Last Monday, fifth grade spent an entertaining and inspiring morning at Jesup Memorial Library with Jack Gantos, one of our very favorite authors. Students, teachers, parents, and librarians listened intently as Mr. Gantos shared the story of his writing life, which began in childhood. An avid reader from a young age, Jack knew that he wanted to become a published author. When he was in fifth grade, he begged his mother for his first journal. Following the lead of literary heroine Harriet the Spy, ten-year-old Jack began using his notebook to record overhead conversations. “Other people’s business was [his] business,” he said. He then built upon this technique with other writing strategies he’s since developed, including mapping his house and neighborhood, and listing actions and emotions that occur there within. The examples and ensuing stories he shared from his own childhood had us roaring with laughter! He also shared tips for revising, and we were astounded to learn that he revises each of his books between 75 and 100 times! One student likened such close revisions to “a fine sanding,” a comparison Mr. Gantos said he plans to steal and use when he talks to others about his writing process.
At the book signing Monday afternoon, Mr. Gantos read and replied to fifth graders’ thank you notes. Our readers continue to enjoy reading and discussing the Norvelt, Joey Pigza, and Jack Henry books, and we’re also having fun trying out notebook strategies. Thank you to the Jesup Memorial Library and Ms. Ryan for coordinating this incredible day!
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AuthorMeryl Sweeney Archives
April 2017
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