Dear Ken Follett,

I have a question about Jack. Did you have a specific disorder in mind when he created his character, or are his strange looks and characteristics the result of a lack of socialization? Also, why does Jack have such a pure heart despite the fact that he has been surrounded by outlaws while living in the forest? Even when he is contemplating doing such an evil deed, he only has the best intentions, meaning that he only wants Tom to work and he wants to stay in the small house.

— Catherine R.

Dear Catherine,

You're right, Jack's anti-social behavior is simply the result of his being brought up in the forest. But there's nothing wrong with him, and he soon learns to be polite. He's not a wicked person, even though he does some bad things. Ellen has raised him alone, but she has raised him well.

— Ken Follett