Amazing Author Visits at Albritton

This school year, our students have been incredibly fortunate to connect directly with some talented authors in children’s literature. These virtual visits have all been offered free of charge, giving students a rare behind-the-scenes look at the people who create the books they love. Each author has generously shared insights into their personal journey, their published works, the ups and downs of the writing and publication process, and the real-life inspirations that spark their stories. They end their visits with student-led Q&A.

So far in 2025–2026, we’ve welcomed an exciting lineup. In September, marine science writer Mary Cerullo kicked things off with her captivating ocean adventures (books include The Truth About Great White Sharks, Sea Turtles: Ocean Nomads, and Going Blue). October brought history powerhouse Steve Sheinkin (Bomb, Undefeated, Fallout), followed by two thrilling Spooky Middle Grade panels featuring Darcy Marks (Grounded for All Eternity), Rachel Marsh, Rochelle Hassan (The Buried and the Bound), Meg Eden Kuyatt (Good Different), Wendy Parris, Mary Averling (The Curse of Eelgrass Bog), M.R. Fournet (Brick Dust and Bones), and Josh Roberts. In November, the hilarious and imaginative Adam Rex delighted everyone (The Legend of Greg, Why Can’t We Be Friends?, School’s First Day of School), and later in the month illustrator-author David Dubczak joined us to talk about his graphic novel DASH: Carpathia’s Mad Race to Rescue Titanic.

The best part? We still have so many incredible visits ahead! In December, students will meet Jeff Campbell, John David Anderson (the beloved author of Ms. Bixby’s Last Day, Posted, and One Last Shot), and Paul Volponi (Black and White, Response, Rooftop). January brings Ryan James Black and the award-winning Jeff Gottesfeld (No Steps Behind, The Christmas Mitzvah). Then in February, we’ll welcome Isabella Knight and, on February 1, the always-energetic nonfiction star Heather Montgomery (Bugs Don’t Hug, What’s In Your Pocket?, Sick!). There are more scheduled for the spring.

These visits continue to inspire our readers and writers, showing them that real people, not just like the ones on the screen, turn ideas, curiosity, and hard work into the books that fill our library shelves. We’re grateful to every author who has given their time so generously this year!