Today, Monday, February 27, kicked off Nevada Reading Week for 2017. I was fortunate to receive an invitation to read Chapter 1 from Eagle Talons, The Iron Horse Chronicles–Book One, to six middle-grade classes at Mater Academy on Mountain Vista Street in Las Vegas.
The vision of Mater Academy is to develop successful scholars with 21st century skills of communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity. Students are educated to be college and career ready with cross cultural competence.
Donna Mabry, fellow member of Anthem Authors and Western Writers of America joined me to read from her book Pillsbury Crossing. We alternated reading among various classes. Donna left the school’s library with a copy of her book, and I gave the library autographed copies of Eagle Talons, The Iron Horse Chronicles–Book One, and Bear Claws, The Iron Horse Chronicles–Book Two.
My experience with the students was positive and rewarding. They listened attentively to my introductory remarks about how and why I wrote The Iron Horse Chronicles as well as during my reading of the chapter. They asked intelligent questions to gain further insight. It was a little tough on my voice to talk almost non-stop for two and a half hours, and I was tired when the sessions ended. But it was well worth the effort!
Thank you, Mater Academy.
What a great opportunity to read to the students. I’m sure they enjoyed your book very much. I know what you mean about your voice and reading. After summer break, going back to talking and reading full time to my 5th graders, my voice would be almost gone!