of my life.


Question: have you ever thought about doing a tour around Asia or Europe? Possibly Russia..?
Answer: VickyHolmes: would LOVE to tour Russia, so if my Russian publishers are reading this, pleeeeeease can I come visit? I'm very cheap to feed!


Question: So, my question is, if you tour in the U.S, do you come anywhere in the Southeast?
Answer: VickyHolmes: do come to the southeast sometimes - I've visited Florida, the Carolinas, Tennessee, Alabama, are any of those near you? I'm afraid I can't predict when I'll come back, but I hope to return one day!


Question: Were you ever worried that making cats who have super powers was going to make the idea of real cats actually making Clans and doing all those Warrior things seem too much like fantasy?
Answer: VickyHolmes: It was a risk to give the cats their special powers, but I wanted to take the cats in a new direction where they would have to confront their most terrible enemies and their darkest fears. I thought long and hard before going in this direction, and I hope it's paid off. There will be NO special powers in the fifth series!


Question: What character do you most relate to in the series?
Answer: VickyHolmes: I most relate to Ravenpaw - he's shy, awkward, makes up stories, and is much happier living away from the crowds with just his best buddy Barley. That's pretty much me!


Question: Have you ever been sad writing a death scene for someone in the series?
Answer: VickyHolmes: I was very sad to write Cinderpelt's death scene, even though I'd known about it for a long time.


Question: Have you ever regretted killing off a cat? If so, who?
Answer: VickyHolmes: No, because I always get to see them in StarClan!


Question: What series is your favorite?
Answer: VickyHolmes: I genuinely love them all for different reasons, with favorite books within each series. I think the best book I've ever worked on, though, is Bluestar's Prophecy. That book ROCKS!


Question: I was wondering if you play a musical instrument. Or, if any of the other Erin’s play an instrument. I was mainly wondering because I, myself, play the viola.
Answer: VickyHolmes: As far as I know, Kate, Cherith and Tui don't play musical instruments, but I know one of Cherith's grown-up sons is very involved with a folkband so maybe Cherith has secret musical talents! I played the violin when I was much younger, and then the flute, which I loved. I haven't played for a while, but I like to think I'd still remember what to do!


Question: So, you know Tigerclaw was originally called 'Hammerclaw' before? did any of the other cats in the Clans (or outside of the clans)have different names now than they were originally going to have? Like Fireheart might of been 'Flameheart' or some other name you decided not to use.
Answer: VickyHolmes: Yes I did know Tigerclaw was called Hammerclaw! It never occurred to me that cats wouldn't know what hammers were until someone mentioned it JUST before the book went to print. I had to come up with Tigerclaw in a rush, and I never felt it suited him as well as Hammerclaw. I don't think I'd rename any of the cats if I could start over, but I'd DEFINITELY think of a different word for motorized vehicles than "monsters". That wasn't my idea and I absolutely hate it!


Question: If you were a Clan cat what would your name be, what Clan would you be in and would you be a medicine cat, warrior, elder, leader or queen?
Answer: VickyHolmes: I would be Mousepaw, a medicine cat apprentice in RiverClan.


Question: Do you have a cat? What are they like?
Answer: VickyHolmes: I'm afraid I don't have a cat. My family owned lots of cats when I was growing up because we lived on a farm so the barns were full of them! Now I have a very much loved little dog called Missy, who's asleep beside me on the sofa right now.


Question: If you could go anywhere on tour, where would you go?
Answer: VickyHolmes: Good question! I would LOVE to go to Russia, Japan and Finland. I like cold places!


Question: Also, do you have any tips for aspiring writers, such as myself?
Answer: VickyHolmes: My top writing tip is to READ as much as you possibly can, because it's really the only way to find out what kind of writing you might want to do. Good luck!


Question: I was wondering if the books were based off of anything or the characters personallities based on anyone. It just is amazing how you have so many great ideas! Something had to help you come up with them right?
Answer: VickyHolmes: One of the great things about working in a team is that you have access to several imaginations, which instantly means a lot more ideas than one person can come up with on their own! But no, we didn't base the books on anything, either in real life or either books, except for themes that we are passionate about, such as the natural world and how communities work. None of the characters are based on real people, but Cherith does have two cats called Bramble and Sorrel who have been inspiration for some scenes involving them!


Question: The Warrior series itself is wonderful very wonderful, but it got me thinking what made you decide cat's as the main characters? Something in the love of cat's, books? drawings?
Answer: VickyHolmes: We wrote about cats originally because we felt that cats would be a popular choice for a book, and there weren't many cat stories around. You see, Warriors was only planned to be ONE book at first! We never dreamed we'd end up writing over 40!


Question: I have a question about the Super Editions. What makes you come up with a Super Edition? We have seen four Super Editions now and all are very unique in their ways. Bluestar's Prophecy and Crookedstar's Promise both connect in which we see the point of view of the two major Clans in each of these stories because of the forbidden love. Firestar's Quest and SkyClan's Destiny, both are about SkyClan and how it was brought back and how it is doing. But, how did you come up with the story lines for each? What drew you to begin writing them?

Thanks so much for answering questions!

Answer: VickyHolmes: We came up with the Super Edition because we wanted to do something in addition to the regular series of books, and it also gave us a chance to go back in time a little way and fill in the year-long gap between the end of Series One and the start of The New Prophecy. I wanted to send Firestar on an adventure that wasn't directly involved with the Clans in the forest, and that would test all his powers of leadership and courage. The idea of a secret fifth Clan came to me very quickly, and in fact it was one of the easiest storylines to create.

For the other Super Editions, I've been very self-indulgent, going back in time to explore the lives of some of the most interesting characters who didn't take centre stage in Series One. I LOVE doing Super Editions!


Question: I was wondering what the correct order to read the super editions is so nothing is spoiled.
Answer: VickyHolmes: I suppose I'd recommend reading the Super Editions in the order in which I wrote them: Firestar's Quest, SkyClan's Destiny, Bluestar's Prophecy and Crookedstar's Promise. Oh hang on, I think BP came out before SD, but SD follows on directly from FQ so this is the order that makes the most sense. Phew! However, you can read the Super Editions at any point in the main series because they are separate stories, set back a little way in time.



External links[]

  • Currently an archive for this chat is unavailable. However, one of our editors copied and pasted this Google Doc from the Forum years ago.

Notes and references[]

  1. Revealed on the Official Forum
  2. 2.0 2.1 Revealed in The Last Hope, page 295
  3. Revealed in The Forgotten Warrior, page 17
  4. Revealed in Bramblestar's Storm, page 11
  5. Revealed in Tallstar's Revenge, page 512
  6. Revealed in The Rise of Scourge, page 3
  7. Revealed in The Last Hope, page 242
  8. Revealed in The Last Hope, page 329
  9. Revealed in The Last Hope, page 201
  10. Revealed in The Last Hope, page 319
  11. Revealed in Crowfeather's Trial, page 211
  12. Revealed on Vicky's Facebook
  13. Revealed on Vicky's Facebook
  14. Revealed on Vicky's Facebook
  15. Revealed on Vicky's Facebook
  16. Revealed on Vicky's Facebook
  17. Revealed in The Last Hope, page prologue
  18. Revealed in Crookedstar's Promise, page 90
  19. Revealed in A Clan in Need, page 59
  20. Revealed in The Sun Trail, page 307
  21. Revealed in The Sun Trail, allegiances
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