Wow! The kids are thrilled thrilled thrilled to see their letters and pictures on your website (especially Ashley)- I love seeing their pictures up and I agree they are great kids. It's so fun to share them with someone who appreciates all their goodness, goofiness and laughter....
So, now you. You were such a a huge success, more than I even imagined. It was the intro that surprised me the most - it was very engaging. The story from Africa was riveting and immediately captured their imaginations (and mine), as did of course Suddenly. But what I loved were the things you said about writing, using ideas from life, talking to your grandparents. REWRITING. It all seemed so accessible. Hope I can capitalize on that while it's still fresh. I was a pretty good writer as a reporter but I find teaching it VERY hard and getting them to rewrite can be a challenge, so that was a good reality check for them.
You are awesome with kids and are welcome (and encouraged) to come and hang out - well we have to work - to come and read with us :) anytime. We had library Thursday and Ashley was beside herself because there was no Clayton Bess in our little book room.
Of course Suddenly is just delightful. Can't wait to get the book.
Thanks for directing me to “Suddenly” and the kids’ responses. Very fun. Just as the kids did, I liked the story and art work. I liked when the parents said “goo goo” and that there was a shark in the river! I liked Luis signing his letter “Suddenly, Luis.” And it was fun that the students were impressed with you speaking in several languages and that some of them wanted to grow up and do what you do.
My dad has an astonishing mineral crystal collection, and his house is the destination for some elementary school field trips. He, too, treasures the thank you notes the students write to him afterwards.
Come to think of it, I have thank you notes from my students from 23 years of teaching school, mostly 7th grade, in Hayward, and I treasure them too.
I’m looking forward to reading Lonely Island. The first and last chapters had me riveted. Thanks for sending me the entire manuscript.
Contact: Clayton Bess
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