SCHOOL VISITS More photos below! hris (a former improvisational comedian) has put together an incredibly fun and interactive presentation called EVERY PICTURE TELLS A STORY that he'd love to bring to your Middle School. Using pictures gleaned from magazines and Google, Chris demonstrates how he sometimes uses photographic inspiration to jump-start his ghost stories. Then, it's the kids' turn! Chris runs through a series of imagination-igniting pictures and together he and the students make up their own "Haunted Schoolhouse" Ghost Story—right on the spot (painlessly learning about story structure along the way). The improv game is fun, everybody gets to play, there's lot of laughs, and, best of all, the students leave the classroom (or auditorium) jazzed about how much fun writing can be. If you're interested in having Chris do an Author Visit at your school, shoot him an e-mail: author@ChrisGrabenstein.com. He and the folks at Random House will help you put together an exciting and educational day.   Check out the new CROSSROADS Study Guide! "If you want to get ALL of your students, even your most reluctant readers, excited about reading and writing, invite Chris Grabenstein to visit your school! His book, The Crossroads, is the perfect Halloween ghost story, but the mystery and fast-paced action make it a great read any time of year. I showed Chris' book trailer to all of the students, and it generated enough interest to sell over 100 copies of his book before his visit. Chris' interactive presentation had the students on the edge of their seats, eagerly raising their hands to participate. Chris answered every question with humor and grace, and students raved about the assembly for days. As he signed countless books and bookmarks, he took a genuine interest in each student, writing thoughtful comments like, 'To Jasmine: You're the real princess.' If you have ever planned an author visit, you know that some authors can act like divas. Not Chris. Even the teachers said that he was the friendliest and most down-to-earth author that they had ever met. During the writers' workshops, Chirs tirelessly answered students questions and gave them feedback on their writing. A few students have emailed Chris to ask him for more feedback on their writing, and he quickly responded with positive input. After Chris' visit, I had to order even more books for his new fans. I cannot thank Chris enough for all that he did for the students of my school! I will definitely be inviting Chris to visit again to discuss his next book. Take my advice and plan your author visit with Chris now because he will not remain an undiscovered gem for long!" Jen Kleinknecht Media Specialist HBW Middle School Verona, NJ "Thank you! You opened the door that enables our students to safely talk about 'books!' We loved hearing your stories. Truly motivational!" Diane Ludvigsen Principal New York City MS 053 (Brian Picollo Middle School) Far Rockaway, Brooklyn "My class thoroughly enjoyed your visit. Thank you! If you need a referral or anything like that, let me know. I would recommend you to EVERYONE! P.S. My daughter hasn't stopped talking about you and how "awesome" you are!" Sincerely, Janet Beeler Thanks so much for visiting Robertsville. You were perfect as a presenter, and our students (and teachers too) truly enjoyed your visit. We would love to invite you back for a visit next fall (after The Crossroads is released in paperback). Take care Scot Smith Librarian Media Specialist Robertsville Middle School   See latest school visit pictures here!