Diane Davies: A Local Hero of Children’s Literature Returns to Christa McAuliffe Elementary
A Captivating Comeback: Diane Davies Reads "Life in The Neck: New Friends" to Eager Ears
Introduction: The Warm Return of Diane Davies
December 2022 marked an endearing homecoming for Diane Davies, a former teacher-turned-children's-author, who returned to Christa McAuliffe Elementary in Hastings, Minnesota, after a long hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In a video produced by HastingsNow.com, Diane revealed how ecstatic she was to once again engage with young readers, sharing her enthusiasm, "It's just been a wonderful time to be back from Covid and being able to be back in a classroom again and to share my story with children."
An Emotional Reunion: The Educator’s Perspective
Mrs. Jodi Glazier, a seasoned third-grade teacher at the same school, elaborated on what makes Diane's visits so special. "This is one of my highlight experiences," said Jodi, referring to the return of Diane, whom she admires not only as a fellow educator but also as an exceptional children's book author. When Jodi first discovered "Life in the Neck: New Friends," she was instantly enamored both by Diane’s storytelling and the vivid illustrations by Margarita Sikorskaia.
The Classroom Impact
According to Jodi, Diane’s books serve educational purposes beyond mere enjoyment. "It teaches a lot of things about character traits and inferencing. Each one of her books has a theme, a main message or moral you can bring back," she added. Diane’s charitable nature is also evident, as she donates copies of her books to classrooms, enriching the reading material available to the next generation of Hastings’ citizens.
After The Reading: Diane's Endearing Impact
Diane, after her reading session, was visibly moved by the students' engagement. “The kids were actually up hugging [the cardboard figures of] those characters. To me, that said they got it. They understood what I was trying to help them learn,” she shared.
The reading session wasn't merely a one-way street; Diane emphasized how the children themselves contributed to the storytelling, even in a large gathering of over a hundred students. "They were helping me tell the story. And even with a hundred kids there, it was very personal."
How to Connect with Diane
For schools or individuals interested in having Diane visit, she encourages them to reach out through her website, DianeDavies.com, or by giving her a call.
Diane’s heartfelt comeback to Christa McAuliffe Elementary was more than just an author's reading session; it was a touching reunion of a community hero with the newest generation of readers. Through her storytelling and genuine interactions, Diane Davies proves that literature's power goes beyond the pages — it embraces and educates, evoking both joy and wisdom in the youngest of minds.
Author: HastingsNow.com in collaboration with LocalPigeon.com's Call-a-Comment service.
