Write On

Today was Write-On Shades Cahaba, a truly exciting day for the children (and the teachers!).

This morning we got to hear from the amazingly talented published author and Shades Cahaba mom, Lori Nichols.  Two years ago she came to speak to the kids about the process of writing her story, Maple and two weeks ago it hit bookshelves nationwide.  She talked to the children about how her drawings really inspire her writing, so she encouraged the children to "Draw-On" as well. 

She is having a book signing at Little Professor this Saturday from 4-6pm if you want to get your own copy of this sweet story about a little girl who loves trees.  Check out some of the great reviews she has received on this, her first book: http://www.amazon.com/Maple-Lori-Nichols/dp/039916085X

She also showed the kids how they can turn the letters in their names into a funny face, so some of the children tried out their own names:

We spent time today writing creative stories based off of a picture and a story starter by Chris Van Allsburg.  Ask your child about the story they created based on this picture:


 We spent time walking around the school and writing on bulletin boards giving creative ideas that might help writers think of stories when they get stuck, what students dream about becoming and what makes students unique and special.

This afternoon we got to hear from the hilarious and creative children's author, Helen Lester.  She told us all about how most of her characters were based off of the second graders she taught years ago.  She remembered those with quirky, pushy, funny and unique personalities and turned them into beautifully clever stories with great lessons.  She was a treat to listen to as she shared many funny stories and even gave us a sneak peek of her upcoming book, The Loch Mess Monster.  She has written a slew of children's books, so ask your children what their favorite Helen Lester book is: http://www.amazon.com/Helen-Lester/e/B000APIL2O

It was a wonderful day of writing, listening and enlightenment of all of the work that goes into publishing a book.