Author Inspires Young Writers At Seaford

WANTAGH-SEAFORD, NY - From Seaford Union School District: Seaford High School students learned about the writing and publishing processes from author Gae Polisner, who visited the school on Sept. 28 and spoke about her unexpected career path, as well one of her most well-known books.

Ms. Polisner said she liked writing when she was in school but didn’t aspire to be an author, and instead became an attorney. In her early 30s and with two children, she decided to write a young adult novel, “The Pull of Gravity.” Currently she is working on her fifth and sixth novels.

During her visit to Seaford High School, Ms. Polisner met with English classes and spoke about her journey as a writer, including how she has persevered. Her award-winning book, “The Memory of Things” has had nine printings since it was initially rejected by publishers.

At the end of last school year, all students were provided with a copy “The Memory of Things,” which is set on Sept. 11, 2001 and is a love story between two teenagers. They were asked to read it over the summer, as there will be related assignments throughout the year. Themes of the book include friendship, kindness, respect, responsibility and humility.

“Students were able to ask in-depth questions about the book and her motivation for writing the book,” said library media specialist Joanna McCloskey, who coordinated the author visit along with English department Chairwoman Linda Kanarek.

In addition to asking questions about the book’s characters, plot points, symbolism and imagery, students were curious how Ms. Polisner comes up with ideas for stories and her future writing ambitions.

Photo courtesy of the Seaford School District