Bestselling Author Elise Broach Inspires Young Readers

On Friday, February 10, students in Orange had the opportunity to get even more excited about writing and reading with bestselling author Elise Broach.  Thanks to the combined sponsorship of the PTOs from The Peck Place School, Race Brook School and Turkey Hill School, Broach gave an in-person presentation at each of the schools to students in grades 1, 2, and 3.

“It was fun because I got to see some of her favorite books from when she was a kid and some of the books she wrote,” says PPS third grader Mackenzie A.  “When she told us about her Marvin and James books, I got really interested in reading them.”

PPS second grader Ethan F. read one of Broach’s most well-known books, “Masterpiece,” with his mom and dad prior to the author’s visit.  “My favorite part of the visit was when she showed the cover of ‘Masterpiece’ because I read it,” he said.  “I loved that book, and I was so excited to see the author.  And now I have a signed copy!”

The Connecticut-based writer spoke to enthusiastic audiences about what it’s like to be an author and the many steps involved in creating a book, from idea to publication. Broach encouraged students to think of themselves not just as readers, but as authors too.

“Her visit got me interested in making my own book,” says Tanvi M., a third grader at Peck Place School.  “She talked about how she got ideas from her imagination and sometimes from things that happened in real life, but she changed them up to make them more exciting.  I’m making a book about a tiny pumpkin, but I haven’t finished it yet.”

“This event was a wonderful example of the collaboration that takes place in Orange Public Schools,” says Tricia Lasto, principal of The Peck Place School.  “Partnering with three PTOs allowed us to bring in such a high-caliber and engaging author.  The students of Orange were empowered by Elise Broach’s experiences and received encouragement to hone their skills as authors.”

Broach’s award-winning books “When Dinosaurs Came with Everything,” “My Pet Wants a Pet,” “Masterpiece” and the “Marvin and James” series have long been popular with Orange elementary students.  But the library media specialists at each of the schools helped ensure students were extra excited to meet Elise Broach by introducing students to a variety of her books.  Students even learned some fun facts about the author by exploring her website.

“This was truly a wonderful opportunity for our students,” says Sandra Fitzpatrick, library media specialist at The Peck Place School.  “Meeting a real, live author is such an inspiration for kids.  Once students are familiar with the author’s books, meeting the author is a little like meeting a celebrity.  It really infuses a whole new level of excitement and passion into reading and writing.”

In May, the Orange elementary PTOs will host a visit from bestselling author Gordon Korman for students in grades 4, 5, and 6.  “I’m really excited to meet him,” says fifth grader Mason M.  “Before I even knew he was coming to visit I read his book ‘Masterminds’ and it’s my favorite book.”