Crestwood and Trevilians

Recently, I've had two wonderful school visits. One was at Trevlians Elementary School, in Louisa, where I spent the day talking to classes about writing and researching my books. Students from Mrs. Breen's class later sent me letters, which I have answered individually. They said they appreciated the tips on writing, such as using strong verbs.

Then yesterday, I was at Crestwood Elementary School in Chesterfield, Va., as part of a writing week. The Target Company gave them a grant to purchase copies of The Mysterious Jamestown Suitcase and to give a copy to each family to read together. I talked to all students in two sessions (the kids were great and had good questions), then again in the evening to a large gathering of families. Again, the questions were wonderful. One parent said she appreciated the way I worked in that families are all different--not the traditional two-parent model--so that kids could relate to the books. Little Jake, a kindergartener, told me before the program started that he was there for the ice cream, and hoped that I wouldn't talk too long. Unfortunately, he had to wait. There were lots of questions.

Both schools were warm and caring. Thanks, everyone.