May 26, 2008

Last School Visit

Thanks to Ms. Supran for inviting me to spend time speaking with her and Ms. Crew’s third grade students at Jupiter Farms Elementary.


They were attentive and enthusiastic and came prepared with great questions, like, “How long did it take you to write your book?” and “Did your sons help you with it?” (Answers: Research, writing and revisions took about a year. And our sons did come up with a couple good ideas while I was writing.)


To top off a fine visit, the students created these wonderful thank you cards. Here is a picture of my cat, Jasmine, admiring them:


I’m grateful to the teachers, principals and media specialists who invited me into their schools this year.

During one of the visits, groups of students were talking and laughing. One student stood off to the side. Before I went over to chat with that student, I reminded myself that this is the student I’m writing for -- the one who might not feel part of a group. The one for whom a character in a book can feel like a friend. The student I was so many years ago.

Now that school visits are over for this year, I’m looking forward to writing, writing, writing and to enjoying the relaxed pace of summer with family and friends.

Hugs,
Donna

11 comments:

The Suprans said...

Donna,

Thank you so much for coming in to speak to my students. They really enjoyed it, and so did Dina & I. I loved the Q & A when they got to be little reporters. It was fun!

Wild About Words said...

Cathy,

The pleasure was all mine.

Donna

Anonymous said...

Donna,

I only wish I could have heard you speak and the kid's reactions. How great to see you in front of a class. I find kids to be the most honest critics, if you can please them you know you're doing well.

Wild About Words said...

Thanks, Paul,

Lots of fun working with the kids.

Donna

Don Tate II said...

I really love school visits. I will miss them over the summer.

Wild About Words said...

Don,

I know what you mean, but think of all that time for your art and your family and, well, relaxing?!

Best,
Donna

Jessica Burkhart said...

Hi, Donna! I loved your article in FL's SCBWI newsletter. :)

Wild About Words said...

Thanks, Jessica, for the comment. I didn't realize my article had come out until I read your comment.

All best,
Donna

Anonymous said...

Donna,


Here's to enjoying the pace of summer: reflecting, dreaming, writing. :)

Cheers.

Eileen

Anonymous said...

you rock sis!!! and look like such a natural, infront of all those students :-) keep up the great work...

Wild About Words said...

Eileen,

I sure am looking forward to that slower pace of summer and writing more. I'll be you are, too.

El,

Thanks for the sweet words. Can't wait to see you.

Hugs,
Donna