I’ll add photos later when they arrive!
On Friday I visited Ajax Public library (McLean Branch) in Ajax, Ontario, and Queen Elizabeth Public School i Oshawa. At Ajax, librarian Mandy fed me tea and a homemade ginger cookie to get me revved up, and I presented to two sessions of students grades 5 to 8, about 155 students. They asked some of the best questions I’ve had all week — I was so impressed! Chris helped with IT, and Matthew and Joshua won books. At Queen Elizabeth, Melissa hosted me as I spoke to 250 students in grades 4 to 8. They were a lively bunch that filled the entire gym, and I loved their energy! Mason won the book!
It has been a real honor to travel to all these schools and libraries in Ontario, and I have wonderful memories not only of engaged students with great questions, but of students who came up to me afterwards to tell me they intend to be writers, or they’re already writing a book. Between schools, I enjoyed seeing a ground hog and a hawk, and so many rural churches turned into houses, and so many charming towns, fast-flowing rivers and lovely sunshine. Throughout the tour, I also deeply appreciated all the hard work done behind the scenes by the Canadian Children’s Book Centre staff. Their level of organization and backup was truly impressive, and not one day did I take it for granted. Thanks everyone I met and everyone who was involved! Keep up the reading and writing, kids!
