Allan McCarthy is a published author and illustrator. He is also in the fourth grade.
Allan and other Comal Elementary School students proudly displayed their stories to parents and community members during the school’s fifth annual Young Authors’ Celebration on Tuesday.
Started by fourth-grade teacher Shirley Gerdes, the Young Authors’ Celebration is the culmination of a unit that teaches young students from kindergarten through fifth grade about the writing process, including how to research a topic, revise, edit and illustrate.
Students then sent their books to Nationwide Publishing Student Treasures in Topeka, Kans., where they were bound and turned into hardback copies.
Allan, a history buff, chose a topic he wanted to inform others about.
“My book is called ‘World War II’ and it’s about the different battles, weapons and people that were in the war,” Allan said. “It was fun to write since I’m really interested in history. I also enjoyed reading my book to younger kids in third grade to teach them about World War II.”
Allan said he is considering writing another book about the Vietnam War or the situation in Iraq.
Gerdes, who founded the Young Authors’ Celebration, said the children always develop confidence after they see a finished product.
“To publish a book is a big accomplishment, especially for a young child,” Gerdes said. “We take them through the entire writing process from rough drafts to illustrations. I also think the process gives them a desire to do it again. When they see the hard copy of their book, they have that ‘wow’ moment and are so proud. Everyone should be proud, and I know all of our visitors we invite to attend are impressed at the amount of work the kids and teachers have put into everything.”
Tuesday Braun visited her daughter, fourth-grader Alexis Braun, to celebrate her achievement as a young author.
Alexis’ book, “Sierra’s Birthday,” is about the fun experience she had at her sister Sierra’s birthday party.
“I’m really proud of her (Alexis),” Tuesday Braun said. “I think it’s great for all of the kids to see their books in print. They can actually see it, touch it and share their story with everyone. It’s a great way to inspire young authors.”
