Do you remember the first time you met a favorite author? It is an incredible feeling to shake the hand of someone who wrote the words that mean so much to you. Or to hear them read out loud their own stories. This is only part of the reason we invite acclaimed children’s authors to read to our families during community nights.
Author Visits
More than 90 author and illustrator volunteers have visited 200 Community Nights. Visiting authors read one of their books to families and engage students in a literacy or art related activity. In addition to their presentation, the author speaks separately to parents about their writing inspirations and aspirations, strategies for reaching a reluctant reader at home, and the author’s writing and publishing process. By the end of the night, authors personally sign books for families. It’s an unforgettable night for both parents and students. So we wanted to highlight the authors who will be reading to our Chicago families over the next few weeks.
Lisa Maggiore
Chicago-native Lisa Maggiore is best known for her book Ava the Monster Slayer. The story follows Ava’s quest to rescue her beloved stuffed animal Piggy, who is trapped in the dryer in Ava’s basement. Determined to rescue Piggy, Ava has to conquer her fear of monsters and defeat them at all costs. Keep an eye out for Ava who will back to slay more monsters in the sequel due out in September!
Janet Nolan
Janet Nolan is the recipient of numerous literary awards and for good reason. PB&J Hooray! is one of our favorite books, especially around lunchtime. Nolan also writes children’s books that discuss historical topics. The Firehouse Light is the true story of a 4-watt light bulb that has been burning since 1901. Seven and Half Tons of Steel is about a steel beam from the World Trade Center that was gifted to the U.S. Navy.
Corey Williams
Corey D. Williams was born and raised on the West Side of Chicago. You might know him from his work on Chicago Fire and Empire. But Williams is also an accomplished children’s book author! Justin the Good Listener follows a main character who “never has to be told things twice!” It’s an entertaining story that also teaches a valuable lesson for young students about following directions.
Miriam Busch and Larry Day
Busch and Day are married not just to words but to each other! According to Miriam’s bio, they “create stories together over breakfast.” These stories include Lion, Lion and Raisin the Little Cow. They even have interactive games based off their books that parents can play along with their children.
Is supporting programs like author visits to inspire literacy in students important to you? Consider making a donation to Turning the Page to help continue these programs.