I was invited to speak to a group of young authors this summer about my experience writing a book. It was intimidating. Look at these kids! They're the over-achieving, well-behaved, honor society, valedictorian-bound, talented group of scholars.
For the record...that's NOT the kind of kid I was in school. You see, I had trouble in school. I couldn’t sit still. I had trouble focusing. (Still do, actually.) Most teachers, and the other students, assumed I didn’t care or that I was a nuisance. Well, I may have been a nuisance, but it wasn’t because I didn’t care. It’s just that no one had ever taught me how to channel my hyper-energy and hyper-thoughts. I was told to sit still and be quiet. IMPOSSIBLE!
It wasn’t until I was in my late thirties I discovered writing as an outlet. It slowed me down, focused my energy and helped me express myself more productively. I just wish I had known then, what I know now.
Next Thursday, I get another chance to lead a workshop for young authors. And, here’s why I’m super excited about it. This workshop isn’t just for the superstar kids, it’s also for the kids who don’t know they’re superstars yet. I get to share the encouragement and tools I wish I had then with these students now. Here’s the scoop:
Passionate Pursuits (ages 8-12)
Find your genius & express yourself. Unconventional ideas for undiscovered
talent (whether you think you’re a writer or not).
Thursday, January 21, 4:30-6:00 PM
Firehouse Youth Center, Classroom 6
Cost: $20
So spread the word about my workshop and check out the other workshops for young authors, teens and adults.
Way to go reaching out to the next generation of leaders. You are a first class leader in my book. I know these young writers will be inspired and made to know they matter.
Posted by: Zena Holderbaum | Jan 16, 2010 at 08:40 AM