My Visit to Valley View Elementary

Here are a few slides from my recent visit to third grade in Lafollette, Tennessee.

​I was happy to see students so interested in writing, and in my story.  I started working on my first book in 2008, and I’m not published yet.  It hasn’t been an overnight adventure for me, or for most of the writers I know. 

The students loved seeing the authors who’ve critiqued me.  They were fascinated with my marked-up manuscripts after 9 years.  They said don’t quit, keep trying.  They told me listen to those critiques, work on getting better.  I bet their teacher reminds them about those ideas when working.  School’s hard!

I loved watching them discover the people behind their favorite books.  No one knew Tedd Arnold, but everyone recognized Fly Guy.  They also met new writers and their books.  They jotted them down or asked for my favorites.   

These kids were excited about editing.  They worked to find passage mistakes.  They left dull words behind for better ones.  I hope they’ll remember this lesson, and if not, I’m sure their teacher will remind them.  Editing makes everything better! 

If you’d like more information, please contact me.  If you’re within an hour’s drive of Wapakoneta, OH or Lafollette, TN, I’d be glad to schedule a visit, free of charge.