Last week we discussed the book and craft expo at the Enid Public Library.  I saw lots of old friends and talked to the public who attended. But the best part of the book signing was the little book that was gifted to me. 

The public library has many missions besides just checking out books.  They have projects for teenagers and children—there are even crafts for adults.  But I’ve volunteered with the Teen Authors before and truly enjoy working with them. 

One day I met with them to discuss writing a story.  I was unsure of the ages of these kids and when I got there, they were much older and wiser than I originally thought.  My prepared speech was not going to do what we needed it to do.  So, I winged it.  We began by brainstorming ideas for a story.  Each student spoke up and they came up with a  main character and his goals and motivation.  One of the students took notes as they threw out ideas and over a two-hour period they developed a story.

I never knew what happened to that idea. But at the book and craft sale the Teen Authors had a table of their own.  They had printed their book with illustrations and gifted me a copy.  There was an acknowledgement in the front thanking me for my help.  I was so excited!

I came home with the book of Slippy’s Escape and it has the place of honor on my bookshelf.  You never know how you can affect someone with your actions.  Kids are such a sponge absorbing everything around them.  They did a wonderful job, used their imaginations, and crafted a book of adventures.  I hope they write more.  I can’t wait to work with them again.

What are you reading this week?