On Monday, April 9th, young adult author Kwame Alexander, along with musician, Randy Preston, visited Carroll University's campus to speak with students from Elmbrook and districts across Waukesha County. Alexander spoke to 800 middle school students, including those of Pilgrim Park and Wisconsin Hills. He is a poet, educator, and the New York Times Bestselling author of 25 books, including Rebound, the follow-up to his Newbery-medal winning middle grade novel The Crossover. Alexander is called one of the country's most innovative children's book authors. He writes for children of all ages, some of his other works include The Playbook: 52 Rules to Help You Aim, Shoot, and Score in this Game of Life, and the novels Solo and Booked.

Alexander's visit was one of 30 appearances on his national coast-to-coast tour beginning in Boston, and ending in San Francisco. He is promoting the release of his latest book, Rebound. Alexander's work proves combining basketball and poetry is a slam dunk, as his sports novels written in verse have turned a great many readers into poetry fans. He spoke to students about the power of persistence. The presentation was followed by a book signing, and a community building activity. All students met in small groups with representatives from each school. Together, they created a community mural representing how diversity strengthens our community. Murals will be displayed at local school and public libraries.

This author visit was sponsored by Elmbrook Engaged in Excellence Award recipient for Outstanding Community Partner, Boswell Books. This school year, numerous award-winning authors are scheduled to visit the district as a continuation of our joint-initiative to engage students in reading and writing. Click here to see more upcoming author visits.