Yes, it’s true! My North Dakota alphabet book is now a musical!
Well, not a Broadway musical, mind you, but it was “performed” by a group of kindergarten students at Rita Murphy Elementary in Bismarck last week, and I was asked to narrate.
The musical’s title was a takeoff from my children’s alphabet book, “P is for Peace Garden.”
To make full use of the day and my travels, I was invited to give an author presentation to the school’s fourth-graders, who have been studying about North Dakota, and therefore were well-equipped to absorb what I had to share.
They were fabulous, and, I hear, had quite a discussion in their classroom afterward about writing. Apparently the visit with the real-life writer/author inspired them. That brings me great joy.
The question that caught me most off guard: “What does it feel like to be a famous author?” Next surprising: “What’s your favorite football team?” You gotta love it!
When I shared that I wasn’t a famous author, someone asked if I’ve met any famous authors. I remembered Jerry Spinelli, but forgot all about Kate DiCamillo and Tomie dePaola.
There were many others, too, and I didn’t hear the typical question, “Where do you get your ideas?” even once!
One of my favorite moments was when a group of fourth-grade girls came up to me after my talk, surrounded me in a half-circle, looked at each other and said, “Ready?” like a group of cheerleaders before a cheer, and then, all at once, charged at me with a hug! That set me off on the right foot.
I also visited a school where my mom works as a volunteer.
I kept it simple and just read to them, mainly, and talked a little about the book business.
Afternoon and evening sessions included the performances of “P is for Peace Garden.”
As narrator, I’d read a few pages, then pause in marked spots so that the kids could sing a song that corresponded in some way with the subject matter. For example, after reading the “T” page (“Theodore Roosevelt, ‘Teddy,’ is the T guy who touted this state, that turned him toward the presidency, he treasured our Badlands great”) the kids sang, “Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear, Turn Around…” And for the “H heads Home Runs and Hits” page, they sang, “Take Me Out to the Ballgame,” complete with a verse done through kazoos.
It was a clever mingling of book and song that the music teacher thought up because of her love of music and words, and because kids in her school seem to be captivated and motivated by books. She said “P is for Peace Garden” was a perfect title to incorporate into this year’s spring musical.
What a fabulous day, which ended with a book signing that sold out. It felt like a culmination of many things coming together in my own life — my love for music, words, children, and learning and in the city of my roots (Bismarck is where my parents met, and the school was named after one of my mother’s former teachers).
On the way to the afternoon session, we drove past this guy, and I can’t help but think that maybe the title of my book should have been, “P is for Pheasant!” Ah well. Perhaps there’s room for a sequel.
Rox,
Sounds like a wonderful day!
What ambition on the part of the music teacher and the kids…good for them! You really inspired them!
Thx for sharing. Great pics too
Havea great day!
Pheasant doesn’t have the same pleasant alliteration that Peace Garden has. I’m dwelling on the question about fame. I think in their eyes you are famous. You are a rock star of words visiting their classroom and school. You might be the embodiment of what some of them dream of becoming. Claim your title. I was thinking how fame is a subjective state of being. In the grand scheme of things, you’re not as well known as Dr. Seuss, but you are known in ND, and the region, and admired by a group of school children and their teachers who are inspired by your creation. Brava! I’m so proud to know a famous ND author!!!!
I agree about the title, Mary. I just wanted to give the little guy a little credit for being a “P” in North Dakota. 🙂 They are pretty, though. Almost as pretty as a flower! Oh, and I do love your take on the “fame” thing here. I do feel honored to step into their world for a time and offer them hope for what their lives could become! What a great perspective you offered! You’ve always been an awesome encouragement to me. Thank you sweet friend! And Chris, thank you, too, for continuing to stop by on Wednesdays. I’m so happy to have you here!
Oh gosh my famous author friend- Roxane- what a “full moments” kind of day you had! Your words bless me so today- I love reading about the creativity of all the different groups you got to engage with. I have no doubt you inspired and enlightened them all to all sorts of new horizons! What a full-cirlce time this must have been for you and I am just thrilled you seized this opportunity and gave it your all! Blessings and love to you- I too, was with you in spirit 🙂
I loved reading this!
This post warms my heart! Kids are so free and sweet with their love and admiration, yet they no doubt sensed your authenticity; otherwise, I don’t think they’d have responded with such enthusiasm. How beautiful to know you’ve inspired so many young minds. I think it’s great that they see how one person’s creativity (yours) has given birth to other forms (i.e., the musical). It’s like one big, happy fusion of the arts! With a group-hug, to boot. What could be better?
Wow, that is awesome, Roxane! I remember when authors would come visit my elementary school. I wanted to be a writer so I was starstruck! Even the kids who didn’t want to be writers thought it was super cool. I wish everyone would hold on to that mentality of authors as superstars through adulthood!
Have a happy Memorial Day weekend, Roxane!
Happy reading and writing! from Laura Marcella @ Wavy Lines