I was thinking about what part of ALA I would write about in today's post, and I was having trouble finding a good place to start. But then I came across the book trailer for Raymie Nightingale, and my reaction to it gave me the inspiration I needed.
I have watched this trailer before -- several times -- but THIS time, it brought me to tears. And that surprised even me. I guess it was because I thought once more of Raymie, and Louisiana, and Beverly -- and their story. The power and beauty of it came back to me all at once. And I was most likely especially susceptible to this because of part of my time at ALA 2016.
While in Orlando, I attended a breakfast event with Kate DiCamillo (thanks to the kind folks at Candlewick for the invitation). Here, I had the opportunity to chat with Kate, and tell her how much Raymie meant to me as a reader.
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| Kate DiCamillo and Candlewick staff in Orlando at ALA 2016 |
We heard from Kate's editor, and Candlewick staff, and then Kate spoke to us about Raymie and her recent book tour. I pretty much hung on her every word, and was really trying to remember everything she was saying. She spoke with such kindness, making us all feel like we were neighbors down the street, borrowing cups of sugar from each other for years. A calm and lovely way to start a busy day at a busy conference.
Kate DiCamillo spoke about books, of course, and how they do matter to kids. And she also spoke about read-alouds. She remembers a teacher (by name) reading aloud to her and her classmates every day after lunch, and how special that was. The fact that she remembers this speaks to the power of the read-aloud to create memories that young readers will carry forever. (I will share this with my teachers when I see them again in August.)
We had the chance to ask her questions about the book, and Kate answered them with wit, grace and humor. I left the event filled with a peaceful kind of joy -- a kind of overflowing gratitude. Reflecting now, I can see it was the satisfaction in knowing that we (in the world of children's literature) have authors like Kate DiCamillo who write books like Raymie Nightingale --- books that will matter to young readers.
And their librarians.