The third-grade class was selected for the event after the school’s librarian entered a contest through the Cape May County Library
From L-R: Third graders Victoria Horton, Josephine Gomes, James Hutchinson, and Finley Pimpinella holding books written and illustrated by Dan Santat.
Cape May Court House, NJ – Award winning author and illustrator Dan Santat will be making a visit to Middle Township Elementary School #2 at 2 p.m. on May 20.
Santat received a Caldecott Medal for his book The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend, and is a New York Times best-selling author for his works Are We There Yet and After the Fall (How Humpty Dumpty Got Back Up Again). His artwork can be found in many picture books, chapter books and novels including Dav Pilkey’s Ricky Ricotta series. Santat also created Disney’s animated show The Replacements.
Santat will visit third grade teacher Nicole DelCorio’s classroom for approximately 45 minutes to discuss his books, art, love of reading and career journey. He will also delve into his writing and illustrating process and give an art demonstration.
The third graders were selected to receive the special visit after the school’s librarian, Julie Moore, entered their classroom and several others into a contest offered by the Cape May County Library.
Third grader Josephine Gomes reading The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend.
“Julie has truly taken over our library and it has become such a wonderful outlet for the students,” said DelCorio. “Many of my more reluctant readers have found the library to be one of their favorite specials now, and it is truly because of Julie’s dedication; which shows in something like this.”
Superintendent Dr. David Salvo is thrilled the third-grade class was chosen for Santat’s visit, and credits Moore for her dedication to increasing all the students’ love for literature.
“It is exciting to have a successful author and illustrator discuss his art with the third-grade class. His talent and enthusiasm for literature will encourage our young readers to continue enjoying books,” said Salvo. “We are thankful Julie shared and entered multiple classrooms into the Cape May County Library’s contest. She is dedicated to our students and is always looking for interactive and enjoyable ways to increase their love for reading.”