It’s always a challenge to differentiate between sentimental and valuable “stuff.” The passage of time usually helps.
In this journalist’s basement remain crudely bound “books” created by her children through the Young Authors project more than 20 years ago when they were students in Holland, Mich.
The program was a highlight of the school year, making the children feel they were in league with their favorite authors and illustrators. Getting to meet each year’s honorees was a special privilege, almost as good as rubbing shoulders with any movie star or pop idol.
Allen County’s Young Authors is celebrating its 15th year this weekend. Almost 30 authors and illustrators have met with the students in the county’s elementary and middle schools over the years.
The professionals discuss their writing and artistic styles with the students. They typically tell their life stories, showing how as children they were not so different from those gathered round.
What sets them apart, perhaps, is that their passion for writing and drawing only grew stronger as they grew older. Many of the authors, especially, didn’t concentrate solely on writing in their studies.
This year’s author, Peter Lerangis, for example, has a degree in biochemistry from Harvard, as well as a background in musical theater. That alone tells you Lerangis did not follow a typical career path, perhaps much to his parents’ dismay.
THE SECRET to the success of Young Authors is that the students are recognized. The entries from students first grade up to eighth grade are judged by a local committee. The top 35 students from each school are then invited to attend Saturday’s celebration to meet with the year’s designated author and illustrator.
To date, more than 11,000 YA books have been created by area students.
The earlier children begin to read, the more advanced their vocabulary, the better focused their attention span, the more the gears turn inside their imaginations.
The local program began in 1999 through a $10,000 bequest by the Sleeper Family Trust, which continues its pledge each year.
A testament to the program’s success is that many of the presenting authors and illustrators have asked if they can return our way.
Hats off to Deb Greenwall
in her role as chairman of the Allen County Young Authors’ Committee, and those who serve with her to make Allen County a place that recognizes and encourages young talent.
— Susan Lynn
