Westmont Elementary School

One of the fun things I get to do as a children's book author/illustrator is speak to kids at schools. Last week I headed all the way down to Augusta, Georgia and Westmont Elementary. They have a wonderfully fired up media specialist, Missy Lewis. They are so lucky to have her. She's made the library a warm and inviting place and I swear she knew the name of every child!
     She also sent me to a decadent restaurant in the heart of downtown the night before - Boll Weevils. For dinner I had the best shrimp and grits EVER - seriously. And just check out the dessert case. Yum, I say.

     So, I already told you about their dinosaur, but here's some of the kids being a great audience...





     I had lunch with a group of excelling readers, which I always enjoy. I met some truly bright and enthusiastic readers - obviously something that is strongly promoted at Westmont.
     And I signed a ton of books (kept me busy!)...



     What a treasure it is to see children enjoying your books and knowing that, having met the author, they value them even more...

     I tell ya, if you ever doubt the impact an author/illustrator visit can have on young readers, this kind of says it all...

Thanks to Missy and the Principal and all the wonderful students I met at Westmont Elementary!