Acclaimed author engages students at Gavin South

INGLESIDE – Sixth, seventh and eighth-grade students gasped, scooted to the edge of their seats and exchanged looks of awe and giddy surprise during a presentation from acclaimed author James Kennedy on Feb. 23 at Gavin South Junior High School.

Kennedy, the Chicago-based author of "The Order of Odd-Fish," shared excerpts from his 2008 young adult fiction novel, which features a variety of creatures and whimsical imagery – and turns the standard "sci-fi" story on its head.

Jennifer Beck, library media aide at Gavin South, said Kennedy's visit was one of the first opportunities the school has had to bring in a professional author.

"He's passionate about his craft," Beck said, adding that she first saw him speak at a library event. "His book is so creative."

"Seeing a real author is inspiring," Gavin School District 37 Superintendent John Ahlemeyer said. "We're always looking for ways to bring learning alive – this was one avenue to do that."

While some students may have already read the book, many of those who hadn't were lining up for a copy by the end of Kennedy's presentation.

Beck said having speakers like Kennedy share what they're passionate about helps get kids excited about their own interests.

"His enthusiasm, his interaction – it's infectious," Beck said.

"The visit was inspirational and hilarious," said Chloe Taylor, an eighth grader at Gavin South. "I didn't want to leave."

Dakota Walendzik, also in eighth grade, agreed.

"It was very funny," Walendzik said. "You actually [got] a feel of what's happening, like you were written into the book."

Many students were also interested in the author's inspiration for writing the novel and learning about the publishing process.

Kennedy said his travels, friends, the news and other incidents inspired the characters and scenes in "The Order of Odd-Fish."

Kennedy said he hopes his appearances and book readings help inspire others to become interested in reading and to pursue their own crafts.

"I want to show how [reading] can be fun," Kennedy said. "You can engage with a book."