Jack Gantos author visit and the 46th Counting of the Cranberries!

Students in grades 3 - 8 had a great visit with Jack Gantos today. He is the author of more than 50 books for children and young adults including the Rotten Ralph books, Joey Pigza books, and the Newbery Award winning, Dead End in Norvelt.

He suggested that students keep a writer's notebook or journal which includes a hand-made map of their neighborhood. Each place on the map might hint at a story that could be told. He told us many of his hysterically funny tales--some of which have made it into his novels in one form or another.

Mr. Gantos talked about all the elements of stories (plot, characters, setting, resolution (both physical and emotional)--all of which students can apply to their own writing.

There was plenty in his talk that could be directly applied in the classroom and by students wishing to work on their writing. He broke down the process for us and assured us that we all have great stories that we can write.

Special thanks to the PTO for suggesting that we invite this author & for funding the visit!

ALSO: It's Cranberry Counting time again! For the 46th year, Lawrence Library will host the Cranberry Counting Contest. Starting Wednesday, November 12, students and staff are challenged to estimate how many cranberries are in the jar on display in the library.

The winners will be announced on Monday, November 24th--there will be one winner in each of the following categories: students in K - 2; students in grades 3 - 5; students in grades 6 - 8; and staff. Winners will receive a bookstore gift certificate, generously donated each year by The Children's Bookshop and Brookline Booksmith!