Grade 5 students were visited by children's book author Mike Brown. Mike shared his writing journey and his advice for young writers to share their stories with the world.
Mike Brown never saw himself as a writer as he was growing up. Inspired by important moments in his life, such as his cousin's sixth birthday party and his time as the first African African Leprechaun mascot at the University of Notre Dame, he eventually began to share these stories with others in the form of children's books. He generously shared his writing journey with Grade 5 students, telling them that inspiration can come from any moments in their lives. As humans, we all have important stories to tell. He encouraged students to share these stories through books, podcasts, blogs, or any other medium that they can.
Mike took Grade 5 students through a writing activity where students began building their own stories based on their own past experiences and hopes for the future.
Mike spoke to students about the message and inspiration of his first book, "Little Netta's Gift."
Based on a true story about a caring and beautiful little girl named Jeannetta Lacole Robinson (Little Netta) and her remarkable act of kindness, Little Netta’s Gift is an inspiring story about the spirit of giving. Little Netta’s birthday is two days after Christmas, and at her sixth birthday party she showed tremendous compassion for others by giving her gifts to children attending her party after learning they did not receive Christmas gifts. This rhythmic read-aloud is sure to stir the souls of children, families, and friends everywhere. (Summary from Soulstir.co)