Author

Student Voices: Christina Diaz Gonzalez’s Visit to Kellee’s Middle School

by
Share

I am so lucky because my principal began an initiative at my school where we get to have an author visit our school yearly (2025: George O’Connor, 2024: Jerry Craft, 2023: Christina Diaz Gonzalez, 2022: Nathan Hale, 2020: Neal Shusterman, 2019: Jennifer A. Nielsen). The author sees all students in the school, so it is a great community literacy event for my school, and I love being able to bring this experience to all of my students each year!

This year, we hosted Award-Winning Author Christina Diaz Gonzalez again!

We are so thankful to Christina Diaz Gonzalez for being with us all day. Not only did she present to over 900 students about her books and writing life, she did a signing time for any student who wanted his autograph, she did a special presentation for our newer enrolled ELL Spanish-Speaking students, and she stayed after to sign books for teachers & bookmarks for our Literacy Night 2026: A Night of Christina Diaz Gonzalez participants! It was such a wonderful day!

Here are some reflections from my students after the visit. I asked them to think about what they learned, what they enjoyed, how they were impacted, or anything else they wanted to share:

  • I got to see how she comes up with book ideas which makes me wanna write my own books more.
  • My biggest take away was how Christina gets her ideas and how she was inspired by some daily things like getting coffee at a coffee shop.
  • I really liked the day. Christina’s presentation was very interesting.
  • It is important so that we can promote reading from ALL backgrounds.
  • My biggest takeaway is that being different is OKAY and not having everything all together is okay as well! (I got this second part from when she was explaining how she does her writing processes.)
  • The visit helps me understand the books I’ve read from her and the motivation and inspiration for them.
  • I really enjoyed it and I liked Christina. I loved how she made sure everyone understood by switching languages and how she made people feel comfortable to ask questions.
  • The day overall was an amazing day, and when I went to the visit it was fantastic. It was very interesting and fun
  • It’s important to have an author visit the school because it allows kids to learn about how books come to life and where the ideas started. Plus it can get kids into reading since they’re hearing what a book is about directly from the author and they can get in better detail than with google.
  • My biggest takeaway is that you can become an author and write books no matter where you grew up and no matter what your first language is.
  • Author visits are important because it allows for many different author to tell their stories to the next generation of kids so that they can pass on the message and hopefully, be the next generation of authors.
  • I loved learning more about her, and I think its very interesting to know the process of making her books.
  • An author visit, to me, means that Ms. Moye, Ms. H, and the other staff care about us gaining knowledge based on other peoples experiences, and the author helping us understand ourselves and what we are interested in.

  • I loved the day! I enjoyed the presentation and the signing, and I heard there was a presentation in Spanish, and I just felt glad there was an option for many to feel included.
  • My biggest take away is that most of the time Christina Diaz Gonzalez creates ideas for her books in public places which I think could help me too if I want to become an author.
  • It’s exciting to have people inspire you, and an author visit gives you something to be excited for each year.
  • My biggest take away was that anyone can be an author.
  • This visit was important because it taught me more about Christina Diaz Gonzalez and she also talked about her writing process and how she came up with ideas. It is important and powerful to have an author visit our school because then kids have the opportunity to learn about different authors and they could possibly find out about new books they may like, whereas if we didn’t have these visits, students may not learn about new authors and find new books to read.
  • I think its important to have an author visit for us to know more about some of these books and engage with them.
  • The visit impacted me in a way which showed me that confidence and taking risks is okay and this really helped me realize that not getting things on the first try is GREAT and not a bad thing.
  • The biggest take away was we can become a storyteller, too, and reading and writing can open doors to imagination and understanding.
  • The visit impacted me in a positive way since I got to learn more about an author which I enjoy doing.
  • A yearly author visit means that every year there is a new fun experience for me and my friends.
  • The visit impacted me by now when I read her books, I love how I can see the resemblance between her side and how the book was written.
  • This author visit is important because it emphasizes the ability for people to make stories in any environment.
  • Not every school gets author visits, but our school does, and it is a gift.
  • Author visits mean memories, and they are just a fun way to learn more about authors and their writing process.
  • An author visit makes reading and writing exciting. It shows us anyone can write a book and inspires us to be creative. We learn how stories are made and enjoy books more.

 

  • Author visits are really fun and a fun time to meet authors, and it means I get to meet people who live out my dream of being an author.
  • It impacted me by showing me that it is okay to change your career and you can still be successful.
  • Anyone can become an author, no matter where they were born or if something interesting happens to them.
  • You can do anything you put your mind to.
  • This visit was important because since Christina Diaz Gonzalez is a Spanish speaker, it allowed students who only speak Spanish to learn about writing. It is important and powerful to have an author visit our school because it may inspire students.
  • It helped me to think more and be aware, like memorizing what happened in a day to be able to make a story out of it or help myself in a way.
  • The visit made me realise that any person is capable of thinking up stories and becoming a successful author.
  • Having a visiting author yearly experiencing (new) exciting authors and learning about their works.
  • Remember to always revise your work.
  • It impacts me by making me realize that there are much more books than just manga and graphic novels.
  • Author visits show me that my school is very fortunate, and I am very fortunate to be able to meet these authors who have won awards and left their mark on the literacy world.
  • Yearly author visits show that our school cares about literacy, and it’s always interesting to learn about an author especially if I’ve read their books.

As you can see from the comments and love, my students and I would highly recommend a yearly schoolwide author visit and specifically Christina for a school visit!

Signature

Author Guest Post: “Five Lesser Known Figures from Greek Mythology” by Shana Targosz, Author of Relic of Thieves

by
Share

“Five Lesser-known Figures from Greek Mythology”

When we think of Greek mythology, the gods and goddesses that most likely come to mind are the famous twelve Olympians who rule from Mount Olympus: Zeus, Hera, Poseidon, Athena, Ares, Aphrodite, Dionysus, Hephestus, Demeter, Hermes, Artemis, and Apollo. But there are hundreds of other gods and immortals who are given small parts to play in the more celebrated myths and epic tales. Many of these figures from myth are no less important and have unique divine powers of their own—and some are even more powerful than the Olympians. These lesser-known figures from mythology can be sources of inspiration to craft deeper, richer stories for mythology-loving readers.

Here are some lesser-known gods and immortals with fascinating stories of their own:

Thanatos – the god of death
You may have heard of Hades, the god of the Underworld, but have you heard of the actual god of death, Thanatos? Thanatos is mentioned occasionally in myths and is seen briefly in The Iliad. Thanatos is the child of Nyx and twin to Hypnos, the god of sleep. In fact, Thanatos’s power was to bring a gentle death to mortals, much like the deep sleep Hypnos’s touch would bring. Perhaps the most intriguing myth Thanatos appears in is not about the origins of the god of death, but of the Corinthian king, Sisyphus. Sisyphus was a mortal man who escaped death not once, but twice. The first was when Sisyphus locked the god of death up in chains so Thanatos could not send Sisyphus to the Underworld. Thanatos remained imprisoned by Sisyphus for several days. Eventually, the other gods took notice that mortals were not completing their life cycle as expected. It was Ares, the god of war, who figured out the reason and set Thanatos free. The second time Sisyphus escaped death, he convinced Persephone that he was taken by mistake and the queen of the Underworld released him. Hades was not pleased. To punish Sisyphus, Hades sent him to Tartarus, where he was condemned to roll a boulder up a hill every day only for it to roll down to the bottom each time. As for Thanatos, the god of death learned to not trust mortals, and was never bound again.

Thanatos’s role in the Greek pantheon is to represent the gentle end of a life cycle, rather than a distraught one. Perhaps this is why Thanatos was not given a larger role in the epics and features mainly in Orphic hymns and even in Aesop’s fables. A god who respects the precious cycle of life is an interesting character to explore.

Nyx – goddess of the night

Nyx is one of the primordial gods who came to be during the dawn of creation. Nyx was a goddess even before the Titans and the Olympians appeared. Nyx symbolized the night, specifically the substance that obscured the light and brought forth the darkness. It was believed that her chariot crossed the sky at dusk, and Nyx pulled the veil across the world that would turn day into night, the stars following in her wake. Even Zeus was in awe of Nyx and went to lengths to appease her. In classic texts, Nyx is mentioned as the parent to many other immortals, such as the Erinyes (the Furies), the Morai (the Fates), and the Oneiroi (gods of dreams). She is also the mother of twins Hypnos (the god of sleep) and Thanatos (the god of death). In the Iliad, Nyxis is mentioned by her son, Hypnos, when he recounts the time that Zeus was furious with him. The only reason Hypnos escaped was because he ran to Nyx for protection. Zeus did not want to anger the goddess, and so left Hypnos unharmed. I am in awe of Nyx, myself! This primordial goddess has ties to some of the most intriguing figures from mythology and seems to hold an awe-striking power over the Olympians. They are right to revere her!

Hecate – goddess of crossroads, magic, ghosts, and the moon

Hecate is the goddess of many things, often appearing as a triple-bodied or three-headed deity who carries a torch. As the goddess of crossroads and magic, Hecate is the holder of keys that can unlock the gates between realms—even the realm of the dead. In the famous myth of Hades and Persephone, Hecate was called by Demeter to aid in the search for her abducted daughter. At first, Hecate could not find Persephone, even with her divine torch and her magical keys. When Persephone was finally found, it was too late—she had become bound to the Underworld and had to remain there for six months out of the year. Later, after Persephone was crowned the queen of the Underworld alongside Hades, Hecate became the one who guided Persephone from the realm of the dead back to the above realms, when it was time for her to return to her mother’s side at Mount Olympus. Persephone’s journey from the Underworld to Mount Olympus coincides with the spring and her return signifies the time when flowers, trees, and crops begin to bloom once more. And in the myths, Hecate is always there to make that journey alongside her. With her influence over crossroads, magic, ghosts, and the moon, there is so much to love about Hecate!

The Erinyes

The Erinyes were three fearsome goddesses of vengeance and retribution who punished mortals for crimes they committed. You may be more familiar with their Roman counterparts, the Furies. In early myths, the Erinyes were originally the personification of curses called down upon those guilty of crimes. It wasn’t until later that the Erinyes were given physical forms. Their names are Tisiphone, Alecto, and Megaera; women with wings who carry poisonous serpents wound around their wrists and woven through their hair. They were known to hunt criminals and bring them to justice. Even invoking their names was believed to lay a curse upon the wicked. The Erinyes brought misery and misfortune to those found guilty of crimes, anything from disobeying parents to the more serious crimes of harming others. They appear in many Greek and Roman classic texts and were both revered and feared by all.

The Erinyes were fascinating goddesses whose task it was to punish first and ask questions later. Because of this, the Erinyes were ideal figures from mythology to include in Relic of Thieves—their singular focus to hunt down law-breakers made them the perfect antagonists for the story.

Charon – the Ferryman of the Underworld

Unlike the others on this list, Charon is not a god at all. Rather, he is an immortal daimon, or spirit of the Underworld in service to Hades. Charon’s only task is to ferry the dead across the river and into Hades’ domain. Charon is featured in some myths, such as the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, often appearing as an old man who will not take a passenger unless they can pay for the crossing. If the person arrives without payment, they are forced to wander the shore for a hundred years without rest, doomed to haunt the world as a ghost. Charon’s role in mythology is to be a psychopomp, a spirit who guides the dead, forever bound to the river that divides the realm of the living from the Underworld. Charon has always been a source of intrigue and inspiration for me. I would often wonder about this immortal of the Underworld. Did he ever have time off from his duties? What did he do with all of the payments he received from the dead? Mostly, though, I wondered if he ever got lonely.

All of the gods and immortals I’ve mentioned make appearances in The Underwild series and have pivotal roles in the story. Charon is the guardian of Senka, the main character of River of Spirits, and Senka is undergoing training as the young apprentice ferryer of the Underworld. Hecate visits the Underworld often and becomes a key figure in both of the Underwild books. In Relic of Thieves, Hecate’s magical keys are the relics Anya, the main character, “borrows” to reunite with her best friend who moved away. And the Erinyes (named the Furies in my book) do indeed hunt Anya down for breaking a pivotal law of the gods. These fascinating figures from mythology all have unique abilities, and they either help or hinder Senka and Anya on their journeys through the realms of myth. Now that you know a little more about these lesser-known gods and immortals and the powers they wield, what new stories would you create with them?

Publishing March 24th, 2026 by Aladdin

About the Book: An ordinary girl’s longing to return to the way things were sets off a chain of events that lands her and her best friend in the Underwild in this second book in the New York Times bestselling middle grade fantasy series The Underwild—perfect for fans of Greenwild and Rick Riordan.

The best ways Anya knows how to cope with the struggles life throws her way is to keep her head down, stay invisible, and stick close to her best friend, Lizzie. Lizzie has been Anya’s rock since second grade. Together, they pretend the world away. But when Lizzie moves out of state, Anya is left adrift and desperately lonely.

One day, Anya follows a strange girl home from school and is shocked to see her go into the home of the woman who everyone in town swears is a witch. As Anya spies on the pair, she realizes the woman really does have magic—including a set of magical keys that can deliver you anywhere you want to go…keys that could reunite Anya with Lizzie. Anya has seen all she needs to; as soon as she has the chance, she steals the keys.

But magic always has a price. The keys do bring Anya to Lizzie, but then the girls are transported to the dark and chaotic world of the Underwild. Before long, Lizzie is snatched away by a terrible creature! Now wracked with guilt and paralyzed by fear, Anya has no choice but to trust the girl from school, Senka, when she unexpectedly shows up and offers to help. But can Anya find the bravery locked away deep inside herself in time to rescue her friend?

About the Author: Shana Targosz writes about magical girls, budding friendships, ghosts who may or may not be friendly, and fiercely held hope. She is an Oregon Literary Fellow and the 2021 recipient of the Edna L. Holmes Fellowship in Young Readers Literature. Shana is the author of The Underwild series, the first book of which was an instant New York Times bestseller. When not writing or reading through a stack of books, she spends her time playing Zelda with her son, designing solo journaling games, walking her domesticated monster disguised as a Labradoodle, and dreaming up different worlds.

Thank you, Shana, for writing this interesting article about one of my (and students’) favorite subjects!

Author Guest Post: “What Post-Apocalyptic Fiction Can Teach Us about Humanity, Resilience, and Critical Thinking” by Magda Mizzi, Author of Tyranny of Tomorrow and Dawn in Ruins

by
Share

“What Post-Apocalyptic Fiction Can Teach Us About Humanity, Resilience, and Critical Thinking”

Post-apocalyptic fiction often gets dismissed as “just survival stories,” but in fact, stories like The Tyranny
of Tomorrow and Dawn in Ruins offer rich opportunities for deep classroom discussion and learning.
Whether students are in middle school, high school, or a reading group, these narratives invite readers
to explore crucial skills: ethical thinking, empathy, resilience, and critical analysis.

1. Exploring What It Means to Be Human

At the heart of these novels is the question: What does it mean to be human when the structures of
society fall apart? In the ruins of Sydney, young protagonists must make choices that test their values
and force them to consider the humanity in themselves and others — even when “others” are different or
damaged.

In the classroom, teachers can use post-apocalyptic scenes as prompts for discussions or essays on
compassion, judgment, and identity:
● When is survival instinct, and when is it moral compromise?
● How do characters define who is worthy of help?

These questions help students connect literature to empathy and ethical reasoning.

2. Resilience as a Skill, Not Just a Theme

Resilience isn’t something characters just “have.” It’s something they develop particularly through loss,
failure, connection, and re-engagement with their world. Students read about how Madeline in The
Tyranny of Tomorrow pushes through grief and fear to protect those she loves — and they see resilience
modeled in action.

Classroom activity idea: Resilience Journals

After reading a chapter, students write about a time they faced difficulty and identify the traits that helped
them persevere. This connects the text to students’ own lives, encouraging self-reflection and growth.

3. Critical Thinking Through World-Building Analysis

Post-apocalyptic worlds require readers to question “Why this world?” and “What caused this collapse?”
In Dawn in Ruins, the mystery of the virus and its effects on characters like Jude pushes readers to think
beyond plot into cause/effect, systems, and unintended consequences.

Teachers can ask:
● How does the author build tension through setting?
● What real-world issues echo in the fictional collapse?

This develops analytical skills crucial for literature and other subjects like science or social studies.

4. Empathy Through Others’ Perspectives

Stories about survival inevitably involve diverse types of people reacting in different ways. Through
character comparisons and point-of-view exercises students can deepen their empathy and
understanding of motivation.

Classroom discussion prompt:
How might you respond differently than Annie, Jude, or Michael in a crisis? What does your answer reveal about your values?

Post-apocalyptic fiction isn’t just about the end of the world; it’s about the survival of ideas, hope, and
connection. When teachers bring texts like The Tyranny of Tomorrow and Dawn in Ruins into their
curriculum, they give students a space to consider ethics, resilience, and critical thinking in a way that is
both imaginative and deeply relevant to real life.

About the Book: In the heart of Sydney’s Western Suburbs, a devastating virus has unleashed a wave of unprecedented violence, leaving the town in chaos.

As the government struggles to regain control, the contagion spreads with alarming speed, triggering a global crisis. Amid the turmoil, Madeline, a quiet teenage girl, and Michael, the boy who captures her heart, are unexpectedly thrust together.

Now they must navigate the treacherous landscape, racing against time to secure a safe haven for their families and friends. Faced with the relentless onslaught of the virus, they’ll have to rely on their wits, courage, and the unbreakable bonds they forge in this high-stakes race for survival. `

The Tyranny of Tomorrow’ is a fast-paced and thrilling first instalment in a gripping series that explores the resilience of youth, the imposition of responsibility and the meaning of humanity in the face of an unravelling world.

About the Book: The world ended in silence. The fight for what’s left will not.

Ten months after the collapse, teenager Annie’s world has shattered, and with it, everything she once believed about monsters. They don’t always lurk in shadows. Sometimes they wear uniforms. Sometimes they wear the faces of those you love.

In the ruins of Sydney, Annie finds an unlikely ally in Jude—a half-infected boy marked by virus and twisted science. His strange, dangerous abilities make him both a threat and their best hope. But the line between abomination and saviour is thinner than either imagined.

Haunted by what was done to him, Jude carries scars deeper than flesh. Meanwhile, Annie’s younger brother, Lucas, remains a prisoner, infected and altered. If she doesn’t reach him soon, Lucas will face the same fate that nearly destroyed Jude—experiments that don’t just scar flesh but twist what it means to be human.

As secrets unravel and the origin of the virus comes to light, Jude learns a devastating truth: his connection to the outbreak is deeper, darker, and far more personal than he ever imagined.

Together, Annie and Jude race through a city where every shadow hides a threat. When they are torn apart, survival becomes more than a mission—it becomes a promise: to endure, to protect, and to bring each other back from whatever hell awaits.

From the shattered edges of the Fractured Reality universe comes a story of desperate hope and fierce loyalty—because in a world this ruined, some things are lost forever. But some are worth risking everything to save.

About the Author: .Magda Mizzi spins tales of shattered worlds and fierce survivors. A lifelong fan of post-apocalyptic fiction, she sets her stories in the haunting beauty of Western Sydney’s riverbanks and the rugged Blue Mountains—landscapes she grew up exploring.

When she’s not teaching English or encouraging young writers, she’s crafting her next dystopian twist.

Thank you, Magda, for this insight into how post-apocalyptic stories can help lead our students to critical thinking!

Q&A with Nadine Presley, Author of A Ramadan Night

by
Share

A Ramadan Night
Author: Nadine Presley
Illustrator: Asma Enayeh
Published

Summary: Celebrate the beginning of Ramadan with a young boy and his father in this nighttime sensory picture book that celebrates the wonder, excitement, and peace of the holiday!

The call for prayer hugs tight the sky of Damascus on the first night of Ramadan. As steps flutter to fill spaces in mosques, Sami sets out on a nighttime walk with Baba to answer his what does a Ramadan night feel like?

Through an evening full of sounds and sights and scents, Sami feels the celebration of community. He feels the connection and calm of prayer. He feels the delight of a late-night dessert. He feels the joy of generosity.

He feels…a Ramadan night.

I am so excited to share this Q&A with author Nadine Presley: 

  1. What inspired you to write A Ramadan Night, and what parts of Ramadan were most important for you to include?

I knew I wanted to write a Ramadan book, and I knew I wanted it to capture the wonder, excitement, spirituality, and anticipation that fill the month, especially through a child’s perspective. To begin, I asked children what their favorite part of Ramadan was. Many said the food, which is completely fair, but most of them said the nights. I immediately responded, “Me too.” That was the spark. That was where the story truly began.

I drew deeply from my own childhood memories of growing up in Damascus. I remember walking to the mosque each evening with my prayer rug in hand, noticing the families filling the streets, the way the moon seemed to follow us overhead, the echoes of salaam greeting us at the door. I remember the stillness of prayer, whispering du‘a in sujud, and the quiet sense of accomplishment afterward, especially knowing that something sweet was waiting at home. Those nights felt expansive and intimate all at once, and they have stayed with me.

It was important for me to show that while Ramadan is often understood simply as a month of fasting, it is truly layered and multidimensional. Fasting is central, of course, but Ramadan is also about community, connection, spirituality, prayer, generosity, shared meals, reading Qur’an, and the small childhood joys like staying up past your bedtime. It was important to me to portray Ramadan as an immersive experience, centre atmosphere and emotion rather than explanation, allowing readers not just to learn about Ramadan, but to feel it.

  1. What do you hope students take away from this story?

I hope students come away understanding that traditions, whether their own or someone else’s, are meaningful and worth celebrating.

For Muslim children, I hope the book feels like a warm reflection of their lived experiences. I hope they see their nights, their mosques, their Baba, their desserts, and their joy represented with care and authenticity.

For non-Muslim readers, I hope the story sparks curiosity and empathy. I hope it expands their understanding of Ramadan beyond fasting and invites them into its beauty through connection rather than explanation.

  1. What do you hope young readers feel when they finish the book?

I hope they feel wonder.

I hope they feel the quiet magic of nighttime, the comfort of walking beside someone you love, and the warmth of belonging to something bigger than yourself.

For some children, I hope the book feels familiar, like looking into a mirror. For others, I hope it feels like a window, opening into a new and beautiful experience.

Most of all, I hope they feel warmth.

  1. What was your collaboration process like with your illustrator?

Picture books are such intimate collaborations, and it was incredibly moving to watch the story come to life visually.

One of the most special aspects of this collaboration was something we didn’t even plan. The mosque I had in mind while writing was the Mosque of Badr in Damascus, one of my favorite mosques that I used to go to as a child. Without us ever discussing it, Asma chose to feature that same mosque in the book. When I saw the illustrations, it stopped me in my tracks. It felt like such a tender and beautiful coincidence, almost as if memory itself had guided us both to the same place.

I also love the care given to the details, the architectural elements, the mosaic dome, the warmth of the family’s expressions, the way Syria feels present in the atmosphere of the scenes. And Sami’s little slippers with socks, that detail makes me smile every time. The slippers are such a familiar Syrian masjid look, and it captures the specificity and charm of childhood so perfectly.

The illustrations didn’t simply accompany the text, they expanded it. They added texture, depth, and visual emotion in ways that made the story feel even more lived-in and real.

All in all, it was a truly wonderful experience working with Asma Enayeh, and I am so grateful that our editor, Celia Lee, created what felt like the perfect match.

  1. What does authentic representation mean to you in the context of this book?

Authentic representation, to me, begins with emotional truth and cultural specificity. It lives in the small details, the spirituality woven naturally into the night, the rhythm of footsteps on the way to prayer, the way families exchange salaam, the softness and stillness of sujud, the use of familiar and unapologetic terminology.

It was especially important to me to portray an Arab Muslim Baba in a way that feels warm, loving, and proud. Too often in literature, Arab fathers are reduced to stereotypes or positioned at a distance. I wanted this Baba to reflect the fathers I know, engaged, affectionate, spiritually grounded, playful, and fully present in their child’s world. A father who walks beside his child, guides him gently, and shares in the wonder of the night.

Authenticity also meant resisting the urge to over explain. I didn’t want the story to feel like a lesson about Ramadan. I wanted it to feel like Ramadan. By centring atmosphere, emotion, and lived experience, the book becomes immersive rather than instructional.

Muslim children deserve to see their lives reflected with dignity, beauty, and nuance. And non-Muslim readers deserve the opportunity to step into that world through story, through curiosity, connection, and shared humanity rather than simplification.

  1. If teachers or librarians wanted to use A Ramadan Night in their classrooms or libraries, what conversations or activities would pair well with it?

I would love for A Ramadan Night to be used as a doorway into conversation, creativity, and connection. Because the story is written as a sensory experience, one natural extension is inviting students to reflect on a special night in their own lives. Teachers might encourage them to write using the five senses. What did the air feel like? What sounds filled the space? What smells or tastes stand out in their memory? This helps children see how everyday moments can become meaningful stories.

The book can also open rich discussions about family traditions and community. Students can share celebrations or rituals that are important in their homes, whether religious or cultural, and notice the common threads that often run through them such as togetherness, gratitude, generosity, connection, and joy. These conversations help children see both the uniqueness and universality of traditions.

Because the story unfolds at night, educators might also explore how nighttime shapes mood in storytelling. What makes staying up late feel magical? How does darkness heighten our senses or make familiar places feel different? This can lead to thoughtful conversations about setting and atmosphere in literature.

Ramadan is also a month centred on generosity and care for others. Classrooms or libraries might extend the themes of the book into a small act of service, such as writing thank-you notes, organizing a donation drive, or brainstorming ways to practice kindness in everyday life. This helps students see that the values in the story are not abstract, but lived.

Finally, I hope the book creates space to talk about representation, why it matters to see yourself reflected in stories, and why it is equally important to read about experiences that may be different from your own. Those conversations build empathy, curiosity, and respect.

Ultimately, I hope A Ramadan Night creates room for wonder, connection, and meaningful dialogue in classrooms, libraries, and homes alike.

About the Author: Nadine Presley is a Syrian Canadian author who loves everything about Ramadan. Her earliest memories of Ramadan go back to her days in Damascus, where she joyfully awaited the month to begin. She now resides in Canada with her husband and three boys, working as a literacy educator. Passionate about anti-racism work and promoting pride in Arab Muslim heritage, she is also a speaker for children, youth, and adults. Her favorite things in the world are big hugs, kind words, and delicious Syrian food—especially during Ramadan.

Thank you to Nadine for this fantastic Q&A and to Simon & Schuster for settig it up!

Signature

Author Guest Post: “Teaching Activities Related to James Baldwin’s Extraordinary Life” by Michelle Meadows, Author of Jimmy’s Rhythm & Blues

by
Share

“Teaching Activities Related to James Baldwin’s Extraordinary Life”

James Baldwin wrote more than 20 works of fiction and nonfiction, including essays, plays, short stories, poems, and novels. Before he became a legendary writer and civil rights activist, he was a young boy from Harlem who loved books and the library. His friends and family called him Jimmy.

Here are five ways to inspire students to learn from James Baldwin’s phenomenal life and boost their self-awareness at the same time. These activities can be used as discussion points or writing exercises.

Set Goals

From a young age, Jimmy knew he wanted to be a writer. He devoured books, loved the rhythm of words, and felt that writing soothed him. One day, he shared his deepest dream with his mother: “I’m going to be a great writer when I grow up.”

Activity # 1: After reading the book JIMMY’S RHYTHM & BLUES: The Extraordinary Life of James Baldwin, students will enjoy picking out various moments that show Baldwin’s interest in writing. Explain to kids that they don’t have to know all their goals now, but that it’s wonderful to set goals related to activities you enjoy. Invite students to address: What are your goals right now? What are you doing to achieve them?

Celebrate Supporters

Jimmy’s teachers noticed he had a gift for weaving words together like musical notes of a song. This book highlights his most significant supporters, including a theater teacher named Orilla Winfield. Her nickname was Bill. Bill encouraged Jimmy’s interest in the arts by taking him to museums, movies, and plays outside of school.

Activity #2: Ask students to identify Jimmy’s main supporters and the nature of their support. Then ask them: Who are the supporters in your life? How do they show you support? How do you thank them for supporting you?

Face Challenges

While Jimmy found joy in the rhythm of music, family, and books, he also found the blues, as a Black man dealing with discrimination and oppression in America. After he moved to Europe and no matter where he lived, he always cared deeply about the struggles of Black people back home. He took action by taking a tour of the Southern states in the U.S. He marched, protested, and wrote and spoke eloquently about the fight for freedom.  Jimmy energized people of all ages and races to open their minds to new ways of thinking.

Activity #3: After inviting students to identify Jimmy’s challenges, ask students: What challenges have you experienced in your life? What actions did you or will you take to face those challenges?

Express Yourself

When Jimmy discovered the written word, he discovered true power. Writing gave him a voice and a channel to express himself. Jimmy also appreciated many types of artistic expression. He loved to sing and dance; music was an important part of his life. He was also interested in the colors of clothing, nature, and paintings. Hence the choice to tell his life story through the lens of a variety of colors. For example, one excerpt:

Writing is electric blue,
bright, brilliant swirls
of letters and words
flying, flipping,
flowing to the beat.

Activity #4: Explain to students that there are so many ways they can express themselves. Invite them to brainstorm: What are your favorite ways to express yourself? What colors do you connect with your different feelings and moods?

Writing Jimmy’s Rhythm & Blues: The Extraordinary Life of James Baldwin was one of the most exciting projects of my life. From the publication of his groundbreaking collection of essays The Fire Next Time to his passionate demonstrations during the civil rights movement, Jimmy used his voice fearlessly. My hope: One day every student will know the name James Baldwin – one of America’s greatest writers and intellectuals.

Published January 30th, 2024 by HarperCollins

About the Book: Celebrate James Baldwin’s one-hundredth birthday anniversary with the first-ever illustrated biography of this legendary writer, orator, activist, and intellectual.

Before he became a writer, James “Jimmy” Baldwin was a young boy from Harlem, New York, who loved stories. He found joy in the rhythm of music, family, and books.

But Jimmy also found the blues, as a Black man living in America.

When he discovered the written word, he discovered true power. Writing gave him a voice. And that voice opened the world to Jimmy. From the publication of the groundbreaking collection of essays The Fire Next Time to his passionate demonstrations during the civil rights movement, Jimmy used his voice fearlessly.

Michelle Meadows, author of Brave Ballerina and Flying High, introduces young readers to the great American novelist, essayist, poet, playwright, orator, and artist James Baldwin, who, with the fire of his pen, dared a nation to dream of a more equitable world filled with love. Brought to life with warm illustrations by Jamiel Law, Jimmy’s Rhythm & Blues chronicles the life of an incredible visionary who left an indelible mark on American literature and history.

About the Author: Michelle Meadows is the author of many acclaimed books for children. She loves dreaming up new projects and telling stories with heart. Some of her books include Flying High: The Story of Gymnastics Champion Simone Biles and Brave Ballerina: The Story of Janet Collins. Michelle also contributed to Black Ballerinas: My Journey to Our Legacy by Misty Copeland. With a passion for storytelling, Michelle graduated from Syracuse University with a dual degree in journalism and literature. Michelle grew up in Washington, DC, and now lives near the beach in Delaware with her husband. Visit Michelle at michellemeadows.com.

Thank you, Michelle, for this deep dive into Jimmy’s Rhythm & Blues and James Baldwin’s life!

Author’s Guest Post: “Teaching Dual Perspectives Through Adventure Stories”by Sarah Branson, Author of For the Love of Glitter & A Pirates’ Pact

by
Share

“Teaching Dual Perspectives Through Adventure Stories”

One of the quiet joys of writing for middle-grade readers is witnessing how fully they step into a story. Young readers don’t hover at the edges—they immerse themselves. They imagine what they would do, what choices they might make, and how differently those choices might turn out.

This becomes especially powerful when a story offers more than one perspective.

In my middle-grade novel, A Pirates’ Pact, twin brothers Kik and Mac navigate challenges that stretch them—sometimes together, sometimes apart. Although the story is written in close third person, readers are given a front-row seat to how differently each boy interprets the same moment. Kik tends to observe, reflect, and question, while Mac leaps, tests boundaries, and charges ahead. Their contrasting instincts reveal not only who they are as individuals, but how perspective shapes story.

For teachers and librarians, this contrast is an opportunity: dual perspectives naturally spark conversations about point of view, empathy, voice, and character motivation.

Why Teach Dual Perspectives?

It deepens empathy.

Students begin to understand that even people who care deeply for one another experience the world differently. This opens doors to discussions about intention, impact, and the many ways identity shapes perception.

It strengthens comprehension.

Comparing two interpretations of the same event helps students practice inference, identify bias, and attend to textual clues—skills essential as they progress toward more complex texts.

It supports writing craft.

Once students see how worldview shapes voice, they begin to use it intentionally in their own writing. They hear the difference in pacing, tone, and vocabulary when they slip into another character’s skin.

Mini-Lesson: How Would the Other Character Tell This Scene?

Choose a short, high-tension moment from A Pirates’ Pact—for example, when the boys break a treasured family heirloom and uncover a hidden piece of a map.

After reading together, ask students:

  • What does Kik believe just happened?
  • How does Mac interpret it?
  • What assumptions does each brother make about the other?

Then invite students to rewrite the scene from the other brother’s perspective.

As they write, students quickly discover:

  • how word choice shifts with personality,
  • how pacing reflects impulsiveness or caution,
  • how emotional tone changes the entire moment.

This often opens into a personal reflection:
How do you see events differently from your siblings, friends, or classmates—and what value lives in those differences?

Classroom Project: Two Voices, One Story

Have students write a short narrative (1–2 pages) from two viewpoints—siblings, teammates, rivals, or even two sides of the same protagonist (the brave self vs. the uncertain self).

Encourage them to explore:

  • what each voice wants,
  • what each misunderstands,
  • how the conflict shifts when both perspectives matter.

This project helps reluctant writers focus not on inventing an entire story, but on exploring interpretation. The heart of the work lies in how each character experiences the moment.

Why Adventure Stories Enhance Perspective Work

Adventure applies pressure—and pressure reveals character.

When students watch two characters navigate the same storm, literal or metaphorical, they begin to understand that perspective is not an ornament; it is the engine of story. Kik and Mac model how two people can move through the same world and come away with entirely different truths.

This is fertile ground for literacy learning, SEL conversations, and writing craft exploration.

Classroom Connections

A Pirates’ Pact can be used to support discussions about sibling dynamics and interpretation, point-of-view analysis, comparing character motivations, writing voice exploration, empathy, and social–emotional learning. It also pairs well with books like Wonder (multiple perspectives & empathy), Because of Mr. Terupt (group POV), and The View From Saturday (interwoven voices).

Final Thoughts

Stories give students a safe place to practice perspective—one of the most essential skills they will ever learn. Over and over, young readers tell me how much they love slipping between Kik and Mac’s viewpoints, and how those shifts help them better understand their own lives.

If you bring A Pirates’ Pact into your classroom or library—or if you’d like discussion guides or additional activities—I’m always happy to share. I hope your readers find their own unexpected connections as they explore these two voices, one story.

Published February 20, 2024 by Sooner Started Press

About the Book: Two brothers, a hidden secret, and an adventure of a lifetime.

On the pirate island of Bosch, almost eleven-year-old twins Kik and Mac are facing a storm of changes. With a father from Edo and a Bosch mother, the brothers navigate the challenges of identity, friendship, and family in their own unique ways.

Mac, daring and mischievous, finds himself in a whirlwind of trouble as he strives to impress new friends. Meanwhile, Kik, quiet and observant, grapples with his heritage and a heartfelt secret he’s not ready to share.

When a ball thrown in anger fractures a family heirloom, a hidden piece of a pirate treasure map emerges, setting them on a quest that will shake up their relationship and reshape their understanding of family.

A Pirates’ Pact is a tale of friendship, self-discovery, and the enduring strength of family ties. Will Kik’s and Mac’s pact withstand the challenges ahead? Embark on this middle grade adventure where bonds are forged, secrets are unveiled, and treasures go beyond gold and jewels.

Published September 29, 2025 by Sooner Started Press

About the Book: A rebellious heart. A tempestuous romance. A plot that could bring down a nation. In Bosch, loyalty isn’t just earned—it’s tested.

Grey Shima has her future all planned graduate, enlist, and follow in the footsteps of her fearless mother, Master Commander Kat Wallace. But when Grey meets the magnetic and passionate Edmund Sinclair, her world tilts.

He’s not just another boy with good hair and dangerous ideas—he’s a revolutionary, dead set on exposing the ugly truth behind the glittering power that fuels Bosch. Caught between love and legacy, Grey finds herself questioning her training, her purpose, and her heart.

But she’s not alone. Sy Mercer, Grey’s best friend, has stood by her side throughout her childhood. Smart, steady, and secretly in love with her, Sy sees the danger Grey can’t—or won’t—acknowledge. As Grey spirals deeper into a movement that may not be what it seems, Sy must confront his own fears and decide how far he’s willing to go to protect her… even if it means losing her.

Because love, like revolution, is rarely without sacrifice.

In a postapocalyptic world rebuilding from ruin, For the Love of Glitter is a YA speculative romance about betrayal, resistance, and finding your true north—even when everything else is falling apart.

About the Author: Award-winning author Sarah Branson was a midwife for close to thirty years, helping families welcome their little ones into their arms in the hospital, at a birth center, and at home. Now she writes feminist speculative fiction with plenty of action, adventure, revenge, and romance. Her stories are firmly rooted in the strength and resiliency of the human spirit.

Sarah first started conjuring stories of pirates when her family hopped a freighter to Australia when she was seven. As a child and as an adult, she traveled extensively across the US and the globe. Her children grew up in Northern Michigan, swimming in Sturgeon Bay and Little Traverse Bay. Over the years, she has worked as a receptionist, retail clerk, writing tutor, business owner, and certified nurse midwife. She also taught science and history to middle school and high school students in the U.S., Brazil, and Japan. Through these myriad experiences, Sarah developed a deep appreciation for people’s strength and endurance.

Her debut novel, A Merry Life, has been honored as the 2022 Connecticut Adult Fiction winner by the Indie Author Project, and was the 2022 Kindle Book Award winner for science fiction and was named a 2022 Book of the Year finalist in the action/adventure and science fiction categories by the Independent Author Network. It is the first book in the four-book new adult series Pirates of New Earth. The second book in the series, Navigating the Storm was a finalist for The Eric Hoffer Award. The series was followed by a young adult spin-off, Unfurling the Sails, a finalist for the 2023 Foreword Indies Award and for the 2024 Independent Author Network in both action/adventure and young adult categories. In 2024, A Pirates’ Pact, her first middle-grade book, was released and garnered a Best Book Cover Page Turner Award. A stand-alone novel North Country, A Kat Wallace Adventure, was released in January 2025. Her latest book For the Love of Glitter was released in September 2025.

Readers can connect with Sarah Branson on Facebook, Instagram, and Goodreads.

To learn more, visit SarahBranson.com

Thank you, Sarah, for this lesson!

Student Voices: Mark Oshiro’s Visit to Kellee’s Middle School

by
Share

This year, in addition to our yearly author visit that we’ll have in February (2026: Christina Diaz Gonzalez, 2025: George O’Connor, 2024: Jerry Craft, 2023: Christina Diaz Gonzalez, 2022: Nathan Hale, 2020: Neal Shusterman, 2019: Jennifer A. Nielsen), a colleague and I were lucky enough to win an auction for a full day visit from Mark Oshiro!

 

Mark spoke to students about being an author, writing for the Percy Jackson universe, hints and tricks for writing better dialogue, and hosted a Q&A session. Students in one presentation were even given a sneak peek of an upcoming novel!

Here are some reflections from my students after the visit.

How did the author visit impact you as a student & what was your biggest educational takeaway?

  • The visit motivated and inspired me to put my mind to my goals, because I got to see Mark as a kid wanting to be an author, and being a New York Times bestselling author.
  • It impacted me as a student by allowing me to get introduced into a new type of writing style and allow me to learn more aspects to the book writing process.
  • It made me want to go for my dreams.
  • It made feel confident about reading.
  • I learned more about writing that I didn’t know before.
  • Being able to meet and talk to someone as famous (and has worked with famous authors like Rick Riordan) one on one and learn from them as to what they do to be successful.
  • it made me realize how long it takes to write books and also two people can make a book together and how they make the book
  • I just feel as though I learned a lot and they were informative and helpful to me as a younger kid (like 8) who all I wanted to be was an author.
  • I think the author visit impacted me by teaching me there are always more options and it’s never to late to change and do your passion
  • I learned that if I chose to write or do anything in life you can’t just always blindly follow the rules and it’s important to always push boundaries
  • That it doesn’t matter where you start as long as you start somewhere.
  • what ever you dream is do it like when mark wrote a book when he was 11 and he is still writing books
  • Being able to learn how to properly make characters talk and also a lot of writing tips.
  • Everyone writes differently and there’s no specific set of rules
  • That it is ok to write about anything that represents you.
  • That writing a book is a long process and you can’t just sit down and write a good book in a day.

Why was this visit important? Why is it important and powerful to have an author visit our school?

  • For kids who may want to be authors to get inspiration.
  • The visit was important because because it can motivate kids dreams and a really fun thing to do. Overall, that day really made my month.
  • i personally think it is interesting to meet authors and hear about the reasons why they do what they do, and i often end up reading many more of their books after the visit
  • This visit was important because it helps to teach kids that things about being an author. Its powerful to have an author visit our school because it can help inspire kids that are doubting their talents and their ability to pursue a career in it. Seeing the perspective of someone who had a childhood dream to be an author, and ended up being successful gives students motivation and hope for their futures.
  • This visit was important because it allowed us to hear the background behind their stories. It’s important to have an author visit our school because it gives us that educational experience you wouldn’t normally get in class plus it comes with a long lasting memory.
  • It’s important because many students get inspired by authors and it gives students an understanding about the author’s books. Author visits encourage and influence kids.
  • It was important for inspiration and was also important for the author promote their book.
  • It was important to me because it can help make people feel better when their writing about something.
  • This visit was important because it allows us to learn about different perspectives and about things that we may have not heard of before. Having author visits at our school can be powerful because it could maybe allow someone to find out that they want to write or be an author.
  • To be able to hopefully inspire the kids to continue to read and write their way through life.
  • This visit was important because learning more about writing and being an author can inspire other kids to peruse with their older. It is very powerful to have an author visit our school because it inspires and it’s fun and different from every other day in the school year. I am so happy that our school does this!
  • Because it makes us understand why books are still important and because its so fun to be with a famous author and getting to know them.
  • it is a rare occasion and a great gift for authors to come to our school and trach us some stuff about writing books.
  • It is important to have an author visit because it encourages kids to learn about new authors they may like and encourages reading. It also is good for the author because they can possibly get good feedback from their own readers, especially younger people. I think it is important to have a STRONG author too, because then kids don’t get bored as easily, and it is more fun and exciting to come see this author, especially if they write books that are more common for middle schoolers to read, ex: Mark Oshiro.
  • I think the reason author visits are important because it shows that you have more options in life then you think and you don’t always have to go work an office job and it shows us that with hard work you can make your dreams come true.

What was your favorite part of the visit?

  • The Q & A part because Mark interacted with us in a way that was very nice!
  • My favorite part was when they talked about how they, with Rick Riordan, ended up writing the Nico series together.
  • Being able to see an authors perspective in general, and when they read us a part of new book that’s not published yet.
  • Mark was really funny.
  • I love being able to get to talk and get to know someone who has worked with someone as well known as Rick Riordan and also get a sneak peek into what secret projects their working on.
  • My favorite part was learning interesting facts about Mark because they are a cool and funny person.
  • Hearing Mark Oshiro talk about their experiences.

How did you like the visit overall?

  • Honestly I thought it was really fun and I had such a good time with my friends and listening to Mark Oshiro talk
  • I enjoyed it a lot and they were funny and relatable in some ways
  • i loved it, i learned a lot about Greek mythology and Percy Jackson. I loved Mark’s energy and the way they interacted.
  • It was really fun and I’m so grateful that I got to meet Mark Oshiro and get my book signed.
  • I really liked the visit it was very fun and interesting.
  • IT WAS AMAZINGG
  • I LOVED it! They were such a kind and relatable person.
  • I really liked the visit I think this is my favorite author visit I’ve been to.

As you can see from the comments and love, my students and I would highly recommend Mark for a school visit!

Signature