[CASL-L] Amazing Author Visit

[Monica Ahern]

Hi Friends,


I wanted to share the amazing experience I had hosting author Eric Devine
<https://ericdevine.org/> last week at my high school. He is the author of
four (two more to be published soon) gritty realistic fiction novels that
have wide general appeal; however, they also have special appeal for our
reluctant male readers. He did a presentation on the first day and a
writing workshop on the second day.


Before he arrived, I did lots of PR
<https://sites.google.com/a/whps.org/hall-library-learning-commons/home/author-visit>
and books were circulating, which was great. However, I wasn’t entirely
prepared for the complete engagement and enthusiasm I witnessed during Mr.
Devine’s presentations (to over 400 students) and writing workshops (to
over 200 students).  Students were riveted as he discussed his journey to
becoming a writer, effectively using technology (great Prezi), humor,
candor and powerful storytelling.  He was an incredible role model for Hall
students, and I truly believe that he planted powerful ideas in their minds
about the power of stories, cultivating your passion, committing to hard
work, and learning from your mistakes.  Here is what one teacher (who was
this year’s West Hartford Teacher of the Year) wrote to me after he left:

“My students so enjoyed spending time with Eric Devine---they liked
Thursday's presentation and Friday's writing workshop.  They spoke really
highly of his presentation style, his openness about his own life and
choices, his sense of humor, and many of them already liked his books."


"So, what does this cost?" you might be wondering. Brace yourself. It cost
$110/day plus his hotel, gas and meals (total a little under $600). Yup. He
is not allowed to receive payment for school visits, so I paid the $220
substitute fee directly to his school.


If you are interested, his contact information is on his site. If you have
any questions, feel free to email me.


Best,


Monica


--
Monica Ahern
Library Media Specialist
William H. Hall High School
860-232-4561 x6330

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