Award-winning kidlit author and Bethlehem Central High School graduate, Stacy McAnulty, returned to Bethlehem last week to visit all five elementary schools.
Throughout the week, McAnulty encouraged students to think like writers as she walked them through her writing process and research methods. She stressed the value of gathering ideas from many sources: factual texts, other stories, field trips to museums and events, everyday moments, art, and music, all of which can enrich a story.
She explained how strong characters drive great stories, describing how she used the Seven Dwarfs as inspiration when creating distinct personalities for each planet (and the ocean) in her picture book series. Giving each planet (and ocean) its own unique voice and traits makes complex topics more relatable to young readers.
McAnulty emphasized the importance of creativity and revision while offering memorable advice: think of adverbs as salt, something to sprinkle thoughtfully, not pour. Instead, she urged students to choose strong, vivid verbs and to be specific with their descriptions. She practiced this concept with them, reminding students to “show, not tell” in their writing.
During her presentations, McAnulty shared a personal story from her time in the district: when she arrived as a fourth grader, she struggled with reading and tried to hide it. After a time, her difficulty was discovered, and teachers stepped in to help. With that support, she gained confidence and eventually developed a lasting love for reading and writing. She encouraged students facing similar challenges to accept help and keep working.
McAnulty shared that she usually gives illustrators creative freedom, only leaving notes when she has a particular vision. She described the publishing timeline, which takes two to three years from manuscript to printed book. Students were surprised to learn that authors don’t choose the book title or the cover art, though they do have final approval.
The presentations were full of personal touches that resonated with students: she shared that she’s a proud mom to kids and dogs, as well as a devoted Taylor Swift fan and Green Bay Packers enthusiast. She also revealed a recurring nod to Lin-Manuel Miranda included in the acknowledgments of each of her books. She hopes one day she’ll mention it in a presentation and a kid will say, “That’s my uncle!” and will tell Miranda.
McAnulty is a former mechanical engineer who worked at B/E Aerospace, where she designed first-class airline seats and still holds a co-patent. She is now the author of numerous books for young readers that blend science, math, mystery, and adventure.
Thank you to Stacy McAnulty, BCSD Media Specialists, and the elementary PTOs and PTAs at Eagle, Elsmere, Glenmont, Hamagrael, and Slingerlands for making these exciting visits possible!