Authors in Our Schools

AUTHORS IN OUR SCHOOLS

At the RIF NOVA Golden Gala in October 2022, best-selling author David Baldacci and his wife Michelle Baldacci made a generous gift to support RIF NOVA. This gift, along with a second gift in 2025, have been designated toward a multi-year plan to bring authors and illustrators and their books to several RIF NOVA participating schools. When students meet authors and illustrators, they are excited and inspired to see themselves as creators, too!

Children's authors who have participated in the Authors in Our Schools program to date are listed below with photos from each distribution. Several authors have visited our schools more than once! Some of the visits were supported with a community-funded grant from the Arlington Community Foundation's 2024 Wish List, noted in each section. Please help us fund this program by donating here!

Scroll down to see each author in action. In-person authors to date (listed in date order of most recent appearance) are: Valerie Johnson, Heather Murphy Capps, Cazzy Zahursky, Debra Shumaker, Chiêu Anh Urban, Zara González Hoang, Ann Marie Stephens, Alyssa Coleman, Ellen Oh, Sue Fliess, Tracey Kyle, Leah Moser, Erin Stewart, Gabriella Aldeman, Fred Bowen, Hena Khan, Hanh Bui, Carylee Carrington, Amina Luqman-Dawson, Patricia Tanumihardja, and Lulu Delacre.

Several other authors have participated via the Shenandoah University’s annual Children’s Literature Conference. Please scroll to the bottom of this page to see more!

"Every kid has a math superpower!" -- Author Valerie Johnson

"Every kid has a math superpower!" exclaimed author Valerie Johnson to kindergartners and 1st graders at Arlington's Carlin Springs Elementary. As she read her book 123 Count with Me about life on her grandfather's farm, she had the kids count with her, emphasizing that in math, counting…counts! Using clipboards, the children drew pictures of some of the things they can count. Planets, one said. Flowers, said another. Things in my room, said yet another. Each child received an autographed copy of the author's book to take home to keep. Special thanks to the Arlington Community Foundation's 2025 Wish List for helping to fund this impactful event. Please check the author's website for more information. Click here.

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A Book Journey -- Author Heather Murphy Capps

"Thank you so much! Your words meant so much to me!" exclaimed a 6th grader from Arlington's Kenmore Middle School after taking part in one of two writers workshops with author Heather Murphy Capps. On March 24, 2026, the author led students through her writing process -- from idea to setting, character, and plot development before ever starting to write. The students took many notes, and several were excited to share that they have already started to write their own books! Before the workshops, each student was able to select and read one the author's two books, The Rule of Three or Indigo and Ida. Ms. Capps signed and personalized each book as students came up to chat after the sessions. For more about this author, please click here.

"Always believe in yourself!" -- Author Cazzy Zahursky

Believe! Always believe in yourself! Pre-K through 2nd grade Panthers from PWC's Bel Air ES got the message loudly and clearly on March 6, 2026 from a small bumblebee named Barnabee. During an interactive presentation of her book Barnabee Believes (in Himself), author/illustrator Cazzy Zahursky and her star puppet told the tale of a little bee who learns to overcome his fears and believe in himself -- as she encouraged the kids to use their imaginations to develop characters and books of their own.

During a Q&A, the children talked about how they calm themselves when nervous or anxious. One learned that it's normal to be nervous sometimes. Another said he calms himself with deep breaths. Another child said she asks her mom for a hug! She then added, "I want to be an author when I grow up. Just like you!" Thanks to the Authors in Our Schools program, each child received a Barnabee book with an autograph and a handwritten message to "Always believe in yourself!" For more info about this author/illustrator, please click here,

Ichthyologists in Training -- Author Debra Shumaker

An ichthyologist (or two or 10) may have been born in early March 2026 at Fairfax County’s Bailey's Elementary after listening to author Debra Shumaker. What exactly is that? It's a scientist who studies fish! A reading to second graders of her book Freaky Funky Fish generated a lot of questions and excitement about fishes that sing, sting, play dead, and even coat themselves with snot for protection! A goldfish named Goldie came along for the swim (er, ride) as the kids made fish sounds with claps, snaps, and clucks! Thanks to the Authors in Our Schools program, each child took home an autographed copy of this nonfiction work that includes beautiful illustrations by Claire Powell and a learning guide about the amazing world of fishes. Click here for more info about Debra Shumaker.

Monkeys floss their teeth?

Yep, it turns out some of them do! First and 2nd graders learned that and much more during Debra Shumaker's visit to PWC's Yorkshire Elementary in mid-March when she shared her book Peculiar Primates. The children learned that some primates have a lunch box in their cheeks. And gorillas do not beat their chests with their fists as shown in movies but with their open palms to sound bigger and more intimidating! The author encouraged the children to always think like a scientist and ask the question, Why? One child asked why she used so many hard words in her book? Ms. Shumaker answered, "It's because that's how you learn new vocabulary!"

Several children wrote up what they learned for display on a welcome banner for the author at the school door! "I learned some primates can make there (sic) beds in the night," wrote one. "I learned some primates can live by there self (sic)," wrote another. Such active STEM learning! Plus a copy of the primates book to take home to keep!

Seeing Illusions -- Author/Illustrator Chiêu Anh Urban

Children could see them before the adults could! What were they? Illusions! In her series of novelty and interactive books, author/illustrator Chiêu Anh Urban asks children to look at things differently and see the negative spaces instead of just the positive ones — to find two images in one. Could there be orange slices tucked inside the curves of a pretzel? Or a cherry inside the frosting on a cupcake? Preschoolers at the Falls Church McLean Children's Center were quite good at spotting the illusions during a lively author presentation in late February 2026.

Ms. Urban enjoyed drawing, sketching comics, and making paper dolls and games as a child refugee from Vietnam, at a time when she had no toys or books of her own. Many years later, this creativity has turned into a series of board books for children. Thanks to the Authors in Our Schools program, FCMLCC kids were able to take home an autographed copy of one of the author's books, Illusions in Art -- Food. See the cherry inside the frosting?! More about Ms. Urban may be found by clicking here.

"Illustrators are thieves!" -- Author/Illustrator Zara González Hoang

"Illustrators are thieves! We steal from our own lives and then add imagination!" So exclaimed author/illustrator Zara González Hoang at Fairfax County's Bailey's Upper Elementary in February 2026 -- describing how her dog, her dad, her child, and even her laundry basket have ended up in her book illustrations. Third through 5th graders saw how changing a happy face to a sad face could show if a child in a picture liked broccoli -- or not! "This is my superpower!" she said as she demonstrated how illustrations give meaning to words in a book.

With input from the students, she also drew an illustration of the school's mascot, a pencil-holding, apple-eating tiger, to show how she plies her craft. Thanks to the RIF NOVA Authors in Our Schools program, 3rd graders went home with a copy of Mi Casa is My Home -- written by Laurenne Sala. Each book included a special autograph in the illustrator's own hand. Learn more about Zara González Hoang by clicking here.

"I write math books, but I don't like math!" -- Author Ann Marie Stephens

So said children's book author and former teacher Ann Marie Stephens during an author visit to Arlington's Barcroft Elementary School on January 14, 2026. Despite her professed math anxiety, Ms. Stephens has written a whole lot of books about -- math! On this chilly winter day, she shared two of her books with young students. Kindergarteners and first-graders listened to Arithmechicks Take Away, part of a series of six Arithmechick books about math and math concepts. As she read the book, students participated by counting, flapping their chick "wings," and giggling as one of their friends volunteered to play the story's mouse character.

Second graders listened to SCATtered! and participated in an estimation game -- getting very excited when they guessed right! This book is part of series of feline-focused educational books. As Ann Marie Stephens told the 2nd grade Barcroft Eagles, "You just did math and didn't even know it!" This author visit was partially funded via a grant from the Arlington Community Foundation's 2025 Wish List. It was a reading and math fun-for-all, with an autographed book for each child! More about this author may be found by clicking here.

Learning about the Dust Bowl -- Author Alyssa Colman

"This is my new favorite author," said one Dumfries ES student after participating in a presentation by author Alyssa Colman on December 16, 2025. During her presentation to the gathered PWC 4th and 5th graders, Ms. Colman shared her book, Where Only Storms Grow, which tells the story of a struggling family trying to survive through the unrelenting storms of the 1930s Dust Bowl. A mock radio program helped to capture the reality of the times -- with students as the main characters and performing the sound effects. The author told students they could be writers, too, and urged them to get an inexpensive notebook to jot down their ideas. She also explained why extensive research is so important when writing historical fiction.

Note! This book won a Schneider Family Award! The award honors an author or illustrator for a book that embodies an artistic expression of the disability experience for child and adolescent audiences. One of the book's main characters, Joanna, has scoliosis, a condition that causes her near-constant pain. The award was announced January 26 during the American Library Association's Annual Youth Media Awards ceremony. The book also won a Josette Frank Award, given by the Bank Street College of Education. This award for fiction honors a "book or books of outstanding literary merit in which children or young people deal in a positive and realistic way with difficulties in their world and grow emotionally and morally." Congratulations to Alyssa Colman for winning these prestigious awards!

Each student received a signed book, thanks to the RIF NOVA Authors in Our Schools program -- and the excitement about that was over the top as students left the gym with their signed copies! Learn more about Alyssa Colman and her books by clicking here.

"I like to write scary stories!" -- Author Ellen Oh

Author Ellen Oh delighted 4th and 5th graders at Arlington's Carlin Springs ES as part of an amazing schoolwide celebration of Asian books. A Korean American, she shared about her background growing up in an immigrant family in Brooklyn and the joy of learning about different cultures and trying different foods. She became a writer, she told the students, because when she was a new parent, she could not find books about people who looked like her. So she started writing them herself and became a strong advocate for diverse titles, themes, and characters.

During the Carlin Springs presentation, Ellen Oh told students she loves to write scary books, thanks to her dad, who was "always telling stories about ghosts, and goblins, and demons." Hands went up throughout the cafeteria when she asked the students if they liked scary stories. With support from RIF NOVA's Authors in Our Schools program and the Arlington Community Foundation's 2024 Wish List, each child received an autographed copy of her middle grade book, Spirit Hunters, the first in a three-part series. It's a scary book! Publisher's Weekly gave it a starred review with the words, “Oh has crafted a truly chilling middle grade horror novel that will grab readers’ imaginations.” For more about Ellen Oh and her many books, please find her website by clicking here.

Ellen Oh at Cora Kelly School -- More Scary Stories!

Ellen Oh presented to 4th and 5th graders at Alexandria's Cora Kelly School on December 15, 2025. She again explained why she likes to write scary stories, and the kids all raised their hands when asked if they like to read them! The author shared her background and writing process with students, who were eager to follow up with many questions of their own! When they learned they would each take home an autographed copy of Ellen Oh's latest book, The House Next Door, there was an audible gasp of delight. Children wanted photos with the author, and most could not wait to get started reading.

"Gobsmackingly thrilled!" -- Innovation ES

That's how PWC's Innovation ES librarian described kids' reactions to a visit by author Ellen Oh on January 21, 2026! The children had plenty of questions about what it takes to be an author (Write! Write! Write!), the author's interest in writing scary books, the challenge of banned books, and how she stays motivated to write. When the children learned they would each receive a copy of Haru, Zombie Dog Hero -- not only autographed by the author, but personalized with each child's name -- there was an audible gasp of delight, and many students wanted to know if they could find more Ellen Oh books in their school library!

"You Don't Need to Wait to Start Writing!" -- Author Sue Fliess

As children, Sue Fliess and her sister used to love to spy on their parents. And that may have been part of the inspiration for her two-book series Beatrice Bly's Rules for Spies. Students at Bailey's Upper Elementary School for the Arts and Sciences met author Fliess and learned about this book and her more than 60 other children's books during a March 2025 Authors in Our Schools session in the school's gymnasium. "Spying is a great STEM activity," she said, "because there is so much investigation and problem solving." Just how many of her books focus on STEM themes? "A lot! STEM books can be fun and exciting!" she said as she pointed out her Cicada Symphony book and showed them a photo of her husband almost swallowing a cicada, leading to a gym-wide gasp!

Sue Fliess told the third through fifth graders to write about what they know and and what they see because ideas are everywhere. "Go to the library," she suggested. "Go on walks and train your brain to look for the story. Even take a fairy tale and change it to make a new story. It's a great way to start," she said. "You don't need to wait to start writing!"

During the Q&A, hands went up around the gym. One student asked, "Can you make a book about coming together to meet an author?" With a smile, Sue Fliess said, "Maybe!" Each student took home the Beatrice Bly's Book for Spies 2: Mystery Goo book with an original author signature. After the event, students continued with questions for their librarian and RIF NOVA liaison Danielle Burgoss. She noted the impact of the author visit with these words, "This was the first author visit we have ever had at this school. I am so grateful for the partnership with RIF NOVA to be able to bring this experience to the students and to spread reading joy. I look forward to signing up for a visit next year."

Hot Off the Press!

First and 2nd graders at Fairfax County's Groveton Elementary got to experience a brand new book by author Sue Fliess on March 18, 2026. The new book was just released two weeks earlier on March 3! The author read Greta Green Builds a Submarine and spoke to the children about ocean life, sustainability, and a young girl who follows her dream to see more of the sea.

The author also urged the children to become writers and suggested unique ways to do so. Those who play an instrument might write music, singers might write lyrics, and jokesters might write comic books. The possibilities are endless, she exclaimed! Each child went home with a copy of the Greta book signed by the author. For more information about Sue Fliess, please link to her website here.

"Read, Read, and Read Some More!" -- Author Tracey Kyle

During a full-day visit at Randolph Elementary School in Arlington in February 2025, author Tracey Kyle engaged children from Pre-K through 5th grade. And such valuable lessons they learned -- along with so much fun! Pre-K through first grade learned about the annual Spanish La Tomatina festival where people in the city of Buñol throw tomatoes at each other. After reading the author's book, The World's Biggest Food Fight, each child could try their hand at throwing a crocheted tomato through a type of vertical cornhole board. There were hits and misses, but amazing active learning!

As Tracey Kyle taught the children about the importance of reading and writing and the challenging process of writing books, she shared different books with older grades. Second graders heard and got a signed copy of Pepe and the Parade, and were able to yell "Olé!" when they heard something interesting or fun from the book about Hispanic heritage. Third and fourth graders learned about alpacas via the author's book, Alpaca Pati's Fancy Fleece.

Fourth and fifth graders were challenged to come up with story ideas of their own, and several participated in a lunch bunch. "It was so fun to get to know the author as a real person," one fourth grader said. The author was also interviewed by one student for the school's daily television program! When asked what she had learned from her author experience and how hard it is to get a book published, one fifth grader said, "I learned you can never give up." RIF NOVA liaison and library media specialist Anita Van Harten Cater noted, "Students are still buzzing this week with a 10/10 rating for your presentation!" For more information about Tracey Kyle, please check her website by clicking here.

Note: This February 2025 visit was supported by a grant from the Arlington Community Foundation's 2024 Wish List.

Tracey Kyle at Drew Elementary -- Me Gusta!

Author Tracey Kyle spent her second visit as a RIF NOVA Authors in Our Schools author on October 31, 2025 with kindergarten and first grade students at Arlington's Dr. Charles Drew Elementary School. She continued to emphasize the importance of reading and then reading some more! Tracey is fluent in Spanish and connected with students immediately as they entered the library by speaking to the students in both English and Spanish! One of the rules for the students during the presentation was to have fun while learning. When the students really liked something, they were encouraged to loudly say "Me Gusta" (I like it!) -- which was heard multiple times throughout the presentation!

Tracey shared her book in rhyme, A Paintbrush for Paco. Prior to the reading, she asked the students, "What is art?" -- and then had a discussion with the students about art and its positive impacts. Drew's art and music teachers were at the presentation and were visibly excited to hear Ms. Kyle's positivity about the value of the arts. As the presentation continued, Ms. Kyle taught the students the names of various colors in Spanish and then had the whole room sing a catchy song she had written about colors. Student participants wearing the specific color were encouraged to hold up their sign as they heard their color in the song. She then led the students in a game where they could guess the meaning of each color. The students were so excited when they got the correct answer!

Tracey also taught the students other Spanish words that they were going to hear in her story as she read. After hearing the book, one student exclaimed "You’re a good reader," to which Tracey enthusiastically answered "Me Gusta!"

Finally, when the students were told they were each going home with a signed copy of A Paintbrush for Paco, a collective "Me Gusta!" was heard throughout the room!

And many of the children could not wait to take their book home before they started reading!

¡Tomate Tomate! at Woodley Hills

Ever feel like throwing something? Kindergartners and 1st graders at Fairfax County's Woodley Hills ES had the chance on February 10, 2026! They listened to author Tracey Kyle as she read her book Food Fight Fiesta about the annual Spanish tomato-throwing festival, "La Tomatina." During a very interactive presentation, the children learned about the festival and had a chance to try their hand at tossing a crocheted tomato through a vertical cornhole board as they yelled, "¡Tomate Tomate!” (Way less messy than a real tomato!) Each child received a signed and individually designated book to keep.

¡Olé! at Braddock ES

When author Tracey Kyle visited Fairfax County's Braddock Elementary on March 27, it was celebration! And when she read her book Pepe and the Parade to second graders, it was practically over the top with choruses of ¡Olé! As the author read, the children participated in a lively back and forth about Hispanic heritage, getting very excited when they saw a word, a food, or a tradition they recognized. Each child received an autographed and personalized-by-name copy of Pepe. Most wanted to get started reading right away, comparing the country flags they knew and enjoying pictures by illustrator Mirelle Ortega. These Braddock Eagles were treated to an experience they will not soon forget! ¡Olé!

Managing Feelings -- Author Leah Moser

With a puffy thundercloud pillow in hand, author Leah Moser shared her debut picture book -- I Am a Thundercloud -- with some of the youngest RIF NOVA readers on January 29, 2025 at the Falls Church McLean Children's Center. Having emotions, even angry ones, is a part of being human, she told the children as she showed them how to relate to their feelings through the sounds, sensations, and the colors of nature. The four- and five-year-olds were engaged, echoing the big sounds of a thunderstorm such as BOOM, ROAR, and CRASH! The students made some insightful observations as the author pointed out how the illustrations and the colors change as the angry child in the book begins to feel better.

When invited to ask questions, many children talked about how they sometimes feel angry too -- with even the youngest participants understanding the concept of emotions. One question came from an inquisitive youngster who asked: "How do you know the words that you want the book to say?" Another student noted: "If you know how to read, you can draw your own book when you’re, like, five (years old)!" That could possibly be a little early, but we loved the enthusiasm! Thanks to the Authors in Our Schools program, every child was given a signed book to take home for keeps. Leah Moser's website can be found by clicking here.

Leah Moser at John Adams ES

What a fun day it was at Alexandria's John Adams Elementary on January 12, 2026 as kindergartners and 1st graders met author Leah Moser. As the author read her book, I am a Thundercloud, the excited children learned about controlling emotions as strong as a thundercloud! Among the questions: Why does the book have so many feelings? How does it feel to be an author? Is this your first book? Each child received an autographed copy of the author's's book to take home for keeps, and many could not wait to begin reading! As she left the library with her new book in hand, one kindergartner was heard to say, "This was the best thing ever!"

The Magic of Literacy -- Author Erin Stewart

Magic was in the air as fifth graders from Randolph Elementary in Arlington were treated to a visit by author Erin Stewart. Before her January 24, 2025 presentation, the students had read some of her book, The Forgotten Magic of Zoey Turner and then learned more about the author's path to writing it. In this middle grade fantasy, Zoey suffers from an anxiety disorder that has been ruling her life since her father's sudden death. The adventures begin when a story she has written comes alive thanks to a magic pencil, which seems to make her stories come true.

During the session, the author shared some of her own health challenges, including heart failure at age 25 and anxiety. The students felt free to share some of their own feelings and struggles and were also full of questions about how to write a book. She told them to think about things they could write about from their own lives, particularly in answer to the question, "What if?" Writing down their thoughts in a cheap, ugly notebook, she said, "gives you permission to be messy."

"Every time you read a book or write a book, you are part of the magic of literacy!" Thanks to the Authors in Our Schools program, the students not only had a wonderful experience, but each received an autographed book to take home for keeps. For more about Erin Stewart and her books, please click here.

Note: This author visit was supported by a grant from the Arlington Community Foundation's 2024 Wish List.

"Read! Write! Believe!" -- Author Gabriella Aldeman

Author Gabriella Aldeman introduced herself as Ms. Gaby to students at four RIF NOVA-supported schools in February 2025 and 2026 and in November and December 2024 as part of the Authors in Our Schools program. The children were abuzz with curiosity at each of the sessions, wanting to know everything from why she became an author (her mother first suggested it when she was 15), to where she gets her ideas (brainstorming about what you know), to how she comes up with titles (it has to be catchy and memorable!). One student was heard to say after one of the sessions, "I can't wait to tell my mom about this!"

The author met with first and fifth graders at Crestwood Elementary School on November 18, and what a meet-and-greet it was! The author's book -- Paula's Patches -- engaged both the younger and older children with great ideas about how to write a children's story, how to get it published, and how the children could become authors themselves -- even though, as she noted, "It's very hard work!"

First, the bilingual author told the children, you have to read -- a lot! You have to write -- a lot! The most important ingredient, she said, is that, "You have to believe you can be an author!" Belief in herself is what propelled her to become an author.

Gabriella Aldeman showed the children the diary her grandmother had given her at age seven as she was growing up in Panama. She said books are built from your imagination, brainstorming, and from ideas "you can connect with." In Paula's Patches, Paula gets a hole in her pants. How does she handle it? What does she learn? In this story, the author's idea about using patches to recycle, reuse, and repurpose was part of the solution and a central part of the story. To underscore this message, she showed the children the backpack she had made of recycled blue jeans.

The children were all ears and all smiles as they each received and dove into their autographed copy of Paula's Patches. Several said they kept diaries and wanted to become writers and tell their stories, too!

Encore, Ms. Gaby!

Second and third graders at Marumsco Hills Elementary met Ms. Gaby in December 2024. Carlin Springs Elementary kindergarten and first graders met the author in February 2025.

At both gatherings, the children were introduced to the author's second book, Squawk of Spanish, and its Spanish version, Un Graznido en Español. The book features a boy named Max -- inspired by the author's son Roy -- who has trouble communicating with his Spanish-speaking abuela (grandmother). When they bake together, a parrot named Lorita helps to translate.

As the author read the story to the assembled classes, she asked them to say some of the words from the book in Spanish, which they very enthusiastically did. They were full of questions, too. Each child was gifted with an autographed copy of Squawk, thanks to the RIF NOVA Authors in Our Schools program. Note, the February 2025 visit was supported by a grant from the Arlington Community Foundation's 2024 Wish List.

Ms. Gaby at the ACCA CDC -- "inspiring a passion for learning"

What does an author do? asked author Aldeman of 4- and 5-year-olds at the ACCA Child Development Center during a visit in January 2026. "It's the person who puts letters in a book," said one eager child! Author "Ms. Gaby" read her book, Squawk of Spanish in both English and Spanish to several ACCA CDC classrooms. As she read, the children sounded out words of the story in both languages and used paper bag "parrots" as props to emulate the book's main parrot character Lorito. Each child was given an autographed copy of Squawk in English or Un Graznido en Español in Spanish. In the midst many hugs and high-fives, one four-year-old asked, “Can we read it again?”

ACCA Reaction!

From ACCA CDC Executive Director Maria-Isabel Ballivian -- ”We serve children that unfortunately don't have the opportunities that other children have to access books and be exposed to literature. It's experiences like these that truly change the life trajectory of children. It inspires them to love not only to read but to write. It sets them in a path of that passion for learning."

From Kae Biber, ACCA CDC Education Program Manager -- "The connection made between author and children today was extremely impactful. When discussing author's of a book, our children have never had a reference point other than perhaps a photo of a famous author. For the children to be able to connect the role of an author to an actual person is something that will leave a lasting impact on the children and in their memories."

More Squawks at Polk...

What does it take to publish a book? A LOT of writing, rewriting, rewriting some more, editing, and idea gathering. When author Gabriella Aldeman met with 1st graders at Alexandria's Polk ES on February 12, 2026, the children shared many ideas about where ideas begin -- in your brain, in your imagination, and all around us, they enthused! At the end of the presentation, children lined up to greet the author and get their new autographed book, and some even gathered 'round to show off some funny faces. Active learning and fun! For additional background about Gaby Aldeman, please click here for her website.

Plus rolling Rs at Randolph...

February 20, 2026 was quite a day for children, reading, books, and learning a "squawk" of Spanish at Arlington's Randolph ES. Ms. Gaby helped 2nd and 5th graders learn to roll their Rs as they explored how books are published. Special thanks to the Arlington Community Foundation and donors to its 2025 Wish List for helping to fund this vibrant, active learning program at one of RIF NOVA's Arlington schools!

"You don't know how much it means to us!" -- Author Fred Bowen

Sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students in the Patrick Henry K-8 School's Avid* Program got a hands-on lesson from author Fred Bowen on October 18, 2024 as he explained the "messy" process of writing books. A former lawyer and columnist for the KidsPost of the Washington Post, author Bowen has written more than two dozen books about sports. The middle schoolers engaged in a lively Q&A as he showed his idea notebook and made a step by step list of how he does his work. After each session, the students were able to choose an autographed book about football, soccer, baseball, or basketball and wrote many cards expressing their gratitude for the experience with notes like: "You don't know how much it means to us."

(*The Advancement Via Individual Determination, AVID, program is an academic support program that helps students in grades 6-12 prepare for college and careers.)

To learn more about Fred Bowen, check out his story in our Celebrating Local Authors Series by clicking here.

Also, check out his website at https://www.fredbowen.com/index.htm.

Fred Bowen at Kenmore Middle School -- Writing for the Fun of it!

Sixth graders at Kenmore Middle School were treated to an animated discussion about sports, writing, and idea generation with guest author Fred Bowen on March 17, 2025. During a session in the auditorium, the author shared the story about his many careers, leading to the career he likes best...writing! He told the assembled students that writing is fun and shared ideas about how to get started. At a follow-on writer's workshop in the library, students were full of questions about book publishing and ideas about the kinds of books they might like to write in the future! This event was supported with funding generated via the Arlington Community Foundation's 2024 Wish List.

Super You! -- Author Hena Khan

Season two of RIF NOVA's Authors in our Schools program had a super launch -- Super YOU! to be exact! On October 16, 2024, author Hena Khan presented to fourth graders at Alexandria's Polk Elementary School. The children were all ears as author Khan shared her growing-up story as a Pakistani-American Muslim who read a lot of books but never saw herself in them. She said, "I never had a mirror book where the characters looked like me." She has helped to change that! Now an award-winning author of more than 30 books, she has focused on picture books, middle grade fiction, and graphic novels that are often centered around her culture, community, and family.

At the October 16th event, Hena Khan talked about her series of pick-your-path adventures where the reader can pick from among several choices to move the story along. She told the assembled children that her friend from second grade -- and Super You! co-author Andrea Menotti -- had encouraged her to start writing. "Ignore that voice in your head that says you can't do it!" she told the children. "I still have it even with more than two dozen books!" You have the power to tell your story. Include the parts of your life that are special and unique. Share your life!"

The children listened eagerly as Hena Khan shared words of advice about writing, particularly noting that, "Reading is the best way to become a better writer without even trying!" When she asked her audience to suggest additional superpowers for the Super You! series, hands went up across the room with ideas like shape shifting, telekinesis, laser eyes, and teleportation. "All great!" exclaimed the author. At the end of the event, each student received an autographed copy of Super You! Power of Flight. For more about Hena Khan, visit her website by clicking here.

"What's holding you back?" -- Hena Khan at Patrick Henry School

"What's stopping you from doing the things you love and being who you want to be?" In a presentation on May 2, 2025 with 5th graders at Patrick Henry School, author Hena Khan posed this question as she discussed her book, Drawing Deena, a middle grade novel that explores the effects of anxiety and social pressure on the book's main character. In a Q&A, the author and students had a perceptive exchange about coping mechanisms and the importance of being your own self advocate.

When students learned they would each get an autographed copy of author Khan's book -- thanks to the RIF NOVA Authors in Our Schools program -- the yay of excitement could be heard throughout the building. Several students crowded around the author for photo ops, and one student drew a picture of Ms. Khan with the notation, "I love your books."

"The Yellow Áo Dài" and "Ánh's New Word" -- Author Hanh Bui

On April 11, 2024, a small group of Crestwood Elementary School (Fairfax County) third graders had lunch with author Hanh Bui. When asked if anyone wanted to write a story, one boy said yes but he didn't know what to write about. Once author Bui finished reading her hot-off-the press second book, Anh's New Word, the boy said he finally had an idea. "I'm going to write a story about meeting my first author!"

Hanh Bui spoke about her latest book over lunch

This third grader now has a story to write!

Hanh Bui and the third grade lunch bunch

To a packed library of first graders followed by a second session with second graders, Hanh Bui read her first book, The Yellow Áo Dài. To explain her debut work celebrating family ties and her Vietnamese heritage, author Bui taught the children some hand motions to make every time they heard the word áo dài or lotus or fan. After the reading, she engaged them in a story sequencing game using small fans and asked them to share a story with their neighbor. A few class members spoke Vietnamese, and they helped teach the class how to count to 10 in the Vietnamese language.

Engaging the children using hand motions

Story sequencing was never so much fun!

Helping the author count to 10 in Vietnamese ... so proud!

And, of course, no author visit would be complete without a signed copy of the author's book, funded by David Baldacci and provided by RIF NOVA. Hanh Bui signed each and every one with the words, "Go Owls," celebrating the school's mascot. Special thanks to Crestwood librarian Vicki Spino for arranging such an amazing author visit. As the children left the library with their books, one child was heard to say, "This was a 10!" More about the author and her story can be found by clicking here.

"Go Owls!" wrote Hanh Bui as she autographed every book.

First graders got their books one by one as they left the library.

"This was a 10!"

Hanh Bui -- Take Two!

Hanh Bui read her book during a second RIF NOVA author appearance...this time at Hutchison Elementary School (also Fairfax County) on April 23, 2024. From the welcome sign outside the school to a final thank you card, the second-grade excitement was over the top, thanks to librarian and RIF NOVA liaison Marci Hoyt. At a lunch bunch small group session, the children were prepared with questions for the author: "How do you make the scene feel real with a lot of detail?" and "How do you know what words to use?" A couple of children had already written their own stories and wanted to relate their experiences during the lunch session. They also wanted to share some of the languages they know by counting to ten in Spanish, Vietnamese, French, and more! And they all wanted to share in a hug!

Welcome sign at Hutchison Elementary

Children were so proud to count to 10 in several languages

These two children wrote and illustrated a story together. Mrs. Bui loved it!

Hugs, hugs, and more hugs!

The excitement was equally palpable in the library. After Hanh Bui read The Yellow Áo Dài, children participated in a sequencing game based on the book and shared their own family tradition stories with a neighbor. When they discovered they were each getting an autographed -- and personalized -- copy of Mrs. Bui's book, a collective "Yayyyyyy" went up in the room. One child couldn't wait to get out the door to start reading! Exclaimed another child, "I'm going to read your book every day!" Along with the children's expressions of thanks, librarian Marcy Hoyt prepared a special video from the school to capture the day. Click here for that!

Story sequencing fun based on hearing the story

Each book was autographed and personalized

So excited to start reading!

Thank you! Thank you!

"Ánh's New Word" on Visit # Three!

During a visit to PWC's Dumfries Elementary School on April 11, 2025, Hanh Bui featured her second book, Ánh's New Word, to an audience of first and second graders. In her presentation, author Bui shared her own story of coming to the United States as an eight-year-old Vietnamese refugee. The children helped to act out the story as Ms. Bui read about the book's character, little Ánh, who learned her first English word -- reindeer -- from the knitting on a sweater she wore. The children had a chance to learn a few words in Vietnamese and could design and color their own sweater on a hand-out sheet. Before the visit, students wrote letters to the author hoping to be chosen for a special conversation over lunch. The children were full of questions, asking more about the author's childhood and how she was able to remember it. One child exclaimed, "I'm so glad you got saved!" Each child received an autographed book to take home for keeps, and most could not wait to start reading!

More Reindeer-ful Fun on Visit Four!

"This is the best day!" So said a first grader after meeting author Hanh Bui at Arlington's Drew Elementary on May 23, 2025. The author read Ánh's New Word, and shared the story of learning her first English word -- reindeer -- from the writing on a sweater. This was followed by a word search game, learning a few words in Vietnamese, and decorating a sweater -- which the children did with a great deal of detail, creativity, and some heartfelt messages. One child drew a picture of her mom and wrote, "My mom makes me happy." Another wrote, "Math is good." Another wrote a message on the sweater, "Make your one (own) magic," followed by, "I have it." Magical indeed!

Then it was time for each child to get a signed book to keep forever. Special thanks to Drew librarian and RIF NOVA liaison Dora Sue Black for making the day so fun for the K-2 Drew Dragons! This visit was supported in part from a grant from the Arlington Community Foundation 2024 Wish List.

A Return to Hutchison -- April 9, 2026

It's so fun to learn new words in different languages! Just ask the 2nd graders at Fairfax County's Hutchison ES who met author Hanh Bui and listened as she read Ánh's New Word. The children practiced some Vietnamese words and shared some words of their own. Each child received an autographed book to take home to keep -- with handwritten notes of encouragement in each book from Mrs. Bui. When the children learned that the author has a new book coming out next year, they all said they could not wait for her to come back to Hutchison to share it!

"Everyone, Just Like Me" -- Author Carylee Carrington

When Carylee Carrington's then five-year-old son came home from school one day, he had something important to tell his mom: his classmates said he should play only with children of the same skin color. So this mom went into action...and wrote a book!!! Everyone, Just Like Me is about a boy named Joshua who has to get glasses. In wanting not to be different due to his new eyewear, the boy wishes for everyone to be the same. When hilarity and confusion ensue, Joshua discovers there may be a problem with his request. Ms. Carrington's book encourages kids to embrace their uniqueness and realize that individual differences are what make each person special.

That was the theme of author Carrington's presentation to students at Prince William County's Potomac View Elementary School on February 22, 2024 -- as part of the RIF NOVA Authors in Our Schools program. The self-described "Tutu Queen of Northern Virginia" received a RIF book as a child. That book, The Three Little Kittens, sparked a lifelong interest in reading -- and now writing -- children's books. She has published three books to date and is a stalwart advocate for diversity in children's literature.

Before a crowd of excited 3rd and 4th graders, Carylee Carrington spoke about everyone's uniqueness. As each child left the gym with an autographed book and a bookmark, one child exclaimed, "You are the best in the north, south, east, and west!" RIF NOVA liaison Debbie Crawn noted, "After you left, the conversations about being yourself and befriending everyone were amazing! Thank you for helping to confirm to our students that they are each special, and different, and truly amazing!!!"

"Freewater" -- Author Amina Luqman-Dawson

In January 2023, Arlington, Virginia author Amina Luqman-Dawson got a call from the American Library Association. Her book Freewater had just won the prestigious Coretta Scott King Award, which recognizes outstanding books for young adults and children by African American authors and illustrators that reflect the African American experience. That same night, she got a second call. The book had also won the John Newbery Medal, given annually to the author of the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children. Luqman-Dawson is the first woman to win both awards.

Set in the Great Dismal Swamp, Freewater is a middle-grade novel about a secret community of formerly enslaved people. Drew Elementary School librarian and RIF NOVA liaison Dora Sue Black invited the author to her Arlington school on February 8, 2024 and read much of the story to her fifth graders in the days leading up to the library event. During a lively presentation, the kids showed they knew a lot about the story. Each child received an autographed book, gifted via the RIF NOVA Authors in Our Schools program.

Drew librarian Dora Sue Black looked on as author Luqman-Dawson authographed her books.

The kids were amazed when the author told them how many times she had rewritten her book before it was published -- 25 times!

Hands went up across the library when the author engaged the kids in a Fact or Fiction Q&A.

After her presentation describing the more than 10-year process to write and publish Freewater, Ms. Luqman-Dawson invited the children to ask questions. And ask they did! How did you get the idea for your book? Which character do you most relate to? What was your favorite chapter? How did you come up with the title? One child asked, "Why did you write the book when you didn't even know you wanted to be an author?" To that, the author had a message urging the children to stick to their dreams. "You can't wait for someone to tell you. Just try!" And when she answered some questions in Spanish, many of the children were beyond wowed!

Amina Luqman-Dawson handed a copy of "Freewater" to each fifth grader.

Thumbs up from this happy reader!

These students couldn't wait to compare notes!

Encore, Encore, Amina Luqman-Dawson...

On April 26, 2024, the welcome mat was out -- almost literally -- for Amina Luqman-Dawson's visit to her second RIF NOVA school: Randolph Elementary in Arlington. As was true at Drew, the 5th graders were prepared for the author's visit, thanks to librarian and RIF NOVA liaison Anita Van Harten Cater. Ms. Luqman-Dawson delighted the children with her own fifth grade photo and told them she sometimes writes in her bathrobe!

After the presentation, the students asked some insightful questions about how the author got the idea for her book, why she wrote it, where she wrote it, and how many rewrites were required. One asked if writing is a stressful activity (yes!). They also wanted to know how the author developed her characters and which one is the most like someone she knows in "real" life.

Each child got an autographed copy of Freewater to continue reading and exploring this historical middle grade novel.

"Ramen for Everyone" -- Author Patricia Tanumihardja

Ramen for Everyone is Patricia Tanumihardja's debut picture book, featuring the story of a boy who tries -- and fails and tries again -- to make the perfect noodle dish. The author of three children's books and several cookbooks, Ms. Tanumihardja read her story to kindergarten through second graders at Fairfax County's Mount Eagle Elementary School on January 17, 2024, as part of the RIF NOVA Authors in Our Schools program.

Not only were the children enchanted by the story of a boy about their own age, they could also relate to eating noodles! After listening intently, they tried their hands at using paper straw "chopsticks." Each child was gifted an autographed book of his or her very own, funded by RIF NOVA, and a set of real chopsticks to practice noodle-eating at home! Upon learning everyone would get a book, one child said, "You're the best!" Learn more about the author by clicking here.

Ms. Tanumihardja signed books for a couple of hours!

Each book was personalized with a specific child's name.

Then she started her presentation: Who likes to eat noodles? Just about everyone!

The author told her story, as an immigrant from Indonesia. Many children could relate to that, too.

The author's son, who loves ramen, was the inspiration for "Ramen for Everyone."

Then it was time to try the straw "chopsticks."

Hmmmm... How in the world do you use these things?

You place your fingers just so.

Success with a bowl of yarn noodles!

And the ramen fun continued...

Pat Tanumihardja's author visits continued at John Adams Elementary School (Alexandria) on April 3, 2024 with a library full of first graders (pics above) and on the school's "Literacy Night" on April 18 for parents and children who gathered in the school's cafetorium. While the evening began with a family pizza dinner, it ended with thoughts of noodles and reading. Author Tanumihardja talked about being an author, read her book Ramen for Everyone, and answered many questions including how long it took to write the book, where she got the idea, and how many books she has written.

The best of the night came at the end, when each child had a turn not only to receive his or her own copy of the book -- handed out by Assisted Principal, Dr. Jeffrey Palmer -- but to talk to the author while she inscribed it with each child's name. Parents, with cell phones clicking, were equally excited. One child captured the spirit of the event with an enthusiastic declaration, "I LOVE books!" -- and an ear-to-ear smile.

Everyone Loves Noodles at Yorkshire Elementary!

-- Yorkshire Elementary School in Prince William County rolled out the red carpet on March 21, 2025 for Pat Tanumihardja as first and second graders listened to Ramen for Everyone. When she asked the young Bulldogs who likes ramen, hands went up pretty much universally! When students learned they would each receive an autographed copy of the author's book, a collective -- and very energetic -- Yayyyyyyy! went up throughout the room! One student wrote the author a letter saying, "Your book is the best!" with a big heart, of course!

"Veo, Veo, I See You" -- Author-Illustrator Lulu Delacre

Author-illustrator Lulu Delacre participated as the first in-person author to visit a RIF NOVA affiliated school. The three-time Pura Belpré Award honoree and New York Times bestselling artist has been writing and illustrating children's books since 1980, with 44 books to her name (so far!), along with 75 awards and honors.

On November 9, 2023, she visited Arlington's Carlin Springs Elementary School to the absolute delight of the second through fifth graders. In a packed cafeteria, she explained how she writes a book and taught the children that everyone has a story to tell!

Lulu Delacre (l) was introduced by Carlin Springs principal Carmen De La Cruz Scales (m) and librarian (and RIF NOVA liaison) Holly Nisco (r)

Kids raised their hands in excitement as the author engaged them in making up a story

Lulu Delacre illustrates her books using a variety of media. She passed around a cut-out she made to illustrate one of her books.

Children gathered around to hear more about the book "Veo, Veo, I See You"

And then they crowded in for a photo with the author (r)

And then the hugs started!

One class created a thank you note with phrases like, "We love all of your books," and "Thank you for visiting the school."

Every second through fifth grade child was gifted a book, either "Veo, Veo, I See You" or "Cool Green: Amazing, Remarkable Trees"

Lulu Delacre autographed every single book, and that was a lot of books!

Virtual Author Visits

The Authors in Our Schools program actually had a "virtual" launch in May 2023 as several schools participated in Shenandoah University’s annual Children’s Literature Conference, which, among other options, offers schools virtual visits with authors and illustrators. The 50-minute visits were broadcast live, and students were given the opportunity to ask questions during the presentations. Eighteen RIF NOVA schools took advantage, bringing authors and illustrators to more than 118 classrooms during the month of May. Each school was also given several copies of the presenting author’s books to distribute to students or classrooms.

The "virtual" authors included...

...Chris Van Dusen, John Schumacher (better known as Mr. Schu) and Katherine Applegate, Bob Shea, R.J. Palacio, and Alan Gratz. In addition, Dr. Karen Huff, conference coordinator and Director of Shenandoah University's Children’s Literature Program & Professor of Curriculum and Instruction, offered scholarships to any teachers in any of our RIF NOVA Title 1 programs to attend the full conference and receive three college credits for doing so. Two teachers took advantage of this wonderful opportunity. In the coming years, we hope to continue this partnership with Shenandoah University.

Potomac View Elementary School students enjoyed a drawing lesson from author/illustrator Chris Van Dusen

They watched...

They drew...

And they were pretty proud of their work!

Meanwhile, at Dumfries Elementary School, Mrs. Breeden's first grade class participated in a virtual author visit with Bob Shea.

Bob Shea showed the "how-to's" of his drawings

Dumfries first graders were all eyes!

And they tried their hands at it -- with quite good results!

Virtual Visits Continued in Spring 2024

Several RIF NOVA schools participated in Shenandoah University's annual Children's Literature Conference in 2024, including Dumfries Elementary School. Author/illustrator David Shannon mesmerized the children with his book No, David! The teachers were mesmerized, too, noted librarian and RIF NOVA liaison Emily Decarolis, as they watched Shannon talk about his Caldecott Honor winning book. Children also saw authors Jamila Thompkins-Bigelow, Steve Sheinkin, and Lucky Diaz via this wonderful program.

Dumfries ES third graders (and their teachers) loved this virtual author visit!

When author David Shannon was five years old, he wrote a story about a little six-year-old boy named David doing all sorts of activities he was not supposed to do. "No" and "David" were the only words that appeared throughout the book, as they were the only words Shannon knew how to spell at that age. In 1997, Shannon came across his childhood book in his mother's closet and re-wrote it using a childlike handwriting and including drawings of his mishaps. The book was published in 1998.

In a boisterous exploration of naughtiness, the little boy "careens from one unruly deed to the next – drawing on the walls, tracking mud all over the carpet, and jumping on the bed in red cowboy boots" and hears, “Stop that this instant!” “Be quiet!” “Not in the house, David!” and most vigorously, “No, David!” The shenanigans end on a high note, though, with a penitent David (he broke a vase with a baseball) enfolded in his mother’s arms as she assures him, “Yes, David, I love you.”

There have been many adaptations created from this original short story, including David Goes to School, David Gets in Trouble, and It's Christmas, David! For more about David Shannon, please click here.

Reaction to the virtual author/illustrator experiences? All positive!

"The students and teachers LOVED the visit. It has sparked a renewed interest in author study and reading books that this author has written or illustrated. When Mr. Van Dusen was asked a question about how he became such an amazing illustrator, he answered that drawing takes practice and so does writing. This comment stuck with students as some were heard to say, "I need to keep practicing so I can get better!" -- Debbie Crawn, Potomac View Elementary School

"Our 4th grade students were studying Katherine Applegate, so we chose this author visit. We purchased This is a School for our K-2 classrooms and Odder for grades three through five classrooms to read. We had them talk about the authors and read their books prior to the author visit. Our students liked the books as well as seemed to enjoy the author visit." -- Bethany Drake, Yorkshire Elementary School

"The older students LOVED it! We had read Chris Van Dusen books earlier this year, and they loved seeing his studio and robots and all of it!" -- Mary Frances Daly, Mount Eagle Elementary School

"Bob Shea was very engaging. Both students and teachers enjoyed seeing how he created his books. They loved the interactive Q&A and hearing the author read some of his books." -- Emily Decarolis, Dumfries Elementary School

"The teachers and students enjoyed the author visit of R.J. Palacio and even had some of their questions answered. I hope you will be able to offer this program again." -- Edith Serrano, Oak Ridge Elementary School

AUTHORS IN OUR SCHOOLS

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