Dragon Speaker writers Cheryl Rainfield and Erin Thomas would like to thank Sir William Stephenson Public School in Whitby, Ontario, for making us feel so welcome yesterday. Not coincidentally, Sir William Stephenson is the new school built on the site where Kathleen Rowe Memorial Public School used to be, so for Erin (K. Rowe grad that I am) it was a little like returning home.

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

The book launch, unlike this post, went according to schedule! We had a great turnout–it was a wonderful day, and I know that Cheryl, Deb and I are all very grateful to the people who came out and made our book launch such a success.

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.