Children's Author Kekla Magoon Works with Lukancic Students

Award-winning author of books for children and young adults Kekla Magoon shared her experiences, her books, future projects, and even conducted a Readers’ Theatre with Lukancic Middle School students Dec. 14.

When asked where she gets her inspiration Kekla said that “everything inspires me,” quickly adding: “The real answer: This is a hard question to answer directly. I don’t always know what my inspiration is for writing a certain book or creating a certain character—that’s what makes inspiration different from facts or ideas. Sometimes inspiration just comes out of nowhere! I carefully observe the world around me, and then I translate the most compelling things I’ve seen and experienced into stories.

“This does not mean I write about things that really happen,” she went on. “I use my imagination A LOT. My imagination is my best tool for being creative, and it works best when I feel inspired. I am inspired by people I meet, things I’ve seen and done in the past, my own feelings and fantasies about things that could happen, and much, much more.”

Magoon said that “becoming a better writer simply means learning to communicate your point of view in the best way possible. When you feel ready to share your work, consider taking writing classes if you can, or join a writing club if you have access to one in your community. If you can’t do these things, do not fret. Just keep writing on your own. Practice is how you get better. So, keep writing”

The day at Lukancic concluded with Magoon holding a writer’s workshop with invited students from all grade levels and a book signing. Students came to school dressed as characters from her books. 

Books by Kekla Magoon: 37 Things I Love, Camo Girl, The Rock and The River, Today The World Is Watching You and Fire in the Street.