Converse Middle School

Palmer, Massachusetts

Hello Yellow & Orange, Red & Purple, Blue & Green Teams!

When I visited you, I spoke to you about writing and research. I told you how I got started as a writer, way back in fifth grade, when teachers didn't know much about teaching writing in elementary school and when I had an encounter with some strange tracks in the snow. I explained where most of my ideas come from (my childhood) and how I do my research for nonfiction books like How to Make a Mummy Talk and Bodies from the Bog. Finally, I talked about writing fiction and read you part of the first chapter (a very spooky part) of The Very Real Ghost Book of Christina Rose. 

After school, I had a very special session with the First Friday Book Club. We had some delicious cookies and spice cake and then got down to work: you asked questions and I answered them. 

I had a wonderful day visiting with you. I want to thank Ms. Jane Urban, librarian and media specialist for planning such a memorable day. I also had excellent escorts all day (thank you, Amanda, Sara, Angela, Heather, Courtney, and Jessica. I also want to thank Kara for sharing with me her writing about school; she described it very well! 

Finally, I would like to mention that my visit was federally funded by the Library Services and Technology Act provided through the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners; I know that both Ms. Urban and I appreciate their support.

If you want to e-mail me to ask question or just say hi, you can reach me here.