ShortHand Publishing - Hillview Author Visit

HILLVIEW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

AUTHOR VISIT

NOV. 6/03

I made some new friends today, about seventy of them!

Yes, we had another author visit today. When we started these visits I had no idea that I would become as comfortable as I am doing them. I never for one minute have thought of myself as a “speaker.” Years ago someone mentioned to me that I had a great story and I should share it, well yes that would be great, if I didn’t have to get up in front of a bunch of people to do so. But now, talking to kids, I can’t think of anything that could top that.

The nerves I had during the first few author visits no longer come into play. I have always looked forward to these visits, but now I do so without a trace of nerves. I get such enjoyment from doing these visits and spending time with children that I wish I could do an author visit every day.

Arriving a little early at Hillview Elementary volunteer Mrs. Bridget Ball kindly showed us where we could setup. After setting up we still had time for a visit with librarian, Diane Isman. Time flew by and before we knew it the first of two classes of grade two’s were on their way into the library.

Mrs. Nell brought her class in first and then Mrs. Rachwalski class followed. Mrs. Rachwalski was away today so there was a T. O. C., teacher on call, in her place. Unfortunately I did not get her name.

The children were so polite as they sat cross-legged on the floor with their hands resting on their legs awaiting their special event. They needed very little instruction before we began; I think they’ve done this before.

In Mrs. Isman introduction she said in part, “Now children you know that normally when we read a book we are left to wonder about the author, what they might be like. Well, today we have a special treat. With us today, we have the author of the book we are going to read.”

Then I was given a warm “Hillview welcome” and another author visit was underway.

I am really beginning to enjoy asking the children a second time, “How is everyone today?” They answer so politely the first time, but boy the second time they answer, they know what I expect. (I love that part.)

After my usual opening remarks I turned it over to Mrs. Isman, who was just thrilled to sit in the rocking chair as she read the story. I knew it was going to be a little tougher than usual to get that chair away from her, saying that it matched her skirt perfectly was a dead giveaway. I could tell that she really liked the chair.

During her reading of the story I took some pictures with my new digital camera, an early birthday present from Mom and myself. I was praying that the pictures would turn out all right. I had played around at home with it and everything was fine, but what if I got home and I had no pictures?

Mrs. Isman interacted with the children during the reading of The Rocking Chair Rescue. She asked them questions that they could ponder until it was time for the question and answer period.

After an enthusiastic round of applause, it was that time, my favorite time. When asked if anyone had questions for me, almost every hand went up. There were many of the usual questions but it never ceases to amaze me that someone always comes up with one I haven’t heard. Today I was asked, “Do you get paid for writing your stories?”

On one of my first visits, a librarian suggested I keep my answers simple, I wonder if he knew that sometimes I tend to run on a bit ... he probably did.

After some careful thought, the answer was simple, “Yes.” However, it’s not really that cut and dry. As I did explain to the young man who asked the question, “I don’t get paid directly for writing the story, we only get paid once the story is made into a book and the book sells.”

At that point I shamelessly promoted the books, telling the children they should ask their parents to get them my books as Christmas presents. They all seemed to agree with that.

It is becoming more common during these visits to be asked for my autograph and today was no different. When I responded yes to the request, many a smile broke out on many a face. I have learned many things from these visits and my format has changed slightly from the first visits. One of the things that have changed is that now I sign the bookmark I give each child at the end of the visit. Several children in the past have brought me pencil and paper in order to have my autograph, now every child has an inked autograph.

I don’t recall what question prompted me to show the children the second episode, Lost and Found. However, it got a reception that I never would have expected. After showing them some of the pictures inside I heard a few children say, “Read it, Read it!” Then a few more children joined in, then, a few more until all of the children were chanting, “Read it! Read it! Read it! Read it!” This was a first for me, and one I must admit, I did enjoy.

After checking with Mrs. Isman, she agreed to read it if the children would agree to pay attention and sit quietly, which they of course did. This time, she got me interacting with the children during the story as well. I can’t go into much detail as I don’t want to give away the story to those that may be reading this report but have not read the story. Suffice to say that Mrs. Isman mentioned that the story brought up many good points for the children to consider. (I guess you’ll just have to invite me to your school if you want to know more.)

By the time the second story was finished we only had time for a few more questions. Wouldn’t you know it, one girl asked my age, I cleverly manage to avoid the question by asking, “How old do you think I am?” Then, more questions were asked and I successfully evaded the question once again. But, was I going to make it out the door without answering the question?

Mr. Robson, the principal joined us for the last few questions. When the last question was answered Mrs. Isman presented me with an envelope saying, “We’d like to thank you for coming today and this is a little something to help you continue on.”

I’m always a little sad to see these wonderful fun-filled visits end, but end they must. However, today’s visit ended a little different. As the two classes were lining up, ready to leave the room someone suggested that I could pass out the bookmarks to each child as they left the room. What a great idea!

I headed to the door with bookmarks in hand unaware that some girls from the second class would help Mom pack up our things. I understand that they were a big help.

As I stood by the door waiting while everyone was getting in line one boy asked how old I was. These kids never give up!

I again asked, “How old do you think I am?” But this was not going to work again. There were a few guesses, some down right scary guesses as a matter of fact. Then one boy guessed exactly how old I’d be on my next birthday, and since it is so close I finally broke down and told them, Yes I will be ?? on my next birthday which is just a few weeks away.”

So now my secret is out in the open and I had no idea what would come next. It wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be, one girl said, “Oh that’s how old our teacher is.”

I guess them knowing is better than having them think I’m in my eighties, as some children suspected. With that out of the way I began handing each child a bookmark as they left the room. Several children made me promise to give one to Mr. Robson. When it came his turn, I saw that he already had one. I guess Mom and Mrs. Isman handed them out to the second class.

And so another author visit is in the books so to speak. I’d like to thank everyone involved in making Thursday morning a memorable experience for Mom and myself. Big thanks to Mrs. Isman for inviting me and being such a wonderful hostess. Thanks to teachers, TOC, volunteer and of course Mr. Robson!

Until next time, be well. J

See how well Mrs. Isman's skirt matches the chair?