We spoke to grade five and six students about the writing process and about the Dragon Speaker books. The students had read the books in class and were excited about the visit. We were thrilled, when we arrived in the library, to see student artwork about the books. There were book covers, character illustrations, and even some dragons!

Some students had even written letters to our characters. We have, of course, promised that the characters will write back.

We could not have asked for a better audience. The students were attentive and eager to participate. During our writing workshop, Cheryl and I could barely keep up with the amazing story ideas coming at us. As a group, the sixth graders brainstormed and planned a story about a young girl named Charlotte who wants to escape her small town and become a famous writer in New York City–until a deadly virus breaks out and Charlotte is the only person who can save the town. The fifth graders took us inside a magical volcano, where bullied Sylvester finds refuge in a prehistoric world. When the dinosaurs break free and threaten his new home, Sylvester enlists the help of the bullies to lure the dinosaurs back where they belong and save the day.

Students, you’re brilliant. You have incredible imaginations. I hope that you write the stories that you started (and someone please tell me what happens to Charlotte and Sylvester). We’re grateful to you, to your teachers, and to wonderful librarian Andrea Laroque for making our first author visit such a success.

And we’re thrilled that you enjoyed the Dragon Speaker books!

Presentation at Sir William Stephenson school

Just one part of one of the many wonderful posters drawn by students

Here are some photos from the day.

Dragon Speaker writers Erin Thomas, Cheryl Rainfield and Debbie Ouellet

Our lovely cake, courtesy of Susan Thomas

Dragon Speaker writers with Charlie Hnatiuk, the man behind the illustrations

Some of the friends, family and readers who came to the book launch

Another Story Bookshop was a wonderful venue–a bit crowded when everyone was there, but a lot of the people in attendance were avid readers and had a great time exploring the book store. The book store staff went out of their way to help us organize everything and make sure that everyone found what they needed. I look forward to returning.

The book launch for the Dragon Speaker series will be held on Saturday, November 28, between 2:00 and 4:00, at Another Story bookstore in Toronto.

Another Story: 315 Roncesvalles Ave
Phone: 416-462-1104

Please come help us celebrate the launch of our new books. All three writers and the illustrator, Charlie Hnatiuk, will be on hand to talk about the books. There will be food, drinks and door prizes, as well as great hand-outs for teachers, librarians and anyone interested in the middle ages. We’re holding a colouring contest to keep the little ones busy. Charlie even has a piece of original artwork in the works for the event.

We hope to see you there!

Debbie

We talked about this website and where anyone interested could buy books. I brought all three books with me and there were closeup shots of the covers shown during the interview. Overall, a good day!

Debbie

Congratulations, Debbie! We’ll all be excited to watch!

In other news, I brought a copy of my book (the third one, Draco’s Fire) along yesterday when I supply taught for a local grade six class. The students were very interested–in the book, but also in the idea of writing, which was great. I think we have some budding authors in that class! It’s good to see.

Anyhow, the book was well received–they liked the cover, and a few of them asked if they could take a closer look during recess. Very encouraging!

The Dragon Speaker series will also be part of Whitby Public Library’s new literacy section. I think it’s wonderful that they’re collecting books specifically for reluctant readers and making them available in one place–before, you had to know the specific book you were looking for. I think creating a literacy section is a great move, and I’m happy that our books will be part of it.

Paul with writers Cheryl, Deb and Erin

Lori Jamison’s teachers’ guide is not back from the printers yet, but we look forward to seeing it!

Lori Jamison, author of teachers' guide

Cheryl, Deb and I will be at tonight’s CANSCAIP meeting in Toronto to introduce the books.

HIP is introducing another special offer, valid until December–all three novels (regular $12.95 each, I believe), plus the teacher’s guide to the series for $29.95. 

We’re talking about a possible book launch in October… details to follow.

More information.